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General => Play-By-Forum => Graveyard => Topic started by: Gargulec on August 30, 2009, 15:55

Title: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on August 30, 2009, 15:55
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Prologue
The spires of hive city Carnelia launch high into the skies, high above the dwellings of scums and commoners. Only nobility lives there. Or so you thought, before you were taken to the palace of Lady Inquisitor Pistis Sophia.
Now, you rest on confortable sofas, alone in a big hall, quietly admiring a painting of Emperor Victorious on vaulting, supported by numerous gilded columns. Only the wealthiest of nobles could afford such a jewel of craftsmanship. But here, everything is such a jewel. Walls, doors, floors- they are all made with unimaginable, almost inhuman skill. Combined, they would be worth enough thrones to buy an ancient space-ship.

Through large windows, a gentle wind blows, fresh and cold.

You were waiting for the last hour. No one came to attend you, like the inquisitor forgot about her new tools.
Guardsman and assassin. Cleric and tech-priest. Psyker.

What fate awaits you, is an enigma.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 30, 2009, 16:42
Private Tobias Halsted took full advantage of the comfortable seating as soon as he arrived, going by the reasoning that if you do get a chance at some comfort, take it, because it sure as hell won't last very long. So, the guardsman lounged around, making himself comfortable despite being dressed in field uniform and combat armour. Still, his weapons were stowed and secured, guns wrapped and unloaded, ammunition kept separately.

He wasn't about to suggest this period of rest and luxury be cut short.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 30, 2009, 17:08
Lazerus waitend patiently. The others didn't look like eager to break the silence, and that suited him fine. Instead he settled for evaluating his companions. The guardsman looked typical enough, and that at least should mean he's reliable. The tech-priest was another matter - at first Laz was alerted by presence of Mechanicus adept in the same room, but now, having observed him for a while he felt more confused than alerted - this cog-head seemed worryingly... organic... when compared to others. The other two were harder to guess.

Twiddling his thumbs he wondered when the host is going to appear.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on August 31, 2009, 01:09
He was shocked a little. He was living in a hive, but never in such a high region. The artwork, the architecture was indeed magnificent. The one who made this really had taste.
Marcus waited for this to happen his entire (and short) life. Finally, chance to prove himself as a true follower and devoted servant of the Emperor. This extasy shouldn't be showed to the others... This is a good time to medite.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on August 31, 2009, 06:20
The woman with a tell-tale Scholastica Psykana sanctioning brand on her forehead ignores you. As far as you can tell, she appears to be engaged in a staring contest with the Emperor's portrait.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on August 31, 2009, 09:01
The Doors at the opposite end of the hall opened, letting a woman inside. Clad in a white and and silver robe, rustling with numerous purity seals, she approached, bowing gently before each of you.
Something about her was not quite right. She seemed too slender, too slim. Too inhuman.

"Lady Inquisitor Pistis Sophia awaits you. Please, allow me to guide you to her." Her calm and very melodic voice was no less strange than her appearance.

And then, when she bowed to assassin and Tobias one more time, when you noticed small, ornamented collar fastened around her neck, when you grew certain, that she is not a human, her black hair moved a bit, allowing you to see her ears.

Pointy ears.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on August 31, 2009, 12:33
Halsted made a quick warding gesture as soon as he realised the woman wasn't human. He was quite noticeably uncomfortable about her presence, but still, he had little choice but to follow. One didn't just turn down an inquisitor. Even one that had dealings with a xeno. Not that he was particularly eager to follow, of course - he let someone else go in first.

"Nobody said there'd be bloody Eldar around," he muttered, looking over to Lazarus, who seemed to be the only other relatively normal human around.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on August 31, 2009, 14:22
I was taught that Emperor's wisdom and might comes in many forms. However, an Eldar... I must not show my disconcert!
Marcus gets up slowly
"Then let us follow you, lady" he said.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 01, 2009, 15:25
Upon realizing who the woman was Laz's eybrows risen for a moment and his cheek twitched before he regained his calm.

- Well it's the Inquisition - I'd be surprised if we're going to hear about the half of what there will be going around... at least that one looks safe - he replied to Halsted's comment and made a suggestive tap at his neck.
- Either way we shouldn't make our employer wait... - Laz stood up and followed the priest.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 01, 2009, 17:09
"The only way to treat with a xeno is to kill it," Halsted muttered unhappily, but followed the cleric and the assassin all the same. Killing xenos might be the only way to treat with them, but keeping an inquisitor waiting certainly wasn't a recommended way to treat with one...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on September 02, 2009, 04:38
The psyker examines the pointy-eared woman for a few seconds, then lets out an unpleasant throaty chuckle:

"Heh, heh... looks like our circus of beasts and freaks keeps getting better and better. Time to go and meet the ringmaster, I guess."

Still chuckling, she follows the rest of the group out of the door.

Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on September 02, 2009, 16:55
The Eldar spoke no more. Instead she lead you into a maze of corridors, spanning below the palace hall you occupied for the last few hours. Soon you realized that, if not for her guidance, you would surely have became lost in the complex. And only one Emperor knows what you could have stumbled upon then. Traps? Sophia secrets? One thing is sure, you would not live to tell the tale to others.
However the Eldar servant (or slave) confidently guided you through the maze, to an empty small chamber.

Save for the small steel door, it was empty. Or so you thought, until you heard a cold rough voice behind you:
"You did well, Naya. You're free now."
The Eldar quickly turned and walked out the chamber.

As you looked towards the voice source, you saw a tall and scrawny men, with long grey hair and eyes of the same colour. He watched you with a mixture of pity and disdain.
"So you're the new meat that Sophia spoke about? Ah, don't answer, I know it already. She is in inside, and she does not like to wait..."
He pointed towards the door and grinned nastily.

Pistis Sophia's office was at the exact opposite of the hall - you can hardly recall visiting a place more ascetic in look and design. No furniture could be seen except for the low table, and the only source of light was a weak flickering lamp pack hanging from the celling.
You wouldn't expect an Inquisitor to work in such place. Nor would you expect an Inquisitor to look like that.
You imagined Pistis Sophia in a variety of ways. But none of you would ever have dreamt of her as slim short girl (no more than nineteen or twenty years old) with long golden hair covering her face. She looked more like a noble princess or, even if you would not dare to think of her as such, a courtesan from the spires of hive-city.

She did not greet you.
"Let's make things clear - you are not Acolytes yet, only mere initiates, maybe with some potential."
It was sufficient to hear her voice to make all your doubts about her profession fade away, for it was as cold as Fenrisian winter and utterly emotionless. Frightening.
"Maybe, if you prove your value, through faith and ruthless efficiency, I'll accept you as my servants. But I do not expect it. Anyway, I take it you know why you're here?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 02, 2009, 18:03
Halsted stood at attention in the presence of the inquisitor, regardless of her appearance. Boot camp had taught him it never did any good to stare at a superior.

"To serve the Emperor, in whatever manner found most fitting by the agent of His Most Holy Inquisition," the guardsman answered, as if replying to a drill sergeant, then his shoulders sagged just a bit.
"I cannot speak for the others," he motioned with his head at the rest of the potential acolytes, "but I've not been briefed on the nature of the mission, beyond that."

He didn't sound too resentful. But then, living a life on a need-to-know basis was commonplace in the Imperial Guard.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 03, 2009, 01:29
How come a girl as young as me can be an inquisitor? That's... unbelievable? Neverless, I am here, I am here....
"To prove I am worth to serve the Emperor, whether it is fighting or enlighting the unbelievers!" - Marcus said quickly and proudly. Perhaps to hide the fact that he was still uneasy about the whole situation.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on September 03, 2009, 03:38
"Noble lady, even if the reason for our presence here was known to me once, I can't seem to recall it. My memory, alas, isn't what it used to be."

Pass briefly taps on her mindscrub-scarred head to illustrate the point - and to conceal the fealing of unease that flickers in her eyes in the inquisitor's presence.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 03, 2009, 16:21
- I'm with others on that - I know you need us to do something, but not the details - Laz shook his head then cracked a grin - I wasn't even told where I was going until I got here.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on September 04, 2009, 11:17
"To serve the Emperor, you say?"

You think that, if not for her apparent reluctance to show any emotions, she would have giggled.

"You're barely fit to serve me, let alone the Emperor. The only reason I have let you reach this far is for the sole purpose of evaluation. You will be tasked with something simple, and watched. If you do manage to prove yourself useful, maybe you will take you first step on the long road to becoming acolytes. But if you do not... then I am afraid there are things you have seen and will see that you shouldn't have. Do I have to say how dire, for you, would be the consequences of failure?"

She pauses for a couple seconds to let her speech sink in. Still expressionless, yet apparently content with your reaction, she continues:

"Magos from forge-world Magna Alpha have reported strange occurrences on the planet. Minor cult activity, it seems. Normally this would be a job for Arbiters, however the Machine Priests from Magna Alpha are preparing to launch a vast Exploratory Fleet into the Halo Stars and even the slightest Chaos taint could cause the whole fleet to enter the short path to damnation, a fate seen way too many times."

Pistis Sophia passes you small metal badges, bearing her seal.

"I've arranged a passage for you to Magna Alpha, and alerted my friend Magi there of your arrival. You're being sent to investigate, find the source of the problem, and eradicate it, if possible. If this is not the case, report back to me, and someone more capable will be sent, yet I doubt it that such measures will be necessary. For the period of time this investigation will take, you are granted Acolyte privileges."

For the first time, a faint smile showed upon her face.

"Also, you will be accompanied by my servant. He is in possession of helpful and unusual skills, and I want to evaluate him too. Do bear in mind he is my property." She raised her voice. "Come, Silharriel!"

From the shadows a figure emerged. For a second, you thought that he was human, but when he entered the faint light in the middle of the room, you all sighed in unison.

Another Eldar. Great!

Just like the previous one, he had an ornamented collar attached to his neck. But unlike her, his clothes were in rather poor condition - ragged and tattered - like you would expect on long-time prisoners.

"Any questions?" Sophia asked, after a second.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 04, 2009, 14:41
"Five thrones says we won't even get out of the city alive if we bugger up, never mind off planet," Halsted muttered, turning the insignia over in his hand.

The most recent addition to the team, however, caused him to tense up a bit.

"Can we put it in a full-face helmet, maybe?" the guardsman said, pointing at the new Eldar. "Or something else to cover its head? It'll be far easier going if we don't have to stop every five minutes to explain that it's inquisitorial property and shouldn't be shot just yet," he added in explanation.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 04, 2009, 15:20
Not even a word passed through the lips of the Eldar, while he was taking a careful look at his new comrades, a slight glitter of curiosity in his green, tired eyes. It seemed like the Xeno felt uneasy and maybe embarrassed with whole situation. Though not physically old, he looked like the time has crippled, twisted and broken him already, yet still Silharriel was shining with some mad pride, specific for his race. Unsettling look indeed.

He let his cold gaze rest on the guardsman's face, while the human was speaking out his mind.

"Wear that helmet for yourself. You'll make a good use of it while I'll be bashing you in the face, scum.", he thought. He won't let any mere grunt to treat him like a thing, that's too much.

Then suddenly, he recalled himself of an explosive collar he was wearing, and abandoned the desire for violence, coughing. The neck skin was all itchy.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 06, 2009, 05:16
- 'Grunt' there has a point about the helmet - your 'servant' will stand out anyway, but going out with his face shown will kill either us, him or both - Laz said - There's also a matter of trust. I'm sure that... it... behaves while you're around ma'am but how can *we* make sure it'll play along?
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 07, 2009, 01:43
"Lady Sophia, I am afraid my brothers in faith are right. Although your... servant will certainly rise fear in our enemies, it might also rise the fear of unknown amongst ordinary people."

After a minute Marcus added:

" However I do not like the term... servant. How shall we call you?"
- Marcus directed the question to the just met Eldar.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on September 07, 2009, 05:40
Unlike her gawking companions, the psyker paid little attention to the Eldar. The alien wasn't the problem; Sophia was the problem.

"Any questions?" Sophia asked, after a second.
Pass did her best to quash the very thought of the question that was bothering her the most, - "Since when could xeno-loving unsactioned psykers become Inquisitors?" - and opted for a barrage of more harmless inquiries instead, in hope that Sophia wouldn't pick the real one from her mind:

"How much time do we have available until the fleet is launched? Will we operate openly, or under a determined cover story? Do you have any known rivals or enemies on Magna Alpha, who would interfere with the investigation just because they can?"

The psyker's mouth suddenly split into a wide grin, and her eyes lit up with a lunatic brilliance:

"Oh, and if we succeed, can I get one of those shiny collars that your pointy-eared servants are wearing, instead of this dull metal badge?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 07, 2009, 06:34
Halsted leaned over to Pass, whispering a quick, "You might want to opt out of the explosive charge if you do get a collar like that," in suggestion.

That done, he turned to Lazarus and the others with a light shrug. "Well, at least I think we know who'll be heading up this investigation..."

Of course, it did not bode well when the psyker was the most level-headed of the group.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 07, 2009, 12:21
The Eldar listened carefully to every single word spoken in the great hall, afraid to lose anything of great importance (apart from mumbo-jumbo about covering his own face with a helmet, which he found annoying...), thus he heard Constantine's question. While others were barking their hestitations, stealing much of The Inquisitor's attention, he whispered in response : "To be spoken later, follower of the Mortal-God.", then he moved his head lightly towards Sophia, trying to make Marcus understand, that he wasn't allowed to speak now. After all, he's a slave...

What's more, Silharriel too didn't like at all the idea of mon-keigh witch leading their force. "I always wanted to serve under The Great Seer. Morai-Heg, The Mistress of Fate, why are you so ironic to me ?...", bitter thought came upon him. The silly question about explosive collars just empowered the Silharriel's strong dislike to the psyker. "I can borrow you mine, if you want it so badly." - he made a riposte in his mind and conserved it to be used later.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on September 07, 2009, 13:12
Sophia gazed at female psyker and whispered, with shadow of threat in her voice.
"I sincerely hope, Pass, that you understand that thought hidden in the heart, just like sins, all turn to decay. And that my profession is to seek those thoughts and weed them out. With fire and faith, if needed."

Then, she turned to Tobias.
"You can do whatever you want with that Eldar, even strip him from cloths and make him run down the underhive streets. But, mind that he is my property, and I would not want to see it damaged in any... unrepairable way."

She raised her voice, so every of you could hear her well.
"It is yours to decide how will you approach that assignment. I told you everything you should know. If you can't handle it without guidelines, then it was fatal mistake to bring you here."

Sophia paused and turned back.
"Fatal for you, of course. Now, please, get out. You will be lead to shuttle shortly."

As you were exiting the chamber, Pistis spoke again.
"Lazarus and Tobias, stay."

After few minutes, they reached you back in hall, while you were chattering about Pistis and you frist job for Imperial Inquisition.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 07, 2009, 17:25
Lazerus walked up to the rest and gave them a good, long glance.

-Alright people, while waiting for a guide to the shuttle there are few things to discuss. First and foremost our enlightened Lady decided for whatever reason decided that I should be the Prime of our cell. Mind you, I don't consider myself some 'great' leader or whatever - so if you have an idead that seems good, or know something that is of use do speak up. It just means that if we have to pick between conflicting options, or we come upon situation where there is not time discuss our options I get the final say on what do we do. - a moment of silence followed

- Now onto other stuff - Tobias, was it? If something happens to me you take over the command - I think you understand why. Eldar - you need some disguise. I don't care wether it's helmet, a bag, or or something else but I'd rather not have to report to your Lady that you got your head shot off the moment we hit the streets. Also like cleric said we'll need your name - same goes for cleric and cog-head. You should introduce yourselfs unless you want to be called 'cleric' and 'cog-head' forever. For those that didn't hear it my name is Lazerus, but you can call me 'Laz' if you need to. - a smile appeared on Laz's face for a moment

- Also, I'm willing to hear out whatever ideas any of you might have about start of our little mission - unless nobody has any in which cease we'll just have to wait and see what info te tech-priests on Magna Alpha cangive us.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 08, 2009, 00:26
"My name is Marcus Constantine. But you can call me 'Marcus" if you need to, brothers" - Marcus replied. He paused, to let the others speak up.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 08, 2009, 07:37
"Then, I am Silharriel.", replied the Eldar, his voice sounding incredibly deep and melodic. "If I really have to, I shall cover my face, if my identity would cause any... complications. Don't concern yourself, mon-keigh."
"By the way", Silharriel continued after a while, "did our >>enlightened Lady<< tell you, Mr Lazerus, where is my equipment being held and will I recieve it ? You know, Sir, I shall do no good without my long rifle and a piece of armaplas. And my cloak, of course, in case we'll meet some intolerant ones that should not be harmed... too badly."
"I think it would be a good idea if we shared knowledge of our talents, for better cordination. It's always better to know what kinds of professionals are assisting us, is it not ? Some general combat tactics wouldn't be in vain, I am sure. All of you shall be sure too, when it comes to things finally.
About our mission... Well, I think we should ask those... cog-heads... as you call them, whoever they are, about the nature of the problem itself. Then we would be able to think out some solution... But words of a mere slave are not very well-thought-of, are they ?"
, he smiled darkly.
It seems like his arrogance was slightly quenched with feeling of respite that the witch isn't a leader, the uneasiness was gone utterly. By that moment Silharriel indeed was rich with hope, devotion and motivation. He shall not fail his sisters in servitude...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 08, 2009, 19:26
"If we get it a rebreather hood and some old robes or overalls, we can make it look like a manufactorium laborer or something of the sort," Halsted suggested, poking a thumb in the Eldar's direction.

Hearing the Eldar's words, however, made him turn towards it sharply. "You are xenos. Any right-thinking servant of the Emperor should shoot you as soon as see you. I would have, were it not for the orders of mistress Sophia. And I'd rather not have to go through the hassle of explaining that fact to everyone we meet, especially to Arbites patrols who tend to shoot first and not ask questions later," he explained in a cold, patient voice. "As for combat tactics, we will discuss them as the need arises and on a case-by-case basis. If something unexpected is to crop up, those of you without anything bigger than a laspistol would do well to hang back and utilise whatever other skills you have... and fall back on the las only when you've exhausted other means."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 09, 2009, 14:13
Marcus tried to remain calm.
"I really don't understand you, Eldar. What where you trying to achieve by insulting me? As far as I known the greatest enemy of the manking is the same as yours. You do not have to love us, but still you and us can achieve a lot by cooperating. The choice is yours."

After a pause, he added.
"Remember, that greatest warriors are born in pudency. What will you gain by disdaining us?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 09, 2009, 14:34
At this particular moment the Eldar seemed to feel confused. With a long, cold gaze into Constantine's eyes, he said slowly and unemotionally... at a first glance :
"Tell me, *human*, at which point I offended you and yours, for I can't recall. Or maybe I should cease speaking completely, for an old wanderer's wisdom is not valued here ?"
All the peace of mind seemed to vanish. No good...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 10, 2009, 01:01
"You called me a follower of a mortal God. And Emperor is no mortal. Or did you mean *someone* else?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 10, 2009, 08:33
"Before he became your god, he was a mortal, was he not ?", asked Silharriel, a bit more calm than before. "Never mind. I didn't mean to insult anyone. Calm your emotions, as you said before, we are fighting by one side. Those are of Chaos, who divide themselves."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 11, 2009, 04:14
I cannot just have constant quarrels with this Eldar. This will not get me any closer to purging the world from chaos. Emperor would not like it...

"You are right, we should calm down, because while we are fighting, Chaos is gaining power. Let us just carry on brothers" - Marcus replied
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 11, 2009, 14:55
Lazerus nodded his head in approval hearing that the quarrel between cleric and the eldar has ended semi-peacefully. Then he kicked apparently sleeping-while-standing Generic in the shin.

- Did we get a tech-priest or malfunctioning servitor? Somebody wake that waste of metal and flesh before I throw him into nearest garbage disposal! - not wating for a response he turned back to Silhar - Matters of your xeno gear were not discussed in our short talk with Lady Sophia. If a need arises to arm you you'll have to cope with what we can find - for now I don't intend to send you to front line.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 12, 2009, 04:11
"Fair enough...", Silharriel gasped in disappointment. "Thank you."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on September 12, 2009, 15:53
Suddenly, your senses are assaulted by a truly foul stench. As you look around, you see that the source is not an overturned cart of Grox dung or a burning pile of chemical waste, as you first thought, but the smoke emanating from the psyker's lho-stick.

She notices your disapproving stare and smirks:


"Y'know what stinks worse than this baby? Our mission, that's what. You don't have to be a psyker to see that we're being sent into a death trap."

She inhales another dose of the noxious smoke.

"Just think of it: if the problem was mere 'minor cult activity', our boss would either leave it to the local Arbites or, if that fleet-launch affair is really that important, send a team of trusted Acolytes with proper experience in such matters. No offense, boys, but none of you seem to be professional witch hunters to me."

The psyker chuckles to herself - a rather unpleasant, throaty sound - and continues.

"The question is: why did she send us? The answer... well, frankly, I don't think I want to know the answer. Maybe she already dispatched her best and finest, and they got wiped out. Maybe she has powerful enemies on that world who know the identities of her cohorts and allies, so she's sending a band of relative unknowns. Or maybe she doesn't really trust her best servants. Throne, for all we know, the real Sophia might be dead, and the person we've seen was actually an Eldar witch in disguise."

She seems to ignore the gasps and hisses caused by her irreverent remark.

"And you know what? The fact that we don't know the answer - it's a good thing. Just ask our good friend Marcus here - is it not said that ignorance is the armour of the blessed? Knowledge like this is a dangerous thing; learn too much, and you'll end up dead. Or, worse yet, you'll end up like me, with a head full of screams and whispers and metallic voices where all your memories used to be."

Her grating voice turns sad and bitter as she taps on her scarred head to demonstrate her point.

"Anyway, it doesn't matter why our exalted lady sent us on this suicide mission. What matters is that there's only one way for us to survive it. Well, two, but since it's the Holy Inquisition we're talking about, running and hiding is out of question. That leaves us with one choice only."

She takes what is probably supposed to be a dramatic pause, but appears to be merely an excuse to blow another cloud of vile lho-smoke into the air.

"We'll have to become heroes."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 12, 2009, 16:40
"You think too much," Halsted said, shaking his head. "Cultists or not, there's no problem that cannot be overcome with the proper application of the proper amount of explosives. So let's go find our guide, our transport... and some covers for the xeno along the way, because I'm sure as hell not giving it my rebreather to cover up that mug."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 12, 2009, 17:07
- Well I'm no hero... - Laz's comment was followed by loud *clang* noise - But I do intend on staying alive. Tobias, could you give me a hand here? Take the up-side and let's take 'it' to that garbage unit - he said picking up legs of tech-priest he just tipped over.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 12, 2009, 17:35
Halsted gave the fallen tech-priest a puzzled look. "Should we move him? I imagine one of his lot will be along at some point to collect him," he pointed out, but set his gear aside to pick up his side of the cog-head.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 12, 2009, 17:38
- No, no, I insist. I promised to do as much if he doesn't "wake up", and I insist on keeping my promise - Laz replied with a maniacal smile on his face then began to carry the priest with Halsted's help - Alright, he goes down on three. One... two... THREE!!!
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Melon on September 13, 2009, 02:42
Marcus looked a while at Laz and Halsted take away the large chunk of metal that was the techpriest. Without looking at the psyker, he said:
"Lady Pass, I think you are overreacting. Of course, you are right that lady Sophia could send her best troops to blot out the occultists. But will she send them everywhere? Chaos is gaining more and more power and we are its main enemies. How can we face it without, as I should say, proper training?"

Cleric waved away the smoke emitting from psyker's stick
"The only way to overcome Chaos is to train such humble servants as us to overcome. Now you may say, that you already want to fight the Chaos Gods, but I am not ready for that. This just would be worthless. Let us treat this mission as an apprenticeship. And should not we forget that by contant training one can become a master. Time will reveal how much we are worth"

Marcus glanced at Pass
"And ignorance is the armour of the blessed. But can you win a battle only with armour?" - Marcus made a pause to make his point.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 13, 2009, 06:25
"Certainly works for Regiments of Armour in the Guard," Halsted pointed out with a grin, once the noise of tech-priest in garbage chute had died away. "Enough of it and you can roll over pretty much anything."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 13, 2009, 07:09
"Hey, wait, can I take his weapons before you- Eldanesh...", Silharriel tried to stop his fellow men from disposing of waste, yet possibly didn't manage to do so.

Hearing Pass's muttering, he gave away a short sigh, yet didn't answer. Sophia's surely not Eldar, for none of them would cause so much pain to his brethren. Then there came a painful flashback of the moment in torture chamber, which almost threw the Outcast on is knees. He hissed silently, dominated by the vision and trying to remain conscious, coughing and choking on the lho-smoke.

When the feeling passed after a minute or two, he grazed his almost-weeping eyes, then stood up and pronounced :

"The knowledge is like a blade, its edges even more sharp than The Khaine's Sword. No wonder that unprepared to wield it cut themselves to death. One has to balance between the sword and the shield. Or, you know, he might as well take a meltabomb instead. To his head.", he added after a while. "If our fate is to die, then so be it. Seems like I have no choice at all. And so you, mon-keigh. We are all slaves of some greater power, though it is not always visible at a first glance.", he stated, at this point feeling a bit reprieved.

"And, believe me, our mistress is not of the Eldar. Dare not to ask how did I know."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 13, 2009, 13:05
"Well, she doesn't have those ridiculous ears, for starters," Halsted pointed out, in a matter-of-fact voice.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on September 13, 2009, 16:05
As you were discussing, worrying and wondering, crude servo-skull approached you silently. Obviously, it was sent here to lead you to transport Sophia talked about.
And so you followed. Through the halls of inquisitorial palace you were lead to small landing pad on the rooftop of Lady Sophia's facility. View on the hive-city Carnelia from here was indeed breath-taking. It was hard not to praise the Emperor, for it was his will, and his sacrifice that made it possible for Mankind to erect those spires you were admiring so deeply now.

Your shuttle, visibly newly built, was already waiting. Pilot, blessed by Omnissiah with numerous bionics put out his lho and pointed you the entering pad, and then towards the cockpit himself.

Ship interior was cramped beyond any imagination- you barely managed to find yourself a seat among large crates, bearing Opus Machina sign. Soon, plasma engines fired up, and shuttle launched into space.

Part One: Into the Night
There is only one word to describe you several hours long journey to Magna Alpha- dull. No grav-plates, noise tearing you ears apart... Only the view of soon-to-be launched Explorator Fleet helped to fight boredom, for you have never seen so many ships, most of them thousands years old, glimmering like stars. Each of them was worth more than hive world, each of them was marvel of technology long-forgotten. And there were at least ten of those wonders orbiting single forge-world.


But, now, it has ended. Shuttle landed heavily. With slight hiss, doors to your compartment opened, letting you outside. Just in front of three towering figures, all clad in crimson robes. Tech-priests. To your surprise, one of them seemed even more massive, and was surrounded by wide array of steel tentacles, each tipped with some tool of death. He was a Myrmidon. But, why here?

"Welcome, honored guest" one of them spoke, with unpleasant, flat voice. "I am Magos Diego, and I am here to greet servants of Inquisition. Lady Sophia informed us of your arrival day ago, and it's good to see you, for we need your assistance."

Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 13, 2009, 16:48
- Pleasure to meet you Magos... - Laz replied forcing himself to best smile he could... 'whole planet of damn tech-priests, fragging awesome, just what I needed' - To keep things to the point: we're going to need some discreet place to use as a base while we work on the matter, we'd also be thankful for all the informations concerning the cult if you have any. Oh and also Lady Sophia sent one of her... ah... 'special' servants with us, please don't be alarmed - we could use some covering clothes for him too - 'maby they haven't heard about me, maby I won't die... yet'
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 14, 2009, 14:39
Marcus was calm through the whole journey. He didn't say a word, praying in silence the whole time. He was really absent, out of body. Like would never be touched by any trouble or confusion.

What is going on here? That psyker was right. I just don't like it. Why are we sent here. Without training. Are we supposed to be some sort of sacrafice?

When the starship landed, Marcus just stood up, went outside, without hardly noticing anyone. He just stopped in front of the tech-priests.

Do you think they can be trusted? Think about it. Watch. Listen... "... need your assistance.". They might need your assistance, but my? These beautiful creations of Machine God would certainly deal switfly with any weak Chaos followers. Why do they need us? Maybe we are meant to be sacraficed, maybe that is what Emperor wants?

No, we are meant for something greater. We just cannot allow that. We have to listen, we have to watch. You hear me? WE JUST CANNOT ALLOW THAT!


Nobody could tell anything from Marcus face. It was... it didn't show any emotions. But his mind...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 14, 2009, 14:57
Halsted had spent pretty much all of the journey preparing for a potential unfriendly welcome. Stripping and cleaning his weapons, checking the charges on the laspacks, preparing everything. Just in case they had to fight on the landing pad or some such. Thus, when he disembarked, he looked pretty much the picture Guardsman bound for the front, dressed in uniform and flak armour, weapons not ready, but kept close at hand, rebreather hanging around his neck.

"While we're at it, ask if they know where to get some food around here. It's been far too long since breakfast," the guardsman suggested to Lazerus.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on September 15, 2009, 03:03
The psyker seems to pay little heed to the Myrmidon's impressive array of metallic death-tentacles. Instead, she appears to be studying the cleric's emotionless face, as if sizing him up or trying to read his thoughts.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on September 15, 2009, 13:32
- "Of course, we shall provide you with all..." - suddenly the Myrmidon who was examining your party with his bionic eyes interrupted the Magos' speech, emitting a loud, shrieking sound, somewhat akin to 'xeno' and turned all his armed servo-arms at Silharriel. Judging by the blueish glow that surrounded them, they carried enough fire-power to obliterate a Terminator.
- "Myrmidon Alexis!" - The Magos did not shout, yet his voice was harsh and cold - "Behave yourself!"
For a second you thought that the tech-priest warrior wouldn't listen and would fire anyway, but he slowly put down his mobile arsenal.
- "But, my lord! It is a xeno, foulest of fouls!" he spoke angrily.
- "Indeed. But it is only a mere inquisitorial tool, Myrmidon. Nothing more." - answered the Magos. - "Now, please leave us. You do no good here."
- "Inquisitorial tool? It's obviously radicalism! My lord, lady Sophia is violating the holy laws of the Imperium again! We should report it immediately to the Administratum!"
- "You know not what you are suggesting, nor what you are talking about. Dismiss, Myrmidon. Now!" It seamt that the myrmidons behavior had angered the Magos... if he could feel such basic emotions as anger.

While muttering some bizarre sentences, the Myrmidon turned his back on you and quickly walked away. The Magos then directed his attention to you, calm and composed again.
- "My apologies, Inquisition servants. Sometimes, I wonder if Alexis was ever chem-gelded. Concerning your questions, we do not know if the unrest that begun two weeks, three days and fourty-five minutes ago has been caused by a cult, or some other kind of malicious activity. All we do know is that the machine spirits have begun to act very weirdly." - he spat this word as it was a serious matter - "Ever since, they are growing anger seventy six point five percent faster, and appeasing them has become three and half times harder. Also, there have been seven mysterious disappearances in this period, mostly lowly scums unworthy of our attention. However two days and four hours ago, I heard reports that xeno-biologist Roderick, who is involved in fleet launch, was missing from his work station. Even worse, a Magos Errant, Diego Allumis, failed to report to his superiors both yesterday and today." - Even if you felt any concern as he spoke, the Magos looks perfectly calm as he asks: - "Is there any more information which you will require, servants of Lady Sophia?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 15, 2009, 15:55
The Eldar slowly descended from the shuttle, examining the environment. He seemed to be shocked - the world entirely made of metal had to remind him The Craftworld in some twisted way. Yet, still he was feeling uneasy. Few hours of constant flight, though Silharriel was familiar with engines roaring and boredom, felt exhausting, and so did being all alone between intolerant mon-keigh. No wonder that all the time he was rather quiet and absent...

...No wonder that he grinned madly, when the Myrmidon aimed his whole weaponry directly at his forehead. Nothing mobilizes as much as someone willing to kill you. A constant strife for survival for too many years was his only entertainment and denial of routine. This was making every day much more colorful...

And then, something snapped inside and Silharriel finally woke up from the wierd lethargy. He realized and leaned back, looking a bit startled, yet Myrmidon was leaving already. The Outcast started to hear metallic cracking, see buildings of steel and men in crimson robes, feel a slight chill on his back, smell oil and taste his own fear and blood... again.

"By Isha, it was near...", he whispered to himself, barely to be heard, but otherwise remained silent.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 16, 2009, 01:51
"Still think you're too good to wear head covering?" Halsted hissed at the Eldar, not without some satisfaction in his voice.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 16, 2009, 07:20
"Never told I am.", shortly answered The Outcast without any trace of anger, staring calmly at Halsted's grinning face. Frankly, his attempt to disdain him only filled the Eldar with confidence. At least one thing is constant and sure.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 17, 2009, 15:28
Lazerus listened to Magos slowly regaining calm - Some compilation of known information on those the disappeared, including these "scum" as you called them - who they were, what did they do, where they were last seen, by whom and who notified of their disappearance. Plus of course informations if anything wierd hapens or someone else disappears during the time we conduct search for the cause of this... unrest. - Laz thought for a moment then turned his head to the others - Any of you got anything to add?..
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 18, 2009, 00:39
*SNAP* After some time being silent, Marcus started asking questions.

"What was Magos Errant supposed to be doing yesterday and today? Can we visit the place he lives? This would be really helpful to us, of course, if you do not mind noble Magos."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on September 18, 2009, 13:04
- "Electro-priest Lagius..." - the magos raised his hand, allowing his robe to unfold slightly and exposing his fully bionic arm, and pointed towards his companion - "...will answer your questions as he leads you to your appointed quarters. Now, excuse me, Sophia servants, for I have important matters to oversee elsewhere." The tech-priest turned and quickly walked away.

Then, Lagius, who had been silent so far, spoke. His voice was nearly human, only a bit mechanical. - "Follow me guests. I shall answer your questions shortly."

The Electro-priest's 'shortly' apparently meant 'after we walk through half of the local forges and reach the habitat'. You couldn't find yourselves to be angry - the noise rendered all attempts at communication impossible, and all you could do is merely sightseeing.

Indeed, the forge-world was... majestic. Not beautiful, as Carnelia spires, but majestic. Heavy fumes covered it to the very surface, but through them you saw things you did not even think could exist: marvels of technology, forges as big as space-ships, and space-ships in construction, many times bigger. Only the Eldar seamt disgusted by the planet.

Finally, you reached your quarters - a small, pre-fabricated habitat on the edge of the forges' district. Here, you would be able to talk with relative ease. Lagius begun to answer your questions. - "Who were the ones who vanished? Cogs in the greatest mechanism of the Imperium, mere workers, who are born to serve, and through servitude earn their salvation. They worked in scriptoriums, overseeing auto-quills and replenishing ink. I do not possess accurate information about their disapearance and, by Omnissiah, I don't think that they are important in any way."

He paused for a second, perhaps wondering what to say next. - "Maybe you will find something about them in the cantinas. I can only provide you with information on Magos Errant Diego Allumis, flesh-son of Magos Diego Allumis, who you just happened to meet. He was working on an efficient way to deal with the foul Eldar, the deceiving, by means of toxins and fumes, helping us clear several of their so called 'exodite worlds'. He disappeared yesterday from his work-post in the Grand Library. Nothing else is known, but his quarters seem abandoned, and he has sent one of his test subjects back to it's place of origin a week ago. That's all I know."

Lagius passed you small seals. - "These will open your quarters. Inside you will find basic supplies and two specially crafted servo-skulls which can act as your guides. Mind them, for such things are difficult to craft. Farewell for now." - He vanished quickly and silently.

Your quarters turned out to be 'nearly' cosy. Lamp-packs, new sheeting on four bunks, lockers, a table and, for some unknown reason, a man-sized cage in a corner.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 18, 2009, 13:19
Halsted wasted no time in heading over to the bunk furthest from the door, setting his backpack down on it. "This one's mine," he stated, then sat down, stretching his legs out. "Well, this takes me back to basic training..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 19, 2009, 02:33
Marcus was astonished. He has never seen anything like this. Well, he has seen a starship factory before, but this? Drones flying everywhere, each with a given precise order. He felt like in a giant ant-hill. Everybody had his role, everybody (including machines) what to do.
The strangest thing for Marcus were the tech-priest. Talking to their machines, looking after them like they were living beings. He just couldn't understand this. But he was taught that there many things in the Universe that philosophers haven't dreamt about.

They finally reached their quarters. Halsted quickly opened the door and rushed to the farthest bed claiming the bed. What a child...


"Suit yourself. It really doesn't matter which bed is yours since probably we will spend most of our time outside here"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 19, 2009, 06:28
Laz sat down on the bunk closest to the door - So, anyone else noticed something interesting during our little walk?
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 19, 2009, 06:54
"I must haven't been paying attention. What did you notice?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 19, 2009, 07:02
- Security father Constantine, security... We walked past much more security patrols than usual, they have heavy weapon emplacements set up at strategic locations and I managed even to spot a few skitarii legionaries. Either tech-priests got *reall* freaked out by those problems with their machinery, or there is something more going on here than just minor cult activity - Lazerus finished with a grim smile.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 19, 2009, 07:51
"I have to admit, that I have been admiring the surroundings rather then looking at it as a fortress. But indeed, it looks like they are waiting for an invasion. Never less, one has to be ready for the Chaos. It can plant it seeds of despair into the weak hearts. This is where I, a humble servant of our Emperor has to prevent the Chaos from sowing. But also, it can attack with an enormous force. This is where... raw force is the only answer."

"It looks like Khorne" - Marcus spits - "wants to pay this place a visit. Let's just hope, this whole security is just a normal precaution."

"And please do not call me a father. There is a really long way before me until I become a father."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 19, 2009, 08:27
"Or you could be one and not know about it yet," Halsted suggested. "Wouldn't believe how many times *that* happened when we were mustering out."

Investigating the locker by his bunk, the guardsman found a few ration bars. "Ah. Somehow I had hoped that, working for the Inquisition, the food might at least be better..." With a shrug, he set to eating one of the ration bars, tuning out the input from his tastebuds. "Best you lot get a bite as well while we've some downtime," he added. "As far as security goes... there's that whole fleet up top assembling, right? Besides, I don't make a habit of visiting forge worlds, you know? For all I know, this could be what business as usual looks down here."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 19, 2009, 10:26
The Eldar slowly stepped into the room. Though he noticed the cage, he threw himself on a random bunk instead. It has been a long time since he could rest on something other than bare soil or prison floor. At a first glance he seemed too absent to notice words being said. At a first glance... Yet he was listening carefully to every word spoken.

After around a quarter, he crouched next to the locker and examined it, trying to find any clothing at first, but also hoping for firearms and maybe something to feast upon. The Outcast was all silent. He pulled out a corpse-starch bar and gave it a bite, finding no other items of interest.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 20, 2009, 05:05
Following the example given by alien and guardsman, Laz tokk a ration from the locker and started eating it...


Slowly...


Bite by bite...


After several minutes of silence and munching he spoke - So, any suggestions on how do we start?
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 20, 2009, 05:08
"How about visiting few cantinas and asking about those lost folks ?", asked Eldar, chewing slowly. "But first, I'll have to get some cover. Nothing here.", he added, pointing at the locker.
"We could also visit that >>Grand Library<<, if allowed. Maybe that would give some clues."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 20, 2009, 05:10
"Is an idea, that. Question being, do we want to keep it low-key, or take every advantage working for the Inquisition offers us?" Halsted spoke up.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 20, 2009, 05:12
I'd try starting low-key myself. We can always jump from that to full Inquisition rights when we need to but not so much other way around - Laz took another bite
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 20, 2009, 05:14
"Thou shalt not make improper use of thy master's purse, nor his seal, nor his name either.", pronounced the Alien. "But, isn't it a proper usage ? Anyway, look. They are almost at panic right now. Arrival of Inquisition's people would make it even worse. I think we should work undercover. Low-key, as you said. The less know, the better." And the sound of corpse-starch bar being torn.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 20, 2009, 05:20
Halsted sighed, shaking his head. "In which case, we'll need to dress more like the locals. I'd stand out like a sore thumb in uniform, for one... could go pick up some kit for the xeno while I'm at it, I suppose, but we can't leave it unattended."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 20, 2009, 05:22
"Oh yes you can. Not going anywhere anyway.", he poked the collar with his middle finger, smiling grimly. Chomp, chomp.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 20, 2009, 05:56
"I agree with you brothers. Nothing more to add... If it does not spoil anything, I would love to visit the Grand Library. I will also take a look how locals look like. Is this all right with you?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 20, 2009, 08:11
Laz looks at the ration bar nad then packs it again and puts it back in the locker.

- Hmmm, the way I see it we can do this twofolds. Variant one: someone goes to get some clothes for Halsted and Silhar and we all go to library. This is the safer variant, but it slows us down and makes the group more visible. Variant two is as follows: Marcus goes to get the clothes, while Halsted and eldar wait. Then all three go and visit the library using one of the servo skulls. In the meantime me and Pass would take the other one and go hit the cantinas in search of info on the disappearing civies... and something to dring so we don't choke on the rations next time we eat them. How does that sound?
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 20, 2009, 08:45
"Works for me," Halsted said with a shrug. "Maybe I can teach it how to fight with a proper weapon so it's more than just an expensive meat shield in a fight," he adds.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 20, 2009, 14:37
"Just give me a knife and admire the playground. Or, you know, some of that primitive laser weapons would suit me well. Similiar to our long rifles, i suppose. If it also has a scope, then, heh, heh...", he answered, smiling darkly. On Rogue Trader he hailed from, nobody could beat him in lasguns. "I think those ones must plentiful around here... Even those men dressed in red carry it. No need to waste your time (and nerves) for teaching."

"Yet how can we be sure that they'll let us in the Great Library ? Inspection is the thing of great probability, too. I don't want any >>take that hood down, sir<< situations. And so you, I suppose.", The Eldar pondered. "And canteens are already full of shady people, are they not ? Just suggesting..."
Of course he didn't mention his strong sympathy for rotgut. Oh, the throat is so dry...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 20, 2009, 14:48
Halsted glanced briefly to where he'd put his lasgun down before shaking his head. "Not a chance. They're precise and delicate weapons, wouldn't trust one of you with it," he stated firmly. "I can let you have the shotgun, I think it might be simple enough for you to get your mind around it..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 20, 2009, 14:59
Laz shook his head - No on the canteen thing. You'd be a source of worse trouble there if they figure you out some way with all the potential thugs there. Plus our teams psyker here might have some tricks up her sleeve that might come handy when pulling out information... Anyway if entering the library turns to be problematic go check out missing Magos' living place, maby leave just Marcus checking the library if they allow in him and not you two. Use the inquistion badges only if necessary to avoid worse problems.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 20, 2009, 15:03
"Understood, then...", gasped Silharriel. No drinking for now.

"A shotgun ? You mean that poor match of our shuriken weapons ?... Damn me. Precision is the one thing I specialize in. But if nothing better's around, so be it. How does it work ?, he asked, hesitating no more. At least that crude weapon... somehow... looked stylish. A bit.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 20, 2009, 15:57
"It is a very precise weapon. It quite precisely turns a person's face to mush if you fire it point-blank," Halsted said with a chuckle. "We'll deal with training later... a more important matter first. Just in case, we should have some means of keeping in touch," the guardsman explained, then unhooked a micro-bead from his ear. "I don't suppose any of you have a spare one? The range isn't overwhelming, I suppose, just a kilometre in good conditions, but it's better than shouting in this place, right?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 21, 2009, 01:11
"So brothers, why don't you establish the rules and I in the mean time go out, check out how the locals dress themselves. I would also love to see the Great Library, but not as an inquisitor. I do not think that anyone needs to know that we were sent by the Inquisition. Not now. The word of our arrival will spread quickly. The enemy, whoever he is, must not know it."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on September 22, 2009, 05:45
The psyker, who has been sitting curled up in a corner all this time, suddenly lifts her head and speaks:

"We don't have much time for this, I fear. Whatever evil has been claiming all those people, it's not hiding in canteens or lurking in a library. It's already here, in the streets, just waiting to pounce on the next victim."

Her body shudders momentarily.

"I could feel its presence as we made our way here. A terrible wrongness that threatened to engulf us all. Everyone who walks out there, from the lowliest servitor to the most heavily armed tech-guard, is in danger. So whatever we're planning to do, we'd better make it fast, before it realizes who we are... and moves in for the kill."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 22, 2009, 09:09
"Yes, well, unless you can point us to wherever this evil is hiding - a street adress and room number would be handy - we're going to have to lower ourselves to looking for it ourselves. Or, alternatively, hoping that when it comes for us, we can follow it back to its lair," Halsted replied.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 24, 2009, 01:14
Not waiting for a reply Marcus left. After some time he returns with a pack of clothes

"Brothers, blessed by the Dursus's light. I decided to venture out side and bought these. Now, they may not be the first quality but it should be enough for now" - Marcus said upon entering

"Unfortunately, I only have two full *suits*. I understand it is to Laz, who is the leader of our group to divide it umong us"

Marcus gives Laz two poor quality clothes.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 24, 2009, 12:20
Halsted, while Marcus was gone, took to training the eldar in using a shotgun.

"It's really simple to use, you shouldn't have much trouble with it," he said, taking out a shell and using his knife to cut open the top and dispose of the shot and propellant charge. Then he picked up his shotgun. "Loading is dead simple, really. Press the catch release here," he pressed a stud in the side of the the shotgun's handle, "breaking" it open, "and load in the shells. And close like so," he demonstrated once more, quickly snapping the shotgun closed again and raising it to his shoulder and pulling the trigger, resulting in a little flash and a puff of smoke from the shell's igniter cap and left-over propellant. Then he snapped the weapon open once more. "Pull out the spent shells, discard, and load in new ones... mind, it has a bit of a kick to it, so try not to shoot out too many lighting fixtures when aiming for people's faces. Now... give it a try," the guardsman said, passing the shotgun and the defused shell to the eldar.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 24, 2009, 13:37
"Simple thing indeed.", he said, picking the weapon. "I shall be in need for familiarizing myself with that kind of weaponry, which shall take some time, I suppose.", saying this, The Outcast grabbed the weapon, "broke" the weapon in two, loaded it with a defused shell and pulled the trigger, aiming at the wall. There was just a silent click, for all the quicksilver was already burnt away from the detonating cap and there was no gunpowder inside the shell. Then, the Alien broke it again and the shell jumped away to the ground with a silent chime.
"Hardly a challenge. I must check it with proper ammunition now, to accustom myself with the recoil. You do not want me flying around the battlefield, is it right ?", he admitted, picking it up.

"Then, what are we going to do now ? Miss, can you precise the source of this... wickedness ?", Eldar asked, balancing the weapon in his hands for a while and then laying down the shotgun on the table. Then he sat on a bed and finished eating a corpse-starch bar.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 24, 2009, 16:18
Laz took the suits Marcus brought and immidietly threw one in direction of the eldar
- Hey pointy-ears, catch! This should cover you somwheat - he turned then to Halsted and threw the second one in his direction - And the second one goes to you - as you said your military uniform would probably stand out. The rest of us will have to manage with current clothes

He pondered for a moment then continued - So, since no-one seemed to have any major objection I propose we go with the split-up plan. That is: me and Pass go to check out canteens, while Halsted, Marcus and... Silhar? will go to the Library and either all three investigate there, or MArcus will investigate there while the other two check the missing Magos' home
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 24, 2009, 16:21
"Suppose we should tone down our armament for this outing as well? Going around dressed in these with lasguns and shotguns and whatnot might stand out as well," Halsted pointed out, catching the clothes and changing into them without much delay or fuss.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 25, 2009, 01:26
"I will just take the revolver, that is all is needed. I do not know if visiting library might be a good idea for an Eldar. Such libraries are unique pearls and Adeptus Mechanicus surely will not allow for anyone bringing guns (which I surely leave to the security guards upon entering the Library) and certainly they would start asking questions. At least this is a thing I would do. I do not want to know what would happen if an Eldar tried to enter their place of holy knowledge." - Marcus said

"Than again, I might be wrong. I am only a humble servant of the Emperor and I surely make mistakes."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 26, 2009, 04:54
Silharriel grabbed the suit and made use of it in the blink of an eye. "That's what I said before, Marcus. They'll surely want us to show faces and I probably will get shot right away. Or maybe even sooner if we shall be armed, yes. Seems like we'll have to check that... Magos's... place, while you will be investigating the Library.", he pointed out.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on September 26, 2009, 05:38
Halsted unpacked his entrenching tool, tossing the short shovel to Silharriel once he'd finished changing. "Long arms might get noticed under these, and I doubt we're dressed as the sort to be carrying proper weapons. I take it you'll know how to use this if it comes to it," he said, while hiding his laspistol and bayonet knife under his new outfit. The shovel looked like any other shovel, except the edge was finely sharpened - probably enough so to use it as a makeshift axe.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on September 26, 2009, 06:06
Grabbing the shovel, he started to laugh, confused a bit.

"Oh, now any scorpion-type chainsword can go hide. Too bad you didn't get a mono-upgrade for this piece, would strike even more fear in our foes' hearts ! Khaine damn me for this blasphemy, those always were two things I admired in you, humans - your capability of enchanting fire into a water... And your skill to make a weapon out of everything.", he sneered.

Having this said, Silharriel concealed the "axe" under the rags. "Final touch and final caress, all-in-one. Great.", he muttered to himself. "And I thought that a shotgun was primitive..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on September 29, 2009, 03:57
Marcus seing no interest left to the Great Library
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on October 05, 2009, 05:01
After few hours, without knocking, Marcus returns to the room. His looks was disturbing. It looks like he hadn't slept well or was under influence of drugs. What it really was, no one knew. He just sat down on the bed and stared at the wall.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 11, 2009, 17:29
Some time later doors to the room open, and Lazerus enters. He looks quite different then how he looked going out - his previous equipment is gone, replaced with some poor sort of clothing with carapace armor strapped on it. He holds a lascarabine in one hand, and the other is used to hold someone carried over his shoulder.

- Well, it looks like I'm not the only one having a interesting day today - he commented at Marcus' looks and blank stare. He put down the person he carried: A woman. Short and lithe, with numerous bruises showing. Dark hair, grey eyes - filled with fear right now... and pointy ears.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on October 12, 2009, 04:43
Marcus didn't notice the appearance of Laz. He was still... trapped in the books that he read

We have found our beloved brothers that we have been searching so long for... And now all our efforts seem pointless.

Brother Gladias along with his team was sacrificed to filthy chaos gods... Their bodies were severed, cut, tear appart. What insane mind was capable of doing anything like this?

Our medics examined the bodies. Poor brothers... Not only were they killed and given as a sacrafice. Before that, probably a very long and painful ritual took place. They [followers of the cult] cut their arms and legs, cut out the whole... inside... They were still alive, that's what medics are saying, because of high percentage of cortisol in blood.

Brothers, you have not died in vein, we will...

... they dig up holes and threw the bodies...

... they sedated people, took them out of the city. As soon as the "sacrifice" arrived they began their...

... I nearly slipped when I entered the building. Floor was covered in blood, guts nailed to the wall, false and unholy signs drawn with blood...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 12, 2009, 04:56
It took Laz a moment to notice, but something were definitely wrong with the priest. Not wanting to talk - that he could understand... But not reacting to the fact that he brought another eldar with him was a bad sign. Trying to wave a hand before Marcus' eyes confirmed this.

- Frag... Wake up Marcus! - Laz came up and shook the priest and hissed again - We don't have the luxury of having you break down so get ahold of yourself Emperor damn it!..
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on October 12, 2009, 06:12
"What, what do not you understand?" - replied Marcus immediately - "We have two potential cults on this planet, that might be responsible, Nine Crows and the Brotherhood of the Golden Snake. That is what I managed to discover in the tomes in the Great Library. Is there something really that you can not understand? Why are you shaking me?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 12, 2009, 16:17
- Well for the start... - Lazerus started but paused hearing movement from behind - Wait a second...

A minute or two of struggling later the eldar got cuffed to the cage (though still outside) and gagged with some spare rags. Laz continues while searching for some medkit in the haitat.

- As I was trying to say, you didn't tell me that until just a moment before - when I came here you were sitting, staring blankly at the wall and mumbling something, and didn't even notice who I brought alone. As far as bad news go two cults are indeed bad news, though I can probably top that: we, as in inquisition were suspected to be here, by now we are either already exposed - mayby not in who-is-who manner, but they'll be sure that we're here soon enough, I have a strong feeling we can no longer trust the tech-priests, and I lost my stuff... or at least most of it. And the only good news is that I have a strong clue where to start searching for one of the cults. - Lazerus talked while clearing and bandaging eldar's wounds to the best of his ability then sat down and sighed heavily - I don't suppose you have a Lho-stick? At time like that even I could use one...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on October 13, 2009, 00:32
"What? That can not be... Or..." - Marcus stuttered - "I went to the Great Library and unfortunately I had to show my Inquisition Badge. I was let in and read the most unholy... Well, not unholy, because it contained reports of the two cults I mentioned to you written by our brothers. I just cannot believe anyone could have done such a thing, the tome was literally dripping in blood. I got so overwhelmed that I lost the track of time. To be honest... I do not how I got here..."

Marcus gaped as Laz was bandaging the eldar.


"In the name of Emperor! Who is she? How did she get in here?" - Marcus said nervously
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 13, 2009, 03:47
- *Who* she is that I don't have a slightest idea. *What* she is should be painfully obvious - yet another eldar. Found her being tortured by, what I assume, members of one of the cults you mentioned or at least close associates of them. Considering I had to go through bodies of two of their cronies to get to her, and didn't know who I was "helping" until it was too late I decided that shooting her on spot would be a waste of effort - so I took her with me in hopes that something usefull can be pulled out of her. The catch is that this will take our own eldar, as she doesn't seem to speak our language.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on October 13, 2009, 06:18
"Well, we have our friend Silharriel. Do you speak the same language as she?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on October 13, 2009, 06:31
I don't suppose you have a Lho-stick? At time like that even I could use one...

"Ah, so you have discovered the most important lesson in the galaxy: that it's better to die from chain smoking than from a chainsword!"

With a smirk, Pass tossed Laz an almost empty pack of lho-sticks.

"I see that you boys managed to find us some leads. That's great, because I've got nothing - this place is one huge spiritual toilet. Our quarry has chosen his hiding place well, I'll grant him that."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 14, 2009, 04:46
Hearing a voice behind him Laz jums up and turns to face the source of it

- Damn it woman, learn to knock - I could have shot you if I still had a weapon in hand... - Laz says seen that was only Pass, who entered silently sometime in between - Thanks for a smoke anyway. And yeah Marcus, I hope Silharriel knows how to comunicate with her - here's hoping he and Tobias return soon.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on October 14, 2009, 04:56
The psyker chuckled:

"Just keeping you on your toes. If I was a Chaos-worshipping assassin sent to murder you, I wouldn't bother knocking, either."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 15, 2009, 14:36
Halsted and Silharrion arrived eventually as well. The eldar seemed awfully pleased with himself for some reason, while the guardsman's robes had several tears on the back, as well as a large dark stain over it. And bits of red showing through the tears.

"No more fething undercover jobs. Or at least none where the cover isn't allowed to wear armour and carry a proper gun," he stated, closing the door after them. "Well, I see the rest of you are back in one piece as well, and... Throne, what's that? We're collecting xenos or something?" he asked, pointing at the newly acquired Eldar.

Not feeling in the mood to argue, though, he moved over to his cot and sat down heavily. "I'm going to need someone's help here," he said, pulling off the top of his disguise and pointing at his back, where bandages made out of red cloth were stained a much darker red over his back. "Can't quite reach back there myself to clean it up," he added by way of explanation.

"Well, don't just stand there looking smug, show off what we managed to lift from the place," he added, glancing in Silharrion's direction.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 15, 2009, 15:13
- Well since you two weren't present for my little chit-chat with Marcus I'll just pass two most important details: It looks like we're in deep shit, and I don't think we can trust even the tech-priests... - Laz cuts in - The details, along with explanation where did "she" come can wait until the end - first let's see what you got, and then let's hear what our priest learned in the library - he turns to Marcus - I know what you've read there hit you hard - I won't make you go into details, just tell us what you think we should know.

Lazerus then turns back and waits to see what Silhar is going to show.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on October 16, 2009, 01:41
Marcus approached Halsted
"I am no medic, I would probably only do more harm"

He turned to the others
"Let me just tell you what I managed to find out in The Great Library. I read quickly some books there. The ones that dealt with Chaos cults actually mentioned more about their rituals and bloodbaths instead the cult itself. So my information is really scarce. There is the Brotherhood of the Golden Snake. Very dangerous, since of the Administratum members decided to join the foul cult. Unfortunately, some of the members of this... Snake clan managed to escape the purging flames of emperor."

Marcus paused for a second

"The second cult is the Nine Crows. I cannot tell much about it either. Their hiding place (whatever or wherever it was, the tome did not mention a thing) was... blown into pieces by some unknown force. They are responsible for kidnapping nine people and sacrificing them foul Chaos Gods. Resemblance to the latest events is remarkable..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on October 16, 2009, 02:41
Pass examines Halsted's injuries and mutters something that would making even an Ogryn blush. With a frown on her face, she draws a deck of Emperor's Tarot (which has clearly seen better days) from an underarm pocket of her bodyglove, quickly flips through the top seven cards, nods to herself, and traces the bloodied bandages with her finger. Within seconds, the guardsman's pain fades to a dull and remote ache, as his wounds are instantly closed by the psyker's unnatural power.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 16, 2009, 08:50
"Yeah, we've got something that you would find handy for some reasons.", said the Eldar stepping into the room. There was a slight grin on his proud face. From between the robes he pulled out a tome and passed it to Lazerus.
"This... This is the Magos Alluminas's diary. May contain some vital information. I had no time to take care of it, yet. Also, we have found some unusual las weapon there. Why would Magos leave his place and not take his firearms with him ? Tobias, would you... ?", he finished his speech with a question, looking at the guardsman and waiting until he recovers and passes someone the gun he mentioned.
He came upon his bed and put off those tatty robes, revealing slightly ragged blue-yellow clothes... And a collar. Also, a bunch of grenades he unattached and put on the table, next to some little vial with Mechanicus symbol.

"Snakes. Crows. And to clue where to find any of those barbaric critters. Oh my head...". he whispered, sitting. You notice Silharriel's face is now even more pale than ever.

"And, Asuryan, may I be damned, who is SHE ?", he asked, a bit shocked, noticing another Eldar in the room. "Your another slave, I suppose ? How ? Why ? For what ?"

Gods, they are going to collect the whole Craftworld in here, are they not ?..., thought the Alien, a bit frightened and maybe slightly unpalatable. He lied down, placing his robes under his head and closed his eyes with a soft sigh of disappointment.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 16, 2009, 16:25
Laz listened quietly to what other said then took last breath of almost finished lho and extinguished it.

- Right, time for my story it seems... In the beginning it looked like my walk through the pubs will be as uneventful as Pass claims her was. I went to supposedly "largest" canteen there was, bought a highly overpriced rotgut and sat down trying to listen to what patrons - who were few - had to say. Sadly most of them seemed to be content with staring blankly at half-empty beer-mugs and contemplating their dull life - the only barely interesting thing I heard was that there is a power struggle between "Divine Light of Sollex" and "Magna Fellowship" regarding which faction will field a captain for the fleet. I went out bored to go back and see if I can ask somewhere along the way about these two factions. Of course my boredom was soon cut short by a cannonade that skitarii did their best to ignore - which was enough of a hint for me that it's worth investigating

Laz paused for a longer moment as he started to check the weapons he brought with him - The first thing I saw was a dead body with some kind of rifle lying next to it - I didn't even get to check it out as someone ran into me and promptly got shot by three men coming after him - I tried to convince them I'm a harmless passerby, but that didn't work out. At least they didn't shoot me on spot, but instead brought me to their leader, a man named Du Pont who - surprise, surprise - claimed to have ties to Magna Fellowship. Once again my tries to talk myself out failed and I got knocked out.

Laz checks the power packs on his new weapons and curses - Hey Halsted, I hope you have some spares - these look like they've been in the cooker one time too much... Anyway I woke up in a prison cell of some sort - without my equipment, but thankfully they underestimated me and I managed to slip my hands out of handcuffs - they helped me then to choke the guard that came to check me out, and much later I used them as an less harmful way of restraining her - Laz nods at the female eldar - But before that happened I was sneaking down a corridor and came upon guarded crossroads - I was honestly only trying to get out and perhaps recover my gear along the way, but when I got past the guards and heard some voices while checking out the first corridor I took a chance and came closer to listen - it turned out I came upon a discussion between Du Pont and two other people, whom voices I didn't recognize - not everything I've heard made sense but what was clear is that they have been capturing Sollex workers - most likely the missing people we were told about - and putting them through some sort of brainwashing. They also speculated that Inquisition is here, though Du Pont didn't believe it then and they mentioned a "special" prisoner. Thinking about it now, that last thing might have meant the missing Magos, but it could as well mean the eldar here.

- As for her... well I heard a woman's cry after returning to the crossroad and in some stupidly heroic impulse I decided to check it out - two corpses later I found her - she was tied with barbed wire, beaten and half-drowned due to tortures. I didn't know she was an eldar until I got her out of the pool, but I decided to take her with me regardless. - he turned to Silhariel - Don't get me wrong, I don't like your species more than you eldar like us humans, but killing her just because of what she was, after I took time and effort to save her, and seeing that she might know something would be stupid at best. The rest of the escape was easy - a bit too easy if you ask me, but I'm alive and for the moment that is enough for me.

Laz thought for a moment again - To sum it up: Someone from the higher echelons of tech-priest hierarchy must know what Magna Fellowship is doing, seeing as skitarii didn't react to the fighting. Probably the same for the Sollex. Either way we can't trust the "authorities". And if they took time to search for my stuff - which I hope I'll be able to get back at some point mind you - they probably found the rosette - i.e. they now for sure we're here. And there is this new eldar - Silhar, I'd like you to speak with her, just make sure she won't scream or do anything stupid before you ungag her - I don't want to explain all this to Tech-Priests as well. As for what we do, my first instinct would be to go back to place of my capture and go in lasguns-blazing but that's a bit risky plan so I'm open to counter-suggestions. Either way we have to consider should we contact Lady Sophia, and are we able to do so inconspicuously should we choose to do so...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 17, 2009, 07:02
"As you wish, I may try to interrogate her.", answered Silharriel, opening his eyes, rising on his elbows and glancing first at Laz, later at the woman. His face shows no emotions with an exception of being tired, and so do his eyes, slightly bloodshot. Veins are very visible on his neck and temporal regions, one can barely see the blood rushing through them with a high speed. Silharriel coughs and sits on a bunk.
"The smoke... Inside the Vaul's Blacksmith it was surely much easier to breathe. What is this ?", he asked, still unemotional and cold. It's quite suprising that the Eldar's sharp senses felt the vivid scent after such a long while.

The Eldar stood up after a while, stretching. Then he came upon the cage and crouched next to the moment, looking her in the eyes.
"Get on with it.", whispered Silharriel to himself, then started speaking in his native tongue.

"I know, I know you find this situation uncomfortable, but listen to me. These mon-keigh are not our foes. Or, at least, they are foes of our foes. They will not harm us if we do not do anything inconsiderate. Alright ? Suin not, fear not, resist not, just answer my questions. Maybe we shall both avoid dannan. Understood ? I shall ungag and untie you in a kilithikadya if you promise to be polite.", he said calmly, softly and slowly, looking for any reaction.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on October 17, 2009, 08:12
After a short while, the eldar nodded in response. After Silharriel removed the gag from her mouth, she moaned, and started speaking.
Even though you did not understand a single word, one thing was more than apparent - her voice was weak... very weak. You've heard such voices before - they belonged to people who endured torment so intense, that it had to leave deep scars, in both flesh and soul. Such scars slow to fade.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 17, 2009, 08:40
Silharriel listened carefully to every one word spoken by the woman. When the silence fell, he whispered one word to a woman and turned his head to Lazerus, speaking in Low Gothic :
"She begs me we untied her. Her hands are badly wouned and she is likely to lose consciousness anytime due to pain. We may lock her inside that cage instead, do not you agree ?"
Afterwards, he turned to Pass.
"Madame, you are a healer, are you not ? Can you help her before she collapses ?"
Later on, he continued speaking with the other Eldar.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 17, 2009, 08:59
- Alright, if her hands are that much of aproblem so be it. - Laz nodded

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 17, 2009, 13:20
At the mention of the laspistol he and the Eldar had found, Halsted seemed to become a bit uncomfortable, but eventually took the weapon out from where he'd hidden it among his disguise and set it down on his cot, up for examination by whoever wanted to do it, while he went to change into his uniform again.

"I'm hardly an expert in these matters, but it's not mass-produced, I can say that much. Or at least it underwent some customization after production. The focusing lens is non-standard, I've noticed, but what it'll actually do..." the guardsman shrugged lightly.

"Keep in mind I only have three spare charges for the las," he told Laz, shaking his head. "Either we go shopping, or we start to exercise proper ammunition discipline."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 17, 2009, 13:27
- Well even one would do - it's not as much the amount of amunition I have that I'm worried aboout, it's the state of the laspacks I got with these weapons - they look ready to blow up straight in my face
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 17, 2009, 15:20
"Well, my dear mates, that is all for now. She is much too fatigued to recall anything. What I have managed to reclaim from her is that she was not alone. They probably were roving corsairs or a Craftworld expedition, all were caught by an unknown force and tortured later on. So, it is very possible that she was not that >>special guest<< her captors mentioned. Isha damn me, it is certain, this must have been somebody else...", told Silharriel, standing up and facing his comrades. He seemed slightly worried about the woman's state, but only a little.

"Bizarre, do not you think ? People we think that are our enemies are torturing and killing Eldar. And the others we think that are our allies have lost some important person working on how to kill Eldar more efficently... Do you get, what I am trying to tell you ? Our enemy should have sought the help of my fellow men if it really wants to ever think about facing Cult Mechanicus. Damn that, I *must* get some sleep, my mind is too clouded for now.", he was pondering loudly. He tried to come upon his bed, but he staggered and almost fell down on his bunk.

"Shopping, ya say ? I appreciate the idea, but will I be able to get one of thzzzn... zzz..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on October 19, 2009, 02:37
Upon hearing Silharriel's request, the psyker frowned:

"Calling upon the powers of the warp to save a valuable agent of the Inquisition is one thing. Doing the same to help a random xeno of dubious value and origin is another. And keep in mind that this sort of healing is not without its risks; a single act of psykery will likely go unnoticed, but multiple manifestations in a row can attract all sorts of wrong attention. I'm still not quite sure whether she's worth the risk."

She lifted her head and looked at Laz:

"It's your call, boss. I'm not going to patch her up without a direct order, that's for sure."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 19, 2009, 15:36
Laz ponders for a moment then shook his head - Sorry Silhar, but I think Pass' decision will stand - psyker powers are risky, thank the Emperor she used them once without problems, let's not press our luck. Unless someone here has some knowledge of regular medicine your kin will have to heal on her own, with time. This also stands for the rest of us: unless it's a life or death situation, be it one of us nearing death or a situation where every one of us is needed I don't want Pass straining her abilities. Regular wounds will have to hear the hard way or with help of some doctor.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 21, 2009, 12:28
"So be it.", there was a silent, almost whispering voice speaking.

"Let her rest for a while, then. If I asked her more now, she would eventually collapse. And then our investigation would meet a dead end, I'm afraid.", recommended Silharriel. "We, the Eldar, are very fragile. And she took very much on herself. But since we are not that in haste, you are right, Madame Pass should conserve her powers on later use. Now, I beg you, if I may only for an hour...", explained, agreed and added the Xeno, smiling faintly. And then, he ceased to withstand the fatigue and fell asleep. He still looked unhealthy.

It can be seen that the other Eldar sleeps already.

After about an hour or two, Silharriel gets up and proceeds with an interrogation.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 23, 2009, 13:53
"Well, while he's sleeping, we can look to the task of finding out what we can from the magos' diary," Halsted said, then pointed at the book the Eldar had set down. "Only one problem with it," he added, prodding the lock on the tome with the muzzle of the newly acquired laspistol.

"I don't suppose any of you would be willing to try opening it?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 23, 2009, 16:19
- A lock you say? Let me give it a try - had some experience with these lately

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 23, 2009, 19:47
Halsted took the book with a light nod and settled back to read while they had some downtime...

It was some time later that he put it down and shook his head. "Well, that was an interesting bit of reading. Apparently his main field of expertise was anti-xenos airborne chemical agents... human-friendly nerve gas, in other words," the guardsman said with a smile. He had a thing for all weapons chemical, it was something you grew up with on Teledahn. "The laspistol we found was, if I'm reading this right, commissioned by a Skitarii captain. I think our authority trumps his, but we'll worry about it if he comes knocking to collect it personally, I say. Also, our missing magos was working closely with an Alpha Brotherhood, whoever they might be. Another thing, he apparently started seeing some trouble with the Machine Spirits about... a month ago," he continued, flipping occasionally between pages. "And in more recent news, the last entry coincides with the date of disappearance we were given - says here his presence was requested at... Alba Longa, whatever that is. I'm willing to wager the servo-skull would get us there if we asked properly. Oh, and one last thing, let's try not using hotshot packs in that new pistol, if we find any. If it's the same one the captain wanted, it might be prone to blowing up."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 24, 2009, 08:58
While Halsted was explaining what he managed to dig into, Silharriel already got up and had a chat with their prisoner, which took around a quarter, not more. For a while they seemed to be arguing, but everything eventually finished with a laughter, or a faint smile at least. Afterwards the woman fell again into sleep, and Silharriel came in closer to hear bits of Tobias' speech.

"Ahem.", he grunted when Halsted already finished speaking. "Unfortunately, our new guest does not know too much. The only interesting thing I managed to get out of her was that there is something attracting our kith and kin to this place. There were quite a few of them visiting Magna Delta in a year period.
Her name is Elirenn, she is an Outcast like me. She came here in companion of two others, which got shoot, probably by Skitarii or other well - equipped and well - trained force. She managed to escape, but then those scumbags got her. She did not understand anything out of questioning by those foul ones, so we shall have to pay them a visit, no ?"
, he explained.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 24, 2009, 09:10
"They took Laz's gear, and seeing as I don't want to keep having to provide you lot with more of my OWN guns, I think we should try to get it back," Halsted pointed out. "And I assume they took the rosette as well... I doubt our superior would look favourably on us losing something like THAT."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 24, 2009, 14:11
"So, all guns blazing ?", asked Silharriel rhetorically, with a sadistic grin on his face. All the things happening recently left him thirsty for some adrenaline... And blood. Especially blood of those who made Elirenn suffer that much. But first, he had to find something to eat and drink for the prisoner. He recalled himself of the corpse-starch bars he found inside his locker. He shuddered remembering its taste, but since there is nothing better around...

"But now, guys, does anyone have any clues of where would I get some fresh water, par excellance ?", he wanted to know, now calm and serious. He knew it would be hard to find any pure water here on this wasted industrial world, but he hoped that his comrades have found any wells or pumps on their way. Heck, rotgut would be more abundant there... No, he can not drink now, just before a combat. Not now... No...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 24, 2009, 14:43
- Alpha Brotherhood... Great, with our luck it another cult, and even if it's not it doesn't mean they'll be harmless. And yes on visiting my captors - it's risky but at the moment they're most solid link we have with. Also my gear and possible knowledge we can get out of that Du Pont guy aside they *know* we're here and that makes them dangerous. In fact unless we have any good reasons to postpone that I'd go out now as this gives us the best chence catching them before they organize themselves - or just flee the place and hide - Lazerus commented, meeting Silhar's question about water with a shrug.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 24, 2009, 15:21
"Well, there's probably a washroom around somewhere, that's bound to have water. Not necessarily the best drinking water, but still..." Halsted suggested.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 24, 2009, 15:25
"You lead then. I am ready to come forth and drown them in their own blood. How far are these hiding ?", Silharriel asked another question, while he was dressing himself in his disguise. He picked a shotgun, cleaned and checked it.

"I hope you have nothing against that I borrowed it, Tobias. I promise to give it back as soon as we will get any replacement. Until then, do you have any spare shells with you ? And remember to take those...", the Eldar pointed at a bunch of grenades he put on the table before. "I am pretty sure we shall be in need to get in with a crunch."

He smiled, hearing Tobias' words about the water source.
"Well, if you do not mind, I shall get there while we will be returning."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 24, 2009, 15:50
"Laz, you take those grenades... I'll already be loaded down a bit. They look like gas ones far as I can tell, so don't use them too hastily. Now, if we're going in with a bang, I suppose I'd best get the gear sorted..."

With those words, the guardsman moved over to the locker where he'd stashed the gear he couldn't take with him on the undercover task. He began laying out the items on his cot, checking each one over to see if they were in order. A lasrifle with three spare charge packs - two moved slightly aside. A belt of grenades, 7 in all, of varying types. Three boxes of shotgun shells, 24 rounds in each, save the one training round expended earlier. Standard-issue flak armour. The shells he handed to the Eldar, while two frag grenades and two lasrifle charge packs were passed to Laz. The laspistol found in the Magos' quarters was also passed to the Eldar.

"You've got your main weapon and a melee fallback, here's a sidearm to go with it," he told Silharrion, then turned to Laz. "And ammunition and spare grenades for you. Try not to waste them. Now, a rough plan of assault would be good to have. Is there anything you recall about the place? Defences, personnel, access routes? Size, layout of the place, likely security measures?" he listed off his questions in a calm, detached manner as he pulled on his own armour and finally strapped the gas-mask loosely around his neck, ready to be quickly pulled on if the need arose.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 25, 2009, 13:05
- Sadly I can't give you too much information. The place I was held in is about twoo or three hours of walk from here. There were no guards outside when I left, neither I saw any static defenses. The entry room was rather small, and had enough of cover for me to sneak through two men patrolling there without problem. From this room there is a corridor leading to cross-section - back then it had three guards. The corridors lead: left - to my cell, there might have been other ones too, didn't stay to check. Right led to the torture chamber. And the one dirrectly opposite of entry leads to some room in which Du Pont was talking. I wasn't really in position to explore the place further, so there might be more to it. As for personnel - judging by how many people I saw when they captured me I'd be guessing we will face at least fifteen to twenty men, armed with basic las weaponry mostly plus Du Pont and whoever he was talking with. I just hope I'm not underestimating them. - Laz relied what he could while replacing the mag in the rifle (and stocking the unreliable one just in cease) and all the other stuff he was given.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 25, 2009, 13:25
"We outnumber them, then.", grinned Silharriel, arming himself with weapons provided. He checked if his laspistol is in top condition, then hid it behind the belt, under his cape, along with makeshift shovel-axe. He caught a handful of shotgun shells and put them inside the pocket - first checking if it has no hole. He fastened every belt as tightly as he could, then hanged the shotgun on his arm.

"Are we going for total carnage or shall we be trying to capture Du Pont and get out as soon as possible ? I would myself go for a recon first, to check if Du Pont has any other way to escape. I know he has."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 25, 2009, 13:39
- We need to recover my gear if it's only due to Rosette. And I wan't Du Pont alive as I feel he might be valuable source of information. If we manage to get the people he was talking back then, assuming we identify them, it's good also. The grunt's I don't care for, but we're not there for sake of slaughter. We kick in, get our stuff then we decide: If they surrender we let them live. If not the decision will have to be based on wheter or not we will be to escape them without gunning them down to a man, and how much of a problem they will seem to pose if we leave them behind us.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 25, 2009, 13:54
"We should also take some steps to appropriate more equipment and funds so long as we're there. More body armour, perhaps some weapons... and items which can easily be sold off for a quick throne or ten," Halsted pointed out. "Anyway, plan... if they know you've escaped by now, they may well be expecting retaliation. External guards are a maybe, but increased security on the inside is all but assured. I am assuming they won't try shooting at us still out on the street, but once inside we'll be fair game. Looks like we'll have to make things up as we go along, then..."

The guardsman sighed, then shook his head. "My mask for a proper map... ah well. We'll look around at least briefly for an alternative accessway. Failing that, we go in the way you got out, and try to neutralise any guards quickly before an alarm is raised. Save grenades and slugthrowers for when they're already aware of our presence. We'll also need all the fire support we can get here. Psyker, your healing skills may be invaluable, especially if we overdo it on restraining this DuPont person. Priest... well, you've got a gun and I assume you know how to use it. We won't call on you to charge in the van, but I would prefer you to come. If only to help retrieve possibly useful supplies after the fact. Myself and Laz will go on point, hopefully lasguns won't alert them too quickly. Eldar, you'll be bringing up the rear once we're in. Order of business, incapacitate key targets first, proceed with sweep of compound, loot anything not bloody well nailed down that we can sell off for extra funds later. Thoughts and suggestions?" he asked, rolling his shoulders to get his armour to settle in place, glancing around at the others.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 25, 2009, 14:23
"Agreed. I can take the rearguard.", answered The Outcast, a bit sad and disappointed that he can not participate in the midst of mauling.

"On suggestions for obtaining more combat gear, you can sell my collar. It makes me think slower and is worth approximately fifty thrones, which is almost enough for a cheap flak armor. It has a slight sentimental value for me, but I can put up with it...", proposed the Eldar, smiling yet talking seriously. "If those are gas grenades, maybe we do not need that many ? They can be worth pretty much also. I can resign of that laspistol, too - I have never been good with short weapons and this toy can be worth even more.

 The thing is, do we have time for arming ourselves. We might as well shoot or stun a few guards just to rob them of their weapons, to proceed later with an attack. Yet, any breaks, even for purposes of arming during the action may bury our chances, right ?

There is also one thing we might do, but only if we are desperate. Annexion, that is."


"And someone has to stay here with our prisoner. Brother Constantine, maybe ?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 25, 2009, 14:37
"She can sleep while we're gone. Put a blanket, a pillow, and a few CS bars in her cage, and she'll be fine until we get back," Halsted replied with a shrug. "We will procur equipment on site as is necessary and as time allows. If we can slag the first few guards without raising alarm, I'm sure we can spare the time to relieve them of armour for you lot to wear. Looting for purposes of financial gain is to be done after the fight and by the numbers. But we are not stopping for shopping on the way there, or breaking off a fight to pick you up a new hat," he added.

"Unless our leader declares otherwise, of course," the guardsman added quickly, glancing in Laz's direction.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 25, 2009, 14:40
- Tobias is absolutley correct, nothng here to add... - Laz calmly replied.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 25, 2009, 14:46
Silharriel came upon his locker and pulled out the rest of corpse-starch, he took also a blanket from his bunk. As gently as he could, he walked to the cage and pushed these items inside, between the metal bars.

"Hope you will not poison yourself to death, miss.", he sneered, standing up from the crouch.

"What ever you decide...", he answered after a while of slowly walking around the room and pondering. "I draw your attention to the fact that not sounding the alarm without silenced weaponry may be nigh on impossible to accomplish. Unless we backstabbed them, which is nearly as hard, due to fact they expect the counterstrike. Now, let us keep moving, maybe ? Every second is worth gold now..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 25, 2009, 15:03
"In case you failed to notice when we were playing tag with the gladiator-skull, lasguns don't make quite so much noise as you'd expect from a slugthrower. If we keep the guards themselves from making too much noise, we should have a chance to take out at least a couple of them before a general alarm is raised."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 26, 2009, 01:10
"Ah, my bad. I was more paying attention to accurate shooting than listening to sounds made by lasguns...", explained the Eldar. He knew weapons of his kin were silent and deadly, yet he was unsure about mon-keigh firearms.
"If so, it is great."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on October 26, 2009, 02:28
The psyker seemed oblivious to the men's discussion of weaponry, ammunition and tactics. Instead, she appeared to be focusing on some internal struggle, her eyes closed, and her face constantly twitching and frowning. Finally, she reached some decision and addressed her companions:

"There's one more thing that you should know. In addition to healing, I can do... other things. Some of them are more dangerous than others. Some of them don't discriminate friend from foe, and should only be used as a last resort. I hope that we won't need the latter, but if things go completely ploin-shaped, we might have no other choice."

She took a deep breath and continued:

"If at any point during the fight you hear me say, scream or shout the word 'Behold', immediately turn your eyes away from me. Look at our enemies, at your guns, at the floor or just close your eyes altogether - but whatever you do, don't look at me. Assume that a single glance will turn you into stone - a living, conscious stone forever locked in a soundless scream."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on October 26, 2009, 07:18
"I see you are very eager to fight warriors. I hope you know what are you doing." - Marcus pondered - "But how can I aid in this dangerous task, I am more of a scribe and talker than a fighter"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 26, 2009, 09:00
"Your insights might be helpful when it comes to interrogating any captives," Halsted pointed out. "That, and an extra gun and pair of hands can always help. And, as I said, we may need help carrying procured items out afterwards... not to mention explaining to curious Skitarii where we got the loot, and negotiating with merchants to exchange it for much-needed funds. Just keep your head down, priest, don't look at the psyker, and let the Emperor worry about the rest."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on October 27, 2009, 00:41
"Then, let us do it" - Marcus replied - "Until you come up with plans, I will pray for Emperor's blessing to enlighten and aid us"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on October 29, 2009, 04:44
- Well it seems we have as much of a plan as we can at this point. Let's move people, the faster we get there the less time they have to prepare.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on October 31, 2009, 15:14
Eldar curled up in her cage, covering herself with a blanket, and almost instantly collapsing into deep sleep. It did not seemed that she was going to cause any trouble.

So you left, armed, and preprepared to do what some of you did best- ravage.

It took few tries for Lazarus to lead you into Du Pont hideout, but, after few hours spent in the underforge, devoid of any light, both natural, and artificial, you managed to reach you destination. However, before you came closer, Tobias ordered you to wait, and inspected the site with his magnoculars.

Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on October 31, 2009, 15:47
"Is there anything of interest you can see with this ?", asked Silharriel towards Tobias, scowling at the place around him. He was dead silent through all their walkabout around The Forge, seeming to be worried with something - at least that is what was his piercing glare suggesting. It looked like he simply couldn't wait for the massacre to come. He was disgusted with the way this twisted place looked like. In fact, everything around him, this filthy, dark city and those freakish mon-keigh inhabiting it, only were making The Eldar feel sick.

Once again he checked his firearms, making sure that nothing will bother him spilling blood and tearing flesh, that his weapons will do their job right. Softly and silently, he was praying within his mind - praying to Khaine, asking the divine entity to guide his blade and his slugs.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on October 31, 2009, 18:15
"Hear us and bless us, this day of deadly war,
Our fate and future are what we're fighting for,
Grant us protection now and forever more,"
Tobias intoned under his breath as he gazed through the magnoculars at the path ahead. Lowering the magnoculars, he turned to the rest of the party with a grim look on his face.

"The stealthy entry plan just went into the drops," he stated, pointing behind him at their destination. "They're definitely expecting us, no doubts there. I make out fifteen men on external guard. Two at door, three four-man patrols, one on balcony. Autoguns, three stubbers and a bugger-him-with-a-rusty-drill sniper on the balcony. Lots of clutter to use for cover if it came to it, but I doubt it'd help against the sniper. The guards didn't seem too attentive, but there is a lot of them and they have heavy firepower on their side."

Passing the magnoculars to Laz or the Eldar, he'd point out the threats he'd spotted, if they wanted him to. "I would hope that what's out there is the majority of the house guards, but we know where hope gets you. The building's too solid to breach anywhere but at the door, unless any of you know where to get a 'Russ Demolisher on short notice. My suggestion for the present moment would be to approach stealthily as best we can to create a distraction, pray that the guards are careless enough to all rush towards it... and treat them to a few grenades," the guardsman explained patiently, while at the same time pulling his gas-mask over his face, preparing for the fight. "On the bright side, if I can get my hands on one of their stubbers, I could try to even the odds somewhat..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on November 01, 2009, 02:22
Silharriel took the magnoculars and sweeped the site with his eye of a skilled scout. He saw that the distance is much too great to shot the sniper from here - they will have to come in closer and risk being spotted...

Then, he passed magnoculars to Lazerus.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on November 03, 2009, 05:04
"The building's too solid to breach anywhere but at the door, unless any of you know where to get a 'Russ Demolisher on short notice."

Upon hearing these words, the psyker's eyes go completely blank for several seconds.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

At this moment, Pass abruptly snaps out of her trance, hoping that her companions were too preoccupied with their battle plans to notice this episode - or her still-shaking hands.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 03, 2009, 10:27
- Hey Tobias, mind switching your lasrifle for my carabine for now? I suppose bringing that sniper down will fall on me, and if so I'm going to need all the range I can get - Laz asked while waiting for Silhar to end looking through magnoculars.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 03, 2009, 11:53
Tobias sighed quietly, unslinging his lasrifle and passing it over to Laz in exchange for the carbine. "Try not to break it. There's no telling if and when we might be able to get a replacement. And even with that, it's going to be a long shot," the guardsman explained. "Though if you could somehow shoot him so he'd fall to the ground outside, he might make for a very handy distraction..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on November 03, 2009, 11:57
"Much too long, I am afraid. If only we found some way to his position (or cause enough distraction for one of us to get in there), we would gain some strong advantage..."

Thus saying, The Eldar finally passed magnoculars to Lazerus.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on November 04, 2009, 01:46
"I do not know. Even if we manage to take all those guardsmen outside, without notice, what is waiting for us inside? Not only that, I do not think they could be distracted. Anyone who would try to talk to them would be at least stunned and interrogated. If the rest of us would attack, they would quickly connect (the attack) with the recent "visitor" and shoot him immediately... Or use him as a hostage."

"I could go there, actually run and pretend I am being chased. You could even make some cuts on my face, so it will be covered in blood. That would be more... realistic. That would probably distract the two guards at the entrance. And one of the three "four-man" patrol. There are four of *You*. In that time you would have to take out the sniper. I assume you lady, I do not know if you have such powers, could take control one of those guards so they will start shooting each other. I could help a little so your "zombie" could survive. Let us say that deals with one of the patrols and the two guards at the entry. That still leaves us..."

"You know what brothers? Let us forget about it. To me it sounds like a bad, how were they called... Aaah, yes, western movie. I do not think we stand much chance here, unless some of you got a real plan!"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 04, 2009, 13:04
Halsted quickly shook his head. "Considering that the distraction I was intending was supposed to draw them in so we could get a couple of *grenades* in, I don't think any of us qualify. Unless you're particularly eager for martyrdom, Priest," the guardsman replied, grinning under his gas mask.

"Updated idea, then... there's two ways we could try, either sneak up close, take advantage of the lack of light and the abundant cover... or sneak slightly less close, drop the sniper, take advantage of darkness and cover to play squig and gretchin with the patrols. Three of us have decent firepower on hand, and there's three patrols, plus the two guards by the entrance. We can either try dividing their attention, then, or keep together and pick off the patrols one by one. This does mean we'll be announcing our arrival, but at this point, well... that's really a given anyway.  Besides, once I can get my hands on one of their stubbers I think I could even the odds a little."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on November 05, 2009, 03:25
"To me, it will be a martyrdom. I do not think that these people there will gather in a group like sheep to slaughter (when they get distracted) so you could throw a grenade. Besides, I think you know how much noise such act will make. You can forget about the silent entry, they will alarm everybody."

"This reminds me of an ancient strategist. He said: <<Know the enemy, know yourself; your victory will never be endangered.>>. What do we know besides that there are 15 people on patrol there, auto-guns and so on? What is inside? Who is inside? What weaponry are they carrying? Who do they know? Who can come to aid them?"

"I suggest we wait and observe. If we do not need to attack immediately, then that would be the best solution. Doing so, we will have to option when to attack. If we decide to storm right now, we might not have an another chance to do so... ever..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on November 05, 2009, 03:44
"I assume you lady, I do not know if you have such powers, could take control one of those guards so they will start shooting each other. I could help a little so your "zombie" could survive."

Pass rolls her eyes:

"Yeah, sure, I can enslave them and force them to do my bidding. And while I'm at it, I'll call forth a rain of fire from the sky, and summon a chapter of Astartes to back us up. After all, I'm an alpha-level psyker with a full Inquisitorial mandate, and this acolyte stuff is merely a cover..."

Seeing the expression on Marcus's face, she realizes that her sarcasm doesn't translate all that well via whispers in the darkness, and sighs:

"...Just kidding. Truth is, my abilities either don't work well over long distance or require our enemies to be able to clearly see me. Against a sniper, it's a lose-lose choice.

Oh, and remember what I've said about warpcraft being risky, unpredictable and dangerous? It's still true. Think of it as a weapon of the last resort, rather than an opening distraction."

She lowers her voice to a barely audible whisper:

"And please stop addressing me as 'lady'. We've all seen what a *real* lady is like, back in Carnelia. Since I don't live in a high tower, surround myself with xeno servants, or send my minions into a deathtrap, just call me 'Pass'.

Unless, of course, I get eaten alive by demons. In which case, feel free to call me 'Fail'".
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on November 05, 2009, 05:27
"Then your explanation my la... Pass, just ensures me this is a suicide, or as Halsted said, a martyrdom mission..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 05, 2009, 06:24
"Just don't go out of your way trying to get martyred. If you're going to be suicidal, you'll be a liability more than any sort of asset," Halsted said bitterly, then pointed off to the building where the sniper was holed up. "You know, priest, if my old commissar was here, he'd probably shoot you on the spot for being a defeatist whiner. If you'd be so kind as to stop trying to kill our morale... we could try sneaking over to where their sniper is sitting, force entry and deal with him. Afterwards, Laz could provide long-range support while we move in to deal with the guards."

"And as I said, at this point we can pretty much forget about a silent entry. Whether we set off a grenade or they see us coming and start shooting... someone WILL make enough noise to raise an alarm. Our saving grace is that they're too spread out to provide fire support to other groups. Emperor willing, we can take them on piece-meal. If we can acquire one of their heavy stubbers and get close enough to the door, we can also make life interesting for anyone coming out to lend support. So, unless anyone else has any insight or advice, I suggest we move to deal with the sniper first."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on November 05, 2009, 06:31
"Then your explanation my la... Pass, just ensures me this is a suicide, or as Halsted said, a martyrdom mission..."

"Of course it bloody is. Frak, I told you that this was a suicide mission right at the very beginning, and you all said that I was just overreacting, that this was merely an apprenticeship of sorts. Well, guess what: I was right after all.

And yes, I still think that our best chance to survive this mess is to act like frakking Heroes of the Imperium: put our trust in the Emperor and charge in against the impossible odds, creating as much noise and confusion as we can.

You say that we don't know how many of them are there, or what weapons they have. I say that the opposite is also true: they don't know how numerous we are, or what kind of firepower we can bring. If anything, their defenses seem to indicate that they're expecting a much bigger assault force. All we need to do is take advantage of their fear, and convince them that they're under attack by an enemy that outnumbers and outguns them.

And if worst comes to worst, a quick death from a stubber is still better than whatever agonies Lady Sophia has in store for those who fail her."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on November 05, 2009, 07:54
"Halsted: there is no problem in getting ripped into pieces. The problem is what will Emperor benefit from that. Unless you are sure, that *He* will gain something from this act then this is pointless. Whatever you say, I am with you my brothers, but remember and think what will Emperor gain from our deaths."

"However if you think that in those people there a fear can be risen in their hearts and minds, then there is chance..."

"So what are *exactly* our plans?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on November 05, 2009, 08:07
"We are all alone here, but do not forget that we, men of the Inquisition, have some... Privileges, have we not ? How about if we got some Skitarii to distract them with a general rumble, then silently picked off those more dangerous targets ?", proposed the Eldar after a while of silent pondering.

"Those are experienced and pretty well-equipped, so that they shall not get eliminated... too quickly. You said it, Father Constantine, why must we become martyrs without a point ? Also, what would wake more fear in their hearts than Cult Mechanicus' men, here on a Forge ?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 05, 2009, 09:33
- The Skitarii were purposefuly ignoring the gunfight that caught my attention earlier today. Which means that there is some sort of... agreement... between Du Pont and either Skitarii or one of their leaders. Either way we have no way of judging how far this connection goes so that rules out other forces that we could try to get to help here on planet. And I sincerly don't think this is enough to call help from our Inquisitorial employer. As much as I'd prefer to go inside with a hefty support I'm afraid we're on our own for time beeing.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 05, 2009, 11:36
"So. Move on the sniper first, then deal with the guards as we are able, preferably taking the patrols down one at a time?" Halsted asked, rubbing his hands together.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on November 05, 2009, 11:37
"Fair enough, may those hogs be damned. Are there any OTHER forces we would convince to fight for us ?", the Xeno asked, barely hiding his disappointment.
 
It is true that freakish tiny building standing right there was aggrevating him more and more with each word of helplessness spoken. At first he was willing to get in the guards' pack and blow that device on his throat, but then he realized that he would not live long enough to see them burning. It was certain that these men at arms were much too numerous to attempt a direct raid. He shook his head nervously and answered loudly :

"I am not going to die as your >>martyrs<< did. There MUST be some way inside, not being a wild charge from the front...

...Sewers, that is."
, he added, much more silently, his narrowed eyes glancing at their faces as he turned to his comrades.

"Or, if we could take a patrol down without alarming the others... This time, the dead silence is our greatest ally. Which means hand-to-hand combat only..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 05, 2009, 11:41
"We don't know where a sewer entrance is, we know even less about their layout or any possible obstacles, such as traps or guards... and most importantly, we don't know if the interior of the place actually has any exit we could use, or if we'd just end up finding the only sewer connection they have to be a head-width pipe leading directly to their cesspit," Halsted explained patiently. "I still say picking them off one by one is our best option."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on November 05, 2009, 11:48
"Since we have no time to investigate this I must agree with you. Further details ?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 05, 2009, 11:58
"Making this up as we go along. Get to the sniper's perch without getting seen by him or the patrols. Or at least by him. Get inside, kill the sod, replace with our own sniper. React to developing situation as necessary."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 05, 2009, 12:49
- I agree taking the sniper down first is our best option. Not sure if we can get inside his point without getting shot by him in the process. We might need to take risk of trying to out-snipe him, hopefully without alarming others.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 05, 2009, 12:53
"It's risky, but perhaps those of us adept at sneaking about should go on ahead and deal with the sniper... by that I would mean you, Laz, and possibly the Eldar. The rest of us would wait here until the sniper was dead or at least distracted before moving up..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 05, 2009, 12:54
- I expected as much... Here's hoping that I can get close enough to fire of an accurate shot.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on November 06, 2009, 02:31
"I deeply hope you know what you are doing brothers. I pray to Emperor for his aid."

"Still we do not know what to do if something goes wrong..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 06, 2009, 11:02
"If anything does go wrong, Emperor forbid, you two keep your heads down and pray, while I shoot anything that's not us and comes within range," Halsted replied with a casual shrug.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on November 10, 2009, 03:04
"You seem very confident, warrior. It looks like I will pray to the Emperor for the merciful death for our enemies"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 10, 2009, 17:33
Lazerus goes off and you wait. After a longer while he reappears suddenly and looks very unhappy

- Sniper lives and there is at least one patrol searching area and coming close. I think this falls under plan "B" or "fight to the best of our abilities" and let us hope the Emperor looks at that more favourably than at my sneaking attempts.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 10, 2009, 17:54
Halsted shook his head lightly. "Chances are, they don't know how many we number... if it's just the one patrol, and we hit them quick enough, we should be able to take them. Or wait them out. I think this may fall under plan "squig and gretchin," I'm afraid... Well, get down and try to find a suitable ambush position. I'll see if I can get a fix on the patrol," the guardsman instructed, then crouched down behind the nearest available piece of cover and once again took to scanning the area through magnoculars, looking for the alarmed patrol.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 14, 2009, 14:42
The patrol closed in fast, and probably alerted rest already. If there is something you want to do before a gunfight, it is about time.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on November 15, 2009, 04:39
Since everybody was alerted already, Silharriel grasped his shotgun, pushed shells inside and hurled himself towards some piece of cover, keeping his head low.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on November 16, 2009, 00:39
Marcus took out his stub revolver and while looking for cover starts whispering:

"Emperor, we lay our lives in thee hands this day, have mercy and forgive us our sins..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on November 16, 2009, 08:05
Trying her best to keep a low profile, Pass draws an Emperor's Tarot card from the deck hidden in her pocket, and stares intensely at it, trying to invoke the powers of the warp.

Fittingly enough, the card in question is the inverted
Eye of Terror.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 16, 2009, 09:21
Laz finds himself a good covered are from which he could try to pull off his own sniper-show and then starts scouring the area in search of targets.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 16, 2009, 15:26
Halsted crouched down behind a piece of cover he deemed would provide enough protection to fire from. "Try to make sure you're covered from that angle," he called quietly to the others, pointing in the direction of the building where he'd seen the sniper. "And don't waste ammo, we can't afford the luxury of suppressing fire just yet."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 21, 2009, 15:05
Patrol approached your positions cautiously, with weapons prepared. Obviously, they were aware of danger. And had more or less accurate knowledge of where you were waiting for the gunfgiht to begin, for when they reached close enough to use assault rifles successfully, they have ducked behind debris, exactly as you.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on November 22, 2009, 06:16
Seeing mon-keigh bastards approaching, Silharriel smiled darkly and moved slightly towards them, quickly jumping between pieces of cover and hiding.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 22, 2009, 10:19
Halsted remained crouched behind his cover, watching what he made out to be the heavy stubber operator. Trying not too expose himself too much, he raised the las carbine to his shoulder and took aim at the thug, waiting for him to present a more adequate target of himself.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 22, 2009, 16:15
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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on November 23, 2009, 01:25
Knowing that Marcus wouldn't be any opponent for the trained crooks, he thought that the only way to help his brothers was to make as much racket as possible. The only question is when.

"Shoot... Shoot... Men must die so the men can endure..."

His heart started pumping blood faster and faster. He was literally quenched with adrenaline.

"No... Not yet..."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 23, 2009, 09:48
Lazerus picked a target and waited for a right moment

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on November 27, 2009, 02:02
And that's when the madness starts.

The Emperor's Tarot card in Pass's hand bursts into ghostly sickly-green fire. The air becomes filled with an overpowering stench of rotten meat, and all of you feel a nasty wet crawling sensation on your skin - as if you're trying to wade through some great beast's intestines. Pass's eyes snap open, and you see the same green flame burning bright in them.

She opens her mouth to speak, yet instead of her already familiar accent, you hear a cacophonous chorus of many different voices. Screaming and whispering, mewling and commanding, barking and gibbering, they chant the same words in unison. Most disturbingly, it appears that these sounds do not traverse the air towards ears, but instead echo directly inside your heads:


"The witch who saw her mind defiled by her masters
Finds a new master, who defiles her in turn.
The valiant soldier, waging a righteous war
Is betrayed by those he has sworn to defend.
The pious priest who sang hymns to the Emperor's glory
Learns, to his regret, who has really heard his tune.
The cunning killer who studied the way of death
Discovers only death, and no way.
While the lost one who wandered away from the beaten path
Finds out firsthand what lurks in the darkness beneath the trees."


Suddenly, everything is silent. As you look around, you see thousands of corpses that used to be the forge-world's inhabitants, before violent death found them. Ghastly creature cavort among the carnage, feasting on the slain and paying you no heed. You lower your gaze, and see that your own hands are covered in thick blood, and display clear signs of mutation. With a sinking feeling, you begin to understand: this is the future of the Magna Alpha - and you are the one doomed to bring it about.

As though confirming your revelation, the hellish voices speak to you again:


"This is the road of human descent
And at its end you'll find
A city-graveyard for mankind.
Ruined wreckage, walls all rent asunder,
No music, but the echoed thunder.
No garb but shrouds.
The apex of man's effort only this:
To choke each humble breath from out the proud
And taste the ghastly flavor of flame's kiss."


The vision fades, the voices fall silent. You find yourself back on the battlefield.

And as you prepare to meet your foes' onslaught, a nagging question at the back of your head remains:
How will you be able to live with your newfound forbidden knowledge?
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 27, 2009, 09:59
Ravaging Warp Spirits harmed not only you. The beings of Immaterium are not very picky at their targets, and set free by Pass misfortune, they attack both you and your foes alike.

Most of the patrol screamed, like something was tearing them apart, and collapsed to the ground. However, one of them, possibly the lead showed the willpower far greater, strong enough to resist the possessive powers, and fire a prolonged burst at Pass... Maybe he just wanted to end this madness.

One way or another, most of the shots ricocheted harmlessly from the piece of garbage that Pass choose as his cover. On, however grazed his should, but the wound very shallow, and not dangerous.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on November 28, 2009, 14:46
Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Rappelling over some piece of cover, Silharriel suddenly collapses to the ground, his body lifeless and frozen is stretching and writhing. His eyes weep and his mouth opens screaming mutely as he tries to get rid of that forbidden terror taking hold of him.

Blood... Death... everywhere ! Isha, mother Isha, have mercy upon me... ! Preserve, leave me alone ! What is THIS ?! Eyes... Soulless eyes everywhere... Closer, closing in... No...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 28, 2009, 15:07
Halsted slumped down behind his cover suddenly, lasgun hanging limply in his hand as he tried to beat the voice out of his head with his free hand by banging it on his helmet. "ShutupshutupshutupSHUTUPbloodyWITCH!" he yelled, his voice hoarse.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 29, 2009, 11:40
Like others around him, Lazerus collapsed on the ground, haunted by demons unleashed from the warp.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on November 29, 2009, 12:06
"Where am I? What is this place? Where is everybody?" - Marcus mumbled to himself.

Marcus felt as his body was shattered into pieces. It was very unpleasant feeling. All those tiny parts were suddenly put together. He was standing in front of a fortress made of obsidian stone. His heart was filled with fear, he tried to run away, but he was being pulled towards in. He couldn't do anything to stop it. The fortress itself was quiet, he couldn't see, feel or hear any presence

Just as he was passing the drawbridge made from human shank bones, that lied over the moat of blood he heard a voice in his head. It felt like if his skull was going to brake into two halves.


"You will come here, sooner or later. You will join us, but now, you are too weak. You disgust me weakling. BEGONE!" - said the demonic voice

The world swirled and everything went black... Marcus couldn't recall how long he was unconscious because of the horrors released by Paz...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on December 01, 2009, 06:48
Suddenly, a familiar voice cuts through the gibbering demonic chorus, like a shining beacon in a stormy night:

"Not today, you bloody bastards!"

When you hesitantly turn to face it, you see Pass standing tall and proud, her eyes free from demonic glow, and her features set in a stony mask of grim determination. The eldritch green flame surrounding the Emperor's Tarot card in her hand is gone, replaced by a warm white radiance that seems to absorb the raging demonic madness from the air, like poison drawn form a wound. As the last traces of the raging warp are cleansed, Pass crushes the card in her fist with a crunching sound. For a second, you almost see a triumphant smile on the psyker's lips... before she collapses onto the ground, drained by this titanic expenditure of will.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 01, 2009, 11:53
And, suddenly, all was calm. Though it was advantageous not only for you. The DuPont's patrol leader, very same that grazed Pass not long ago, continued firing. But suddenly, for no apparent reason he stopped, and ducked behind a cover, hiding.

Rest of them, however, quickly recovered form the Warp incursion, and got back to fighting. The man with sutbber braced over a piece of debris, and crouched in firing position, possibly aiming at one of you. The other one grabbed something, and wit loud *Go to hell!*, lobbed it at Silharriel position. With no success, however, for the grenade safely landed far from Eldar's cover. Last of them, seemingly irritated at his companions failure, pulled out his rifle, and shot a long burst at Lazarus, hitting the assassin head with pinpoint accuracy.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on December 01, 2009, 12:03
No ! Fall silent, say no more !
...Voices. Familiar... Whoa-what ? Where...

As the Psyker stopped chanting, Silharriel quickly regained his senses. He stood up to the crouch and carefully glanced around, examining the situation. He realized that it was not much time that passed while he was drowning in madness.

Seeing the grenade landing somewhere nearby, the Eldar grabs his shotgun and rises, aiming at the man roaring at him.
"To hell, thou say. After thee, kind sir.", he taunted, pulling the trigger. "And greet the others from me !"

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 01, 2009, 12:43
Eldar keen eye proved to be as successful as it should. Thug yelled in pain, as shotgun shell shredded him.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 01, 2009, 13:20
"No more sodding tricks of the Warp," Halsted growled, pulling himself up to his feet, though not enough as to expose himself too much from behind his cover. He took quick stock of the situation before deciding that someone else can play sniper, and instead took aim at the nearest clear target, quickly bracing his las carbine and snapping off a short burst of las bolt fire.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on December 01, 2009, 16:04
After regaining conciousness, Marcus saw one the thugs in the distance. He started shooting blindly at the crook
Code: [Select]
Shoots at the nearest enemy
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 02, 2009, 10:45
- Bloody psyker... - Laz gasped returning from the land of horrors that Pass sent him to. He quickly wiped blood from his foreheade and begun searching for the man that shot him.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 02, 2009, 11:36
Tobias fired at already wounded thug, hitting him, and sending to the ground, dead. Marcus and Lazarus shot simultaneously, and while the priest missed, not attuned to shooting, assassin's eye proved to be as good as it should, allowing him to grievously wound yet another bandit.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on December 03, 2009, 07:31
Pass lifts her head from the ground, stares at the stubber-shooting thug and smirks:

"Looks like Fate sent me an extra dose of bad luck today. Perhaps I should start sharing it with others..."

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I'll Weapon Jinx #3's gun if he's in range (can't quite tell from the map)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on December 04, 2009, 02:30
Marcus not knowing whether he hit anyone or not, continuously shots at any enemy at sight until they are no more.
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Shoots, shoots, shoots...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 04, 2009, 12:42
Pass concentrated for a while, only to notice that Warp power was outside his reach. He could sense it... but not reach it.

A man with the stubber did not shoot, and you had no idea why. And the grievously wounded thug jumped to a cover and vanished from your sight. 

Simultaneously, a distant shot was heard, and Lazarus felt as a bullet grazed his skull again.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on December 04, 2009, 12:56
Catching a glimpse of a stagnant moment and hearing the loud crack, Silharriel rappelled over his piece of cover and dashed to another scrap pile a bit closer to his foes.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 04, 2009, 17:58
Halsted also moved up, though he decided on a bolder move, dashing out of cover and running as fast as his legs could carry him behind one of the larger scrap piles, only stopping once his back slammed against the cover the scrap heap provided.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 05, 2009, 07:16
Lazerus cursed the enemy sniper silently then dashed for other peace of cover nearby hoping he can hide better behind it.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on December 06, 2009, 02:03
"Rushing headlong into the maw of madness? Sounds like a plan to me."

Following her companions' lead, the psyker dashes forward to another covered position.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on December 06, 2009, 10:55
Code: [Select]
Marcus tries to advance 2N, 1NE
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 06, 2009, 10:59
The Emperor was smiling at you, apparently. You were not shot at as you advanced, and a grenade lobbed directly at eldar's position did not explode.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on December 07, 2009, 10:38
"Now or never, Tobias. Cover me.", spoke the Eldar silently, when the guardsman finally catched up.

Then, he clutched his shotgun harder and dashed forward, to the other side of greater wreck behind which their foes were hiding. Look of his face was hard to take.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 07, 2009, 14:54
"Cover him, he says," Halsted muttered under his mask. "If I wasn't gunning for that stubber..." he added quietly, leaning out from behind cover briefly, only to duck down again and only stick his lasgun out from hiding, holding down the trigger and peppering the cover where the enemies were hiding with lasbolts, not really trying to hit anyone, but intending to keep their heads well down.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 08, 2009, 12:47
Laz tried to take down man he wounded before but since there was no one in sight he ducked back behind cover.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on December 10, 2009, 02:47
Code: [Select]
Marcus moves 2N
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on December 13, 2009, 04:04
"Closer... Just a little bit closer..."

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 13, 2009, 04:34
The long burs of las-fire that Tobias shot was more than effective for providing charging Silharriel with cover. Thugs kept their heads down, when the eldar emerged to the left of them.

For a moment, they looked surprised. And then, one of them, possibly the commander, pulled out his autopistol and squeezed the trigger. Rest followed his lead.

Most of this chaotic cannonade missed it's target... But more than enough reached poor Eldar. Three autopistol bullets punctured his chest, and send him sprawling to the dusty ground, bleeding heavily.

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Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 13, 2009, 07:11
"Well, so much for those heroics," Tobias sighed, seeing the Eldar gunned down. "Psyker! See if you can't help him any!" he shouted, glancing back to where Pass was, before once again running from cover to cover, moving up to a better firing position.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 15, 2009, 13:31
- Blue or red, blue or red... - Laz sprinted for the same piece of cover Tobias went considering his options.

- Red! - he decided when he made there and promptly threw red-marked grenade others found in Magos' quarters at enemies.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 15, 2009, 13:46
The grenade lobbed by Lazarus landed exactly where it should. Then, with loud hiss, it released big cloud of black gas. Even at your positions, you could hear DuPont thugs screaming, as their lungs filled with fire.

Seeing it, the last remaining mercenary screamed something, threw his heavy stubber on the ground, and promptly fled.

Before, however, you could rejoice, a bullet ricocheting next to the Malek's head reminded you, that you're still not safe.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 16, 2009, 12:53
- Tobias, get that srubber, but don't get too close to the remains of the gas. Marcus - get Silhariell behind cover, Pass patch that pointy-eared freak up if you can, we might still need him - Laz shouted commands and shifted his position a bit. Then took a quick glance around in hopes of seeing how far more of Du Pont's cronies were before dropping low again and changing position once more.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 16, 2009, 14:51
"I don't wear this to get the girls, you know," the guardsman laughed, tapping his gas mask, then sprinted around the cover, at least as far as was safe, and dragged the stubber-thug's remains behind it. Once he was again out of the sniper's sight, he began looting the body, first taking the stubber and making sure to check and clear any jams, as well as note the ammo count. That done, he checked the corpse for any further items of use - mainly extra ammo or grenades.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on December 17, 2009, 01:34
Marcus rushes forward, keeping his head low. As soon he approaches Silhariell, he grab him and tugs him to the nearest cover. He also performs a basic routine of checking pulse and tries to locate all of Silhariells injuries.

"This doesn't look good"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on December 17, 2009, 11:43
Silharriel shaked his head slowly and coughed. Or rather, spat with blood. Bright blood. He seemed unaware of what happens around.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 18, 2009, 14:44
Halsted, after a brief search of the remaining corpses, came away with two extra grenades, a half-full autogun and a brace of fresh magazines. Leaving the stubber and autogun in his previous spot of cover, he ran over to at least help drag the Eldar into some form of cover before setting down the las carbine and a fresh power cell by his side. "Maybe you'll be less likely to charge into enemy fire, pointy-eared psycho," the guardsman growled, before returning to his cover, reloading the autogun with a fresh mag before bracing up the stubber in a semi-fixed position to cover as much ground as possible and working to clear the jam.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on December 20, 2009, 03:46
Her eyes darting in search of danger, Pass cautiously advanced to where the bleeding Eldar lay. 'Pathetic wretch' she silently thought, examining his injuries with eyes devoid of compassion. Still, his was technically considered Inquisitorial property, and she was given a direct order, so it looked as though the xeno would live to see another day, after all.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 20, 2009, 04:17
Despite being half-concious, eldar yelled in agony, as Warp powers forced his wounds to knit and stopped him from bleeding out. But his breath became less ragged, and it would appear that Silarriel escaped death for now.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on December 20, 2009, 04:45
The Eldar coughed heavily, yelling and spitting blood to the ground. He suddenly tore open his eyes, glancing in terror at the woman's face above him...

Camilla: You, sir, should unmask.
Stranger: Indeed?
Cassilda: Indeed it's time. We all have laid aside disguise but you.
Stranger: I wear no mask.
Camilla: (Terrified, aside to Cassilda.) No mask? No mask!
-THE KING IN YELLOW: Act I Scene 2


Nobody really knows what did he see in the psyker's face. Or maybe beneath it ? What ever it was, it forced the Eldar to hold his breath and prone backwards, despite deep wounds confining him hard.
He went calm after few seconds.
"T...thank you, miss.", Eldar's face twitched in a spasm of pain while he whispered. "Seems like I owe a debt to you."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 20, 2009, 05:58
"Save the thanks for later," Halsted hissed, pressing a las carbine into the Eldar's hands. "We've got more hostiles inbound. Try not to get your head blown off this time..." he suggested, before running back to his prepared firing position.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on December 20, 2009, 06:12
"On my way, human.", replied the Eldar weakly. Then, he got up from the ground to the crouch and sweeped the place for any sign of sniper. He decided to take the sucker down. Carefully looking for a short period of time from behind his cover, he tried to find the bastard, using one advantage - the sniper probably thought that the Eldar was dead. And the Outcast didn't mean to give him a possibility of thinking otherwise.

If he made it, he would try to use the las carbine and push the man to the ground.

"Ya know, Tobias, it was not me who did this. I felt this... Urge... Urge to get in there and tear their flesh with my bare hands. This is not where I was treading...", he explained silently, aiming towards the sniper's position. "Something... other... drove me there. Lust for blood and guts... Or else."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on December 20, 2009, 14:52
Marcus didn't say a thing during this short barking of commands and regrets. He hid behind some cover, reloaded his revolver

"Give me strength Father On Earth, give me strength to fight, give me strength to die"

Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on December 21, 2009, 00:40
"T...thank you, miss.", Eldar's face twitched in a spasm of pain while he whispered. "Seems like I owe a debt to you."

"Not to me, Eldar, but to the powers of the Warp. If it were not for them, your life would be forfeit," Pass whispered, watching the xeno advance into the firing position, "Pray to your gods that they never come to collect it."

Taking cover behind the nearest available object, the psyker instinctively reached for her Emperor's Tarot deck, stopping at the last moment. Her soul still scorched and wounded by the Demonic assault, she decided not to risk another invocation at this time.

Instead, she retrieved a deceptively small laspistol. While it was a significantly less powerful weapon than her cards, it was also far less likely to turn against her.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on December 28, 2009, 01:20
"Once more into the breach, my friends. I'll draw their sniper's fire, you take him down."

The psyker concentrates for a moment, then flickers out of vision, instantly reappearing a dozen feet away in the open ground - yet for some reason, you have trouble looking at her directly, as though something got in your eye.

Before you can warn her to get back to safety, her ghostly distorted figure recklessly dashes towards the compound.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on January 03, 2010, 13:15
You excepted Pass to be mercilessly shot down by DuPont's sniper. But... there were no shots. For a second, you thanked Emprerror on His Throne for sparing His psyker.

And then, there was a loud explosion, as the base of the sniper's tower was literally annihilated after being hit with long lance of blue las-fire.

Second later, whole construction crumbled to the ground.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on January 03, 2010, 15:54
Halsted swore quite passionately under his breath, the after-image of the las shot still flashing across his vision even as he snatched up his magnoculars and scanned the direction where the shot had come from for the possible source.

"Emperor's Blood... I think we've got someone else coming to crash the party," he muttered under his breath. "Infantry moving up, definitely not DuPont's men, backed by a scout sentinel with a lascannon," he informed the rest of the group, save Pass who'd gone out of earshot by now, most likely. "Definitely not Skitarii either - looks almost like a Guard regiment, but I don't recognise the regimental colours... Red and gold field, Cult Mechanicus cog design with a figure of the Emperor enscribed in it... ring a bell to any of you folks?" he asked, then ducked down. "Question being, can we ask them for fire support, or are we getting stuck in the middle of a rival cult fight?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on January 04, 2010, 08:50
"Depends if we can move quickly in and out and get out the prisoner. Because I think that's our main task, DuPont man are going to get fried right now, and it doesn't matter if the flame is going to be Holy or not. So what is it going to be brother Laz?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on January 04, 2010, 12:56
"Excellent occasion to act. Now or never. Decide, chief.", added the Eldar, staring at Laz's face while leaning from his cover.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on January 05, 2010, 09:44
Laz pondered for a split second then nodded - Alright, let's do it. We get in, find my stuff or at least the rosette... then we gank DuPont so that we can get informations from him later. Then we do our best to get out alive. And let's try not to get caught in unnecessary fights on the way in - no go!
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on January 05, 2010, 10:41
"So... who's going to go find the psyker to tell her?" Halsted asked, pulling the stubber down from the firing nest he'd so carefully set up.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on January 05, 2010, 14:45
"That is the least of our worries. Let's hope that she will be enlightened by the Emperor... And that with his aid and mercy we get out of this alive..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on January 10, 2010, 12:11
As you were making you way to the complex, you could clearly see DuPont's thugs engaging the - and being slaughtered by the attackers in a manner bearing strong similarity to the Kasarkin tactics... However, it did not go all that smoothly for them. From the building creeped a band of better armed- and better organized soldiers- and they managed to stall the 'kasarkinesques' for a long while. To your favour- you all reached the entrance to the complex- left wide open- unharmed and undisturbed. Your eldar, however, started to look very bad... Whatever Pass did to him, it did not heal him completely. It would appear that you would have to take him to a proper treatment after it is all over.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on January 12, 2010, 01:59
While you ponder your next move, you suddenly notice movement in nearby shadows. An ambush!

Fortunately, your brains turn out to be faster than your trigger fingers, and you manage to realize that the figure you spotted belongs to your psyker companion before you can unleash fire in her direction.

"Nice job taking down that sniper, boys" - she tells you in a deadpan voice that leaves you wondering: is she joking or did she manage to miss the arrival of the new attackers altogether? "Now let's get what we came here for and get the Warp out of here."

She gives Silharriel a long hard mistrustful look: "And then, I think, we'll have a little chat that's been long overdue."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on January 12, 2010, 06:41
"Laz, we are waiting for your orders, Brother in Faith"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on January 12, 2010, 11:56
Halsted calmly checked his stubber over again, the autogun slung over his shoulder for the moment. "Just point the way, boss," he said with a nod.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on January 15, 2010, 13:25
- You're the assualt specialist, so I'll leave it to you to decide how we proceed. I'm just going to be close and provide directions and some more firepower

Quote
Yadda-yadda, let's assume Laz gives out directions 'cause I don't want to dig through the irc logs to find them... assuming I still have the logs anyway :/
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on January 16, 2010, 14:29
The base, or, more likely, judging by the size, just a hideout, seemed to be empty. It would appear, that whoever was in charge here ordered everybody to get out and try to fight off the foes. Rather poor choice of strategy, but you could not say that you did not like it.

Anyway, Laz lead you deep into the complex. No guards, no wards- but it was not abandoned, for sure. There were clear signs of people living and working here scattered everywhere.

Then, you got to the intersection. Laz explained that left corridor leads to the torture chamber, right to the prison and the forward one to the unknown for him part of the base.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on January 24, 2010, 04:41
"Laz? Brother? What are we waiting for?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on January 24, 2010, 15:10
"Truth be told I'm more of a specialist at stabbing crippled survivors after a column of Bane Wolves has rolled through and hosed down the countryside with all sorts of toxins. But assaults can't be that much different..." the guardsman chuckled under his mask, adjusting the stubber in his hands.

"Let's see... freeing prisoners is a secondary concern for now," he mused, looking at the intersection. "Interrogation rooms and cells can wait. This way, then, and on your toes," he said, pointing the stubber barrel down the corridor Laz hadn't had the chance to explore. "Stick to walls, mind your cover. You go charging down the middle of the hallway and you bloody well will deserve catching two in the face. Let's go," he said, at once following his own orders, heading down the indicated corridor at a brisk pace, keeping to the left-hand wall, motioning for Laz to take the right-hand side, and letting the hangers-on pick their own sides. The guardsman kept his eyes on the corridor ahead, watching for any leftover pockets of resistance.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on January 25, 2010, 00:12
Listening to veteran's advices, Silharriel smiles, then makes use of them all.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on January 25, 2010, 03:43
Marcus followed guardsman down the corridor, without a word.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on January 25, 2010, 04:06
The psyker sniffs the air with suspicion, casts one last paranoid glance at the corridors leading to the prison and interrogation room, then follows the group, keeping her laspistol aimed back in the direction of the intersection they've just left.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on January 29, 2010, 16:20
With Tobias on point, you made you way deeper into the base. Few times the whole structure shook, and lights flickered, apparently due to some kind of barrage.

You hoped that you wont get buried alive.

You have soon stumbled on the first obstacle. Large, steel door, bearing the Magna Fellowship coat of arms on it. Have I to mention that they were slam shut?
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on January 29, 2010, 16:39
Halsted approached the door cautiously, examining it from a safe distance. "I would wager we don't have much time to spare. Laz, your call - shall I treat it to a krak grenade?" he asked quietly.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on January 30, 2010, 08:58
- Do it. - Laz replied shortly rising his las rifle - Everyone else prepare for anything that might jump us once we break the door down.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on January 30, 2010, 13:59
"Affirmative.", responded the Eldar, gripping his gun tighter and leaning to the wall.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on January 30, 2010, 14:19
"Stand back, then," Halsted suggested, stepping up to the door and preparing a krak grenade. He wedged it against the door lock, setting the fuse for the longest burn and stepping well back. "Cover your ears," he added, pressing up against the corridor wall.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on January 30, 2010, 15:57
The grenade went off loudly. After the smoke cleared, the door lock was now in the state of non-existence, allowing you to effortlessly open the reinforced door.

The room behind the doors was probably what one of those that Lords Solar described as 'the hear of the fortress'.  Piles of data slate were littering the floor, and flickering light made you able to see long line of cogitators by the wall. On the opposite side, you noticed another door.

From what you could here, there were people behind them.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on February 01, 2010, 15:32
"Weapons at ready, keep low, keep quiet, and move up," Halsted hissed, moving through the door and sweeping his stubber around, tracking for targets. Seeing none, he waved the others on in, sparing a glance at the data slates littering the table. "Suggest we bag those for later review. Might be something useful. Or at least something others shouldn't see," he commented, before moving up to the next door, trying to listen if there was any conversation going on behind it, and making bloody well sure not to approach the door straight on, but coming up on it from the side instead.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on February 03, 2010, 09:39
Without a word, the Eldar came upon data slates and put inside his cape as much as he could.
Then, he grabbed his weapon and approached the door from the side other than Halsted did, also trying to hear anything.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on February 05, 2010, 05:33
Pass's paranoid gaze and laspistol-wielding hand switched several times between the direction of the corridor she's emerged from and the door, as the harrowed psyker tried to assess which posed the greatest threat. Apparently failing to reach a decision on her own, she pulled two random Emperor's Tarot cards from her hip pocket and glanced at them quickly.

"Adepta Sororitas and Nine of Primarchs... Thought as much", she mumbled to herself, before crouching against one of the cogitators and aiming the laspistol at the door. The cards remained in her left hand.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on February 06, 2010, 14:45
Lazerus quietly nodded at Halsted's words. Following example of others he moved to the side and took aim in cease anything would come through the door.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on February 07, 2010, 16:11
'...open. And, go check this Throne-dammed noises' overheard Halsted and Laz, crouching next to the door. Moments later they opened, and with rather unpleasant bustle, large frag grenade rolled into the room.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on February 08, 2010, 00:44
"Oh sh-", drawled the Eldar, jumping forward and attempting to kick the grenade back into the other room.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on February 08, 2010, 14:39
Halsted reasoned quickly to himself that if the xeno wanted to get himself blown up to sacrifice the rest of them, that was fine by him. The xeno made that decision on his own.

With this in mind, he did the only rational thing, that is threw himself flat on the ground, away from the door and grenade.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on February 09, 2010, 02:25
The very second the doors swing open, Pass's eyes go momentarily blank, as her mind plunges into a vision - or a memory?

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

A second later, she snaps out of it - just as the frag grenade rolls into the room and Silhariel leaps towards it.
With an almost imperceptibly smirk, she points a finger at the grenade:

"I name thee... Dud."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on February 10, 2010, 01:41
While falling down to the ground Marcus managed to recite half of "Holy Psalms of Avnaria's Martyrs". He then managed to recite the other quarter and somehow he was still alive. He lifted his head to see what was going on
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on February 14, 2010, 09:26
To your surprise, Pass' powers did not cause the Emperor to smite you by means of a sharpnely explosion. The grenade did indeed not go off . It was likely, however, that whoever threw it at you had more.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on February 16, 2010, 07:15
"My head... Eh... What... where am I... ?"
Realizing a bit late that something awkward has just happened and his behavior would certainly lead all of them to a painful death, Silharriel stumbles a few steps back, staggering. He kneels on his right knee, somewhere next to the wall, then bows his head and whispers something in his Xeno tongue. A hood falls on his head.
Words sound like some kind of ritual, blasphemous yet hypnotizing noise of the Outcast's prayer has a manner somehow unsettling to the rest, the humans, the Young Race. Words... words seem to be older than the Imperium, The Domain of Man, The Holy Terra itself.

"Kaela Mensha Khaine, The Lord Of Aspects, The Bloody-Handed One, The Lord of War, The Wielder of Doom That Wails, The Slayer of Eldanesh, The Torturer of Vaul, The One Who Fought The Prince of Corruption, The One In Thousand Shards, hear me who begs Thy favour. My wounds bleed, enemies are numerous, my will is broken, my thoughts are clouded. Swingth not Thy sword on me, as you did to Eldanesh, but giveth me Thy strength to bear my burden and bring doom upon those who stalk me... Let me not fail Thee !"

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

After a while, Silharriel raises his head. A dim, barely visible light glows now from beneath the hood - the light of inner fire in the Eldar's eyes, the light which was seeming to fade before. The Lost Soul stands up to the crouch, gripping his weapon even tighter.
"Now, deliver this little trove back to their owners, shall we ?", he pronounces with a deep, low voice, which brings unlovely memories of torture, pain and war.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on February 16, 2010, 12:44
Halsted waved for the others to hang back as he moved up to the door frame, keeping his stubber out of sight. "Oi, in there! Fair warning, we'd kind of like you to come with us alive and unharmed, which is a better offer than you're going to get from the bloody army fighting outside right now!" he shouted. "Come out of there peaceful like and we'll get you to a secure location, soldier's honour."

It was a crude and simple bluff, but so far in his experience those were the ones that worked best...
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on February 17, 2010, 07:06
Pass regarded the chanting Eldar with a withering stare.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

She could feel the sharp prickles of warp static radiating from the xeno. Clearly, his words were more than meaningless glossolalia, and his bowed stance more than just an expression of fatigue. They were witnessing a ritual of power, an act of bending the currents of fate by strength of will. The flaring light that reignited in Silharriel's eyes only served to confirm her suspicions.

As Halsted moved forward to issue his challenge, Pass shifted her gaze away from the Eldar and towards the doorway, yet her mind continued to churn. Was Silharriel a Chaos Sorcerer, or some Warp-shaman of his twisted race? That would certainly explain how he managed to send her a message earlier. However, the implications of this conclusion (if it was true, she reminded herself) were dire indeed.

To fight alongside with a wild Sorcerer whose powers were not tempered by the Emperor's blessed sanction was horrifying enough. To be serving an Inquisitor who willfully employed such dangerous minions in her retinue... Pass quickly banished the thought before it could drive her mad.

One thing was clear, however. From this moment on, the damned xeno could heal his damned wounds via his own damned powers.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on February 18, 2010, 15:12
'Die slowly, Sollex's lackeys!' you heard as a response. 'Why don't you come here instead?['/i]

Meanwhile, you heard series of explosions above you. Whole outpost shook. It was likely that the attackers were inside, and even if not, they would soon enter.

As the side effect, even the auxiliary lights went off, leaving you in a complete darkness. 
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on February 18, 2010, 15:28
Halsted gave a light shrug. A bluff like that couldn't be expected to work every time. He leaned closer to the door, still keeping the stubber out of view. He wanted it to be a surprise.

"Inquisition," he corrected, speaking loudly enough to make sure they heard it, just as he poked the barrel of the stubber around the frame of the door and held down the trigger to give the room beyond a taste of suppressing fire.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on February 21, 2010, 03:45
Silharriel came closer, crouched and almost sneaking, to the door from the side other than where Tobias was firing a barrage of bullets. Then, the Eldar leaned his head through the door, carefully, sweeping it for a possible cover and a position suitable for giving damned bandits a good pain, possibly the pain somewhere near a forehead.
Counting enemy forces and examining their equipment was another matter Xeno decided to take care of. The other one was, of course, not getting shot due to some wierd lack of perception.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on February 25, 2010, 14:54
Tobias barrage was successful indeed. Judging by the screams, at least one man perished... and a few more got dangerously close to ending their miserable existences. Moreover, now, as Silharriel could see by entering the room, they were all hiding, taking cover, and were not going to shot back in a while.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on February 26, 2010, 06:34
Spoiler: Battle Orders (click to show/hide)

Seeing that nobody's leaning out from his cover, Silharriel sneaked and crouched behind one, waiting for someone to appear or to give any signs of life.
This his why he had prepared his shotgun - to shot that fellow right away.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 01, 2010, 14:58
"Had enough in there yet?" Halsted shouted. "I've got plenty of ammunition out here, though you'll probably have to worry about your rivals outside getting here before I run out. What's it going to be, take your chances with folks who want you alive, or see how long your mob can hold off a proper military regiment with mechanised support?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on March 02, 2010, 01:12
"Listen to him, he is wise in his words. Besides as an Inqusition you can be under our protection" - Marcus shouted. After a moment he mumbled to himself "Offcourse, you have to be without sins..."

"We leave the clever decision to you!"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on March 02, 2010, 14:07
The Eldar remained silent, despite his urge to present to these thugs some nasty, acidous words. All he did was a twist of facial muscles into a sadistic grin.
Oh, indeed. Trust them, they want all of you alive. But first, you shall have to cross over my dead body !, he thought, prepared for the shot if anybody would appear.
Scars on his chest felt like almost burning. All Silharriel wanted now was retribution... Bloody, painful and merciless retribution. Nobody wounds an Eldar and makes it out alive.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on March 03, 2010, 13:19
'Well enough!' you heard. 'If you offer us protection, we shall come out!'

After a second, three figures emerged from the breached room. All, but one, who was trying to staunch a bleeding from a gunshot, kept their arms above their heads to show that they were not dangerous.

'So? Where's the protection' asked on of them, the one with most expensive robes. Laz knew him.

DuPont.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on March 03, 2010, 13:45
Eldar still was crouching behind his piece of cover, clutching the shotgun in his palms, while DuPont's men were leaving the room. He just turned to them, aiming the weapon directly at the rich man's head. Vicious smile didn't leave his face at all.
"Standing right behind thee, young one. Try not anything senseless. DuPont, I reckon ?", he drawled. "Move out, bloody scum !"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 03, 2010, 15:59
"Xenos..." Halsted snorted, shaking his head before looking at DuPont, keeping his stubber trained on the men. "What can you do, right? Before we depart, there's a small matter to deal with first. You had a captive here not too long ago, captured in a... street brawl, I think? Some of his possessions are of interest to us. Once we have those, we'll light out for safer quarters."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on March 04, 2010, 01:05
While waiting for the reply, Marcus was aiming at the crooks. He was hoping whoever was attacking the fortress would respect the Inquisition. If not, everything might turn into a bloody mess.

"Do not hesitate, we must act fast..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on March 06, 2010, 16:07
'The possessions, right... right muttered DuPont. He seemed frightened. 'I think that we left them in the cellblock... or was it in the...'

Loud, mechanical footsteps from behind you interrupted his speech. Through the breached door, three persons came in. Two were obviously skitari, with their hellguns raised and ready to fire any minute. The third one, however, was much bigger, almost hulking. Clad in red robes of Mechanicum and with many servo-arms sprouting from her back.

'So, here you are, scum she said, and suddenly, you remembered her. Myrmidon Alexis, the very one that almost vaporized Silharriel on the landing pad. 'And you? she added, turning towards Laz. 'What are the Radical's servants doing here? Conspiring with the heretics, perhaps?'
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 06, 2010, 19:29
Halsted couldn't help but sigh under his mask. It looked like every blasted force on the planet had sent their players to this one compound. At this rate, he figured, the next thing to arrive would be an Astartes Drop Pod through the roof...

"Securing resources and retrieving stolen materiel," the guardsman snapped off a reply, his patience a tad strained by the events of the day. "The men here may possess information of use to our masters - though I'm sure we could part with all save mister DuPont here, should you insist. They earlier succeeded in capturing some of our supplies, which we aimed to retrieve as well."

"By the way... how'd you lot get past that regiment that was raising all hell outside?" Halsted asked, moving so that he wasn't standing between the Mechanicus and the heretics... and so he'd have a decent field of fire at either group, if it came to that.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on March 07, 2010, 06:33
No... Not that fanatic again, Khaine damn her !..., thought the Eldar, still crouched behind the pile of scrap. The last cursed thing we would demand right there and right now...
In a few quick, soft steps he moved slightly to the left, hoping the wall's corner shall provide him enough coverage if it comes to a shootout. With an aware sweeping glance he checked the room he was in, seeking for any possible ways to escape this trap. It seemed like they'll stand no chance against the armed Skitarii troopers... and that half woman - half machine leading them.
The Eldar hoped that his mates were be able to bluff their way outside. Nobody there would get over his prejudice to listen to any of his kin. And Elirenn was just the best proof.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on March 07, 2010, 07:42
Before Laz could reply, Marcus said angrily

"Yes Myrmidion Alexis. You have just uncovered our foul plan" -after a pause he added - "We are conspiring with the heretics. You have unraveled our insidious plan, that involves killing few of the heretics, disarming all of them, and interrogating them. This way, when some of them are dead, and all are disarmed, we have greater fire power!"

"I would rather ask the same question to you, which would be completely pointless. As the guardsman said, we are securing resources and retrieving stolen material. And these men - I really hope - possess a LOT of useful information to the inquisition."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on March 08, 2010, 15:47
'I was leading the striketeam of Divine Light Of Sollex, Acolyte' replied Alexis. She raised one of her bolter-armed servo-arms and aimed it at DuPont. 'Also' she added 'I am here to announce that after three voting Magistrum Magnum has elected Arch-Magos Xavier Solona of Divine Light for the Captain of the fleet. Thereby, Alpha Brotherhood and Magna Fellowship were declared deviated from the only righteous path of God In The Machine, and all their members are now Excommunicated Traitors, who are to be cleansed on sight. Step aside, Acolytes, for I am here as the emanation of Omnissiah wrath, and should you try to protect the vile and foul, you will perish along with them!['/i]
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 08, 2010, 17:14
Halsted looked over at DuPont and gave an idle shrug, then turned back to the Myrmidon once more. "With all due respect, try to see reason in our actions. Let us have him, and our staff will be sure to extract useful information from him. The extent of his contacts and network, for example. Of course, for your cooperation we would share such knowledge as soon as we retrieved it..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on March 09, 2010, 10:18
"As far as I remember, Omnissiah is present in knowledge, which can be found in both flesh and circuits. Although Mr. DuPont here was declared a heretic, he still has some knowledge. And this knowledge is very important to us, the Inquisition and I wouldn't be surprised if it is also important to you. Killing him would be an act of incredible stupidity, since he is standing right here, disarmed and his morals are crushed. Shouldn't Omnissiah ban such daft act? Well, I am no expert on that field. But, certainly, to Inquisition killing disarmed men is at least suspicious."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 09, 2010, 12:09
"It's only suspicious if you go to all the bother of disarming them only to shoot them without proper interrogation first, preacher," Halsted corrected.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on March 09, 2010, 14:12
"Ha! Good one, good one. You seem to listen really carefully."

Marcus paused

"It would be a complete nonsense to disarm them and shoot them... Without proper interrogation"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on March 09, 2010, 14:20
"Indeed.", added the Eldar, putting on a hood and then taking a step out of his cover. He held his shotgun with both hands, but did not raise it. "I draw you attention to the fact you are at the moment interrupting our investigation, the fact surely up to be protocolled and presented to our masters. Not to mention that lust for both acolytes and their witnesses' blood, which is... strange... for a worshipper of the Omnissiah and a righteous Imperial citizen. It is not that I am suggesting something, the situation is just plain bizzare. Am I right, brothers ?", he pronounced slowly with a careful, extraordinary diction.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on March 09, 2010, 14:40
"Nothing needs to be added, everything has been said"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 09, 2010, 15:05
"Aside from the "brothers" bit, xeno..." Halsted muttered under his breath.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on March 10, 2010, 12:18
The Myrmidon stopped for a while, yet his weapons were still readied. Then, all of sudden she emitted a long, high sound, and fired three times.

All of DuPont's servants were killed instantly. Yet, DuPont himself was not even scratched.

'Your cogitations are correct' said Alexis, ordering his skitarii to make sure that DuPont's men were really dead. Few shots from their hellguns latter, she added 'I only expect that you will return him to us, so we can purify him properly, and use his flesh still.

After that she turned away and left you with still DuPont still shaken due to sudden death of his comrades.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 10, 2010, 12:23
Halsted let out a dry chuckle underneath his mask, shaking his head as he looked to DuPont. "I really hope you'll have some interesting things to say, for your sake..." he said, then turned to the rest of the group. "Right. Let's go recover Laz's kit and get out of here, this planet's charm is really starting to wear thin."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on March 11, 2010, 01:37
Marcus lowered his head. That wasn't honorable. A complete idiotic death, just to fill the bloody satisfaction of the damned machines. Not to mention that Marcus was the one that granted protection. Not to DuPont only, but all his men.

"DAMN IT!"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on March 11, 2010, 07:48
"Worry not, holy one. You have not thought that they would be released free afterwards, am I right ?...", said Silharriel silently, while walking at the Constantine's side. His face had a bitter look. "They themselves would not do it for you, trust me."
That was not really what he believed in, though. Those men were guilty of almost killing him, yes, but to die in a such unexpectable, unpredictable and senseless way ? His words were rather an effect of shock than a reasonable thought. Suddenly, he realized.

And how dare you thinking, foolish one, that if those have died, you'd make it out alive ?, the strange sense blinked in his mind. Did you really believe that woman over you, when she promised freedom ? Lies, lies, nothing but lies for naive fools ! You and your comrades are going to die as those poor souls died. Blind one, there's so much to learn yet, indeed...

This is when the inhuman was more humane than Terra's men. He was walking behind others, his head kept low.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on March 11, 2010, 08:34
"Releasing the free is one thing, not interrogating and killing them like Orks is the other." Marcus replied

Marcus slowly shook his head "Never less... We still have got work to do. It hurts that they got executed that way but probably with the strength of those damn machines they would get mauled in a second."

He turned to DuPont "At least you are alive"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 11, 2010, 16:58
"For the time being," Halsted chimed in with his usual cheer.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on March 12, 2010, 00:36
The psyker, who was doing her best to stay unnoticed up to this moment, spits, splashing the floor with bright crimson droplets.

"Sorry", - she replies to your raised eyebrows and incredulous stares, - "Had to bite m'tongue. Hard. Otherwise, I would tell that pox-ridden cogbox what I really thought of it, and we'd probably end up as dead as these sodding bastards."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on March 12, 2010, 01:15
"What do you mean? Where have you been?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on March 12, 2010, 04:31
Pass grins through bloodied teeth:

"After the fun part with all the shooting and grenade-tossing was over, I sort of blended with a furniture. Nifty little warp-trick - not quite invisibility, but enough to fool someone who's already distracted. Luckily, the rest of you provided enough of a distraction."

"Anyway, I figured that I'd do more harm than good in our talks with him," she points at DuPont, "or that shiny self-righteous servant of Omnissiah. Negotiations aren't really my forte, unless the other party is already tied to a chair. So, I stayed hidden and silent. The last part was the hard one."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on March 12, 2010, 07:57
"Still not with you, lady, I am afraid. What would you say If you did not manage to hold your tongue... ?", asked the Eldar, rising his head and staring at Pass.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 12, 2010, 14:20
"To sod off and not poke their metal noses into Inquisition affairs," Halsted interrupted. "Chat time's over. Let's get back to looting this place before one of the Mechanicus gets the idea to douse it with promethium."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on March 13, 2010, 06:48
"Well said. So, where the appropriate locker should be ?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on March 20, 2010, 06:43
In this moment, DuPont has apparently snapped out of the shock.

'Please...' he whispered. His voice has changed- where once was arrogance and confidence, now was fear and pleading. 'Please, listen to me. I can offer you every little piece of knowledge I gathered! I can betray all whom I gave my oaths of loyalty! But, I beg you, whoever you are, after that, allow me to shoot myself... Just do not give me to those butchers, who will strip me of everything I am! Please!'
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on March 20, 2010, 09:04
"First we will hear from you, if you deserve a merciful death. Now... Where is the prisoner?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on March 20, 2010, 09:26
'If this will buy me the death I am longing for, let it be.'

DuPont bowed his head.

'I do not know which prisoner bothers you- and it does not matter, for there none here now. The eldar, which I was asked to break and deliver to my masters somehow escaped. But... I'll tell you about or operations, if that it what interests you.'
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on March 20, 2010, 11:47
"Carry on..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 20, 2010, 12:54
"I'm not about to do one bunch of heretics a favour by handing them a heretic from another group. No, I certainly do not expect them to see you again outside of our custody," Halsted explained with a shrug. "Laz, go get your kit. Priest... you make sure to write down what our new friend here says. I'm sure they have a clean data slate around here somewhere. Eldar, feel free to check if these corpses have anything useful on them, weapons and armour inclusive," the guardsman instructed, then looked to Pass. "And we'll make sure there's no funny business here..." he added, then turned once again to DuPont. "Right. You were saying?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on March 20, 2010, 13:17
'Thank you. Then, let me begin.'

'I- and my subordinates from Magna Brotherhood- were forwarding our cause for many, many years now. But we were lacking the pull that Divine Light Of Sollex had, so we were always the underdog, the loosing side. However... Alpha Brotherhood offered us help some time ago. Of course, only if we would plead loyalty to them. They were powerful, and it was the only to stop Sollex. So we agreed.'

He paused, likely thinking about the way to say what he wanted.

'For some time, it all seemed normal... Power struggle among Mechanicus, nothing new. But then, suddenly, we realized that our two groups are no longer distinguishable, and that the Alpha Brotherhood has dominated our leaders. From allies, we've changed into servants. And then, we were used. Month ago, I and my pack was sent to investigate a long deserted, demolished complex in the depths of the Forge. All we found was a strange, black stone with odd runes engraved onto it and enough clues to conclude that it was were a place where something foul was going on. Cult? I don't know, as I said, it was demolished using very powerful demolition charges. Anyway, we could not do anything about this. So we served. Three weeks ago, we where tasked with stupid gang wars- we had to attack and capture Sollex supporters from various gangs. Due to this, we have sprouted a gang war we just lost. And four days ago, despite the fact that we were almost wiped out by our foes, we were ordered by the very person that commandeered Alpha Brotherhood, despite not being it's *official* member, a Arch-Magos Albert Of Alba Longa to capture some xeno-biologist and deliver him to Alba Longa tower, Throne knows for what and, even worse, track down, capture and torture "until it's broken" an eldar women... And then, all of sudden, we are attacked by Skiitari, who say that our organizations no longer exists, and we are all heretics. I don't why, we were weak, but *that* weak. Only one person could have enough information to discredit us, and it was Albert, who ran both Brotherhood. But why would he want to destroy his own work? I don't know. And that's all that I know. Did I earn a good death by this?'
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Marcus Constantine on March 20, 2010, 17:06
"That brings light to our cause. As for you... I do not think you deserve a death... At least now"

"I need more time to think..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 20, 2010, 20:20
"For my part, I sorely would like to see you delivered into more knowledgeable hands - all this mucking about with politics is a bit much for me," Halsted said with a sigh. "However, I do not know if it will be possible to get you off-world and delivered to the hands of our superiors at the Inquisition. They at least would know what questions to ask. This is a delicate situation, and requires some consideration before we go back to shooting people."

"Our task was to determine the source of the cult activity, and eradicate it if possible. We seem to have accomplished the first part... however, I can't help but feel we should at least ascertain if an assault on this... magos Albert is at all viable."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on March 21, 2010, 05:39
Eldar just shrugged, pulling out and passing the priest a data-slate he picked up before, then proceeded with searching if molten corpes had anything useful remained to pick. Just in case - he knew what do meltaguns do.
After getting his job done and collecting anything suitable for usage later on, he raised his head, gazing at DuPont, and whispered venomously :
"For what did you torture that woman you have told us about ? What kind of confession you were hoping to recieve ? As far as I am concerned, she could not understand a word from any of your cursed henchmen..."
His face muscles twitching in wrath, the xeno came closer.
"So you are saying that Arch-Magos Albert was leading your brotherhood. And you were considered heretics. Does it mean that Albert has been considered a traitor, too ?..."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on March 25, 2010, 07:11
And that's all that I know. Did I earn a good death by this?'

Pass grabs Dupont by the shoulder, transfixing him with a glare completely devoid of compassion:

"Let me get this straight. You, a condemned and unrepentant heretic, told us, the agents of the Emperor's Holy Inquisition, that you were just 'following orders'. And on the basis of this pitiful babbling, you expect us to violate our sacred oaths and let you escape from the righteous punishment that awaits you into the merciful embrace of death. Either you're an idiot, or you think that we are."

She leans in, close enough for Dupont to smell the stench of corpse-starch rations and low quality lho-sticks on her bloodied teeth:

"I'll give you one chance to prove that you're not as stupid as you pretend to be. After all, you didn't crawl up to the top of your little gang by being a trusting and obedient sheep. Surely you've kept some evidence - dataslates with orders, recorded transmissions, holopicts - to blackmail your partners with.

Give us solid proof, something with names, dates, places and pictures, not just pathetic reassurances of innocence, and then maybe, just maybe, you'll get your good death. Otherwise, we'll drag you off to what's left of your interrogation chamber, where I'll dissect your mind with my warp powers while my colleagues take turns with your body. Maybe they'll finally manage to determine whether the torture techniques of Eldar corsairs are a match for Ecclesiarchy's rites of castigation. And when we're done with you, you'll be begging us to turn you over to that Myrmidon bitch."

She lets go of his shoulder, takes a step back, and nods:

"One chance. Don't waste it."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on March 25, 2010, 14:01
The air filled with foul stench, as Pass tapped into the Immaterium to frighten Du Pont. And though she succeeded in sheathing herself in an aura of fear and dread, the heretic proved to be much more strong-willed than you thought.

'Maim my body and burn my soul, if it pleases you, abomination' he said boldly. The fear that filled his voice before has disappeared. He was oddly calm now. 'When I saw you, I thought that you stand for something more than those bastards in red robes, who claim to be better than we are. But, apparently, I was wrong. You are as cruel and soulless as they are' 

He paused, and smirked. Apparently, Pass effort at intimidating him into obedience backfired.

'I said what I have wanted to say. Rest will proceed as planned by the Great Schemer... Kill me now, followers of the corpse, for I am indeed a heretic. Mind though... whatever you will do with me, I do not fear you any more. My spirit belongs to my Lord and death will only forward his cause.'
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 25, 2010, 14:21
Halsted was probably more unsettled by Pass' display than the intended target. Thankfully, his mask hid that.

"We never claimed otherwise. If it makes you feel any better, we would have killed your men and interrogated you anyway if the Cogheads hadn't shown up," the guardsman spoke up calmly. "Of course, your value to us has diminished somewhat, but you're still of use. Of course, we'll have to convey you to where you might be better, shall we say... attended. Our master will no doubt love to have her staff of interrogators work on you. And won't she be thrilled to hear about your work on the Eldar... she's quite fond of them, you know. Well, at any rate, you're not going to be dying any time soon if we can help it."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on March 26, 2010, 05:07
As the aura of unnatural dread surrounding Pass abates to nothing, the look on her face changes to that of boredom and contempt:

"Just when I thought that, for once, we found someone smart, you go and disappoint me. First you tried to kill us, then you tried to bribe us, then you pretended to be an innocent victim and now you're blaspheming against the Emperor to provoke us into killing you. In other words, you're acting just like every other stupid Chaos cultist that ever lived... and died."

She pauses and takes a deep exasperated sigh: "But then again, I guess that anyone who's willing to suck on the fat greasy tentacle of the Ruinous Powers has to be pretty fragging dumb in the first place."

She turns to Halsted: "While it's up to our leader to decide this numbskull's fate, I don't think that sending him to the boss is a good idea. She doesn't suffer fools gladly, and I'd bet a hundred credits that she's heard everything he can babble a thousand times before.

If it was up to me, I'd just hand him over to the cog-bitch, if only to keep her off our backs for a little while. And while she's busy toying with him, I'd start looking for that Magos Albert, or whoever is really in charge of this whole scheme. He'd certainly make a far better gift for our boss than this idiot."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 26, 2010, 06:54
"If nothing else, she can use him for her interrogators to practice on. Or gift-wrap him and send him back to the local Cogheads, for all I care. He might be a pawn, but with her resources she might still be able to determine more about the hand that moved him," Halsted explained. "That, and I don't quite fancy helping one bunch of heretics by giving them a different heretic."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on March 27, 2010, 01:20
It seems the psyker and the guardsman were all too busy with chatting about DuPont's further fate to see what was Silharriel planning to do.
Gazing at DuPont's face, he hanged a shotgun on his back, then backed for a few steps, clenching his fists.
And...
A quick twist, a jump, a high spin-kick to the cultist's face. His heel slammed into DuPont's cheek with a loud, wet noise.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

The Eldar landed softly, then straightened, looking at the staggering man with scorn in his gaze of narrowed eyes.

"Care for your words, piece of scum, for you are talking to the Inquisitor's people. Insult any of us once again and I shall pluck away your rotten tongue with my bare hands. And then you shall have to digest your own bollocks. No, I am not that merciful to kill you right away, mother-lover. We are going to have some fun with you before you shall meet your twisted lord. A hundred years of servitude, par excellance. You did not answer to any of my questions.", he drawled, catching the heretic's flange and raising his fist to deliver another blow, with his punch. "I am listening."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 27, 2010, 12:16
"That may be because, at the end of the day, you are the inquisitor's pet and a wretched xeno," Halsted observed helpfully. He said it in a tone as if he were observing a fact of nature, rather than making an insult. He also made no move to intervene on DuPont's behalf, simply limiting himself to the little remark.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on March 27, 2010, 12:55
"You, soldier, seem to forget that chaindogs have teeth for biting, too.", the Eldar made a riposte. "A mistake, such act of pride and taking things for granted."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 31, 2010, 15:45
"They bite the wrong thing, though, and they get put down," the guardsman replied calmly. "Remember your place."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on April 05, 2010, 07:23
"You are not going to say that the cursed cultist of the Changer of Ways is an unproper thing for a bit of violence, are you ?", drawled the Outcast, still glaring at DuPont's eyes.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on April 05, 2010, 20:10
"That decision is not yours to make. You are not a sentient being to make such judgements, but a weapon to be unleashed against the Emperor's enemies," Halsted replied coldly, then glanced at DuPont.

"That said, don't do any permanent damage and ensure that he is still able to talk with no trouble afterwards," the guardsman instructed, then stalked off to inspect the looting of the rest of the complex by his compatriots.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on April 11, 2010, 16:40
Halsted spent a fair deal of time searching through the rest of the complex. On occasion, the others might see him go back and forth, carrying large pieces of cloth or bags. Securing materiel was an art he'd learned well. Eventually he returned with a bag full of various clinking odds and ends, as well as three large wrapped packages, two looking like a weapon of one sort or another, the third like something much bigger, leaving the lot in the room where the others waited.

Then he went to investigate the room they'd flushed DuPont and his thugs out of.

For a short while, there was the general sound of rummaging. After a short while the guardsman returned, took his shovel back, and returned to the small room. There was the sound of creaking wood, and finally a crack as something gave. A moment of silence, then the faint rustling of cloth...

...followed by the loud thud of a lid being slammed shut and a string of profanities any drill sergeant would be proud of. Some more banging, metal on wood.

Then the guardsman returned once again. He still wore his mask, so his expression couldn't be seen, but his voice had somewhere lost its edge - it was dull and cold now. "Priest. Someone in there requires last rites," he said quietly, shovel pointing into the room at a stack of crates. The instructions done, he turned to DuPont. "Explain the boxes. And what is behind the door," he said flatly, still holding the shovel in his hands.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on April 11, 2010, 16:46
'Oh, you found your missing workers, did not you?' asked DuPont with cheerful voice. 'They just happened to be on wrong side, and then did not took the opportunity we gave them. So, well...' he paused, and gave you all a huge, genuine grin 'So, they embraced the Chaos. In all it's glory. In life and death.'

Then, the smile vanished from his face, replaced by the look of true sorrow.

'Sadly, sadly, we could not deliver them through the door... Which would lead to their ascension, if you want to know so badly... Shame, shame...'
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on April 11, 2010, 16:56
Halsted didn't speak, at least not right away. What he *did* do, however, was bring his boot up in a kick to DuPont's groin, making sure to put enough force to it that he wouldn't feel tempted to follow it up with a shovel beating.

"You are a traitor to His Most Benevolent Holiness, the Emperor. May your name be forever stricken from memory and your soul forever cursed to wander in darkness, devoid of His blessing," the guardsman snarled, his voice low. "And I don't think your... masters will want to bother with the soul of such a failure either. I will be sure to detail what I have seen in there in my report to my mistress' interrogators. And recommend to the planetary government to set off a plasma charge on top of this place."

That done, he took out one of his incendiary bombs, set the timer on it, and looked back into the small room. "Finish up, priest. I want to be done with this tainted place," he muttered.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on April 11, 2010, 17:01
The place was purged in bath of flames after the fire bomb went off. You had nothing to look for here anymore, so you quickly left this Throne-forsaken place, hoping to never see it again.

Soon, you were back in your hab. The eldar you left in the cage did not notice you though. Apparently, she was too concerned with shivering and sobbing to do so. The reason? You did not know.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on April 15, 2010, 08:52
As the cell hurried out of the condemned compound, Pass turned her head to look one last time at the flames that consumed the righteous and the heretical alike. If anyone could see her at that moment, they'd be surprised at the expression on her face. Her typical world-weary scowl was gone, replaced by a wistful and nostalgic smile.

By the time the group returned to the hab, however, the psyker was back to her familiar cynical self.


"See? Told you it would do just fine without my aid", - she pointed at the sobbing prisoner,- "Them xeno blighters could give underhive rats a lesson or two about survival".

She began to pace back and forth around the room.

"So, now that everyone's got their pent-up aggression out of their systems, let's look at our situation.  Good news: we're alive, and we've managed to put down a nest of Chaos cultists. Bad news: their senior partners in crime are still at large."

The psyker stopped and looked at the rest of the team:

"What do we know about said senior partners? Why, we know that they are very interested in acquiring "broken" Eldar prisoners for their schemes and rituals. And we also know that their primary supplier is no longer going to send them any. This unexpected setback is bound to make them desperate... maybe even desperate enough to walk into trap."

She turned towards the cowering prisoner and grinned:

"And I think we might just have the perfect bait".
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on April 15, 2010, 12:49
Before Pass pronounced any of those random ideas fuelled by nothing but sadism and keen intelect, Silharriel had been crouching at the cage already, trying to get a vague sense of reason - why his sister acts as if badly tormented in soul. It was quite unsettling to him, since woman had shown him once the will to survive he could not understand, mentioning her current position and situation.

"A moment, if you please.", the Eldar sneered to his comrades, leaning towards bars of the cage. His face was stone-dead, but eyes bore such marks of fear and sadness...

"Elirenn... Do you hear me ? What happened ?", he whispered in the language of the Old Race. He hoped that its sound would bring peace to the tormented girl in this cage. "Wake up, Khaine damn it !"

Hearing another wonderful concept of Pass's, the Outcast turned to her a bit, still crouching. His face was showing a bit of disgustment. He whispered, first with language of his mates, but after a split-second he realized and began again, this time in tongue-uncomfortable Low Gothic :

"Use me instead, for with those wounds and grazes I bear I look more like one unwilling to resist or escape. What is more, in her current state of mind any kind of sudden shock - and, mind you, a revelation of being surrounded by wicked half-flesh, half-metal beings is not something to be taken lightly for us, unfamiliar with such deviations - would knock her down for ever. They do not seek dead Eldar bodies, agreed ?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on April 15, 2010, 18:56
"I object," Halsted spoke up, his voice a bit more quiet and subdued than it had been before, "Not so much to the idea of a trap and bait, but to its effectiveness. This has been two cults fighting each other, but while the pawns have been swept away - by other pawns, I might add - I doubt the player behind them is so concerned as to leap at such an offering," he explained, laying out the various items they'd lifted from the compound and sorting through them, checking their condition.

"From what I've seen... they seemed quite happy to do their rituals with humans as well, so I would not place too much stock in xenos as bait. I'm actually far more inclined to think, judging from what our prisoner has told us, that it might have even been the same player behind both sets of pawns. I don't particularly want to guess at their motivations, but I don't think we should go in expecting them to desperately jump at every bone we toss them."

By this point, the guardsman had got to the various items he'd retrieved from the lockup in the compound. One particularly large package was shoved unceremoniously aside, tumbling open on the floor to show a suit of Eldar-made armour covered in a camouflage scheme, and seemingly made to fit a female figure.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on April 23, 2010, 14:23
Both Eldar were chatting for a while, the woman getting more and more nervous. Silharriel passed her a water-canteen pulled out from behind his tatters, then turned and took a look at the boxes brought here by Halsted. He seemed slightly upset, but remained calm and cold.

"Said well enough. What are you looking forward to do, mon-keigh ?", he asked both the guardsman and the psyker, raising his head and sizing them up with his glare. "All this seems much too high above our heads, do not you agree ?"

"I wonder... Was the ritual of sacrifice made upon those poor workers a reason of those >>Machine Spirits<< overactivity... ? Or is there something else instead ? What should we do about now ?"
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on April 23, 2010, 14:26
Meanwhile, the eldar in the cage started to act... oddly. She turned towards her equipment, and started talking aloud- apparently repeating the same word all over the time. It was not aimed at your eldar, probably. She was calling either Pass or Tobias. What for?
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on April 23, 2010, 14:32
Silharriel had his head risen, listened carefully and considered if he should have started translating...

"Soldier... soldier !", he added, in a formal tone.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on April 23, 2010, 16:10
Halsted looked up from sorting through the spoils carried out from DuPont's compound. "What now?" he asked gruffly, glancing briefly at both Eldar before going back to his work. Another large, long package was moved carefully aside, as if he was handling something very fragile... or very dangerous. "What does she want?" he asked, sorting out all the various small items on a spare bunk.

"Hmm... we've got a bit of reading ahead of us," he muttered under his breath as he took out the dataslates they'd lifted out of the compound, only briefly skimming over their contents where possible before setting them aside for later inspection. "Anyway, I would recommend we eliminate DuPont's puppetmaster. He sounded like a noteworthy figure... and if they've decided who to give the big job with the fleet to, chances are they'll be having a celebration of one sort or another. It might be a good opportunity to strike, that," he explained. "This... Arch-Magos Albert, I believe he was called. Failing that, we could try to investigate where DuPont and his lot did their searching for that black stone, whatever it was."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on April 24, 2010, 03:46
Silharriel turned to Elirenn and translated Halsted's question.

"I personally would see if we can find that black stone, leaving Albert to some greater power, someone above us. Puppetmasters tend to have walls of puppets around them, even at those >>special occasions<< you talk about. Eliminating such with a force of five without proper orbital bombardment or at least artillery support is nigh-on-impossible. No, assassination shall not make the grade neither, I suppose. Who knows what kind of armor shall his cursed body have beneath its skin ?...", he added after he had his task accomplished. "Their leaders walk armored and armed like one-man armies..."
"No. Let us stay with the idea of stone."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Gargulec on April 24, 2010, 05:29
'Ask him, whether he found a small, steel lockbox among my belongings' said Elirenn to Silharriel. 'If he did, ask him if he could give it to me. There is nothing dangerous inside.'
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on April 24, 2010, 05:50
"If we had a lascannon, or even an autocannon handy to set up on a rooftop, perhaps..." Halsted mused with a sigh. "But you're probably right, heard the cog-heads can be as stubborn to die as green-skins... and I don't think anything in our current arsenal could do much but annoy them."

Once Silharriel had translated the question, the guardsman looked around at the loot he'd lait out. "That stuff? Should be here somewhere... Best not get too attached to it, no telling if there'll be anything of it to keep once we get back to the inquisitor," he muttered, finally digging out the lockbox that fitted the description, passing it to Silharriel. During the rummaging he also happened upon a cube of white material, and this he promptly passed straight to the eldar prisoner, as if keen to be rid of the wretched item as soon as possible.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Silhar on April 24, 2010, 15:12
Silharriel shrugged and passed both items to Elirenn.
"Try not to kill yourself with it. I mean, do not take everything at once..."
He did not stand up right away. For a while it seemed like the Outcast was asleep. He opened his eyes after a minute, chatting with a prisoner a bit. Then, he finally stood up, sweaten, tired and looking unhealthy.

He sat on his bunk, pulling out a random data-slate - and started his search for any texts mentioning "The Black Stone".
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on April 27, 2010, 09:58
The psyker sighed with a tone of someone admitting defeat:

"Well, if you insist at grasping at straws instead of following a perfectly fine plan... then we might as well grasp at them properly."

She fished out her trusty deck of Emperor's Tarot and began to lay them out in a complicated 15-card spread.
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on April 27, 2010, 11:56
"The problem with your perfectly fine plan is that it might well rest on flawed assumptions. DuPont's backers withdrew their support for him, remember? Of course, it could be because they saw his position as lost and himself expendable, but I get the feeling that it could have simply been because they no longer had need of his services, and he was the last one to get the notice," Halsted pointed out calmly. "In addition, as we've already discussed, we might not have the firepower to go after a major Coghead."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Passionario on April 27, 2010, 13:03
"If I recall correctly, we didn't have the firepower to take out a well-defended compound full of armed soldiers, either. And yet, by the grace of the Emperor, we're alive and they're not."
Title: Re: Machine Spirit PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on April 30, 2010, 14:07
"The Emperor's blessing of dumb luck only lasts so far. He prefers to bestow favour on those who go in properly prepared," the guardsman points out. "And relying on a rival coghead cult army to show up again and bail us out is going to be stretching it, especially if the puppetmaster had strings to pull on both sides."