Storm of Sinners

Game Master BayouSnowman

24 hours to finish whatever RP you may wish. Afterwards you'll be returned to the fortress and I'll post the AAR.

+++Understood my lord. We will tie up loose ends here, and will rendezvous with the convoy as they arrive.+++

Looking around at the devastation wrought by the rebels, Lucian can barely control the anger welling up inside him, anger at the worthless destruction and the deaths of loyal servants of the Imperium.

Calming himself with passages from the Codex Astartes, Lucian sees the stormtroopers entering the bunker on Zedkiel's orders.

Castil, supervise the retrieval of the prisoner. I don't want any surprises.

Before the convoy arrives, Lucian makes time to talk to each of his Brothers individually, thanking them for their service and courage.

Zedkiel hands over the prisoner to Castil, and gives instructions on handling the fragile mortal.

After receiving Vartas's thanks, Zedkiel responds, "Your leadership was without fault. It is no easy task to bring together brothers of different fathers, and you succeeded."

As the Leman Russ finally gives in Elyas relents in his efforts and surveys his surroundings. Sword in hand he moves to the squad leader's side ready to press on. Just above the sound of the dying battle the ancient battle chants of the Dark Angels can be heard.

Castil does as ordered and sees to the prisoner. Now that he is able to focus on tasks and not worry about staying alive he considers the woman and the implications of her further while he awaits transport.

At the Watch Fortress

Once again you have all been reunited in the Watch Fortress's command room. Obviously Captain Enoch is present but there are others in attendance as well: Brother Nalci, Sister Vesta, Lady Rathbone, Lord Inquisitor Gathrix, Colonel Folken, and Inquisitor Van Vuygens among others. You are all called to attention when the Watch Captain speaks:

"Firstly, I would want you all to understand just how commendable your performance was. We arrived to Scintilla with a battered warship, limited supplies, and only a handful of marines; many of whom served their first mission in the Deathwatch today. Within 48 hours of our arrival the rebellion in Gun Metal City, which had lasted over a month, was brought to an immediate end. Not only that: the rebel force was left completely broken: their leadership lies dead, their religious leader is in our captivity, and any survivors have been scattered to the winds."

"Needless to say I am impressed, as is the Cabal on a whole. However, one of your rank has shown exceptional ability well beyond the norm. That is why I, along with those assembled here, have seen fit to award Brother Vartas with this: the Iron Skull of the Deathwatch." and as he says this a pair of serfs cross the room bearing a box with the badge to the Ultramarine. The Honor itself is a simple dull grey roughly the size of an Astartes' fist. The Captain continues to speak, this time to Brother Vartas directly:

"Your ability to command the kill-team truly shone today. Despite what could only be described as an unusual situation you were able to lead your Brothers with absolute precision. As a result the Deathwatch has seen fit to recognize your ability to lead. Congratulations."

And with that he gives the sign of the Aquila, signifying that the impromptu ceremony has come to an end.

This is my last official "rules" act as GM. Feel free to continue RPing while we facilitate the transition over to the next GM.

Castil walks over to Vartas after the ceremony and congratulates him on a job well done. It was an honor serving under your command.as he salutes the Ultramarine by standing at attention and placing his bionic left hand over his heart. Afterwards, he shares words with his brothers and celebrates the victory and honor to Vartas with everyone there.

Great job Spooks, thanks for the great mission and being a fine GM example for my first PBP experience.

Remaining silent throughout the ceremony, Lucian salutes the Watch Captain in the Ultramarine style, slamming his right fist into his breastplate. He receives the small wooden box with pride as the Captain makes the sign of the Aquila, and then turns away.

Many thanks Castil, your actions today reflect well on your Chapter. I am pleased to be able to call you Brother.

Thanks Spooks, it's been great. Hope to see you back as a player.

Brother Hammern stands with a more respectful posture than usual as Brother Vartas receives his accolade; such things are of no little import.

Afterwards he joins in the victory celebration in a somber version of the typical Space Wolf style, which is to say less loud, less boastful, and much less talkative overall, but by no means taciturn or withdrawn. He is amongst fellow Marines, after all.

Zedkiel is on attention through the ceremony, and ends with a formal salute to his Brother-Commander and the Watch Captain. He is visibly uncomfortable afterwards, and when the librarian comes to speak to him, he glares at Castil and walks away without a word, seeking the Reclusiarch.

Thank you Spooks, it was fun.

Elyas remains stoic as the ceremony concludes. He gives a single nod to Brother Vartas when he catches the ultramarine's eye before leaving the group to seek solace in his chamber. His lips curl in disdain as he sees the newest brother a son of Russ.

Brother Zedkiel makes his way to the Reclusiarch, seeking spiritual guidance.

The Chaplain hears your confession in patient silence. When you have finished he offers a satisfied chuckle in return for your troubles. Normally you would take this as an insult but you know better than to question the motives of your superiors, let alone the Master of Sanctity himself.

"I must admit that I am impressed Templar, you seem to be quite knowledgeable and for that I commend you."

"It is like you say: the power of a psyker is a double edged sword. Their very nature exposes them to the absolute worst of mankinds greatest enemies, on the other hand without their powers we would be little better than mewling babes. Perhaps the Emperor, in his infinite wisdom, seeks to test the mettle of our spirits."

"But what is the mettle of a hero? It is true, the Grey Knights are among the greatest of the Astartes. Then why are not you and I among their ranks? The answer is simple: we are not worthy. Our call to service has come in a different form altogether. Do you think that I do not yearn to take the battlefield once again, like I did in years long past? Do you think me weak for not doing so? The truth is that the Emperor has brought me to serve him here, in this capacity. The same is true for our Brothers in the Librarium. Their talent was not sufficient for them to enter the ranks of the Knights, nor was it so without potential that they would return it to Him."

"Regardless, I have read the reports on=f your teams mission into the city and I agree that it was quite harrowing. You fought admirably Brother Zedkiel. You were exposed to the horrors of the warp however, though you appear no worse for it. Still, three days spent fasting that you may cleanse your spirit would do you well. I also suggest that you spend time in reflection of the Codex and what it teaches us of duty."

On returning to the Pious Immolation, Lucian returns to his quarters. Sanctifying his wargear, ritually cleansing his body and centring his mind allow Lucian to reflect on his actions during the recent mission. He spends the first few days in quiet solitude, studying the Codex Astartes and connecting it's teachings to his experiences, trying to better himself.

Emerging from his quarters following his self-imposed isolation, Lucian visits the ship's armoury, looking for the ranking Techmarine or Brother Invictus. Following some accuracy issues with his Mark IVc heavy bolter, he brings his weapon for review.

Love the above. If anyone feels like they love writing and would like to write for an NPC sometime, one like the above obviously, not making decisions or really affecting the game, you know. Then feel free at my open invitation. Could be permanent, Spooks could keep playing Nalci for example. If somone else wanted to write a reply as a Techmarine at the armory, then feel free, just give me a heads up. I'm currently working on the post for mission.

Your return to the Fortress was uneventful and mostly relaxing for most. While some filled their time in repentance, others spent it in preparation for the next mission. A message arrives sooner than you thought, summoning you to the command room. This is unexpected as you had been promised a longer leave and were not expecting to be summoned for some time. It must be urgent and when you arrive at the command center, those awaiting you reveal its is no ordinary meeting.

Welcome to the game, more to follow soon. New players feel free to intro yourself here. I plan to layout some information, assign req. points, give time for choosing equip, leader, oath, etc.

Brother Zedkiel's faith in himself and the Emperor's light hardened his spirit and mental resolve. His fasting and self reflection provide him a +10 WP bonus on his next encounter with a Psyker. It last for the duration of the scene.

Brother Vartas ventures to the Armory to have his weapon reviewed. While he normally would be attended to by Techmarines and apprentices, he happens to cross Forgemaster Korbin of the Raven Guard. Korbin notices Vartas enter the Armory and approaches him, much to the dismay of those around him. While normally not much for small talk, he interupts his work to personally attend to the Ultramarine.

Greetings Brother. I am personally seeing that your Iron Skull is attached to your Armor, it is an honorable occasion and demands a master's touch. He then looks at the heavy bolter and says "Give that to me, I will make sure its aligned and cleaned properly, it's machine spirits should rejoice in the honor of its bearer... As for the storm bolters that your squad returned, it will take some time, one of the twin link connector is damaged beyond repair, but I shall have them both reforged into an Astartes Storm Bolter. Unfortunately that will have to wait and will not be available for some time. When it is, your squad shall recieve priority use of it in the field.

Please continue to bring back any technology of interest or use you might find on your missions, we are always looking to expand our armory.

After this mission, an Exceptional Astartes Storm-Bolter will be made available to the squad for any mission at 0 req.

Is there anything else I can assist you with marine? he says, ready to get back to his task but respectful enough to not be too dismissive, despite his higher rank.

Having his wargear attended to be the Forgemaster is a great honour, and Lucian nods respectfully at his words.

My thanks for your assistance Forgemaster. The machine spirits of my heavy bolter seemed to react unfavourably towards the recent addition of a motion predictor as part of the targeting routines. I would appreciate anything you could do to sooth them, and allow me to benefit from their guidance when bringing the Emperor's justice to those who deserve it.

Lucian thanks Korbin for his diligence, salutes, and leaves the armoury.

Some time later, Lucian's wargear is returned to his arming chamber - the Forgemaster has affixed his second Iron Skull alongside the first, and the whole suit of armour is polished to a gleam, all trace of battle damage gone. The heavy bolter rests in it's cradle, similarly polished and with the small housing of the motion predictor bound to the housing.

A vox transmission stirs Lucian from his studies of the Codex Astartes. Dressed in his plain black robes, with the symbol of the Ultramarines embroidered on the chest in silver thread, he makes his way to the ship's command centre as ordered.

Zedkiel spends much time after his period of fasting and reflection in training and poring through the lore collated by the Deathwatch. When the call to battle arrives, he answers and heads to the command center.

Reporting in

Reporting in

Hallan was already in the command center when his summons came. Having been relegated to secondary duties during the assault on the manufactorum he was eager to join the kill-team in the field once more. He greets each member as they arrive though he is somewhat surprised by the number of unfamiliar faces.

Arrivng at the command centre, Lucian is pleased to see Hallan awaiting the briefing. His familiar face is reassuring, and Lucian greets him warmly, extending his hand.

Good to see you again Brother. You missed some significant action in Gunmetal City, I hope the Watch Captain has kept you appropriately engaged.

"It would seem so given your commendation, congratulations by the by. As for myself: I was stationed as a guard for the crew that recovered the Thunderhawk and extracted your prisoners from the crossroads. It is a shame to hear of what the civilians were subjected to."

Reporting in

Walking into the command center, Sumantra looks about at the others already arriving. 'This will be interesting,' he thought to himself as he noted the various heraldries. A Black Templar, a Lamenter, and an Ultramarine. "Greetings," he said, looking over at Vartas and Hallan. "Congratulations on earning another honor Ultramarine. I apologize if I appear rude, but I do not think we have met. My name is Ikwa Sumantra, late of the Void Wyrms. I only arrived a short while ago, but have heard some things about what has occurred lately. I hope that we can all work together well..."

"Hail and well met Brother Sumantra. I am Lutha Hallan of the Lamenters."

"Forgive my forwardness, but just what have you heard?"

My thanks Hallan. Did you happen to meet up with Brother Leuce during your mission? He piloted our Thunderhawk, and was a valued member of the Kill-team following our unexpected landing near the crossroads.

The arrival of a new face in the command centre does not peturb Lucian, as the number of new Battle-Brothers seems to swell almost daily.

Greetings Brother Sumantra. I am Lucian Vartas, Ultramarine. I confess I know little of the Void Wyrms, would you tell me of your Chapter?

My thanks Hallan. Did you happen to meet up with Brother Leuce during your mission? He piloted our Thunderhawk, and was a valued member of the Kill-team following our unexpected landing near the crossroads.

"Temporarily, though he seemed concerned with the state of 'his' Thunderhawk above all else. Even when we made a detour to recover one of the brother-pilots that had bailed out before the crash he remained behind to continue pestering the tech-priests."

That does sound like Leuce, I think he may have an unhealthy attachment to that Thunderhawk. Good pilot though, got us down despite a high volume of anti-air fire.

"I've heard that the locals have been stirred like a slime-knewt's nest and that they've been somewhat of a nuisance, yet except for a few psyker problems haven't been too much of a challenge to you yet," Sumantra said with a small smile. "As for my chapter, we are not as old as some, but have managed to carve our own legacy thus far. We are based within the same Segmentum as your own Brother Vartas, though far to the galactic south-east. Our homeworld of Cavarrus is not the kindest or perhaps even the most civilized of worlds, but it's done as well... Was there anything in particular you wished to enquire about?"

I thought I recognised the name, replies Lucian, but I know little of your combat doctrine. I see you bear the prime helix of the Apothecarion, but I like to know what to expect from my Brothers when the bolt rounds start flying. How do the Void Wyrms fight?

He chuckled. "The Void Wyrms are tunnel fighters at our heart, popping into the enemy's midst from below only to strike where they least expect it. Close quarters combat and overwhelming short range firepower are our specialties there. In my own case, I work best up close, and use my chapter's knowledge of toxins and chymistry to find a means around any opponents' so-called strengths," Sumantra explained. "That does not mean we're not capable of fighting the old-fashioned way, but we have found it to be the most suitable to us."

Arkhos spends most of his time in the gymnasium and researching ways to kill daemons and other foes they have currently encountered. "Glory escapes yet, but not for long" as he continues to focus himself in perfecting his skills with his axe as a proper executioner would.

Reporting in

After the return to the Watch Fortress and the commendation ceremony there, Ulrich spends several days studying in the Fortress library, brushing up on several topics that a member of the Deathwatch should know. The lore and special markings of the agencies with whom he will be working, for example.

Having found his knowledge of the machine spirits to be lacking, he spends some time with the techmarines and tech priests in the Fortress.

But mostly he is to be found on the firing range where his skill with a bolter is made very apparent. His practice hones his already formidable raw talent and skill to a razor edge.

When the call comes, he arms himself and reports to the command center ready for whatever may come. He nods in respect to the Watch Captain in the less formal manner of his chapter, and moves to stand near Brother Arkhos; the only one there he knows more than just in passing, "Greetings, Brother Arkhos. I trust you are well?"

Reporting in.

That sounds like an unusual fighting style, but could well be complementary to the Kill-Team. I look forward to seeing your toxins in action, Brother. I have little experience in that area, but I know that my esteemed Ultramarine brothers who are veterans of battles against the Hive Fleets have developed a range of very effective toxins which are crippling against many forms of xenos.

"I find myself lacking and wanting brother, other than that I am well" sitting to rest for a moment How are you faring brother?

Ulrich grunts softly in reply, "As well as can be expected, I suppose. Just making use of the facilities here while I wait for something to happen. But it seems something is afoot now, so things are looking up. Perhaps I will get to bring the Emperor's wisdom to some deserving beings." His smile is entirely predatory, heightened by his elongated teeth.

"So I have heard. It is refreshing to meet another Astartes that does not shirk or scoff at the use of such things. I have met others who sadly did not see eye to eye about them. Honorable combat has its place, but sometimes duty demands," Sumantra responded.

The emergency meeting had been called and as the brothers idlly chatted and awaited for it to begin, the room quickly quieted and everyone came to attention and stood as the doors opened and Anton Zerbe, Lord Inquisitor of the Ordo Hereticus stepped through into the command room. Perhaps more surprising than seeing the Lord Inquisitor himself, was the abscense of his unique golden mask. Instead, a tired and worried look had worn his face and seemed more distant than usual.

Let us skip the formalities gentleman. I know each and every one of you and I know what I say in this room shall not leave. He takes a seat and then looks up to everyone Daemonhunter Ahmazzi has gone missing. He was investigating a theory and believed he had accurately determined how to predict the appearance of a stellar anomaly ….He was right unfortunately….and now his curiosity has gotten the best of him and more.

He then motions and keys in some data and in the center of the command room a large holographic image of an unknown system appears. Everything appears to be normal except there is a large black sun that has appeared covering one of the suns in the system.This isn’t the first appearance of such an anomaly, what makes this one unique is that it is still there. pausing a moment to let that sink in. Typically these appearances are separated and few have been observed. Officially the information and details have been suppressed by my office and shall remain so……This however is not so easy to do with this most recent appearance….

You have been asked here because we have lost contact with Daemonhunter Ahmazzi and his ship. He was accompanied by a team of specialists from our order and the Adaptus Mechanicus. Our present intel still shows effects of the anomoly are still present and we are dispatching you to reach the system and learn the whereabouts of my Inquisitor and his teams. If this anomaly should still be present, you may investigate as needed, I am assigning one of our fastest ships and best pilots. Your team will have operational command once in the system and the ship will provide whatever support you need to recover Ahmazzi and gather intel on the phenomena should it still be present when you arrive.

I do not sense a Psyker among you turning to the Watch Captain. Apologies my lord, their squad’s replacement Librarian should have been here, I will personally see that he learns some punctuality. says the Watch Captain, looking displeased at being called out in front of everyone.

Inquisitor Zerbe then looks back to the assembled team. Your squad has been assigned based on your proven success and ability to adapt to situations on the field. I trust you will make the right decisions and understand that while I deeply care for all of my Inquisitors, I love mankind and wish to protect it first. Should force be necessary to bring him back , know you have my full support and that of my office. As we do not know what has happened and do not have any other means of contact in the system, you should be prepared for anything. I need information now and can’t advise our forces unless I know what threat exists.

Precisly my lord, says Inquisitor Van Vuygans, in an older and tired voice, which is why I believe I should be going with them. We do not know what we are dealing with and if this anomoly has a xenos origin, there is no one better equipped to understand it than me.

Inquisitor Zerbe thinks just a second before replying to the suggestion, Old friend, I do not think the place for you is there, not until we know what has come of our colleague and these gentleman can establish what risk, xenos or otherwise, we are dealing with…There will be no further discussion on the matterhe says with a scornful look, not a man accustomed to repeating himself.

100 requisition for each kill team member, just throwing this out now, I know how long it takes to get stuff together, just kicking the mission discussion off now, given those of you who need more time a few days to prep.

Brother Hallan listens in attentitive silence. When he finally speaks up he jumps straight to the point, there was no apparent need for frivolity after all

"How long will the trip be and where are we heading exactly? Hopefully if the radius of the anomaly is limited we will only have to search a small area for the Daemonhunters ship. When was the last time we made contact with his vessel?" he says while looking over the data before him.

Arkhos grins "The Wolf and the Hunter, may yet stalk a glorious prey yet brother" as he resumes his strict training regimen. "Glory is what I seek, and I will not be denied"

The training interrupted by an emergency meeting "Brother, we may have found ourselves something worthy to hunt" as he readies himself to attend the summons.

Arkhos is shamed with the Captain as he is the Leader of the team and it also fall upon his shoulders to have noted such absence. "I was absorbed by my training, I must be more diligent"

Once the brief meeting ends, he salutes all his brothers present "Greetings brothers"

Standing quietly with his brothers during the briefing, questions come into Lucian's mind. Once the Inquisitor has finished, Hallan speaks up first, and Lucian quickly follows with more queries.

My lord, I apologise for barraging you with questions, but I have some concerns. What is known of these anomalies? Why has this one remained in place? he asks. Are further details of the Daemonhunter's mission available at this time? Was he due to land on a planet in system, or observe from his vessel?

Zedkiel was silent during the gathering, though he was pleased to see among his brothers a fellow apothecary to help him tend to the squad.

During the briefing, he waits for a chance to speak, and asks, "What can you tell us of the system? Is it inhabited? What history does it have of pirate or xenos activity?"

Inquisitor Zerbe turns to Brother Hallen and replies:

That will depend on your navigator and the warp, but it shouldn’t take more than 2 weeks. It is quite far and isolated. The anomaly has made communications impossible, or atleast that’s what the Magos say, but they could be holding back information, I don’t trust them, so keep an eye on their activities in the system if you can and report back any findings to me personally. Upon entering the system we lost contact with them, we have recieved no message or reply from our Telepaths which is saying much given the resources of their order.

Facing Lucien to begin replying, then turning and looking around the room to make eye contact with each marine, he explains what little he can:

I am not overly concerned by the anomaly itself, they have appeared throughout the millennia but this will be the first report, that I’m aware of, that details a lingering of the anomaly. What troubles me is how Ahmazzi was able to predict its occurance and if its coincidence that its now still present. The system has a single outpost that has been offline for a century. Otherwise there are a few worlds, but none that support human life. I will make sure more detailed information is provided regarding the system by the time you are on route. I see no reason they would make planetfall, they outpost would certainly be less equipped than their ship, so I would focus on locating the ship first. Approach cautiously, we have little actual data recorded of these anomalies, mostly just suppressed reports over the centuries by my office and predecessors.

Lastly, he finishes up and looks to Zedkiel last.

There have been a few reports of Eldar in the area, seems to keep the pirates away I'd say. he says with a chuckle, ... But honestly its not the most important place and we know little more that could aid you. The system is on the fringes of known space, established at the tail end of an exploratory fleet years ago, but otherwise of little importance to the Imperium.
I trust you men can handle the rest. The Ovidius Gladius should arrive by tomorrow and I expect you to depart then.

"How many planets or moons are inhabited in the system, and how heavily occupied and developed are they?"

Sumantra's eyes narrowed at the report of Eldar. "A psychic anomaly in an area with xenos witches? How often do these reports of Eldar come about? At similar times as the anomaly, or does it seem more random than that?"

Inquisitor Zerbe connects a dataslate and information regarding the system immediately appears:

Stellar body classified as Umber–III (corpse-star)

Last auguries negative for life-signs or hostile presence within system.

Then he turns his attention back to Zedkiel and Sumantra.

I have read every available report and detail, few mentions of Eldar sightings in this system and around it, mostly rumored and unsubstantiated, nothing significant to warrant much attention as the outpost was abandoned and the system essentially “dead.”

Scrutiny -40 Test allowed for those asking questions.

The Void Wyrm clenched his hand around the ceramite cube containing the fungal spore on his belt, feeling its vibration against the thinner plating of his gauntlet. The hairs on the back of his neck raised themselves in response. Was it because of the Inquisitor? Was he himself a psyker? From what he'd heard it wouldn't be the first time an Inquisitor was capable of it, but... Something was up...

Can't succeed at that test without the training... damn.. Note to self, get at least basic scrutiny.

Scrutiny 55-40: 1d100 ⇒ 15

Lucian's training allows him to concentrate on the Inquisitor's words and mannerisms at the same time, looking for hidden meaning in the briefing, for what the Inquisitor isn't saying just as much as what he is.

@Everyone:
If its something I don't think you'll mind sharing, I'll do spoilers, if I think you might want to keep it to yourself, at least at first, then I'll PM. If you prefer differently, say so in discussion. Otherwise, you do the same, if you don't mind others knowing, post here in a spoiler something you want to do that you don't want known or seen by your marine brothers. You can PM if you like too.

Sometimes I'll give you a roll to make, but I'd rather you try first, I'm not going to always give things like "search, awareness, scrutiny or lore tests." I expect you to be aware and say what you'd like to do and learn about. There might be a pile of cool stuff under the bed, but unless you "Search" or actually look there, then its gonna stay there. Maybe your marine has some useful knowledge...ask me.

To use your example, would you prefer us to say, "I check under the bed," or "I check under the bed. Search check: dice"? The former seems more natural to me, but I would like to do what works best for you."

I can't help but feel that something is being kept from us, thinks Lucian during the briefing. His rigid adherence to the ways of his Chapter however, prevent him from bringing this up with the Inquisitor - he would rather face any unexpected challenges during the mission than dishonour himself and his Chapter with insubordination.