>>32126049
nice back up

>>32126049

You're almost able to make a break for it, but sadly your not that lucky. Christina's voice, calm but commanding, halts you in your tracks.

"Not so fast, Lieutenant," She calls, and when you look back she's smiling. "Or you, Jeeves."

"Oh, bother..." You hear the servo servant grumble, puttering back around to face her.

"Ma'am?" You ask, already feeling your stomach sink.

"Have a seat, please," She instructs you, and with some reluctance you do as you're told. Though she doesn't seem too pleased, you can't quite say that the Inquisitor is angry at you or Jeeves.

"Do help me with something, Lieutenant," She begins, looking you both over. "I'd like to hear your reasoning behind allowing Jeeves to accompany you here today. I'm honestly rather curious."

>State your case!

>>32126210

"Well, I figured he could answer some of the questions I might come up with while I'm here if you and Melodi are busy. I also wanted him to get used to me, since I'm going to be seeing a lot of him, most likely."

Eh. Seems reasonable t'me.

>>32126210
well unlike other servoskulls this ones still got a active brain and i could not imagion it be good for anyone to stay locked in the same room for a long ammount of time and from what i could tell he had not gotten out in some time from his reaction when i asked corse that leaves me wondering why you left his brain in the first place and if he was not ment to leave the room he would had failsafes so that he fisicly could not leave same thing with the information he cant tell me about predesesors 1-12 besides he may be a bit odd but he is rather good company

>>32126210
It's never as if we were ever told we couldn't take him out

>>32126210
I want to keep him close, to observe him. I strongly suspect he is actually an Alpha Legion Marine.

>>32126210
well it seemed he hasn't got out much so I decided to let him stretch his proverbial legs...

>>32126317
>>32126373
second a combination of this two.

>>32126210
I figured he was basically a walking... erm floating repository of knowledge so if I want to keep you alive I need to know what he can tell me from his past experiences of doing my job, besides he seemed like good company

>>32126210

Seeing as you're not being tossed out the airlock, you don't feel like you're in too much trouble. With this in mind, you answer with a casual shrug.

"Well, I figured he could answer some of the questions I might come up with while I'm here, if you and Melodi are busy," You say. "I also wanted him to get used to me, since I'm going to be seeing a lot of him, most likely."

Coming to rest against the table in front of you, Christina seems to take thoughtful consideration of your words, signaling you to continue.

"Besides, you said it yourself: he's a special case. He may not look it anymore, but he's a human like you and me. He wants company just like anyone else would. Being stuck in there all day isn't good for him, anymore than it would be good for me. I think it does him good to stretch his... proverbial, legs."

Her lips quick up in an honest smile at that, though it vanishes just as quickly as she sighs and shakes her head.

"You're a very noble soul, Lieutenant," She tells you, "but you need to learn to think more about your actions. Delmar's men are smart enough to know when and where to see, but we do give them leave, and men in their cups talk. I think you can guess by now, but Melodi and her friends are an exception to the Mechanicus, not the rule. Getting wind of anything slightly resembling an AI to an outsider would have Skitarii breathing down my neck."

You're not sure what an AI is, but if it's bad enough to piss off the cogboys you decide it's best to not know.

>You worry too much, ma'am.
>So restrict him to the upper levels.
>You're right. He's too much trouble.
>Other?

>So restrict him to the upper levels
i would had thought that would had been the first thing you would do if you were worried about this secret coming out or restrict him to safe areas

>>32126862
>The warp hath no fury like a Tech Priest scorned

>So restrict him to the upper levels.

>>32126862
I would have thought he is no more of an AI than an astartes dreadnought given it is not artificial but his own concious?

but I suppose we will be more careful where we bring him so no one who should see him will. plus maybe him only talking in good company so to speak

>>32126946
>I would have thought he is no more of an AI than an astartes dreadnought given it is not artificial but his own concious?

We don't know that

OC I used to know the answer to this but I just chalked it up as "It's complicated"

>>32126862

"The warp hath no fury like a Tech Priest scorned," You quote, to her mild surprise, though your next words add to it. "So restrict him to the upper levels."

"Explain," She prompts.

"Yes. Please, do," Jeeves adds, sounding somewhat hopeful.

"The upper levels of the Antebellum are restricted to Delmar, his main officers, and us, right?" You ask, getting a nod from both. "From what I've seen, everyone here knows him and enjoys seeing him, and he does the same. Why not let him roam there?"

She seems ready to respond, then hesitates. Whatever she considers ends quickly, however, as she lets out a distraught huff.

"I was afraid of this," She muses dryly. "You're not just an effective soldier. You've got something resembling intelligence underneath that helmet of yours, Lieutenant."

"Thank you, ma'am," You say. "I think."

Without anymore questions she waves you toward the door.

"That will be all. Enjoy the peace while it lasts."

"Ma'am," You snap to a salute before turning on your heel.

Leaving, you find the hall empty. Beside you, Jeeves dips his head forward gratefully.

"You have my deepest thanks, sir," he says.

>Just helping out a friend.
>You owe me one for this.

(You now have the majority of the day to do as you wish. Currently you have two options.)

>Skip forward, acquiring your upgraded gear and jumping straight into the mission.
Or
>Play out the day, get your bearings, etc etc.

>>32127512
>Just helping a friend out, beside I don't think I could stand it if I had to be the only one to deal with you.
>Play out the day
we may need to talk to the others see how they are planning to proceed

>>32127512
On one hand

Perils of the Warp

On the other hand

Social Links

Goddamit

>>32127512
>Just helping out a friend.
and
>Play out the day, get your bearings, etc etc.
gotta get those social links

>Just helping out a friend.
>Play out the day if you got something planned

>>32127512
>Just helping out a friend.
>Play out the day, get your bearings, etc etc.
need to hang out more with Melodi and the A-team. and the old adept that I can't remember the name of

>>32127512

"Just helping out a friend," You tell him, playing the whole ordeal off. Even so, Jeeves seems relieved to say the least.

"Of course, sir," The servo butler says. "Thank you, sir."

With that business done you now have the day ahead of you, and you almost feel yourself a bit overwhelmed at it all. Traveling on troop transports had never been too difficult because it never lasted long, and you stuck to your designated barracks. Now you're going to be living here, and that means knowing where everything and everyone is.

With this in mind, you set off to...

>Go give the Officers Quarters a look-see.
>The armory. Cachino's probably finished with your rifle.
>The engine room. Maybe Melodi's with the other cogboys?
>The barracks. Alpha might be doing something.
>The bridge. Delmar seemed like an interesting fellow.
>Other? (There's plenty of other options, but I'm lazy and I'm sure you can guess a few more.)

>>32127893
>>The armory. Cachino's probably finished with your rifle.

I'd like to make sure our gear is functional. And maybe see Melodi after.

>>32127893

>Go give the Officers Quarters a look-see.
>The armory. Cachino's probably finished with your rifle.

In that order

>>32127948
>The armory. Cachino's probably finished with your rifle.
>The engine room. Maybe Melodi's with the other cogboys?

Liking your idea.

>Go give the Officers Quarters a look-see
>The armory. Cachino's probably finished with your rifle.
going with these two

>>32127948
I agree with this, although Cachino seems to know what he's doing best to check his work for our-self.

>>32127893

First order of business: your rifle.

Leaving Jeeves to explore his new surroundings, you set off to the elevator and begin your trek to the armory. It's not too difficult of a task, the trail still fresh in your memory from yesterday.

Approaching the same console as before, you hit the same key Melodi had. In return you're greeted with a blast of static before it settles and begins to clear.

"Yeah?" a familiar voice grunts. Tony, you'd wager. Whoever that was.

"Lieutenant Dunkin," You tell him. "Here to pick up a hellgun."

"Sounds about right. Hold one."

The doors open with a groan and a hiss, slowly departing to reveal the armory in all it's glory. There aren't as many people as before, but it's still early. The one you immediately notice, however, is Cachino. He and the others look up from their work to inspect the new arrival, and after a moment the Sergeant-at-Arms seems to recognize you.

"Morning," You offer, approaching him.

His only response is a grunt as he digs into a nearby toolbox.

>Roll a 1d20. First three count.

Rolled 15

>>32128163

Rolled 19

>>32128163

Rolled 16

>>32128163

Rolled 15

>>32128163
Wow, am I really the only one rolling?

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Rolled 5

>>32128163
PRAISE BE TO THE OMNISIAH

>>32128222
>>32128204
>>32128188

Delicious.

>>32128163

You catch sight of the man's hand move in a flash, but you're already reacting. You take a quick side-step, easily avoiding the wrench that goes sailing past your head. It clangs noisily against the door as it closes, rattling on the floor before finally going silent.

"What the hell?" You ask, confused but only mildly concerned.

"I told you no touching my armory," Cachino says, standing from his seat. "Do they ever listen? No. Of course not. Nice reflexes, though. I usually smack most of'em."

"Thanks," You deadpan at the compliment, picking up the wrench and tossing it back to him. "Is everything good?"

"Oh, sure," He shrugs. "Everyone's keeping up on their weapon checks, I haven't gotten a broken mass of armor in days, and-oh. You meant the rifle. Hold on."

Cachino walks over to a weapons rack holding freshly polished and maintained hell-guns. Seemingly at random he picks one, inspecting it a moment before he nods and returns to you. With visible reluctance he hands the weapon over, and you take a moment to do the same, inspecting the upgraded sights, before nodding.

"I'll put it to good use," You promise him.

"I expect it back in one piece," Is all Cachino replies with.

>Say something? (what?)
>Move on. (Where to next?)

>>32128436
>Say something
"I'll be sure to break it the first chance I get."

>>32128436
>Move on. (Where to next?)

Officers I don't think we've met anymore than Vincent

>>32128436
>Move on.
Lets see whats going on in the officer's quarters

>>32128436
Move on the ether the officers quarters or the fire range to test the new gun also >>32128456 don't do that what you want to get another wrench throw at us?

>>32128692
we dodged the first one

>>32128436
>Say something
Don't worry on cadia we' know when a gun is worth more than us.

>>32128436

Bidding a neutral farewell to the Sergeant-at-Arms, you head back to your room to drop off your rifle. Your room is oddly quiet, and no one comes to greet you, so you safely assume Jeeves is still out and about.

With that done, you head out in search of something you've always heard about but never experienced yourself: the Officers Quarters. Once a far off place where grunts only dreamed of, a quick look at a map located on an intersection in the hall points you where you want to go.

When you arrive you find your missing servant entertaining a handful of people. It's mainly crew you've never met before, but Delmar is too much to ignore in his shimmering gold. However, while several of the room's occupants seem interested by Jeeves, others are off doing their own thing.

A number of billiard tables sit in a corner, close to several tables no doubt meant for Tarot games. However, being this early in the morning leaves them all empty. The bar sitting at the back of the room is already sporting customers, though it seems to serve food as well as drink. In another corner, a large pictcast is showing a scrumball game taking place with a number of chairs and couches sitting close by.

>Greet the Captain.
>Grab a bite to eat.
>Other?

>>32128872
>Grab a captain to eat.

>Greet the Captain.

>>32129004
+1
Chat and chow

>>32128872
>>Greet the Captain.
>>Grab a bite to eat.

Why not both.

>>32128872

Like the unlucky point-man, you approach the gathered crowd like you would your typical shitty Chaos cultist IED. However it doesn't take long at all before you're noticed; Delmar's eyes going wide and sporting a grin.

"Mr. Dunkin!" He greets you with open arms, but thankfully doesn't try and move closer to you. "How wonderful it is to see you again. How did you sleep? Don't tell me, I know it was simply exquisite. I can see it on your face."

You're left blank for several long seconds before you can come up with a reply.

"Good morning, Captain," You say, off-put by his mood. "You seem to be in high spirits."

"Why shouldn't I be?" He asks, looking oddly confused. "We're on a new adventure, off to save the Imperium!"

Against your wishes he approaches you and wraps an arm around your neck, forcing you to concentrate on not flinging him across the room rather than object.

"And I know more than you do, my friend," He stage-whispers to you. "What say we grow acquainted over a fine meal? Come, come! My personal chef will make everything you've eaten before seem like garbage in comparison. Besides, I have so much to ask! A man like you must have many stories to tell."

Some of the crowd are still happily conversing with Jeeves, but you notice some casting wry glances in your direction. Suddenly, you wish you had your rifle again.

>Accept his invitation.
>I'd feel more comfortable eating here.

>>32129443
>Accept his invitation.

Shouldn't turn down a free meal.

>>32129443
>>32129443
>Accept his invitation
Might aswell get to know him

>>32129443
>Accept his invitation.
Accept the shiny one's invitation.

>Accept his invitation.
you can not go wrong by getting on a rouge traders good side besides cant help but like him for having such a upbeat attuide in the dark galaxy we are in

>>32129443
>>Accept his invitation.

This guy reminds me of a giant ass teddy bear

I wished when we first met him we would've hugged him like one and told him he's the shiniest man ever

I bet we get the chance when he saves our ass from a daemon in the warp

>>32129443

You're going to regret this.

You KNOW you're going to regret this.

However... a free, quality meal isn't something you come by easily.

"I don't see why not," You agree.

"Splendid!" Delmar clasps his hands together, his excitement clear. "This way, my friend, this way!"

Before you can object he's already on his way out of the room, and you struggle to keep pace with him. You notice, with vague interest, the pair of armsmen stationed at the entrance wordlessly falling into step behind the two of you as you continue.

"Have you ever tried Calnacian eggs? Oh, of course not, but you soon shall!" Delmar proclaims, leading you through the winding halls as he goes on about the various foods awaiting. Having been around people more important than you before, you simply nod and occasionally throw in an affirming word or two until you seem to reach what is his private dining hall.

It's large enough to fit at least two dozen people, but only the two of you fill the seats. For a moment to inspect the rather tasteless stuffed animals of all shapes and sizes, as well as the many other gaudy statues and paintings. Though you didn't mean it, the captain catches your eye and beams.

"I hear you're quite good with a rifle," Delmar says as a pair of servants appear with glasses and a container of what you hope is caffeine. "I myself am quite the hunter, but I prefer my prey to be a bit more... primal."

To your relief you soon have a steaming cup of your mild addiction in hand, but the quality is hampered somewhat as Delmar watches you expectantly.

"Now tell me, my friend, while we wait," He urges, though he seems to have calmed down greatly. Instead, simple curiosity remains. "Tell me the first thing that comes to mind when I ask you this: what drives you?"

>Serving the Imperium.
>Protecting the weak.
>Shooting things, mainly.
>That's... a good question, actually.
>Other?

>>32129951
>Serving the Imperium.
Everything else is heresy

>Serving the Imperium.
>Protecting the weak.
>Shoot things
in that order

>>32129951
Serving the imperium and protecting the weak.
With a side order of sho0ting things.

>>32129951
>Serving the Impeeium by protecting the weak. Which happens to include shooting things.... Alot.

>>32129951
>Serving the Imperium.>Protecting the weak.>Shooting things
>>32130104
Agreed.
And make sure we use the words "in that order."

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>>32130125
>Impeeium

Uh oh umm if a commisar or inquisitior comes through here you didn't see me

>>32129951
>Serving the Imperium.
>Protecting the weak.

Though shooting things is always fun.

>>32130104
This works for me.

>>32129951
>>Serving the Imperium.
>>Protecting the weak.
>>Shooting things, mainly.
In dis order

>>32129951

You were expecting him to ask for war stories or... something. This is a bit different. Even so, you answer him almost immediately.

"Serving the Imperium, protecting the weak, and shooting things," You tell him. "In that order."

Your answer seems to have been the right one, as Delmar smiles and nods.

"A patriot," He muses, sipping at his drink. "I thought they were a dying breed."

"They may be," You answer. "But I'm here. For a while longer, at least."

Shortly after your breakfast arrives, brought in by a number of servants. Your stomach growls in anticipation, but the sounds seems to have gone thankfully unnoticed. As you begin testing your meal, finding it a vast improvement over field rations, Delmar turns to you again.

"So I have asked a question, and you gave an answer," He says, pointing a fork at you. "Now it is only fair for you to do the same. What would you like to know, my friend?"

>Ask the Captain!

>>32130418
>How did you meet the Lady Inquisitor?

>>32130418
Teach me your secrets captain. How does one such as me reach your levels of shine o based one?

Man I either want some cybernetic animal or a floating skull with guns in it ask him if he can help with that

>>32130418
So how did you get started as a rouge trader and get in command of this fine ship?

>>32130514
This

>>32130583
allready got the short version

>>32130563
>rouge
>not rogue
Sounds like he started hawking cosmetics and built it up to his ship,...which actually sounds quite good actually. A self made man

>>32130418
>>32130563
THis

>>32130418
>What drives you?

>>32130418

"How did you come to be the captain of this... fine, ship?" You ask, deciding that would keep him talking while you enjoyed your meal. It seems to be working.

"Oh, it is a long and sad tale," Delmar says, looking downcast for all of a few seconds before grinning once more. "I would be delighted to tell you!"

Though you feel more drawn to the food, you can't help but find the captain's antics oddly entertaining.

"Where I come from, the sea stretches on and on, seeming to go on forever. Islands are everywhere, and so my people take to the seas for their living. Some are traders, others mercenaries, and others still turn to piracy. I was a... mix, if you will. I will not lie; I was a happy child, and was well sought after. My father was a well-made merchant, and I grew up learning all his simple trades. Too bad for him, I couldn't remain so simple," Delmar chuckles, and for a moment he almost seems normal.

"Oh, no. I was always a clever child, and I grew up to be a clever man. Of course I furthered my father's business for a time, but it simply wasn't enough. Eventually I earned enough to purchase a military vessel, and with a contract as a privateer I set about making my own name. My father was furious, but what could he say? And why would I listen? An idiot, I was.

"My crew and I did many things. Some honorable, some less so. In the end, we put ourselves before anyone else. We grew rich, but there was something missing. On the largest island, where the spaceport sat, I would always watch the ships come and go into space. Even their smallest transports dwarfed our merchant galleys. What would it be like, I wondered, if I could join the crew of one? What if I could be the captain of one? Well, it wasn't too long before I had my chance."

(Cont.)

>>32131062

"One day I'm told there are enemy ships on the horizon. A simple report, and one I had heard many times before. Only this time, when I looked to the sea, I found nothing. These vessels descended from the sky. Two of them, there were; big, ugly gunships bristling with weapons. A convoy of thirty, we started with; twenty merchant, ten warships. Within minutes half of them were sinking, burning, or both. We had good, hardy ships, but nothing like what we were facing. So, what do we do?"

Before you can answer, Delmar leaps from his seat and strike a dramatic pose, pointing to the sky. As he continues, his voice grows louder and more dramatic.

"We fought the bastards! Rifle and cannon and launcher, we threw everything at them as they came at us again and again. And do you know what? We got them! My crew scored the lucky shot, blowing out the engine of one and sending it tumbling into the ocean! With it's companion dead, the second turned tail as help arrived. We were heroes. What few of us remained."

Sighing, Delmar returns to his seat and downs the last of his caffeine. He then holds it out expectantly, seeming to collect himself as a servant refills his glass.

"A week later, still awaiting repairs, a man approaches me and asks 'are you Captain Delmar?' To which I answer 'The one and only!' Wouldn't you know it, I'd saved most of the cargo meant for a Rogue Trader. The man himself had come down to thank me, as well as offer myself and my crew new positions on the ship you now find yourself on."

(Cont.)

>>32131314

By this time you've all but finished your meal, having now fully devoted your attention to Delmar who has all but ignored his own.

"The rest is rather simple, and somewhat boring. He saw my potential, put me through more tests than I could count, and when he finally decided it was time to die elected me Captain. A second father to me, that old man."

As if having said it all in one breath, Delmar inhales deeply and turns to you, waiting.

"So, my friend," He says. "Did I answer your question?"

>And then some
>You did. Thank you, Captain.
>Have you ever thought of writing a book?
>Other?

>>32131347
>Have you ever thought of writing a book?

>>32131347
>>And then some
>Have you ever thought of writing a book?
Both of these

>>32131347
>You did. Thank you, Captain.
>Have you ever thought of writing a book?
I think both of these work well together, OPERATION ROGUE TRADER BRO IS GO.

>And then some
>Have you ever thought of writing a book?

>>32131347
>You did. Thank you, Captain.
>Have you ever thought of writing a book?

>>32131347
Delmar best sensai

WE LOVE YOU DELMAR-SENPAI!!

>You did. Thank you, Captain.
>Have you ever thought of writing a book?

>>32131347
>You did. Thank you, Captain.
>Have you ever thought of writing a book?

>>32131347

Though you're initial reactions to Delmar were mixed at best, now you can't help but look at him with a bit more respect now. Emperor knows, it's not an easy thing to get where he is.

"You did. Thank you, Captain," You tell him, then add. "Have you ever thought of writing a book?"

For a moment Delmar seems uncertain what you mean, but then it clicks and he beams.

"My friend," He says. "I believe we are going to get along fabulously."

"Not a bad thought to have," You agree as the servants go about cleaning up. "Sorry about your meal."

"What, this?" He scoffs, waving off his staff. "Nothing I haven't had many a time. You approve, yes?"

"Of course."

"Good, good! Not quite how I expected things to go, but good all the same. Tell me; could you stay a bit longer? Since I've told you my story, I'd like to hear yours in turn."

It does seem like a fair deal, but there's a slight problem. For a lot of parts, your 'story' has some pages missing. Still, you suppose you could either bring or make up something to appease him.

>Remember truthfully. *Roll a 1d20. Normal drill*
>Remember vaguely.
>Admit things are scattered.
>Perhaps another time, Captain.

Rolled 4

>>32131615
>Admit things are scattered.

Rolling anyways

Rolled 9

They see me rolling

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10 KB JPG

Rolled 14

>>32131638
Man I rolled two 4's, a 5, a 2, and a 1.

/tg/ dice a shit

Rolled 1

>>32131615
>Remember truthfully

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8 KB JPG

>>32131696
H-how do we critfail a memory check? Again?!

>>32131615
>Admit things are scattered.
But I'll try to tell what I can remember (and isn't classified)

>>32131615
>Admit things are scattered.

>>32131741
don't worry it was after the first three so it should not count......right?

Since >>32131638 voted for admitting, his roll doesn't count. And since we're at a tie, we must rely once more on the dice gods to break the tie. Even is Fun Times, while odd is admittance.

Roll'em if you got'em.

>>32131770
>>32131642

Unlinked roll.

Rolled 12

>>32131839

>>32131839
Huh I see

>>32131638
>>32131743
>>32131764
Admit

>>32131696
>>32131642
And two remembers
I think?

Rolled 14

>>32131615
>Remember truthfully. *Roll a 1d20. Normal drill*

>>32131910
(...heh.)

>>32131615

"I don't see why not," You nod. "Fair's fair, I guess."

You recline in your seat and think back, trying to reconnect dots and bring back the past.

"You know Cadia, right? Yeah, of course you do. Everybody knows Cadia. Perfect little slice of heaven, right on hell's front lawn. It wasn't so bad. Ok, well, maybe it was. But what do you expect? Schooling in the morning, drilling in the evening. The perfect way for a kid to grow up." You don't mean to sound angry, but the feeling hits you before you realize it. You blink, trying to focus-

-And find yourself laying on the ground, the wind knocked out of you with a figure towering overhead.

"DID I GIVE YOU PERMISSION TO STOP, RECRUIT?!" He bellows, sounding right next to your ear. You're afraid he's going to hit you again, but you remember you're not supposed to be afraid.

"N-no, sir!" You whimper, sounding younger. Much younger.

Your entire body aches, lungs burning as you want to quit. But you can't. You won't. You have to-

"My friend?"

You blink again and let out the breath you didn't realize you were holding. All of a sudden the room's grown increasingly warm, and you wipe away a bead of sweat that's formed on your brow. Though you suddenly feel light-headed, you manage a smile that you hope is convincing.

"Yeah..." You pause, swallowing hard before continuing. "Growing up wasn't the greatest experience. Dear old dad didn't help."

"Ah," Delmar nods in understanding. Or so he thinks. "Wanting to keep tradition?"

"Something like that."

Though you think you hide it well, you notice a slight change in the captain's expression as he fails to stifle a yawn.

"Lady Massey has nearly run me into an early grave these past few days. We can continue our story swapping another time, over a good bottle of amasec," He announces, standing once more. "Is there anything you require before I retire, my friend?"

>Say/Ask something?
>If not, where to next?

>If not, where to next?
Rifle range get comfortable with your new gun we got

>>32132290
>If not, where to next?

The warp sings to me brothers. Its time for battle

>>32132290
Raifu range to relieve stress

>>32132290
>Look at the time
I don't remember if the lady inquisitor gave this mission a time frame, but we better check to see so we're not late
>If not where to next
Maybe we should go see Father Mikal, see if we can get a better read on him, so we know whether we should stay near him in battle or stay the hell away.

>>32132290
>Say/Ask something?
Can I get a signed first edition?

>If not, where to next?
Rifle range.

>>32132290

A quick look at a clock shows that it's a bit before noon. With the mission kicking off tomorrow, and an uncertainty in your gut, you resort to one surefire way of ridding yourself of it:

Shooting things.

Bidding Delmar farewell, and asking for a signed copy for later, you retrieve your hellgun and find Jeeves idly tidying up, greeting you as you enter and bidding you good luck when you leave.

The rifle gives you something to reassure yourself with, the weight and simple feel of it being what you needed. You make your way down to the drill yard once more, finding a handful of armsmen training in hand to hand or on the shooting range itself. You spot Jami and Roxy in a far corner s well, taking turns shooting. It's not too busy, though, so you could find an empty lane if you wanted.

>Practice alone. Time to shoot stuff.
>Try and be friendly with the armsmen.
>Group with Alpha.

>>32132790
>Practice alone. Time to shoot stuff.
We quiet guy with a big stick now

>>32132790
>Group with Alpha.
going be working with them so might as well see how they do

>>32132790
>Group with Alpha.
No betting. Just need to see how good we are and how we stack up with them.

>>32132790
>Practice alone. Time to shoot stuff.
Shooting time is leave us alone time

>>32132790
>Group with Alpha.

Cold, cool and professional. This isn't happy-fun-times, this is about getting us ready for combat.

Also, maybe field-strip the hellgun after we finish at the range. We've probably only used one a half dozen times or so.

>>32132790
>Group with Alpha.

>>32132790
>Practice alone. Time to shoot stuff.

>>32132790
Damn it seems deadlocked almost....
uh
>Practice alone. Time to shoot stuff.
We don't want alpha seeing us fail our rolls

>>32132790
>Practice alone. Time to shoot stuff.

Get into the zone.
Mik have become the hellgun


In reality I don't trust ourselves to not have a flash black and start shooting people

>>32132959
>hey you're a pretty good shot
>WHY DIDN'T YOU LOVE ME DADDY

>>32132790
>Practice alone. Time to shoot stuff.

We need to center ourselves first and foremost. If we get ourselves together with enough time to spare, THEN maybe we can socialize. Besides, we need to be sure we're familiar with this thing - hellguns pack one hell of a wollop for a flashlight.

>>32132790

You move over to an empty lane, hellgun coming free from your shoulder and into your hands. You consider teaming up with the Alpha duo, but right now you need to kill something. Even if it's just made of plastic, wood, or whatever.

You reach the second lane closest to the wall, away from anyone that might try and act friendly. You block out the crack of lasguns around you and ready your own weapon, feeling at home once more with a good weapon in hand. Feeling ready, you smack the starting button on the wall and wait to start.

>Roll a 1d20. First three count.

Rolled 4

>>32133034
>inb4 1

Rolled 11

>>32133034
By the flopping dignity of magikarp

Rolled 12

>>32133034

>>32133041
>>32133044
>>32133048


Could be worse I suppose.

>>32133041
>>32133044
>>32133048
We are REALLY not used to the kick on this thing.

>>32133034

The targets shoot up; nothing more than stripes of red across various different shapes and sizes. Almost all of them start to move, but you're already snapping off shots. You start sloppy, still getting your head back in place, but you quickly pick up the pace. Before long you have a rhythm going, blasting the targets to bits as they appear. However, the hellgun kicks like a mule and without armor to soften the blow you've still got some improving to do.

Still, seeing a variable wasteland of dead range targets has improved your mood remarkably. Then a voice sounds from behind you.

"Damn, LT," Roxy chuckles. "Never thought I'd feel sorry for a piece of plastic. They insult your mother or somethin'?"

>Not now, Kelleher.
>Just in the mood to kill something.
>It's... complicated
>Other?

Rolled 3

>>32133191
>It's... complicated

Ahh the wonderful life of a red shirt

>>32133191

Other Up for a challenge?

>>32133257
going with this

>>32133191
>It's... complicated
Daddy drank too much. He'd come home and made me run around the neighborhood while chasing me on a scooter, armed with a pipe wrench and a whistle.

I was a husky child...

>>32133191
>Other?
"Just getting ready to kill some Necron, whatever the warp they are... actually, what are they? do you know?"
>folksy misinformation is go!

>>32132981
Horus Heresy in a nutshell.

File: 1395470266666.jpg (298 KB, 600x456)

298 KB JPG

>>32133286
Hue

>>32133191
>>It's... complicated

I also like this >>32133257

>>32133286
+1

>>32133286
what the hell would cadians drink, anyways?
Maybe Gorsk (moonshine), probably not amasec (moonshine), uh... I wonder if he was on slaught (adrenaline/steroids)

>>32133286
Supporting the hilariously abusive childhood backstory.

>>32133394
CRAP
I MEANT AMASEC = WHISKEY
SHIT

>>32133191
>It's... complicated
Just wanted to do something that didn't need thinking so it could uncomplicate things for me.

>>32133191

"It's... complicated," You say, shrugging it off as if it were nothing. "Up for a challenge?"

Roxy's eyes light up at the proposition, while next to her Jami sighs.

"Here we go again..." He says, lowering his head.

"Sounds fun," She agrees. "You're on."

You soon come to a simple agreement: whoever shoots the most with the fewest misses before the time runs out is the victor. Jami accepts keeping score with a sigh and a nod.

"Ladies first," You offer, and with a pleased smile Roxy steps up to the mark and readies her weapon. The buzzer sounds and fresh targets spring forward. The sergeant goes about the work like you; quiet, hard efficiency. Though you've seen her as a friendly sort, now you notice the familiar look of a seasoned veteran.

By the end the score is a neat 32 hits, three misses.

"Alright, LT," She gives a dramatic bow, stepping aside. "Take it away."

>Rollin'.

Rolled 10

>>32133452
aww yeah, we fuck up BAD

Rolled 12

>>32133452

Rolled 8

>>32133452
BLOOD FOR THE BLOOD GOD

Rolled 1

>>32133475
not too bad, I guess.

Rolled 2

>>32133452

>>32133493
yea turn in your dice

Rolled 11

>>32133452
woo just woke up

>>32133493

We are so lucky there were three already. Oh lordy

>>32133452
Never tried to roll before....

File: 1362814850951.gif (24 KB, 210x200)

24 KB GIF

Rolled 15

>>32133493
hue

>>32133515
just put in dice+1d20 in the E mail feild

>>32133452
trying to roll dice...

Rolled 18

>>32133515
dice+XdY
X is how many di(c)e are rolled
y is how many Sides.
dice+1d20 rolls one d20.

File: 1379221239800.gif (1.84 MB, 400x225)

1.84 MB GIF

>>32133493

>>32133452

Even with just one practice run, you've managed to already begin accounting for the new kickback. The buzzer sounds and you begin anew, giving a much better account of yourself than before. Better, but not great. The last target explodes, but you know you've already lost.

"24 hits, 11 misses," Jami informs you.

"Not bad," Roxy nods. "Guess this means you'll do better with your fists than a hellgun. Want me to help you out, some time? Jami here can vouch for my teaching skills."

"She threatened to hit me if I didn't-" Jami begins, only to quiet down after the sergeant dome-slaps him.

"It's called 'positive reinforcement'! Read a book from time to time!" She turns back to you and grins. "So how about it, LT?"

>I guess I could use the help.
>Try and smack me and we'll have a problem.
>I think I'll do fine without you.
>Other?

>>32133622
>I guess I could use the help.
>Try and smack me and we'll have a problem.
also this was my first time using a hellgun

>I guess I could use the help.
eh can't hurt

>>32133622
>Sure. Had a nice vacation in the medbay time to get back on the chimera

>>32133622
>I guess I could use the help.

>>32133622
seconding >>32133646
mention babbys first hellgun, we've always used a longlas before this

>>32133622

You consider her offer a moment before deciding she's had a lot more experience with this thing then you.

"Yeah, alright," You say. "I guess I could use the help. This is the first time I'll be using this thing as standard kit."

"Eh, that's al-wait, really?" Roxy seems just a bit surprised. "You mean it?"

"Okay. Now you're starting to scare me," You warn her, casting a glance at Jami who quickly nods.

"No, no! It's just... I wasn't expecting Lady Massey's new number thirteen to actually take help," She smiles. "Maybe you'll last a while after all."

>'After all?'
>Gee, thanks.
>Don't sweat it; you know your stuff.
>Say/Ask something?
>If not, where to next?

>>32133646
Sounds good to me.

>'After all?'
what you had doubts i last long and i thought we were friends

>>32133744
>'After all'
You guys start a pool or something?

>>32133744
>'After all?'

>>32126862
Jeeves seems like a cool servitor.

Too bad, being self-aware machine and all, at the first little bit of chaos exposure he'll probably be full of daemons.

>>32133838
he is not a self aware machine they just sliced his head off and gave him all the servitor bits

>>32133744

"'After all'?" You ask. "What, you guys start a pool or something?"

"What? No!" Roxy quickly denies. "We've done no such thing and it's not yet at triple digits!"

"If it helps, I'm rooting for you," Jami mutters. "You got better chances than me, at least."

"Who started it?" You ask, more curious than angry.

"No one. It's just... once a new one shows up people start talking," Roxy shrugs, trying to play it off.

>Press her for information.
>Say/Ask something else?
>Let her off and move on. (Where?)

>>32133876
>Press her for information.
we're getting in on it and betting in our favor

>Say/Ask something else
hey can i get in it?

>>32133876
> Press her for information
Is the lady inquisitor really that hard on bodyguards? Are there other indicators of my not living a long life?"

>>32133932
this and our bet shall be "long enough to get the money"

>>32133876

How long did the one before me last?

>>32133876
"I'll be comin' round to collect the pot when I retire."

>>32133876

Roxy's calm and merry outlook is quickly withering as you try and find out more. Not that you're too upset-gunfire clears that up well-but you're rather curious to know what people think your odds are.

"So is it one sided or can people put money on me sticking around?" You ask.

"It's kinda in stages," She shrugs, gaze constantly moving about. "It pays out if they last a week... two weeks... three... a month... two... and so on, until, well, it stops."

"Can I get in on it?"

It's a simple question, but it seems to shock both of them visibly.

"Huh?" Roxy stammers.

"If we're making money on my life here, I want a cut," You tell them. "So can I get in or what?"

"Not exactly," She says, scratching the back of her head. "It's kinda supposed to be a secret. But, if you want, I can split my earnings with you 50/50. Sound fair?"

>Excuse me, but whose life is on the line here?
>Sounds good, partner.
>I'm not taking part in this shit.
>Other?

>Sounds good, partner

>>32134079
"I'm only going to ante up if I can bet normally. So what was your guess? Two weeks?"

>>32134079
>Sounds good, partner.

We'll be pitching in so she can bet a bit higher, yeah?

>>32134079
>Sounds good, partner.
so whats the current favorite?

>>32134079
>Sounds good, partner.

>>32134141
>We'll be pitching in so she can bet a bit higher, yeah?
oh we totally are

>>32134079
>Sounds good, partner.

>>32134079

"Sounds good partner," You say, extending a hand. Roxy stares a moment before accepting it and shaking.

"Yeah!" She says, getting a second wind.

Then you decide to have some fun.

"So what was your guess?" You ask.

"I don't think that's impo-"

"Two weeks," Jami answers, this time ducking to avoid the blow meant for him.

"OI! STOW IT!" Roxy growls before she can reign herself in. "That's the standard starting bet. For your information I DID bet for you, and I think most of the other did too. After that show with Specter you made a real impression on the grunts."

"My first paycheck will go to help boosting whatever you already have in there," You promise her.

"Sounds good," She nods, smiling. "Just... don't tell anyone you know."

She gives a sideways glance to Jami, but he simply holds up his hands in surrender.

>Anything else?
>If not, where to?

>>32134243
what time is it?

>>32134283

A little past noon.

>>32134243
time to go hang with Melodi

We need to get some Lho Sticks.

>>32134292
lets go see Melodi also take awere guns with us sence the Inquisitor has hinted she is not the standard tech priest prehappes we can get her to do some "Less then standard" upgreads

>>32134243
let's find Melodi. We need to get to know her better so she can make funky stuff for us

>>32134320
I second that.

>>32134320
Sounds like a good plan to me.

We should start singing "Through the Warp and Far Away" at whatever bar there is on the ship.

"When duty calls me I must go
To stand and fight another foe
But part of me will always stray
Through the Warp and Far away"

"Through the Warp and through Hell
We'll fight til we hear our knell
The Emperor points and we obey
Through the Warp and Far Away"

>>32134470

Don't forget the other parts of the song.

"Here's forty thrones on the drum
For those who volunteer to come
To list and fight the foe today.
Through the Warp and Far away."

"Then fall in lads behind the drum
With our banner blazing like the sun.
Along the road to come what may
Through the Warp and far away."

"Through smoke and fire and las and shell,
And to the very walls of hell,
But we shall stand and we shall stay
Through the Warp and far away."

>>32134243

With this new source of possible income settled you figure out your next stop. You decide to visit Melodi next, but something's nagging at you. It isn't until you're almost out of the drill yard that you realize what it is. A familiar smell, one that brings a mixed set of emotions.

Looking back, you see a number of armsmen watching a sparing match, several of them sporting Lho Sticks.

Throne, when was the last time you had one of those?

A number of various images pop into your head, more or less versions of you on various planets, a familiar looking tube hanging from your lips as you do various tasks.

However as much as you want one, you're not a bum, so you decide to wait and see if you either either scrounge up a pack with Jeeve's help or from the Officers Quarters.

With that in mind for later you set off to engineering where the cogboys reign supreme. The trip takes you deep into the bowels of the ship, and before long squads of armsmen and other assorted crew begin giving away to red-robed figures and lumbering servitors.

Eventually you come to a massive room stacked high with various metals, scrap, and other odd doodads you've never seen before in your life. You're not really sure who to ask for help when a voice calls from above.

"Hey! Mikkey!"

You look up to find Melodi on a catwalk quite a ways above you, and it's more her voice and frantic waving that gives her away than her features.

"Hey yourself!" You call back.

"Be down in a sec!"

You're not really sure how she plans on doing that.

And then she vaults over the side and into thin air.
____________________________

It's really late and I've got shit to do tomorrow. It's been fun, though. Hope you all enjoyed it. With hope next thread will be Friday. With hope, mind you. G'night all.

>>32134555
Night. Thanks for the run.

>>32134555
Thank you for running.