>>37286525

When you first joined the Inquisition you had no idea what you were getting into. Heretics and xenos abound, the lives of millions hanging in the balance, the chances of surviving questionable. You've taken everything in stride and plan on continuing doing so.

However, this… this is different.

You’d suffered from worse, so when Naomi first appeared in your dreams you’d not been overly worried. If anything, it was an improvement. Then, like always, it turned darker and it returned to the old way of things. When Christina asked about it she seemed to see the whole thing as just a curious occurrence of your psyche.

Even after carrying the unconscious girl up to one of Tiberius’ safehouses your head is still spinning. You try and take your mind off it by inspecting the inside of the small apartment, but you find yourself near constantly glancing at the bedroom door.

A million things race through your head as you look back at all the signs, real or imagined, that you should have picked up on. Cursing your own ignorance, you hand is already on your rifle when you hear the door open, slowly releasing it as the Inquisitor appears. After ensuring Naomi was not suffering from anything serious she had sent everyone but you away to see to cleaning up the mess they had made in the warehouse. Having found herself rescued, Naomi had finally let fatigue take hold, and for the past few hours continued to rest fretfully.

Softly closing the door behind her, Christina less sits and more collapses next to you on the couch. You’ve never seen her this exhausted before, and you’re worried for her as any bodyguard should be.

“I don’t doubt you have questions,” She says, giving you a weary smile. “After all that’s happened, I think you deserve a few to be answered.”

>What do you ask?

>>37286548
Why have i seen her in my dreams?

>>37286548
Is your daughter a psyker?

>>37286548
Reminder that single mothers a shit.

>>37286548
Ok, will i have to guard her as well? How did they get to her? Is she a psyker because she was literally that girl in my dreams i told you about.

>>37286631
Really?

>>37286654
>Really?
Yes.

>>37286686
>Not wanting to fuck the mother then the stepdaughter

>>37286744
>throwing hot dogs down hallways
>then getting blamd

>>37286548
>>37286623
This plz

>>37286548

You think it over, trying to not go overboard. You decide to start with the obvious.

"Why have I seen her in my dreams?" You ask.

"That's... a very good question," Christina answers, embarrassed at the lack of certainty. "I have a few possible answers, but we can get to those later."

"Fair enough," You nod. "I'm going to go out on a limb and say she's a psyker."

"A very talented one," She smiles. "Or, at least possessing the ability to be a talented one. That no doubt had a major impact on your nightly troubles."

"Will I be guarding her as well?"

At that her smiles fades and she looks back to the door.

"Yes," She answers. "Should the day come where I end up dead, despite your efforts, I ask that you look after her with the same determination."

"That's not going to happen," You promise her.

"Perhaps. But I have to account for as many possibilities as I can," She sighs. "Even then, it's not always enough."

"How did they get to her?"

"Another good question, and one I plan on answering soon."

You want to ask her the question that's been weighing on you the most since you arrived here, but you don't know if you really want the answer. It was a simple difference, but a major one. In your dreams Naomi had been a normal girl, and in truth you suppose she still was.

Except for one thing. Two, in fact.

Her ears were pointed.

In truth only one was pointed, the left one missing a portion of the tip. Even so, it was still something you didn't expect nor have reason to. They simply hadn't been there before. And reading you like a book, Christina answers you.

"If you want, I can tell you the whole story later," She says. "But right now I can tell you what's important. Or you can stay ignorant, and perhaps be spared the worst if she's ever discovered by my colleges."

>"Why is she...?"
>"This is over my head, ma'am."

>>37286744
Nah, Chrissy, melody and roxy are good enough for me, Naomi is the daughteru

>>37287251
>"Why is she...?"

>>37287251
>"Why is she...?"

>>37287251
>>"Why is she...?"

God damn it, I've been missing too many threads of this.
I'll try and catch up during this weekend, I guess, sorry I can't be with you guys tonight but I don't want to participate and fuck things up without knowing what has been happening.
Last thing I read was thread after the party at the rich guy's place with his daughter, I think.

>>37287251
Give me what's important and then we can go over the full story

>>37287251
>>"This is over my head, ma'am."

>>37287251
>"This is over my head, ma'am."

>>37287365
I won't be able to post much either, stuck at work on my phone

>>37287251
>why

>>37287251
Our boss is a bloody heretic isn't she

>>37287544
If she is, do we stand with her or the emperor?

>>37287592
We stand with her for the emperor

>>37287592
Kill the heretic
Praise the Emperor

>>37287592
>If she is, do we stand with her or the emperor?
Emperor every time

>>37287592
>>37287609
Exactly we bring her back to him, kicking and screaming if need be. We just need to be subtle.

>>37287592
What >>37287609 said, they are not mutually exclusive, even more so for a ordos xeno inquisitor

>>37287592
>>37287609
>>37287623
>>37287626
>>37287630
>>37287636
I sense a war coming

>>37287661
It's 40k war is a constant

>>37287630
Bring her back from what? She is already in his embrace, we just need to keep her and her daughter safe and on the right track

>>37287623
See that assumes shes a heretic when she not

>>37287677
"If" she was a heretic we'd bring her back. Right now we just keep her on track. Hell her kid could easily have been a product of rape. (No knowledge of xeno biology ho!)

>>37287697
Hey waifutard read the question

>>37287697
Well we are talking about hypotheticals where she was

>>37287702
Thats even more reason to kill the abomination
>implying you need more reasons

>>37287736
Didn't half eldar get retconned or something?

>>37287251
We should ask about the freaky ears thing, and how/why she can block those dreams when she slept with us.

>>37287736
Don't be that faggot That Guy anon, that's not even close to playing in character

>>37287762
Nope

>>37287772
>cadian guardsman
>not killing the xeno
sure bud

File: 1420237547999.jpg (52 KB, 600x600)

52 KB JPG

>>37287772
>Guardsmen killing xenos is ooc

>>37287769
Clearly we need to sleep with her more often, for science of course, then for extra science we should bring melody and Roxy into our bed at the same time

>>37287251

Just sitting here thinking yourself to death isn't going to do anything productive. Seeing as she's offering you decide to take the offer.

"Why is she...?" You ask.

"Eldar?" Christina answers. "Only on her mothers side."

You take some comfort in the amusement your expression gives Christina, but you're once more knocked for a loop.

"She's... not mine," Christina admits, looking down at her hands. "Not by blood, in any case. I've raised her for nearly her entire life. I'm the only parent she knows, with Vincent and the others being something resembling a family."

"Where was she before?" You ask without thinking, cursing yourself when she visibly cringes.

"Hidden away within what appeared to be a merchants vacation home, on a well to do hive world like this one. For the majority of her life she was hidden away behind closed doors, watched over by servants I'd picked out from a very small group. Considering what's occurred, I know they're all dead. They wouldn't have allowed this to happen otherwise."

Looking back up at you, she smiles but it lacks any warmth.

"The Inquisitor part of me justifies this as a social experiment. Naomi knows her prayers, studied like any in the Schola Progenium and thrived. If you took away the ears, she'd be a prime example of an Imperial citizen."

Her shoulders slump and she lets out a sigh.

"A quieter, more naive part of me had seen too much pain and suffering in the galaxy. As if it would somehow make a different, I took her in and tried to give her a normal life," She tries to laugh, but it's a bitter and sad sound. "You can see how well that's worked out."

She's trying desperately to keep her typical mask of stoicism on, but it's not fooling you for a moment. This is supposed to be heresy, right? She's not the only one that's conflicted, but you still hate to see her this distraught.

>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.
>You've got your own worries. Let her be.

>>37287795
>>37287815
Tactically intelligent and a nic(ish) guy Killing a little girls who helped his dreams from becoming a clusterfuck and who is the daughter of our friend and boss who is an inquisitor. Even if we did shoot her we'd be dead in minutes.

Stop being grim derp tards.


>>37287836
>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.

>>37287836
>admitting your only just justifying it
h
e
r
e
s
y

>>37287836
>comfort

>>37287836
>You've got your own worries. Let her be.
Yeah just wallow in your heresy

>>37287836
>>You've got your own worries. Let her be.

>>37287836
>You've got your own worries. Let her be.

>>37287836
>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.

If anyone read the Eisenhorn books, a Inquisitor has worked close with Eldar, so this can technically not be considered heresy, but it can be considered radical.

>>37287836
>You've got your own worries. Let her be.

>>37287836
>shes half-eldar
Everything is going to come down in flames.
There will be atleast two deaths.

>>37287836
>Comfort her

>>37287836
>she's overthinking things, comfort her

>>37287836
>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.

>>37287928
Yeah but, man this some real close shit, like god damn son

>>37287836
>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.
Is it better to kill the alien or to crush their identities and assimilate them?

>>37287836
>>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.
whelp we are all gonna die sooner or later.

>>37287836
>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.
She's still the same person, still our friend and boss

We've got samefagging now

>>37287836
>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.
Why the fuck would be start worrying about that now

>>37288009
final destination pls mister eli

>>37287836
>>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.

>>37287836
>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.
Posting from fone is so slow and copy pasting the options is a pain

>>37288023
I don't think it's a too important of decision

>>37288023
Oh shut the fuck up, that would not help, especially for those players on phones

>>37288073
>>37288064
>pls no show how hard I'm samefagging

>>37288064
Its not really, and its not that drastic an action

>>37287836
>>>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.

Lazy fuckers, you could at least use proxy.

>>37288084
I would post a screencap proving you a faggot if I wasn't on my phone

>>37287836
>>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.

>>37287836
>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.

Just got here, good to see ya bro.

>>37287836
>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.

I just woke up and what is going on?

You might want to close votes and start writing now OP

>>37288174
>accepting this blatant samefagging

>>37288191
Only like 20 votes and 14 posters bro.

>>37288209
Yeah, blatant samefagging

>>37288191
>wah I'm not in the majority

>>37288250
Nah sure, samefagging counts as multiple people

>>37288227
On both sides anon

>>37288298
More reason for a final destination

>>37288316
No its not anon, FD voting doesn't prevent samefagging at all, it only retricta who can make it to the vote and excludes players

>>37288316
>what are in invis characters
>what are smartphones
Don't be a fool anon, final destination voting does nothing

>>37288361
It makes samefagging harder, and it doesn't limit shit from who votes, unless you posted stupid shit halfway into the vote

>>37288394
It does because you don't give those without a constant connection a chance to vote, and it doesn't limit sefagging at all, its been shown to be flawed since its creation and your delusional if you think it does anything

>>37288394
Anon, I'm busy working and can't spend ever second watching the thread, don't be an asshat.

Just got here, welcome back Elijah.

Also relax guys this isn't really important enough to samefag at. When you do it though make sure that you don't overtly go over the IP count.

>>37288535
I agree, it's funny how 2 anons are flipping out like they are puritan hereticus inquisitors, like they've forgotten whoike is

>>37288577
Who mike is*, ducking phone

>>37288577
>2 anons
bias

>>37288577
Choosing heresy over the big E because it takes the form of a little girl

>>37288627
Oh shut the fuck up already

>>37288649
>Stop having different opinions then me

>>37288627
Don't try and pull that bullahit argument anon.

>>37288673
How about you stop trying to force out of character shit, mike is not you anon

>>37287836
>She's over thinking things like you were. Comfort her.

>>37288009
(Questionable, I agree. No need to go crazy, guys. It's not the end of the world. You've been cool so far, please keep that record. And I just counted the first ten votes after I noticed the drama.)
>>37287836

"Don't be like that, ma'am," You tell her, and she gives you an odd look. "I mean, this is way over my head, but I'm sure other people have done worse for less reasoning."

"Don't put yourself down, Lieutenant," She says. "You're brighter than most. It's why I trust you."

"Now my brightness is something I could debate," You smile, and hesitantly she returns it. "But right now things are quiet. No need to go stir crazy. We’re safe here, and t-”

A trio of knocks sound from the entrance and in a moment both of you have weapons trained on it. Quickly securing your helmet back in place, you approach the door and peer through the peephole with rifle in hand.

“Any day now, Mike,” Vincent grunts, now dressed in civilian clothing. He holds up a plastic bag with the logo of a fast food chain on it. “I come bearing gifts, and I’m freezing my ass off out here.”

Opening the door, a slightly soggy Commander steps through and shakes himself dry.

“You could have called ahead,” Christina notes dryly, standing. “We’ve had enough scares today.”

“I’ve got a dozen men watching this whole block,” Vincent shrugs. “Ain’t nobody getting close to here without me, and by extension you, knowing about it.”

Although she’s not completely appeased, Christina lets it drop.

“You couldn’t have picked a worse place to get food from, could you?” She asks as she inspects the bag.

“A simple ‘thank you’ would do fine,” Vincent replies.

Oddly enough, their typical bickering seems to brighten Christina’s mood. You’re fairly sure Vincent knows this fact.

“She’s been in enough danger for one day,” Christina says. “This might put her right …”

(Cont.)

>>37288929

The bedroom door opens and all three of you turn to see a bedraggled Naomi standing in the doorway. While not exactly the picture of perfect health, she looks a sight better than before.

“Something smells good,” She mumbles, rubbing an eye.

Sharing a scowl and grin respectively, Christina helps her over to the couch while Vincent takes over on separating the containers of food. Sealed in your helmet you’re fairly certain Naomi can’t recognize you and plan on letting that fact stand. Having been a shock to you, you’re not sure what the revelation might do to her in her current state. Instead you decide to remain quiet, though you’re itching to learn of any news from Vincent.

>Join Vincent.
>Stay by Christina.

>>37288951
>>37288929
>accepting such blatant samefagging
Dropped.

>>37288951
>Stay by Christina.

>>37288979
Only 4 votes against anon even with samefagging the other option won.

Nothing of value lost.

>>37288951
>Join Vincent.

>>37288951
>>Join Vincent.
Give Christina and Naomi their moment.

>>37288979
>Is an actual fag for complaining just about that and not just enjoying the plot.

Glad you dropped, Anon.

>>37289021
I was for comforting her
actually leaving now

>>37288951
>>Join Vincent.
giving space is good plan.

>>37288951
>Stay by Christina.

>>37288983

>>37288951
>stay with Crissy

>>37289093
Yes?

>>37288951
>Join Vincent.

>>37288951
>Join Vincent.
Give her some time with her kid.

>>37289043
No you didn't, no you wont

>>37289122
That was my vote, m8.

>>37288951
>Stay by Christina.

>>37289153
That wasn't actually a vote... You have to post the option your voting for or say what your voting for, a blank reply is not a vote

>>37288951
>Stay by Christina

>>37288951
>Join Vincent.

>>37288951

After all that's happened you decide the two need some time to themselves. Joining Vincent's side, you watch the two out of the corner of your eye.

"Any news?" You ask Vincent quietly.

"We got the bastard sitting nice and pretty in a cell," Vincent answers in a similar tone. "I've been keeping him company until Christina can have a personal word with him."

Despite the implication of his words Vincent keeps his tone casual.

"So has she told you?" He asks.

"The major parts," You answer. "I'm... still left a bit flatfooted, though."

"I'm sorry we had to drag you into this."

"I've dealt with a lot worse."

"Heh, I don't doubt it," He hesitates. "I hope we ain't gotta say that this isn't common knowledge. The bunch last night are the only people on the Antebellum that know the whole story."

"There are those that only know parts?"

"Well, there's you. Back in the early days she stayed with us on the Lady A so the oldest servants, the ones that run our part of the ship, remember her. And they’re as loyal to him as you and me are to Christina. Now, though, it’s gonna be a bit more awkward. She’s gotten bigger since then.”

As the two of you talk you notice Naomi glance over at the two of you, specifically you, ever so often. However, her focus is mainly on Christina.

“What about Roxy?” You ask.

“She’s kept in the dark, and it’s best she stay that way,” Vincent shakes his head. “No offense, but I wasn’t too keen on you learning either, being so new to this stuff.”

“I can understand,” You say.

At your side your vox chirps. Checking the caller, it’s an ID you’ve never heard of before.

>Answer it.
>Ignore it.

Oh for a world without timezones.

>Stay by Christina.

We're a bodyguard Vincent may have the situation on lockdown but we stay close to our charge regardless

>>37289599
>Answer it.

>>37289599
>>37289627
Motherfuck.

>Answer it

>>37289627
Here comes the snow...

>>37289599
>>Ignore it

can they track vox signals.

>>37289599
>answer

>>37289745
Changing my vote. Ask Christina whether or not they or anyone else might be doing so then ask her whether or not she thinks it's worth the potential risk of you taking the call.

>>37289599
>Answer it.

>>37289599
>>37289745
Good Point

>>Ignore it

Ask Vincent if we should be answering vox calls at the present time.

>>37289599

You inspect the vox and Vincent looks over, curious.

"Can they trace this?" You ask.

"If they're determined enough," Vincent answers. "Though, they'd have to have some serious tech to crack yours and mine. Plenty of toys comes from working with the Inquisition."

"Think it's worth answering?"

"Could be one of the Sympathizers. Or Alexi," Vincent pulls off his coast and stretches it out, inspecting it and you. "If ya want, pull this over your kit and take a walk. This early, no one in their right mind's gonna be out, and we don't wanna piss anyone off with you ignoring'em."

>Take a walk and answer it.
>Let it be.

>>37289899
>>Take a walk and answer it.

>>37289899
>Take a walk and answer it

>>37289899
>Take a walk and answer it.

>>37289899
>Take a walk and answer it.

>>37289687
what?

>>37289899
>Take a walk and answer it

>>37289899
>>Take a walk and answer it.
ya make an intresting point that they might trace it and it gets taken with a serious attitude.

>>37289899

"I'll be back," You tell him, accepting the coat and pulling it over you. Despite your uneasiness leaving it, your rifle remains behind, being too unwieldy to be effectively hidden.

You answer your vox as you exit the building and into a back alleyway. A light rain is still falling, but wiring the speaker through your suit lets you hear the person clearly.

"Do you always take so long to answer?" The voice answered, more curious than angry.

"I was in a place that was too crowded," You answer. "Who is this?"

"We've not met before, but we have a mutual friend in the Brice Family," They answered. "Name's Burwood."

"Sandon."

"Glad to hear they weren't lying. Clear and precise. I like it," The man notes. "How quickly can you gather a team?"

"Depends on what you need them for."

"A similar job to the first one you had with Brice," Burwood answers. "Six men, yourself included, would be good. In a few hours you'll receive a note with further instructions. Easy in, easy out, and the pay's good. Sound doable?"

>"Something came up. My men and I are on hold."
>"We'll be there."

>>37290282
>>"Something came up. My men and I are on hold."

The job with Brice was the assassination right? Or was that something else?

>>37290282
>"Give me a minute to see how long my current employers need me"

>>37290282
>>37290319
This

>>37290319
Changing my vote again. This please.

>>37290282
>>"We'll be there."

>>37290282
>something came up

>>37290319
This>>37290393

>>37290463 here
Changing to supporting >>37290319

>>37290282

"Give me a minute," You tell him. "I'm with a client right now. Let me see how much longer we'll be needed."

"I'd like an answer soon," Burwood grunts. "But very well."

The line goes dead and you tread back up. Being let back in, you find Naomi in high spirits, laughing at something Vincent had said or done. Christina stops you from entering and instead steps outside with you.

“What’s going on?” She asks.

“Noriega is calling in again,” You report. “Looks like I’ll be taking Alpha out again. But if I’m needed here…”

At that Christina smiles, then shakes her head.

“We’re fine here, Lieutenant,” She says. “We can’t give them a reason to pass us up in their plans, so up and at it. But… I appreciate the concern. You still have time, so I suggest you head back to the ship and try to get some rest. Sounds like you’ll be busy today.”

“Will do, ma’am,” You nod. “You do the same.”

With that you catch a transport back up to the Antebellum. It’s only after she says something that your own fatigue starts sitting in, having never gotten any shuteye yourself last night. Not the first time it’s happened, though.

You return to your quarters to find Jeeves waiting anxiously. Initially barraged with questions, they only tripple when he finds out you’ve been explained bits and pieces.

“So she’s alright, then?” He asks. “Both of them?”

“They are,” You assure him again, pulling off a boot. “Last I saw they were both in good moods.”

“That’s a relief,” Jeeves lets out an oddly audible sigh. “And your own safety, of course.”

“Your concern knows no bounds, sir,” You chuckle.

As you prepare for bed, a thought strikes you. However, whether or not it should be acted on is another matter.

>Get some rest while you can.
>Try and press Jeeves for information about Naomi. (What do you ask?)

>>37290894
>>Get some rest while you can.
I'd rather hear things firsthand

>>37290894
>>Get some rest while you can.
we can get info later sleep helps more now.

>>37290894
>>Get some rest while you can.

Info can come later, there's plenty of people to ask.

>>37290894
>Get some rest while you can.

>>37290894
>Get some rest while you can.
Get our answers in our dreams I bet.

>>37290894

You were promised the full story from Christina herself, so you let your remaining questions be.

You manage to get a few hours of scattered sleep in, but a mixture of your usual restlessness and recent events keep you from staying asleep for too long. It’s early morning around your usual time when you finally give up and prepare for the day.

Making your way down to the mess hall you find Alpha in its usual spot, looking like it had before with fresh faces. Gabriel looks to be suffering from your old problems, still not used to having a cybernetic limb. He seems to be handling it well enough, but when you approach they to turn to face you as one.

“Mornin’ LT,” Roxy greets cheerfully. “How’s it going?”

“I have to sit with you lot, so it could be better,” You joke, already not liking this. “How’s the leg, Gabe?”

“A bit stiff,” The big man answers. “Getting the hang of it, though.”

You sit at your usual spot with them, and pause from eating as all eyes continue to watch you.

“Is it something on my face?” You ask, still trying to play dumb.

“Oh, don’t be like that,” Roxy grins, leaning forward and pointing a fork at you. “Something happened, didn’t it? That’s why Vinny and the Father aren’t here. Right? So spill it.”

>”We performed a daring midnight rescue to save a princess in a castle.”
>”It’s a lot more complicated than that, Rox.”
>”You’ve got your own something to deal with, Sergeant.”

>>37291756
>”It’s a lot more complicated than that, it's also classified. Sorry Rox."
But
>”You’ve got your own something to deal with, Sergeant.”

>>37291756
>”You’ve got your own something to deal with, Sergeant.”
Deflect with the upcoming mission.

>>37291756
>”You’ve got your own something to deal with, Sergeant.”
Boss lady say keep beans unspilled.

>>37291756
>>37291854
>”You’ve got your own something to deal with, Sergeant.”
agreed

>>37291756
>”You’ve got your own something to deal with, Sergeant.”
>"You should know better than to ask too many questions in the Inquisition."

>>37291756
>”We performed a daring midnight rescue to save a princess in a castle.”

>>37291756
>>”You’ve got your own something to deal with, Sergeant.”

>>37291756

"You've got your own something to deal with, Sergeant," You answer. "Hope you're ready for another snatch and grab."

For a brief moment Roxy looks surprised, but everyone else is watching you.

"Who or what are we snatching and grabbing?" She asks.

"I'm going to guess it's not something legal," You say. "I'll be getting solid details soon. For right now, I just want you all ready to move."

"You can count on us," Roxy says. "Right boys?"

They voice an agreement.

"I'd love to join you," Gabriel grumbles. "But I've got orders saying otherwise."

"You move like an old man on that leg of yours," Wyack pointed out.

"Considering you already move at the pace of one," Casas adds. "That's not a good idea."

"You'll be out there soon enough," Roxy assures him, patting his arm. "You just need some more time to get used to your new piece."

You know Gabriel's expression well. You wore it yourself when you first lost your leg. The face of a man wanting to be out there doing something, rather than just sitting around all day. You can sympathize.

>"We don't want him getting rusty, Sergeant. Heavy gunners aren't meant to be fast."
>They have a point. No need to rush things.

>>37292187
>"You know yourself best Gabriel, if you think you can handle it go for it. Just be sure about it."

>>37292187
>They have a point. No need to rush things.
If it wasn't a smash and grab I'd be cool with him going but, last time had a fucking car chase.

>>37292187
>They have a point. No need to rush things.
Sympathy in the field gets men killed. We know what he's feeling now, but it's better for him to rest up than to endanger the team.

Sidenote from earlier. If a xenos believes in the majesty and divine nature of the Emperor completely, can their faith guard them from chaos? Because given Naomi's race, she obviously never went to Terra on the black ships, and is thus an untrained psyker.

>>37292187
>>They have a point. No need to rush things.

>>37292187
>They have a point. No need to rush things.

>>37292344
Well seeing as all other elder get their virgin souls are taken and eternally tortured by Slaneesh when they die, I doubt her soul will follow a normal HUMAN imperial to the emperor's side.

But on the flipside, I've never heard of chaos loyal elder so I have no idea if she can fall to chaos.

>>37292520
It would be an interesting theological point to bring up with Father, if he knows the truth that is.

>>37292376

Despite your sympathy you know it’s best to leave him and let him continue recuperating. Burk can take his place as heavy gunner, rather than his assistance, and allow the man a chance to show his skill. You spend a short time longer conversing with Alpha before you get the call. You excuse yourself, walking the halls to gain some privacy.

“We’re ready,” You report.

“I suspected as much,” Burwood answers. “You’ll receive coordinates in a few minutes. Two of your people will dress as civilians. The rest should be armed to the teeth. I’ll explain the rest when you get down here. Simple enough?”

“We’ll be there,” You answer, and the line goes dead.

You round up Alpha and explain what little you know.

“Couldn’t have been a bit more forthcoming, could he?” Roxy complained.

“It’s standard procedure with these guys,” You shrug. “Now we decide who gets to be bolter bait.”

Whichever two people were stuck in civilian clothing wouldn’t be completely defenseless. Each would get a laspistol, but aside from that they would have to rely on the others to look out for them. Of the group, Casas and Jonah volunteer for the job. It could also be you and Roxy, who is adamant about taking the spot herself rather than endanger one of her people. However, the final choice comes down to you.

>Casas and Jonah.
>You and Roxy.

>>37292933
>>You and Roxy.
"if you're scared im strong enough to carry you."

>>37292933
>>You and Roxy.
>>37293001
wat?

>>37292933
>You and one of the others.
Seems silly to have both officers in the same spot better to split them into each group.

>>37292933
>You and Roxy.
No sense putting the nuggets in the danger zone.

>>37292933
That's a good point switching >>37293018

to >>37293125

>>37293125
Agreed, this.

>>37293125
>>37292933
This

>>37292933

"If things go south I'd rather we not lose both officers," You explain, cutting her off before she can volunteer. "Alpha's yours, you lead them in combat. I'll... cheer you on."

Casus keeps his name forward, and together you both wait in typical civilian garb as the others arm up. When they do your desire for armor grows, but you force it down and together you all head for the transport with a fresh set of coordinates in hand. It's a hangar bay in the higher part of the hive, shockingly owned by the Brice Family. Or at least a company they were branched off from.

It's a fairly short trip, traffic that high up kept comfortably small. Waved through by a Naval patrol, you set down in the hangar bay without incident.

You disembark to find the hangar empty except for one man. He stands at least a foot taller than you, on par with Burk, dressed in the armor of the Adeptus Arbites. He's leaned against his patrol bike, but pushes himself off as you near.

"I count one more than I asked for," He notes. "Don't expect that to affect our price."

"You'd rather I leave one gun behind?" You ask.

"Never said that," He grunts, extending a hand. "Arbitrator Burwood, at your service."

Hesitantly, you accept the handshake.

“Captain Sandon,” You answer. “So, what’s the plan?”

(Cont.)

>>37293850

"Apparently a purchase was made but the goods were nowhere to be found," Burwood says. "We're to take what we paid for by force, before they can get it off-planet. You'll be heading to a dock used by a rival merchant company, where a group of mercenaries are loading the shipment onto a transport never to be seen again."

He rasps a knuckle against his armor.

"During my patrol routine I'll overhear fighting, and when I arrive I'll find several crates of high grade food, medicine, and other luxury item crates missing due to underhanded trading by said company. The bodies will solidify the story, and myself and my fellow officers will try and fail to track down the crates. Expect a force of around two dozen men, about a fourth of that actually being a challenge. Surprise will be your main advantage here, but seeing what you're packing I'd say you may actually have them outgunned."

Burk casually rests his Heavy Stubber against his shoulder.

"You'll use that to get in,” Burwood jabs a thumb to a nearby transport truck. “Your team will be in the back, you two in front. The papers you need are in the glove box. Flash them to the guards that stop you and find Loading Bay D23. They’ll be expecting one last shipment that isn’t real. Kill them, grab the cargo, and in the chaos you’ll bring the cargo back here. Nice and easy. Questions?”

>Ask him…
>”Let’s roll.”

>>37293889
>>”Let’s roll.”

>>37293889
>”Let’s roll.”

>>37293889
>>”Let’s roll.”

>>37293889
>”Let’s roll.”

>>37293889
"Let's roll," You tell him.

"That's what I like to hear," Burwood nods. "I'll start making my rounds. Get to it."

With that you load up into the truck, taking the passenger seat as you realize you have no idea how to drive this thing. Casas takes the spot without complaint, and in short order the truck roars to life.

Popping open the glove box you find the papers he spoke of. You can only hope it's all in good order.

"How is it back there?" You ask through your vox.

"Fucking peachy," Roxy answers. "Give us a warning before you go making any abrupt stops."

"Will do," You chuckle.

With that the truck pulls out of the hangar bay and joins the traffic on the road. Casas maneuvers the vehicle effortlessly, and you’re certain he’s done this before.

“Two years in the logistics Corp,” He answers, despite having never took his eyes off the road. “This is nothing, though. Throw in mud, rain, bombs, orks; then we’ll have some fun.”

“Let’s hope not,” You answer wearily, having been pleased the rain had stopped.

You had been on the road for around fifteen minutes when your vox chirps again. Checking it, you see that it’s another new ID. However, rather than have a stretch of numbers as befit most businesses it’s a personal one with an actual name.

Markus Idani.

You tense at seeing the name, and a fresh string of thoughts race through your mind.

>Answer him.
>Let it ring.

>>37294748
Ok its been awhile, who is Markus again? Was he the guy that wasn't supposed to be driving the truck during the parade?

>>37294748
>Answer him.

>>37294748
>>Answer him.

>>37294748
>>Answer him.

>>37294818
He's also a Sympathizer and our contact.

>>37294818
What was the story we sold to him when inyerogating him? I've forgotten

>>37295560
I swear it was someone else....

>>37295579
I can't remember the interrogation at all and can't get to the archives easily on my phone

>>37295794
Same here

>>37295940
Well hopefully someone can remind us of the relevant details, but my lunch break just ended so back into endless meetings I go

>>37295998
>>37295940
>>37295794
>>37295579
>>37295560
>The situation with the Sympathizers continue to unfold as more information is brought to light. Finding your friend/kidnapper Vonas in Arbite custody you question him.

That being said Im looking for Markus atm

>>37296063
There are two guys named Markus aparently. One is the guy who was driving the tank at the parade who got away, and the other is a new member of Alpha I think

>>37294748
>Answer him.

(Sorry about that, mates. Ran out to grab a bite to eat.)
>>37294748

The time you had seen Markus had been him evading capture after the parade ambush. His motives were sketchy at best, and considering you'd last seen his partner in the hands of an Inquisitor your thoughts are far from hopeful. Even so, you answer.

"Go for Sandon," You answer.

"We're on," Markus says, obviously not to you. "I'll make it quick before ears start listening. I was meant to join you today but we were held up. I need you to do something for myself and the Major."

"What would that be?" You ask cautiously.

"Kill Burwood."

"Why?"

"He needs to die before you leave with the cargo. You only need to know that he's earned it."

You glance over to Casas, whose only response is to raise his brow.

>"I'm not doing anything unless you give me a reason."
>"I'll see what I can do."
>"I've been paid to help him, not kill him."

>>37296426
>>"I'm not doing anything unless you give me a reason."

>>37296426
>>"I'm not doing anything unless you give me a reason."

>>37296426
>>"I'm not doing anything unless you give me a reason."
We're doing our paid job, now you have to convince us to do something extra

>>37296426
>"I'll see what I can do."
I bet Burwood handed in the guy we interrogated and they are mad about it. Oh well Burwood seems to be a corrupt cop anyways, and we need to get in good with these guys not question them every step of the way.

>>37296532
good thing to say but add "since we are friends i might take a discount into consideration"

>>37296426

"I'm not doing anything unless you give me a reason," You say.

On the other end of the line, Markus gives a ragged sigh.

"He got one of our men killed," He admits. "And he couldn't give a damn less because it saved his own hide. If he dies and I'm not there they'll have no reason to suspect you. You've only done right by them so far."

"So why change that?"

"Because they're a bunch of bastards!" Markus growls, then reels himself back in. When he speaks again it's in a quieter, more resigned tone. "If you do this I'll owe you. Big time. If you need something, and I can do it, it'll happen."

There's a muffled voice in the background.

"We've run out of time," Markus says. "Make the right call."

With that the line dies and you're left staring down at your vox.

"Sounds like a fun guy," Casas notes, trying to lighten the mood. "I think we're almost there."

"Heads up," You radio. "We're going in."

Shortly after you pull up to the main gate of a shipping yard. Stacks of massive containers lay scattered around the many warehouses, and workers buzz about their daily lives.

The truck halts in front of the barrier that falls and a man in light combat dress comes around to the driver side.

"Papers," He says, sounding less than thrilled to be there.

"Housing the Guard ain't easy, but it pays well," Casas notes, handing them over.

"For my boss, maybe," The guard snorts, inspecting the papers and promptly returning them. "Alright, get on with it."

Waving you through, you drive through the traffic of trucks similar or identical to yours heading to the various warehouses. Through a bit of searching you find the one you're looking for off in a corner of the compound, being one directly connected to a stretch of landing pads hanging off the side of the hive.

(Cont.)

>>37297933

This particular grouping of warehouses have been sealed up and show no obvious traffic coming or going. However a pair of moderately armed men stand at the only open entrance and signal you through. Entering, you find roughly thirty men in varying arms and armor scattered about, some moving crates and other watching on. Of them, only a dozen have matching and high quality armor and weapons in a similar fashion to the one you first met.

“This… could be interesting,” Casas mutters as he pulls the truck over next to a line of four other trucks already empty.

“This should be fun,” You answer, heart already beginning to race and you grasp your laspistol. Behind you, a group of men approach the back of your truck and go about opening it.

“On three,” You radio as a man approaches you. “One...two…”

>Roll a 1d20.
>Purity seals (Rerolls) left: 3

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>37297981
>>Roll a 1d20.

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>37297981
K

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>37297981
Welp

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>37297981
Rollan for Doughlan

>>37298074
This is gonna be good.

>>37298074
And here I was thinking I was going to fuck up a solid 14 with a 1.

File: 1410313425815.png (518 KB, 960x720)

518 KB PNG

>>37298074
PRAISE THE EMPEROR!

So we should do this now before shit gets real, what are the pros and cons to killing Burwood for Markus?

>>37298177
Pros:
>Sympathizers trust us
>Marcus owes us
Cons:
>Arbites will be actively looking for us
>Might not get paid

>>37298177
No real cons for killing Burwood unless it looks like it was us who did it. A favor from Markus is a biggish thing as he has an inside track on the insurrection. If we don't go through with the killing theres no risk in getting caught obviously, but theres no reward either. Basically if were smart about it (and we do have rerolls) it should be fine. Blowing his head off in plain view of other arbites or making it seem like anyone other than the guards did it is dangerous,

>>37298272
>>37298238
So the trick will be making it seem like he died in the confusion of the coming firefight. Y'all down for that?

>>37298343
I can support that.

>>37298343
This is the best idea, but it's impossible. This is because he has Carpice armour. It's going to take directed firepower to put him down.

And there is no such thing as "confused concentrated firepower".

>>37298272
>>37298343
>>37298398
Im down. We don't need the money, the whole point of us being here is to deal with the weapons and the sympathizers

>>37298471
What about confused explosives?

>>37298522
good point

File: FAE explosion.gif (408 KB, 554x335)

408 KB GIF

>>37298522
>explosivesforeveryoccasion.gif
When in doubt, FAE strikes...

>>37297981

In a flash you leveled your pistol at the man approaching and pull the trigger. His head snapps back, and behind you the back door rumbls open. Within seconds an unholy cacophony of gunfire was heard.

In unison you and Casas dive from the truck. You take cover behind a crate and pop up, killing a shoddily armored man nearby. Ducking to avoid a burst of gunfire, you make a dive for his autorifle. Grabbing it, you rise up once more to find half the enemy already dead. Burk’s Heavy Stubber cuts many of the common rabble shreds while the others take the mercenaries on with more well trained shots.

“Pssst.”

You whip around and aim your new rifle, pressing it into Casas’ chest. The man raises his brows.

“Or, ya know, I could just say hey,” He says, raising his hands as you notice he’d copied your example. Only able to respond with a strained chuckle, you both turn back to finish up the remaining mercenaries. Alpha was a sight to see, moving in cohesion that made your inner Cadian beam with pride.

Both of you can do little to help, as within thirty seconds the entire warehouse is secured.

“Clear!” Roxy calls.

With that you and the others began looking over the crates. True to your briefing they have various private logos, along with those of the Guard and Medicae. The sound of a bike roars close by, quickly replaced by squealing tires as an Arbitrator dismounts from his patrol bike.

“Just take the Medicae crates,” He says as he runs inside. “And for Emperor’s sake, be careful with them!”

Hesitating, you catch Casas’ stare. He ever so slightly raises his autogun, tilting his head curiously.

>Kill Burwood.
>Help move the crates.

>>37298896
Sabotage his bike if he's alone still. Or if he's not alone be subtle about it.

>>37298896
Sabotage his bike, especially if he's still alone.

>>37298896
>>Kill Burwood.
Autogun from this range won't do it though. Get in close and stab him in the neck. Quiet, thereby not tipping off the other Arbites. It will also take some time for them to determine the cause of death, letting us get away.

>>37298896
Is he alone? Also you said an Arbitrator, are we sure thats Burwood?

>>37298896
tell burwood that some one wants him dead and your willing to tell the guy you killed him so long as he disappears.

>>37298968
>>37299005
Oops posted twice, sorry for the samefag though captcha messed up

>>37299014
yep, knife in the throat

>>37298896
'Dis one bozz!
>>37298968

>>37298968
>>37298896
ATTA BOY

>>37298896

You have a few options of seeing this done but you need to make it fast. Burwood appears to have arrived alone, but there would no doubt be others not too far behind.

>Stab him.
>Shoot him.

>>37299317
Was he in the firefight?

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>37299317
>Stab him.

>>37299317
Stabbing is quiet but makes it look like foul play.
Shooting is loud but looks normal in the environment we are in.

I guess
>Shoot him.

>>37299317
>>37299413
How bout this, use our commandeered gun to kill him, then pepper the guy who had the gun's corpse, and put the commandeered gun back.

We can say that we got sloppy with checking if everyone was neutralized and one guy still alive managed to take out Burwood before we mowed him down.

>>37299494
This sounds gud

>>37299317
>stab him

>>37299494
this is a good plan so its bound to fail but lets do it anyway

>>37299317

As Alpha prepares to begin loading the crates you give Casas a nod. Together, the two of you raise your commandeered autoguns and open fire.

>Roll.

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>37299680
Welp

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>37299680

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>37299680
purity seal

>>37299714
I should only invoke Welp once, use a Purity seal this is one roll we shouldn't fuck up.

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>37299714
Hahah time for purity seal

>>37299714
Purity seal all the way

>>37299714
wow.. really? Yeah seal it.

>>37299680

Burwood was still approaching you when you raised your weapons at him and fired. The first few shots do almost nothing, ricocheting off his armor. However the force alone forces him back.

He reaches for his boltpistol, but a few slugs find purchase and crimson blossoms from the joints in his armor and he falls to a knee, firing a shot that goes wild before collapsing.

"What the hell?!" Roxy shouts, her and the rest of Alpha taken completely off guard.

Casas stops you from getting any closer and does it for you, placing a boot on the mans chest and putting a bullet through his visor.

"Plots within plots," You answer wearily, tossing your firearm back to its deceased owner. Casas does the same, and after that you quickly move the four Medicae crates into the truck. Back in the driver seat, Casas wheels you all around and speeds out of the warehouse. Narrowly avoid a group of curious dockworkers, you pass by a group of guards. Some turn to tell you to stop, but you ignore them and go crashing through the main gate.

Behind you, several bumps and bangs from within the cargo section tell you there'll be some complaints after you've stopped.

While having an Arbite escort out would have been much more favorable, you manage to make a more or less clean getaway, the workers not having enough idea as to what was going on to piece things together fast enough. It also seemed Burwood had been the only Arbite around to respond in a timely matter. Convinent.

Once back in the main flow of traffic, you let out a breath you didn’t realize you were holding.

"That... went well," You say, uncertain of yourself. “Really well.”

"I'd of loved to of had a picture of their faces when Alpha popped out," Casas chuckled. "Guess that means we got a favor to call in, eh?"

"So it seems," You agree. "Let's see what it gets us."

The drive back feels a lot longer than the drive going, but as you try and let the adrenaline run its course Roxy radios in.

(Cont.)

>>37300161

"Hey LT," Roxy says in that sweet voice that never means well. "We've got a bit before we got back and Vincent's not here to say it. Wyack says he can get one of the crates open. Can he?"

"And why would I say yes to that?" You ask.

"What?" She snorts. "You think this shit's really medicine?"

"Well, rebels can't exactly go to the pharmacy..."

"Be serious, LT. Let us take a peep."

Those things looked sealed tight, and you don't know the man Wyack enough to trust his abilities. However, knowing the contents for certain would be a major plus. But with how paranoid Noriega's men could be...

>"Pop it open and fill us in."
>"Leave it be, Sergeant. Let's not push our luck."

>>37300190
>"Pop it open and fill us in."
Just make sure it's not rigged first

>>37300190
>>"Pop it open and fill us in."
Get as much info on this whole thing as we can.

>>37300190
>Leave it be, Sergeant. Let's not push our luck."

>>37300190
>"Pop it open and fill us in."
But only if you can put it back the way it was seals and all.

>>37300190
Take a look if we can make it look like it was damaged during the firefight or seal it back up completely. We need all the plausible deniability as we can get.

>>37300190
>"Leave it be, Sergeant. Let's not push our luck."

>>37300258
This

>>37300258
This. If not, then
>Leave it be, Sergeant. Let's not push our luck."

>>37300190
>>"Pop it open and fill us in."
INB4 BITCHES!

>>37300190

"Can you put it back just like you found it?" You ask.

"Yes, Dad," Roxy answers dryly. "I mean, sure. Probably."

"That's not what I wanted to hear. I need a solid 'yes' that it won't cause trouble later."

"I... well..."

"Then let it be," You say. "We've had a good run today. Let's not chance it any further.

"Aye, aye..."

Although she sounds disappointed you're not willing to risk it. Burwood is going to be difficult enough to explain. Finding that they had tampered with the cargo would only make the matter worse.

You arrive shortly after to find people waiting for you. There's six in total, all dressed differently. Two appear as dock workers, three as regular civilians, and the last man you recognize.

Markus.

However it's a dock worker that steps forward to speak to you as you dismount.

“Where’s Burwood?” He asks, curious.

>Your answer?

>>37301167
He didn't make it.

>>37301191
>>37301167
Sure we can leave it at that.

>>37301167
Ran into complications, he didn't make it. Got the guy who did it tho.

>>37301167

"He didn't make it," You say.

"What do you mean he didn't make it?" The man scowls. "He's an Arbite! He's armored like a fuckin' tank!"

"One of the gangers got lucky," You sigh. "Bit him right in the visor. We got the guy who did it, though. Him and the other twenty nine guys with him."

"We were told there'd be twenty," He says, squinting. "You sayin' you lot took on thirty men without a scratch, but our brave Durwood didn't?"

"Yes," You answer. "He knew he was armored and thought it'd shrug off autogun fire. It usually does, barring a headshot. That's why you use cover and con-"

"I hear enough'a that shit from him and his," He scowls, jabbing a finger at Markus. "Yeah, yeah, he's dead. We get it. Didn't ask for a fuckin' lesson on proper shootout etiquette."

With that he shoulders past you and they begin unloading the crates. Alpha stays clear, and in short order the crates are moved to other vehicles. Markus only looks at you once, something resembling a smile appearing for a split second as he gave you an appreciative nod. And with that they left in pairs in a vehicle carrying a crate each.

(Cont.)

>>37301608

"Oh, yeah, you're welcome," Roxy mutters. "Not like we didn't just grease a whole fucking platoon for you guys. No big deal."

"I thought it was pretty cool," Jami pipes up.

"Oh, shut up," Roxy chuckles, smacking up upside the head.

With that business settled you all radio back for transport. The ride back is a cheerful one, Alpha having pulled off a truly impressive feat. When you return you find the Inquisitor and Vincent back on-board, and that there's a new guest staying on the Officers Quarters.

____________________________

I hate to cut it here but it's a good stopping point. I both love and hate getting 20's on things like this. I love it cause it means shit gets done, but it also means any thoughts I had of a cool prolonged firefight goes out the window. Ah well. Less to write.

Welp, we're down to two Purity Seals, so best make'em count. Expect things to maybe go back to the standard Saturday format, but as always take it well salted.

As always, any questions/complaints/whatever are for now. Also, glad to see the drama died down in short order. I like you guys. Let's keep things going good.

I had to leave for a bit but I gotta say I'm disappointed you guys opted to use a seal at the first 1 we got. The best use it saving them for failed rolls that would get us or someone killed. Just failing that roll would probably initiate combat with Burwood which in and of itself is like getting a reroll to kill him. Basically not all failures are super terrible even if we rolled a 1, some are.

>>37301633
Thanks for the run bro, good to see you back. /tg dice love to ruin things for everyone haha

>>37301633
Thanks for the thread Elijah, good to see the quest back

>>37301633
Thanks for running Elijah Any way we can earn more seals?

>>37301728
Check op bro, details on that are there.

>>37286525
>*NOTICE*
>Because of last thread’s absolutely horrible roles I’ve decided to test out a system to get around it. We’ll start out with three Fate Points of sorts, able to let you guys reroll or simply negate a nat 1. Additional Fate Points will be awarded by doing exceedingly well on write-ins, ‘taking a third option’ that works, and similar things. As well, an anon suggested awarding them for fanart and the like, but that doesn't mean I’m forcing any drawfags hand. Just another idea.

>>37301728
I'll forgive you because nobody really reads OPs after a while, but come on. Now you're in charge of drawing our first fan art.

>>37301764
ME drawing? Do you want us to lose the other 2 seals?

>>37301776
He never said GOOD fanart

>>37301786
My "art" has caused suicides anon.

>>37301652
This is a fair point. Rolling a 1 sucks, but not all of them mean that the Emperor himself is going to lay an egg.

>>37301728
As it says in the OP you guys start out at the maximum of 3 Purity Seals, but can get more either by doing things like doing exceedingly well on write-ins, 'taking a third option' that works, and similar. Or, if anyone strikes up fanart or something similar I can reward them.

>>37301764
>>37301776
>>37301786
>>37301796
I stress this shouldn't be seen as mandatory. Simply as just an option and reward should a Drawfag go 'I like this thing, I'm gonna draw a thing for this thing.'

>>37301817
Have a good one Elijah.

>>37301817
Any idea when you might run again?

>>37301817
Yeah 1's cause people to panic. In other fate point system quests the QM might go: "Yeah you don't want that, use a fate point?" but that's kind of hand holdy IMO. I just hope I'm here in the future should something like this happen again so I can say, "Hey this isn't THAT bad."

>>37301877
>Expect things to maybe go back to the standard Saturday format, but as always take it well salted.

>>37301935
I don't do the reading very well, my bad

>>37301633
I just got home and caught up, thanks for running boss, hopefully this quests schedule stabilizes.

Would any kind anon be willing to write up a short "story so far"? I've been here since thread one but have sort of lost sight of the while business with Noriega and what he has to do with the separatists. Along with why we fake kidnapped that girl