Deathwatch: Sons of Jericho IC

Game Master Rookseye

For untold centuries the Deathwatch have stood vigil over the Jericho Reach. Now, the disparate Astartes of Kill-team Umbra must vanquish a threat and unravel a mystery which portends to place the entirety of the Achilus Crusade in jeopardy.


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Male Storm warden Tactical Marine

I continue running stating, "Good the exercise is clearing your head, you are starting to think again. As to the survivors of the planet, all I know is that they are still in quarantine. I was on my way back to finish my penance from there I was going to head in that direction for news, when I got the order to find you and start your training."

I continue on in silence, thinking it might be time to check his reflexes and tactical thinking. May be at the 50 mile mark.


Dark Angel Librarian

Another another long pause as I shake off memories of the past, but not there lessons.

"We might consider looking for patterns in these incidents as well. Not just with marking from your Chapter, but all Chapters that are known to be working in the Jericho Reach."

I begin to look for reports of Astrates acting out with similiar methods as far back as the records will allow me. While doing so I will keep vigilant for any mention of Roge Halis, his love from Nova Cruxis. The search for spider webs between spider webs begins.....


If I may join or be of further service during your penance, I have my own to do as I try to keep pace with Caledonii during this rigorous training.


Black Templar Techmarine

The Librarian's actions and words exemplary. My experiences with Vex are incongruous with Chaplain's Sylvester's warnings. I must meditate upon this later.

Lyriel Vex wrote:

"Each members power armour is unique, and is its heraldry. Have you been able to trace in who's care this armour was intrusted to? Do you have records of any suits that are missing?"

"It would also be prudent to examine records of those who are Excommunicatis that bear a personal enmity wishing to discredit your Chapter..."

Looking past the Librarian; making sure that Ghanu nor anyone else is outside.

"I only know Ferocitas' recent history. I will pursue this further."

Lyriel Vex wrote:

"I half expect either a summons, or a visit from Inquisitor Quist. I am not sure how closely you wish me to work with you regarding Aurum."

"I recommend you research the tribal legends. History and myth have a unique habit of over-lapping."

*Sigh* The crux of the issue.

"Brother-Librarian, your word of caution with the Inquisitor is appreciated. Your counsel has much merit. I must be open with you and warn there are others that deserve circumspection. Specifically, there are those from my home chapter that find one such as yourself as... aberrant. Persecution may come from within as well as from without."

Does he know my thoughts already? Does he know what tasks my chapter assigned? Ah! Were it a simple matter of defeating a xeno or demon foe! That seems not to be our fate.

The die is cast. Best plunge in with both boots.

"I desire collaboration. Best however that we maintain discretion. Do you know of the shrine to Saint Enoch, the Thrice-Martyred? Perhaps we can quietly meet there on occasion? I am open to suggestions for a signal or pass-word to arrange a rendezvous."

"There is one piece of information I ask you seek. Find the destination or fate of the Shoulder of Stepatikos. I cannot help but cogitate that it holds some sort of key to our investigations."

Understanding the gravitas of our meeting, I look squarely at the Librarian.

"I am a Black Templar. In the Forges of Mars I became a disciple of the Omnissiah. I am also commissioned to Deathwatch. I sometimes find it burdensome to square the disparate goals and beliefs of my various stations. You saw at our debriefing with Quist how difficult it can be dealing with Imperial... politics. I declare to you, Lyriel Vex, my allegiance is with Kill-Team Umbra. You and I are both xeno-foe and combat-forged. We are Battle-Brothers."

I stick out my arm to grab the Librarian's forearm, hoping he will return the gesture. Hoping to show that I will not betray him.


Dark Angel Librarian

I accept Emeric's arm with a firm grip.

"To meet in secret invites accusation. If the Emperor wills it he will permit us the time when we can openly exchange what we have learned. If information proves fruitful then we will take decisive action and alert those superiors who will need council with the knowledge we obtained."


Excellent RP on the interactions, everyone, keep it up!


Erioch System
Watch Fortress Erioch, The Librarium, Vault of the Codex
243.817.M41
Hour 6 System Sidereal Time

While the Dark Angel and Black Templar seal their unlikely alliance high above him in the upper stacks, Brother Quintus, with great reverence, slowly turns the pages of the massive, brilliantly illuminated copy of the Codex Astartes that rests on an intricately-carved, aquila-shaped lectern of stone before him. All that can be heard in the Vault of the Codex at the bottom of the well-shaped shaft of the Librarium is the fluttering leaves of countless tomes as the serf-scribes and archivists work tirelessly in the interlocking, vertical maze of spiral stairwells, shelves, and carrels ensconced above.

A feeling of deep peace always fills him as he turns the pages of his Primarch's sacred undertaking.

He reads the quote again, marveling at how he always seems to find something pertinent to his unsettled thoughts when he leafs through the Codex,

Codicil MX-IV-XIII.iv: "Remain committed to the decisions you make, but stay malleable in your approach, for the marine who is as rigid and unyielding as stone, oft breaks at the smallest fracture in his pride...”

It is no wonder that Arius Hyzeron asked to meet him here, the ancient Ultramarine is suspected to have served at Watch Station Erioch longer than anyone; well into four centuries if it is to be believed, though none are left to remember longer than the two centuries he has served as one of the ten Guardians of the Chamber of Vigilance, the longest tenured of their revered numbers. He is a living legend, and Quintus can only wonder at why he has taken a personal interest in him.

Brother Hyzeron approaches from the opposite end of the spacious vault, an easy smile on his ancient features, the triple-scored lines of parallel scars bisecting his augemtic eye while the ornate Mark IV Maximus power armor clearly identifies him to Brother Quintus even before is close enough to make out his features.

Unerringly, almost with supernatural insight he recites the the next line of the codicil, as if he knows which page the Codex rests on, and which passage sits beneath Brother Quintus' gaze.

"...and he who knows in his humility when to yield to the changing tide is oft the stone left standing."

Charismatic even in his advanced age, he greets his fellow Ultramarine warmly, ""We follow in the footsteps of Guilliman. As it is written in the Codex, so shall it be. You have my greetings, honored brother."


Hrothgar takes his leave of Fellhand. Something of the wolf blood within demands that he takes some time alone. His footsteps unerringly leading him to the practice cages.

Hrothgar picks up a pair of chainswords. He activates a pair of battle servitors to test him, "Begin."


Male Space Marine Devastator Rank 1

"Greetings to you, honored brother. As it is written in the Codex, so shall it be. It is a honor to be here with you in the presense of the Codex."


Black Templar Techmarine
Lyriel Vex wrote:
"To meet in secret invites accusation. If the Emperor wills it he will permit us the time when we can openly exchange what we have learned. If information proves fruitful then we will take decisive action and alert those superiors who will need council with the knowledge we obtained."

"Very well. Until we meet again, stand firm. The Emperor protects."

As the Dark Angel exits I envision the unfolding of some hinge of fate.

No remorse. I accept responsibility for my actions and stand ready for judgment before my Emperor/Omnissiah.


The Omega Vault wrote:

Watch Fortress Erioch, Viewing Gallery Overlooking Berthing Cradle 66

243.817.M41
Hour 7 System Sidereal Time

Brother Chaplain Strome replies, his fatherly voice tinny and distant sounding from behind the silvered skull-mask. The mock seriousness of his words seems a good-natured attempt to get you to open up to him.

"Pray, tell me then what it is that troubles you. If the doom and devastation represented by the kill-ships is but a microcosm of this burden you seem to bear, it must be a weighty thing indeed. It is my duty to look after the spiritual well-being of my brothers, perhaps if you share with me your doubts I can offer insight into how to dispel them. Do not underestimate the power of the Emperor's word in such matters."

"One would logically associate those vessels with doom, with the destruction and havoc they sow. I do not, understand my conundrum chaplain?"


Erioch System
Watch Fortress Erioch, The Librarium, Vault of the Codex
243.817.M41
Hour 6 System Sidereal Time

Arius Hyzeron approaches to stand beside Brother Quintus, delicately brushing one calloused finger over the faded text of the codicil he has so unerringly recalled. He regards his chapter-brother with genuine warmth, clapping him upon his right pauldron in a gesture of respect.

"Word spreads among the others serving the Vigil among our chapter on Erioch that you sent one of the Great Devourer's Tyrants back to the hell it was spat out of. An impressive accomplishment, Brother Quintus, one that does honor to the memory of our fallen."

He seems to enjoy your awkward reaction to this unexpected praise for a moment as only one of vastly greater experience can. Brother Hyzeron then places the gauntleted knuckle of one hand under his chin, contemplatively.

"That is not why I summoned you here, however."


Dark Angel Librarian

Seeing that Brother Emeric is done conversing with me. I move to another part of the Librum and begin my investigations.


Watch Fortress Erioch, Viewing Gallery Overlooking Berthing Cradle 66
243.817.M41
Hour 7 System Sidereal Time

Eli Syne wrote:
"One would logically associate those vessels with doom, with the destruction and havoc they sow. I do not, understand my conundrum chaplain?"

If an emotionless death-mask of electroplated silver could show surprise, Eli suspects Brother-Chaplain Strome would be showing it. Regardless, the astute Dark Angel can tell by the subtle shift in his posture, and the nuanced hesitation in his reply, that this is the expression on the face hidden beneath the black shield's helmet. One does not spend ones entire life amongst the greatest keepers of secrets in the universe without learning the subtle inflections of body language, even under the concealing carapace of ceramite plated power armor.

Even with his reaction, Titus Strome's voice does not falter. Quite the opposite in fact, he slips into a tone that deigns to play devil's advocate on the matter.

"I perhaps understand your conflict better, then. A curious and uncommon perspective to say the least, Brother Syne. If you do not see them as instruments of destruction, what then do they represent to you? Perhaps they are vectors of deliverance, mercy? Some would say they are the Emperor's final sanction, a necessary evil that absolves the failures of his loyal servants in defending the Imperium when all else is lost."

He pauses, but it is not a necessary pause. Eli believes Brother-Chaplain Strome knows precisely what he intends to say next, and is merely giving the Dark Angel a moment to reflect on his words.

"Surely what you feel is not guilt Brother Syne?"


Erioch System
Watch Fortress Erioch, The Librarium, Stack 11
243.817.M41
Hour 7 System Sidereal Time

After taking his leave of Brother Emeric, Lyriel descends the creaking, wrought-iron spiral stairs, navigating the vertical labyrinth of leaning shelves to find the furthest archives, and a forgotten section of the Librarium holding records pertaining to the compiled ship registries of the Jericho Sector.

Brother-Librarian Vex breathes deeply of his environs, the blessed scent of aged parchment and autoquill ink soothing to him as he begins his inquiries regarding the Shoulder of Stepatikos.

Brother Vex, please attempt a Ordinary [+10] Common Lore (War) skill test.

Also, please attempt a Routine [+20] Common Lore (Deathwatch) skill test to recall who amongst the other Dark Angels serving the Long Vigil may be amenable to aiding you in your other research.


Watch Fortress Erioch, Proving Ground Green 2, The Coliseum of Creusulos, The Upper Cages
243.817.M41
Hour 4 System Sidereal Time

Brother Hrothgar's twin chainswords shower sparks through the grated-iron, adamantine-reinforced walls of the dueling cage, vanquishing the last of the battered combat servitors with a double-handed thrust that impales the preternaturally quick adversary against the aforementioned wall. Enjoying the whining, grinding roar of the blades as they rip their way free, he pauses in his exertions, stepping over his disabled foe to peer through the bars.

As the cage hangs precariously high over Coliseum of Creusulos, an extension of the upper audience balcony, it is easy for the Space Wolf to make out the circling figures of Brother Caledonii and Decius, fully engaged with the preliminary indoctrination of the Iron Snake, following his unconventional secondment to the Deathwatch.

Hrothgar grins wickedly, remembering his own training upon arriving on Erioch. Heh, and he had thought that his first days among his own chapter in the high mountains of Fenris so long ago had been trying! The Ithakan has no idea what is in store for him.


Dark Angel Librarian

Common Lore: War (1d100=11)

Common Lore: Death Watch (1d100=40)


Black Templar Techmarine

The Litanies of the Thrice-Martyred occupies my attention while awaiting the return of Ghanu and the servitors.


Male Storm warden Tactical Marine

As we near the end of the 50th mile I slowly veer so I am in front of Brother Decius. Right at the 50 mile mark I stop abruptly, its time to test reaction and tactical movement. Seeing that the rest of the intoxicant is out of his system with the ease he is able to avoid hitting me and placing himself for possible attack. I nod my head and motion into the inner area off of the track.

“Lets take a break by doing some push ups.” I drop down and start doing some, at a nice and easy pace. While doing the push ups I start talking in a thoughtful tone;

“So seeing you with your sea lance has reminded me of some of the older weapons my chapter once used often. I have even commissioned the making of a replica from one of the forge masters.

In a way I am using the shaping of the lancea as a means of reshaping myself. In the same manner I am reshaping you from being an Iron Snake to a Deathwatch Iron Snake, a much deadlier viper you will become.

Do to the missions we are place in we need to be well rounded in the fighting arts as well as the arts of dueling with words. So let me tell you a story of were the leader of a group that I was in was a little too heavy on the first and not well versed in the second.

The mission started out quite well, typical xeno hunt. We cleared a square mile of the vicious bipeds when we got intel that in the southern section of the cleared area we had a re-supply drop and some local visitors that we had to placate that we will not just level the town we were headed for.

When we got there the lieutenant asked the sergeants of the squads to come with him to speak with the locals. Well during the fighting my squads sergeant got sliced in half so I was pro-tem sergeant until they could make it official or they found a better one. So I was up there when the lieutenant started speaking with the locals.

At first the pleasantries went well and we were lead to the supply dept when the leader of the locals became very irate with the lieutenant. Saying that we could not have the supplies unless he was assured that we would limit the damage to the city, it was apparently the oldest city on the planet and was considered a work of art. The lieutenant stated that he was going to take the supplies and there was nothing the locals could do about it.

Well he was wrong. The hidden lascannon left a cauterized stump where the lieutenant’s head was to connect to him neck. The heavy bolters opened on the rest of us, only about half of the sergeants made it out and about three quarters of the rest of the men.

When we regrouped and contacted the captain we found out that the city was also the repository of relics of pre Heresy artifacts that was being studied for possible incites to the Heretics fall.

This is just one example is where being a balanced fighter would keep us alive. For one day you will also be asked to lead our unit and what was thought of as a simple mission could become very complicated. You will have to make the right decisions and know what to say and when.”

I stop and stand facing Decius “Do you now under stand why this training is needed and why I take it seriously?”


After listening to such a story I am humbled some more for the wisdom imparted on me I understand Brother Sergeant Caledonii as I silently continue the rhythm of the push ups. After some time passes.

Brother Sergeant, the spear is a noble weapon that the Iron Snakes have mastered. pausing for a moment I know the proper form and skills to fight with it, if you wish to train on it's use. giving a pause for the Brother Sergeant to answer Very common thing to do in a phratry Brother Sergeant I'm not boasting my skill amongst the best but I can teach you the proper form of spear and shield as we use it or spear alone.


Male Storm warden Tactical Marine
Brother Decius wrote:
"I understand Brother Sergeant Caledonii"

"Good, now lets put off the rest of the 50 miles for an other time. And please just Caledonii or if you must Brother Caledonii, I can not claim the rank of Sergeant here in the Deathwatch as of yet." I finger the Iron Skull dangling from the left pauldron of my armor.

Brother Decius wrote:
"Brother Sergeant, the spear is a noble weapon that the Iron Snakes have mastered." pausing for a moment "I know the proper form and skills to fight with it, if you wish to train on it's use." giving a pause for the Brother Sergeant to answer "Very common thing to do in a phratry Brother Sergeant I'm not boasting my skill amongst the best but I can teach you the proper form of spear and shield as we use it or spear alone."

"I know you do not boast about your skill as I have seen you use both in practice. I would be honored to learn from you as well. Lets head to the shooting range first and see what you can do and so I can finish my penance. I have but 3 shots left of the thousand I have set myself with hitting the bulls eye."


The Omega Vault wrote:

Watch Fortress Erioch, Viewing Gallery Overlooking Berthing Cradle 66

243.817.M41
Hour 7 System Sidereal Time

"Surely what you feel is not guilt Brother Syne?"

"Perhaps, I am no stranger to guilt Chaplain."


Caledonii wrote:
"I know you do not boast about your skill as I have seen you use both in practice. I would be honored to learn from you as well. Lets head to the shooting range first and see what you can do and so I can finish my penance. I have but 3 shots left of the thousand I have set myself with hitting the bulls eye."

By your orders Brother Sergeant Caledonii as I fall in behind him thinking of what is the fate of the karlack 2nd and to keep up with my new training as a Deathwatch Marine


Hrothgar finally exits the training cage. He hails Caledonii and Decius. "Ho! How goes the training?"


Watch Fortress Erioch, Proving Ground Green 2, The Coliseum of Creusulos, The Upper Cages
243.817.M41
Hour 4 System Sidereal Time

Brother Vex, Common Lore (War) test is successful by four degrees, Common Lore (Deathwatch) is successful by two degrees.

The Librarian spends long hours combing the datastacks for information pertaining to the Shoulder of Stepatikos, but manages to find nothing of import save apocryphal references to the thousand year old ore hauler. Apparently it was originally forged and registered out of the Lathe Worlds of the Sector Calixis, and is mentioned as being one of the first of its kind to enter the Jericho Reach with the early Explorator vessels at the vanguard of the crusade.

It is not until he uses his elevated clearances to access the classified appendices attached to the Deathwatch's archived reports that he learns more. According to data collected by Kill-team Cingulum, the Shoulder of Stepatikos was one of several voidships lost to the navigational hazard known as Kokabiel's Drop in the year 781.M41. It is thought that the bulk hauler was lost with all hands. However, a subsequent report that Brother Vex locates, penned over two years later by an anonymous Storm Warden seconded to the Deathwatch and posted to an astropathic listening post on Watch Station Midael, reveals that the Shoulder of Stepatikos and the associated transponder codes it once employed for berthing were transmitted within range of the corrupted forge world of Samech, located on the very cusp of the Hadex Anomaly. Brother Vex thinks it is no coincidence that Watch Station Midael was lost to contact with the Deathwatch shortly thereafter. In fact, one of his own chapter brethren led the first of several failed Deathwatch missions to re-establish contact with the watch station. Watch Captain Ramiel never returned.

There is little more to be found. Outside of some irrelevant crusade logistics reports that still reference the ore hauler as lost and unaccounted for, this seems to be the only intelligence there is regarding its fate.

Thinking again of Watch Captain Ramiel, Brother-Librarian Vex considers who amongst his chapter brethren stationed in Watch Fortress Erioch would be able to further counsel him on his suspicions regarding Roge Halis and can think of only one who would be appropriate. Brother Bazzraef was once the apothecary of Watch Captain Ramiel's Kill-team, and was thought to be his trusted confidante. Now a leader of his own Kill-team, the veteran Dark Angel is known for his discretion and wisdom, even among the secret-keepers of his own chapter.


Dark Angel Librarian

I learned well the teachings of the Interrogator Chaplains of my Chapter. Know when to take a deep breathe, clear ones thoughts and seek council of another.

I return all the records back to there data stacks keeping notes to myself on which ones are relevant to my investigation.

Now the difficult part for me. I am a researcher, a warrior scholar. While I can skillfully craft words and meanings on data slates all day. It is the spoken word that I find most challenging. How best to recruit Brother Bazzraef to my cause. Only one way for me to find out. I leave the Librum stacks in search of the Apothecary. Wondering when the summons from Inquisitor Quist will come ways heavily on my mind.


Watch Fortress Erioch, Viewing Gallery Overlooking Berthing Cradle 66
243.817.M41
Hour 7 System Sidereal Time

Eli Syne wrote:
"Perhaps, I am no stranger to guilt Chaplain."

A long, uncomfortable silence follows from the Chaplain, as the ambiguity of the Dark Angel's words, and something far more pointed that is couched in them find their mark. The Black Shield recovers himself quickly, but his former zeal for counseling Brother Syne has faded. When he answers this time a hint of his irritation at Eli's opaque manner is apparent.

Brother Syne, please attempt a Challenging [+0] Scrutiny test.

"I see that you wish to keep your own counsel at this time, Brother Syne, and respect your wishes. Forgive my trespass if I have disturbed you unduly. Just know that should you wish to speak further, I am always available for the spiritual needs of my brothers."

He hesitates again, then relaxes his tone to one that is more like a fellow marine than a concerned chaplain.

"Know also, that your are not the only one for whom guilt is a constant companion."


Erioch System
Watch Fortress Erioch, The Librarium, Vault of the Codex
243.817.M41
Hour 6 System Sidereal Time

Brother Quintus regards the elder Ultramarine expectantly, a deep sense of foreboding coming over him even before Arius Hyzeron speaks. The younger son of Guilliman finds his eyes going to the spidery script of the Codex again, almost unbidden, as if searching for answers.

Brother Hyzeron's voice rasps like dry parchment.

"I sense it in my very blood. The Vault will open again soon."


Erioch System
Watch Fortress Erioch, The Librarium, Stack 23
243.817.M41
Hour 7 System Sidereal Time

Ghanu and his flitting halo of servo-skulls return, but Brother Emeric can see almost immediately from the tired-looking scribe's expression that his delving into the stacks has yielded no further discoveries worthy of the techmarine's attentions.

"I must apologize, Lord Astartes, but the stacks have not deigned to offer anything further regarding your present inquiries. Perhaps a deeper search is in order. I must confess, however, it will require a substantial expenditure of time and effort, but I am willing to personally devote myself and the servitors tasked to me to continue this endeavor if it is your need, only say the word."

He tries not to directly meet your gaze, vacillating between an earnest humility and a servile anxiousness that borders on outright supplication.


The Omega Vault wrote:

Watch Fortress Erioch, Viewing Gallery Overlooking Berthing Cradle 66

243.817.M41
Hour 7 System Sidereal Time

Brother Syne, please attempt a Challenging [+0] Scrutiny test.

Scrutiny : 1d100=88

Eli gives a muted shrug and lets the chaplain be on his way.


Male Space Marine Devastator Rank 1

Common Lore(Deathwatch)(39) = 1d100 ⇒ 90
failed miserably


Quintus:
Sorry, Lorm those dice have been cruel to you for a while.

Brother Quintus is familiar with the enigma that is the Omega Vault, beyond the role of its outer doors as the ceremonial place where he swore his oath of the vigil upon the finalization of his secondment. He recalls that many of the Ultramarines stationed here speak in hushed, almost reverent whispers that Brother Hyzeron, perhaps because of his interminably long vigil at Erioch, has a special affinity for sensing the Omega Vault's unpredictable and inscrutable bouts of activity.


Male Space Marine Devastator Rank 1
The Omega Vault wrote:

Erioch System

Watch Fortress Erioch, The Librarium, Vault of the Codex
243.817.M41
Hour 6 System Sidereal Time

Brother Quintus regards the elder Ultramarine expectantly, a deep sense of foreboding coming over him even before Arius Hyzeron speaks. The younger son of Guilliman finds his eyes going to the spidery script of the Codex again, almost unbidden, as if searching for answers.

Brother Hyzeron's voice rasps like dry parchment.

"I sense it in my very blood. The Vault will open again soon."

"Honored Brother, what does that mean to Deathwatch and this region we are protecting?"


Black Templar Techmarine
The Omega Vault wrote:

"I must apologize, Lord Astartes, but the stacks have not deigned to offer anything further regarding your present inquiries. Perhaps a deeper search is in order. I must confess, however, it will require a substantial expenditure of time and effort, but I am willing to personally devote myself and the servitors tasked to me to continue this endeavor if it is your need, only say the word."

He tries not to directly meet your gaze, vacillating between an earnest humility and a servile anxiousness that borders on outright supplication.

"Scribe Ghanu, word is given. Continue your research." I set down the Thrice-Martyred's sacred writings amongst the other texts. "Return these books to their proper places save the two works of Saint Enoch. Leave them here or have them readily available upon my return."

Having garnered what information I could, I rise to leave.

"I am retiring to my quarters for rest and contemplation. After that I shall consult the station's tech savants on matters Mechanicus. Send word once you discover pertinent data."

Noticing the demeanor of the archivist, I say, "Waver not, keeper of texts. Maintain faith--We all serve the Emperor in our own ways. Understand that the information you access may be of inestimable value in furthering His cause. I do not doubt your abilities."

"The Emperor protects."

I return to my quarters to observe liturgical offices, followed by sleep and nourishment.


Erioch System
Watch Fortress Erioch, The Librarium, Stack 23
243.817.M41
Hour 7 System Sidereal Time

"Of course! As you will, Lord Astartes!"

Scribe Ghanu seems buoyed by your wise words and the compliment couched within them.

"I will reserve the volumes pertaining to Saint Enoch until such a time as you return to us. Until then, my servitors and I will persist in scouring the stacks for the subjects you had previously indicated. I will send word should anything useful be discovered."


Erioch System
Watch Fortress Erioch, The Librarium, Vault of the Codex
243.817.M41
Hour 6 System Sidereal Time

Brother Quintus wrote:
"Honored Brother, what does that mean to Deathwatch and this region we are protecting?"

Arius Hyzeron absently turns the page of the great Codex, smoothing out the weathered parchment before meeting Brother Quintus' eye again.

"That is what troubles me the most, my brother: it could mean nothing, or it could mean everything. Only the Vault itself knows the truth of what is to come."

The elder Ultramarine notes your perplexed glance with a wry grin.

"As you well know, I have served a long, long, vigil here in Erioch, and though I am no Librarian prone to fits and premonitions, I have come to see the signs, the portents, if you will, presaging the Vault's opening. The whole of the Watch Fortress---it breathes differently; the sounds of long disused mechanica reverberate through her walls, barest echoes, but sounds I hear. I have seen the Omega Vault disgorge ancient weapons, archaic tomes, even living beings in my long time stationed here. There are those that believe that the enigma of its openings are triggered from some preordained pattern, a great clock, if you will, ticking away within its ancient innards. There are others, among them, myself, who believe differently. It would be heretical to even utter this in the presence of a member of the Cult Mechanicus, for their belief is that no machine can be suffered to exist that thinks for itself---but I am certain what I next will say to you is the irrefutable truth. The Vault seems to anticipate the Deathwatch's hours of greatest need, and I fear one of those hours is fast approaching."


Male Space Marine Devastator Rank 1

"You honor me with this information and these secrets that you have revealed to me. What do you want me do, my honored brother, besides being vigil?"


Erioch System
Watch Fortress Erioch, The Librarium, Vault of the Codex
243.817.M41
Hour 6 System Sidereal Time

The elder guardian of the Chamber of Vigilance considers Quintus' words in his typical thoughtful manner, his wizened organic eye narrowing contemplatively, as if he has given what he is about to say very careful consideration.

"Although the Deathwatch and the Ordo Xenos share common cause against the enemies of mankind, our respective means of enacting the Emperor's judgement upon the alien have been known to differ."

The implied understatement in Arius Hyzeron's tone is obvious, but it does not shade toward bitterness or sarcasm, only blunt statement of fact.

"I ask only this: continue to do honor to your chapter, and confide only in your brothers the revelations I have entrusted to you. I will continue to listen for the murmurings of the Vault until such time that I have more to tell you. Remain vigilant, Brother Quintus."


Brother Caledonii, Brother Hrothgar, Brother Decius:
Just checking if you guys intended on any further interaction in the Coliseum of Creusulos where your respective marines were training. Last we heard, Brother Hrothgar was hailing Caledonii and Decius after completing his training regimen in the Cages. If not, I will move them on to their next scenes.


For the Omega Vault

Spoiler:
no objections to speeding things up :-)


Erioch System
Watch Fortress Erioch, Dormitorium Level 9, One of the Thousand Cells
246.817.M41
Hour 12 System Sidereal Time

As Lyriel Vex steps under the archway leading into Brother Bazzraef's unicameral cell, he glances toward the sculpted tympanum above him, discerning in the intricately carved stonework signs of a Dark Angel's habitation. Hidden glyphs and markings have been left by countless of his chapter who have taken rest from their vigil with the Deathwatch in this very room.

To read the glyphs properly, Brother Vex, please attempt a Ordinary [+10] Forbidden Lore (Chapter: Dark Angels) skill test.

The cell is spare, spartan, and largely unadorned, save for a stone plinth dominating the far wall and a small, candelabra-shaped incense burner of wrought iron in the far corner. The strangely-shaped censer even now fumes with a pungent aroma of sandalwood. Brother-Apothecary Bazzraef kneels before his sleeping plinth like an altar, fully armored, his gauntleted hands clasped before him in quiet prayer. His helmet rests beside him on the plinth, the visor staring back at Brother Vex as he enters.

The Dark Angel's voice is gruff and spare as his surroundings.

"The Sons of the Lion Know No Respite, Brother-Librarian Vex, but you more than others typify this axiom. You have made it no secret that you have assiduously sought my counsel in some matter of import to you, so even as the whispers of your search made their back to me, I have meditated on the reason why. So, speak, my brother, we are alone here."


Erioch System
Watch Fortress Erioch, The Foundry Level, Forge of the Forgemaster Greyweaver
258.817.M41
Hour 19 System Sidereal Time

Brother Emeric walks side by side with the Space Wolf, Brother Hrothgar, both following in the imposing shadow cast by Attalus Fellhand, a giant, even amongst the Astartes. They follow a meandering route through the Foundry Level of Watch Fortress Erioch, past massive, servitor-manned manufactorums that would be the envy of any hive world, through the vast, domed kiln-ovens, caked with coke, used to craft ceramite, and over the great, arching spans of wide industrial catwalks bridging steeply over the fiery hearts of white-hot forges below.

Brother Emeric breathes deeply of the familiar smells, drawing comfort from the charred scent of metals being shaped, the acrid smell of caustic smoke as perfume to his augmented sensoria. Brother Hrothgar is reminded of his chapter-fortress, the Fang, and the cacophony of banging drop-forges, clanging anvils, and the hiss of the smelters so prevalent among the demesne of the Iron Priests therein; cloistered in their esoteric machine-lore.

The two battle-brothers of Kill-team Umbra have accompanied one another for differing purposes to the same destination. Brother Hrothgar is finally claiming the stake of his wager with Fellhand, an introduction and audience with the ancient Space Wolf Iron Priest and Forgemaster of all Watch Fortress Erioch, Harl Greyweaver, while Brother Emeric has come to heart of the Foundry to commune with Magos Zardos Vyakai, whose shattered body is even now being reforged by Greyweaver and the tech-priests of the Mechanicum enclave tithed to the Deathwatch of Erioch. Although Brother Emeric's audience with the Magos has not been officially sanctioned, the young Space Wolf is confident that his burly chapter-brother can smooth the way for the Black Templar to meet clandestinely with the convalescing Tech-Magos.

Brother Quintus' troubling words concerning the state of the Omega Vault, spoken to his fellow Kill-team brothers in confidence following his audience with Arius Hyzeron, are foremost in the techmarine's mind as they make their way through the final security cordons. They then pass beneath a wide, vaulting archway into perhaps the single largest forge-works that Brother Emeric has been witness to since his days on Holy Mars, so long ago. Strange, iron-embossed runes the height of a man decorate the graven blocks comprising the arch. Beyond this opening, a towering, multi-level forge complex, engineered in a radial pattern, dominates the vaulted interior of a truly cavernous space. The noise within is deafening, as countless tasked servitors and tech-priests maneuver around gargantuan pieces of mechanica, much of it visibly archeotech in nature. The blinding glow of enormous smelting crucibles pouring their molten compositions into waiting molds starkly illuminates the prevailing darkness from time to time as you watch, before returning to a dull, hellishly-red lambency that pervades everything from the depths far below.

The Fellhand leads you down a steeply-pitched walkway, so steep in fact, that it soon transitions outright into metallic risers that clang under your footfalls, a sound at first lost in the tumult of the forge, but becoming more and more audible as you descend below the din of the upper levels. It is as if you are walking down the very throat of a titanic mechanical beast. The risers level off again after a time, and you turn down a high tunnel whose adamant-reinforced stone buttresses somehow, improbably, support the impossible weight of the forge-works above. Hanging from leather thongs or nailed into the stonework above are all manner of primitive fetishes, stretched hides of both animal and xenos origin, and bones. Countless bones. Skull after skull decorate the recesses carved into the keystones of each arch you pass under, the morbid trophies of every size and shape, until you simply lose count. The subterranean tunnel beneath the forge finally ends in a soot-caked vault door of the kind commonly found on voidships. Someone has painted a crude silhouette of a snarling wolf's head on the durasteel in either red pigment or dried blood. Archaic High Gothic runes carved above the portal, although difficult to translate, seem to incorporate root-words for both medicae and mechanica.

Brother Fellhand stops just before the door and turns to face you, he seems to be trying to comport his usual glowering countenance into something akin to respectful deference. It is clearly not intended for you. His words suggest you follow suit, as his long fangs are bared when he hisses to you,

"You would do well not to bring dishonor to me or yourselves in the presence of Iron Priest Greyweaver. Speak only truth, and show him the respect he is due, or there will be a reckoning."


Dark Angel Librarian
The Omega Vault wrote:

Erioch System

Watch Fortress Erioch, Dormitorium Level 9, One of the Thousand Cells
246.817.M41
Hour 12 System Sidereal Time

To read the glyphs properly, Brother Vex, please attempt a Ordinary [+10] Forbidden Lore (Chapter: Dark Angels) skill test.

The Dark Angel's voice is gruff and spare as his surroundings.

"The Sons of the Lion Know No Respite, Brother-Librarian Vex, but you more than others typify this axiom. You have made it no secret that you have assiduously sought my counsel in some matter of import to you, so even as the whispers of your search made their back to me, I have meditated on the reason why. So, speak, my brother, we are alone here."

Forbidden Lore: Dark Angels (1d100=31)

Rook I orginally wrote the skill down as Forbidden Lore Adeptus Astrates. If that was to broad I can change it to Forbidden Lore Dark Angels which would make alot more sense.

I bow respectfully to my Battle Brother.

"I felt it wise to seek the council of one who has walked the shadows before me. I see events unconnected to each other that warn me of danger approaching. Yet I believe them to all be part of the same darkness. Seeds of the past taking root in the present. If you could tell me about Watch Captain Ramiel so I can have the honor of knowing of him. And of his disappearance. It may provide some illumination. In turn I will share my concerns and see if you see what I do in the shadows. Or if it is just illusions from my past."


Black Templar Techmarine
The Omega Vault wrote:

Erioch System

Watch Fortress Erioch, The Foundry Level, Forge of the Forgemaster Greyweaver
258.817.M41
Hour 19 System Sidereal Time

Brother Emeric breathes deeply of the familiar smells, drawing comfort from the charred scent of metals being shaped, the acrid smell of caustic smoke as perfume to his augmented sensoria...

Brother Quintus' troubling words concerning the state of the Omega Vault... are foremost in the techmarine's mind as they make their way through the final security cordons.

Such rich scents! The tang of metals, the wholesome unguents, the venting gasses, the wax-laden casts. It is good to feel the grit of mold-sand beneath my boots. The holy sounds: the clang of metal on iron, the grate of the grind-wheel, the roar of the forge. Blessed is the wisdom of the Machine God. Ah, if the Emperor willed it I would spend a year here making and repairing His materiel.

Despite the soothing nature of the Foundry Level, I am worrisome. Although unable to statistically prove it through cogitations, there are strong indications that our Kill-Team is caught up in a nexus of events: the message of the Magos, the data-fax of Aurum, allegations against the Templars, xeno-contamination of the Shoulder of Stepatikos, obfuscation and accusations from Ordo Xenos. And now Brother Quinus informs us that the Vault may soon speak. I hope this is through the will of the Omnissiah. Give us a sign that we may do Your will and smite Your foe!

The Omega Vault wrote:
Brother Fellhand... hisses to you, "You would do well not to bring dishonor to me or yourselves in the presence of Iron Priest Greyweaver. Speak only truth, and show him the respect he is due, or there will be a reckoning."

"Fear not, Brother Fellhand, for these halls are sacrosanct and I gladly pay proper obeisance to the Forgemaster."


Hrothgar bears his fangs, "We have raised cups together, Fellhand. I will not bring dishonor to a drinking companion. My word upon it."


After rigorous training with Brother Sgt. Caledonii in the few moments of rest I am given, I decide to go look for what happened to the Karlack regiment.


Erioch System
Watch Fortress Erioch, Dormitorium Level 9, One of the Thousand Cells
246.817.M41
Hour 12 System Sidereal Time

Lyriel Vex wrote:


Rook I originally wrote the skill down as Forbidden Lore Adeptus Astartes. If that was too broad I can change it to Forbidden Lore Dark Angels which would make alot more sense.

No, you are correct, Bal it is Forbidden Lore: Adeptus Astartes. I actually have you with the skill and the specialty for the Dark Angels on your wiki PC sheet and am ruling that you possess the knowledge specific to your chapter, as well as the more 'general' Forbidden Lore.

Success on Forbidden Lore: Adeptus Astartes (Death Angel Chapter). Brother Vex notices clear indications from the markings that both the present occupant of the cell and the Dark Angels that have preceded him in occupancy here are privy to some of the greater secrets of your chapter.

"I wonder sometimes, Brother-Librarian, if it was always our chapter's way to speak so circuitously, treating with one another in riddles, half-truths, and yes, even outright lies. Is it the blood of our progenitor that has passed these traits down to us through the millenia, or is it the path we have taken since he was lost to us?"

Brother Bazzraef sighs deeply, rising to stand before you in the bleak cell, his presence dominating the small space like a sculpted statue of a morose saint. The Dark Angel apothecary looks immeasurably tired, his eyes drooping at the corners, his temples crinkled with graven crow's feet. The horrific line of an old blade wound crosses his forehead, from just above one ear to just above the other, making it seem as if he has been stigmatized with halo of scar tissue.

"It seems that those of us who stand the Long Vigil are perpetually at the mercy of some incipient prophecy, some nascent rumbling from the Omega Vault. The very stones we walk among breathe it out for those with the senses to hear it. I have known Librarians to have gone mad from the whispers. All the while the great clock ticks away."

He rubs at his head, taking a physical action to clear his mind of such melancholic musings.

"But, I ramble."

His eyes focus with a severe clarity for the first time since your conversation began, and you can sense by his bearing that you had best tread carefully when speaking of the lost Watch Captain, Brother Ramiel.

"You ask me of Brother Ramiel, what, specifically, do you wish to know?"


Dark Angel Librarian

"I can not say Brother. But erring in the side of caution has proven to be more of a boon to us than a detriment."

After a long pause.

"I need to know what Brother Ramiel's concerns were before he left for the mission to retake Watch Station Midael. What was left out of the Death Watch records regarding it and the Shoulder of Stepatokos.


Erioch System
Watch Fortress Erioch, Dormitorium Level 9, One of the Thousand Cells
246.817.M41
Hour 12 System Sidereal Time

For a moment, Brother Vex can psychically glimpse the surprise in the otherwise impassive Brother Bazzraef, swimming like a silver fish in dark waters, even as the older apothecary withholds any outward reaction. No, it is something other than pure surprise; perplexity almost, as if this was not the subject that he expected his fellow Dark Angel to broach with regard to Ramiel.

He recovers well enough, reacting almost as though he was given a reprieve from discussing far thornier topics.

"A ship, you say?"

"I tell you truly brother, that the Watch Captain's apprehensions regarding Midael most certainly did not revolve around a starship."

Brother Bazzraef then looks past Lyriel, into the gloaming of the dormitorium's silent corridor, with what can only be called a sly, almost mischievous expression creasing his cheeks, causing the great scar across his forehead to narrow in sinister fashion.

"It seems you are not the only member of our chapter seeking answers from me, Brother Vex. One of your own kill-team lurks nearby, queuing up behind you like another aspirant beseeching Bazzraef, the 'old hermit on the mountaintop', for his wise counsel."

The words of his analogy trail off with sarcastic, almost self-deprecating emphasis.

"I suspect Brother Syne, should he choose to reveal himself (Bazzraef utters the last with such voluble authority that there is no question that his fellow apothecary will overhear) comes calling with questions more in line with what I had expected from you."

His shout echoes down the stony closeness of the nearly vacant dormitorium wing.


Dark Angel Librarian

"Who is Midael?"

I turn toward the entryway as he changes the conversation toward Brother Syne waiting in the shadows.

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