Pyros enters the meeting his armour polished to a blinding shine. His ever present hammer rests on his back, almost unrecognisable due to the added decorations and other parts. Upon his face, 2 new brands are visible, already well healed. He walks with more purpose and with his back even straighter, the recent meeting with such an honoured member of his chapter seeming to have settled his soul. Stepping up to stand with his brothers, he acknowledges the Inquisitor and studies the hologram intently.
success
2dos
Xing enters the meeting in his armor, helmet to his side before he sits. After some simple exchanges with his squad he remain quiet and looks exhausted. After seeing the ship Xing considers what he knows and tries to recall any useful knowledge but fails to remember.
Archeotech INT 50 vs (talent reroll)
Both fail
Indeed Chaplain Deleos the Inquisitor responds before continuing his introduction of the ship. While not all of the technology aboard is not completely understood, we know how to utilize it well. The Archeotech is truly astounding to behold, perhaps dating to the Dark Ages of humanity...The ship is built to be flexible and respond to almost any threat, all while looking like a sheep in wolves clothing. He then moves onto introducing you to the defensive and offensive abilities and components. The ability to be quiet, while be equipped with superb auspex and jammers. He explains this is a special ship and its existence and true potential must be closely guarded.
Perhaps the most important part of the ship is the advanced energy matrix. With its energy surplus it will allow you to reroute power to varying systems to increase their potential and power. This could be more speed, firepower, hull strength or other options. Your Techmarine will have much to familiarize himself with once aboard, same goes for the rest of you if you wish to contribute from the bridge of the vessel. As for weapons, while we do not fully understand the shard cannons, they consume no power and need no space for munitions, leaving significant space to be utilized. The "Dark Tide" is also very fast through the warp, having been given the latest warp engine technology. Some of her components were pulled from other ships, including her void shields and a questionable device we recovered from the Dark Mechanicus that creates a holographic projection of your ship, or another, using your shield array system, as you can guess, these projections confuse sensors and auxpex, not just the naked eye. With a large servitor crew and the recycling abilities of Space Marine suits, not much space is devoted to supplies.
He then answers any questions the marines may have regarding the ship before moving onto the mission briefing:
Inquisitor Ramseus has failed to report in, which is not all that unusual given her line of work and the authority at her discretion. Her last known position puts her near this location as he calls up another hologram showing a system, which looks relatively empty and the names have been purposely left out. The location of the rendezvous is on an ancient watch station, which she was reportedly last at. Once their, you will be under her command and the "Dark Tide" shall serve as her temporary flagship. Until she assumes mission command of the forces, Keeper Vartas will be named Captain of this DeathWatch vessel. We have assembled nearly a thousand marines with particular backgrounds and unique understanding of the Necron threat. Those men will be under the command of Brother Pyros and Wolf Priest Hammern shall be second in command. Pyros'unique past and extensive combat experience will serve him well as commander of the DeathWatch ground forces. If Brother Deleos feels up to the task, he may assume command of the Air Forces aboard the ship, in addition to his normal duties as Chaplain of the Ship, keeper of the Ancient shrines within. Brother Varryl will be consumed I'm sure by the demands of the ship and shifting resources and servitors when necessary, you are to be First Officer aboard the ship. Brother Xing will be in charge of the Telepathic Choir and the Librarians travelling with you, in addition to some other Psykers from various Orders within the Inquisition. Brother Tyreon shall be Chief Science and Medical officer while aboard. He then briefly introduces orally a number of other officers aboard the ship, not all marines, some highly capable and trusted individuals.
Lucian stands before the hololith with his brothers, his new clavis shining brightly on his forearm. He studies the image for some time before deferring to his more knowledgeable comrades.
"I do not have the expertise to fully assess this vessel's capabilities," he states, "but I would appreciate a thorough briefing and review of the Dark Tide as soon as practicable. I am keen to learn what I can before we embark upon our next mission."
You all will board the Pious Immolation and assume temporary command and intensive training while on your 6 to 8 month route to the Warp gate. It should be sufficient time to bring yourself up to speed on the necessary skills and theory of your roles
There you will board the Dark Tide and make your way to the watch station.
"Lord Inquisitor, I think I speak for us all in saying that we are honoured to be trusted with such a magnificent ship and I personally am looking forward to meeting the brothers and other servants of the Emperor. Having worked with Inquisitor Ramseus in the past, I think it perhaps puts me in the best position to ask these questions. How long would you have us wait at the rendevous and would you have us investigate if she doesn't appear? Do we have any idea what she was working on and therefore what threats we might expect? Obviously I do not expect a full answer to the last, but anything you might give us could be useful if we have to investigate."
5dos
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They are often found in a small briefing room near Asger’s chambers, a briefing room that before long looks more like the den of a war chieftain of Fenris than a briefing room. The furs of huge wolves and other beasts a draped over chairs and benches, tankards of the near-legendary Fenrisian Ale stand on the central table beside the Space Wolves’ meal. Ulrich shares his stories with the Wolf Priest, and in return he is given the less common tales of his own folk.
There is time spent in the Apothecarium where, despite his lack of training, Ulrich is tolerated and even taught the basics of the Apothecary’s art under the watchful eye of Asger Longspear. Other lessons in medicine are conducted in the training complex deep in the Watch Station where Asger shows Ulrich the mysteries of the Fenrisian healing arts.
Throughout it all, Ulrich’s Kill-Team members are never turned aside if they put in an appearance. Though certain Chapter secrets are, of course, never shared around outsiders no matter their honor or camaraderie with a Space Wolf, the others do have a chance to hear some things about the Space Wolves that are rarely spoken of except among the Rout alone. In turn, Asger inquires of the stories of their Chapters and their own stories. Those willing to unbend far enough are welcome to the Mjød, the Fenrisian Ale that is the only alcohol strong enough to affect a Space Marine.
After a few short weeks, Lori is released and is thereafter never apart from Ulrich. Ulrich is once again reminded of the lack he had come to ignore. He had forgotten how great a comfort having the strangely intelligent wolves nearby could be.
As the weeks go by, Ulrich begins to wonder at the near constant company of a Wolf Priest. What has he done to earn such honor?
Ten weeks have passed like this; stories, fighting, feasting, drinking, and long-wanted camaraderie. At the end of a long day spent in the archives with Asger Longspear learning what the Watch Station has to offer about the others of the Kill-Team, for Asger would not neglect his instruction in caring for the well-being of Ulrich's squad, Ulrich finds a figure in a rough, hooded robe standing beside his cell door. Given the size of the figure, it can only be a Space Marine not wearing his power armor. Recognizing the brown, woolen robe the other wears, Ulrich nods to the other Marine and enters his cell. There he removes his own battle plate, taking care to observe the proper rites, and dons the brown, hooded robe he finds waiting for him.
When he re-emerges, now clad as the figure outside his cell had been, he finds four such figures. One speaks in the rough Low Gothic of Fenris, ”Come Brother, you are wanted. Your knowledge of our ways shall be tested.” As he follows the other four, he wonders at the emptiness of the corridors; though not busy by any definition of the word, they are usually not this deserted. The four take Ulrich to a door he has never had cause to enter. ”They await you inside, Brother,” the spokesman of the four informs Ulrich.
When he steps inside, Ulrich wonders if he has not just stepped across all space into the Aett, the home of the Space Wolves on Fenris. The smoke of a wood fire scents the air, and the dimly lit chamber looks to have been hewn out of living rock. He is not alone; seven others dressed in the same robe he wears are also here in the room. Though he recognizes Brother Asger’s voice, the hooded robes require the pretense of anonymity, so he does not greet the aged Wolf Priest by name. He spends hours speaking with the other Space Wolves, telling his stories, hearing theirs, sharing Mjød and meat, and being subtly questioned in all the traditions and secrets of the Wolf Priests. Though Ulrich does not know it, here are all seven of the Wolf Priests currently serving in the Deathwatch Guard. After 47 hours of the most subtle questioning and testing, the seven Wolf Priests silently nod to each other.
Asger stands and slips the hood from his head. One by one, the other six likewise bare their heads. Asger grins at Ulrich where he still sits by the fire, ”Come, pup! You are one of us. There can be no longer any doubt. You shall stand watch over the past and the future of the Vlka Fenryka as have we for centuries. Never before has a Wolf been gifted the Fang of Morkai while serving the Deathwatch Guard, but you, Ulrich Hammern, are a Wolf Priest! Come!”
Asger and the others surround Ulrich, all solemnity gone, now is only the time of celebration. They lead him to a dark alcove where, as the lights in the alcove slowly brighten, Ulrich sees his own power armor has been changed, repainted as the armor of a wolf priest. A new helm sits atop the armor, the fashioned to incorporate the bare skull of a massive wolf. A new weapon is racked beside the armor, the Crozius Arcanum, borne by all those who safeguard the souls and fighting spirits of the Adeptus Astartes.
Rendered speechless by the honor and duty being given him, Ulrich can only cooperate wordlessly as the seven Wolf Priests arm their newest brother with the sacred tools they alone bear.
After three more days of celebration, stories, and feasting, during which all the Space Wolves currently on the Watch Station find an excuse to come tip a tankard in honor of their newest Wolf Priest, all of the seven save Asger depart one by one with a few words of advice and warning.
Finally, only Ulrich and Asger remain in the Wolf Hall of Watch Station Erioch. ”You will do well, pup. Though pup you are no longer, to me you shall always be. Though you may not be surrounded by the Rout, you carry our honor and our trust. Guard them well. Guard your Battle Brothers well. Teach them and show them what it means to be one of the Vlka Fenryka. I must take my leave of you, Ulrich, but I leave the Watch in capable hands.” Ulrich salutes with fist to hearts, ”You honor me Brother. I bid you a speedy and safe return to Fenris. Tell them there that the Rout stands strong against the enemies of man in the Reach!”
With no further words, the two clasp their forearms and, after a moment, go their separate ways as they leave Wolf Hall.
Ulrich approaches his brothers armed and armored differently than last they saw. His armor has been entirely repaired, every blemish removed, every embellishment carefully re-worked. Gone are the traditional colors of a Son of Russ; this armor is entirely black. A helm fashioned to look like the skull of a massive wolf is held in the crook of one arm. He still wears the massive wolf pelt on his shoulders and down his back, and though his power sword still hangs by his side, so too does the symbol of a chaplain: the Crozius Arcanum.
As he reaches their sides, he takes note of the changes in the others as well; the Clavis attached to Vartas' arm, the new weapons borne by Deleos and Pyros, the restored wargear of Tyreon, and the subtle differences in Xing and Varryl. He meets the eyes of each of his Pack, and a smile spreads on his face, "Greetings, brothers! It is good to be together again! Let us bring the Light of the Allfather to the dark places in the Reach."
***
During the briefing, Ulrich watches the others, and greets each of the new crew named with a nod. When he is named as second in command of a force of a thousand Marines, he simply blinks for a moment before nodding to the Inquisitor. When he looks at the assignments and sees that he is to the Master at Arms for the ship, his face hardens in determination.
Ulrich turns to the Inquisitor, "Inquisitor Zerbe, Brother V'estian does indeed speak well when he says we are honored by this trust. The Dark Tide is a magnificent vessel. With it and the forces you are placing under our command, we will teach these machine creatures to fear the might of the Emperor."
Wait at the rendezvous for the "Dark Tide" until it arrives. Once there, you make haste for the Watch Station and find Inquisitor Ramseus. Our last contact has been brief and difficult to decipher given the distances, but she had been investigating the Necron threat for sometime now. She to believed she had found a planet that falls within the "Dark Pattern" and could be connected to the now more clearly understood "Hollow Sun." After being updated with your mission reports, the last contact was for reinforcements and this ship. I do not believe she intended to leave without you, if by chance she is not there, then you are to locate her unless there are standing orders when you arrive to contradict... As for my trust in turning over this ship to your command, you have all earned it. Your judgement and resolve have raised you above your peers. Most of our assets and attention is focused with the Navy and other military objectives that we have kept our involvement with the Necron secret and contained, not wanting to alert them fully to our presence and capabilities, as well as keeping the majority of our forces focused on the most imminent threats in the region, mainly Chaos and the Tyranid. You will be mostly on your own out there, at least for the time being. Officially, you will all be under orders from the Ordos Xenos and that will grant you much discretion and leeway in your travels. Just be mindful of your purpose and controlling the flow of information. It is of the utmost importance.
Brother Varryl attends the meeting fully clad in his Artificer Armor, his helmet concealing his countenance from the rest of the squad. Outwardly he appears as he did when the squad last convened however he finds himself distracted by the disorganization of the Magos' scrambled thoughts. Dozens of reviews of the Rite brought on the conclusion that the madness was a side effect of the union between an Astartes and an inferior mind. He still managed, with some difficulty, to extract partial memories from the Magos. Perhaps given time he can recover the skills the Inquisition so desperately desired to retain.
The 'noise' pulls his attention from the briefing moments at a time though a few of the modifications stand out to him.
"This ship borrows heavily from Xenos...influences and...the inclusion of an Arch-Heretek's creation...can only invite disaster. The risk to the ship...s Machine Spirits will be great. The se...rvitor crew is an even greater liability. If...I am to maintain this vessel I need a...dditional support I am familiar with...so that I...can detect even the most minor signs of corruption. I re...quest the two techpriests who accom...panied us from the Marble be placed under my...command."
v 80 = 7 DoS
v 70 = 0 DoS
v 70 = 0 DoF
v 70 = 1 DoS
v 70 = 1 DoF
Brother Varryl is familiar with some of thel xenos components and has worked with past examples in the past. It will be easier for him to handle and manage the systems. He even sees other xenos influence in the standard imperial STCs, as though there has been some innovation and wonders if Mars is fully aware of all the components and the design changes. The ship is truly remarkable, taking advantage of some advanced technology. Most perplexing is the Projection Field, it seems much like a "Ghost Field" from the Eldar, but somehow intertwinned with the ship's shield array, this is beyond even your imagining and are most interested in learning more of origin and potential.
Varryl is quickly directed to a crew manifest upon his request, all ready seeing a number of tech-priest and Magos specializing in a variety of fields assigned to the mission, as well as other Tech-marines from the Deathwatch. He finds the names he's looking for and is satisfied with the help he'll have.
Inquisitor Zerbe continues if there are no further questions or concerns:
That is all I have for now. The Pios Immolation is being loaded as we speak, I suggest you men take a bit more than necessary, it may be a while before you return and we are not entirely sure what you will encounter. Extra munitions and supplies will be available, but if there is something you must have, you should requisition from our Fortress Armory before departing. Lastly, you will be joined by a truly ancient warrior, Brother Pardis will be awakened and given a Dreadnought armor, his past experience and knowledge will prove invaluable to you on your mission. With no more to say he dismisses you all and gives you 12 hours until departure.
That name ... Sounds familiar... Right it's...
Just how much are they withholding about these Necrons...
1dos
"Very well, Lord Inquisitor. I personally look forward to seeing the Inquisitor again and will be interested to meet Brother Pardis. I will go now and pack my tools."
With no clue of who Brother Pardis might be, Ulrich is nonetheless honored to be accompanied by a dreadnought. His memory of the Ancients at the Fang is one of awe for the living history they represent.
Lucian does not recognise the name Pardis, but is eager to learn from a venerable Brother of the Deathwatch.
As if in an afterthought, Deleos turn around to face the Inquisitor and Pyrus.
"I take it we will likely face many of those ... Necrons on our missions. Are there any known weaknesses? Vulnerability to fire, known poisons or anything like that? Is there a way to stop that regeneration effect we all observed? I know those are questions that delve deep into the hidden secrets and knowledge of the Inquisition, but those information may be crucial in the encounters to come."
We know only a few types of their species and our few survivors have lived to relay limited intelligence. There are no known weaknesses, we do know Haywire weapons do have an effect on them, but some of the creatures can phase shift, making them difficult see. As for their regeneration, we have no means to counter it, though we have observed, that with enough damage, the regeneration can not keep up, causing the necron to disappear. Once aboard the Dark Tide you will have further briefing on the Necron threat. Brother Pardis has a wealth of knowledge on the subject.
Deleos, Pyros, and Varryl recall the story of the first Martyr. Though not all of the facts in the story have been shared. The sole survivor of the mission and later found and rescued was Brother Pardis. He survived hundreds of years in a Necron tomb, overlooked by the xenos after his heroic sacrifice that ended in vain. He bought his Brothers time, but they did not survive.
Deloes knows he is very old and ancient and that his sanity level can fluctuate.
Varryl knows that the brother has been kept in stasis and is rarely awakened for missions. He is well respected and a hero. You have his dreadnought armor. An ancient wonder to behold.
Vartas knows of a Brother Pardis being kept guard by the fortress Keepers, though you have yet to familiarize yourself with him or his background.
"Will the honored one be awaken here or on board of the ship? I recall the ancient had problems ... focusing ... his mind from time to time. Do you know which chapter he originated from? It may help me to prepare the right words of comfort for him to focus on."
Shortly after the meeting ended, Deleos is visited by a red and golden clad Marine with the distinctive marks of a Sanguinius priest. Greeting the surprising visitor again, he invites him into his chambers.
"I thought you already departed Brother? What can I do for you?"
The priest accepts the invitation and sets a chest of adamantine and gold on the table. "We were told that you and your kill-team will lead a large number of Deathwatch members into a long-term campaign with a secret, but high priority target. The chapter master has send me a message to provide you with any chapter related reliquary gear this station has to offer, so that you will bear the mark and blessing of a true Son of Sanguinius, bringing the light of the Emperor into yet another darkness. Fare well, Brother Deleos. Your chapter, your father and the Emperor will know you as a hero of the Blood Angels. I will pray for your soul every night, Brother. Fare well."
With that the priest turns around and takes his leave without speaking another word or opening the chest.
A few minutes pass, before Deleos mind returns to reality, still coping with what the priest had said. Upon opening the chest, he finds two items covered in heavy red wool.
The first item is a special bolter known as a Angelus Bolter intended to be worn around the power armor fist thus leaving both hands free for fighting. Complete with a special drum magazine of filament-tipped bolt shells. Those bolters are only worn by the most honored Blood Angel shock troops – mostly those guarding the company leaders or the chapter master himself. Taking up the weapon in awe, he perceives the rich iconography laid into the artesian weapon for long minutes before laying it back carefully into the chest.
The second item seems to be some technical component meant to be inserted into some larger system most likely a Servo Armor. Beside the component is a small note – written in an even smaller script. It takes Deleos some time to decipher it, just to detect that it is written in the native tongue of Baal – his homeworld. As he takes up the object, he unintentionally activates a trigger and a tiny cloud of bloody red particles dispenses from the object into the air. Deleos fine senses detects the far smell of in the air. One moment later he feels the iron grip of the red thirst welling up in him, instilling the blood rage his chapter is secretly feared for. Surprised by the sudden burst of pure hatred and bloodlust, his mind gives way for some moments and replaced by visions of battles he never fought, enemies he had never encountered, Brothers long dead he never knew and the image of the angelic Sanguinius on the ground a hated foe towering above him...
As he regains control again, his chamber is all but destroyed. Tables are flipped over and broken, books were ripped from their shelves, large dents in the wall and his bloody fist tells a story for them self. Panting heavily and suddenly feeling the pain in his fists he carefully sets down the object that somehow survived his outburst and reads the note with trembling hands: "Black Blood Injector. Insert into the life sustaining systems of the armor. Voice trigger phrase is 'Black Blood'. Will dispense a tiny portion of blood taken from a Brother lost to the black rage into the blood flow. Attention: Use only in the direst of situation for it is yet another step towards the rage for yourself. Bring ruin to the enemies of the Angel and fare well, Brother."
Setting down the note, he carefully sets down the device and takes a step back. After cleaning the mess that was his former chamber, he collects his belongings and sets of towards the armory. There are things to collect from the armory prior to the departure, and he has to find a techmarine for inserting the injector into his armor.
The Inquisitor responds to Brother Deleos' question:
The Tiger's Argent chapter, which may not even exist anymore. We have not had contact for a very long time. Brother Pardis has already begun the awakening rituals and will be fully revived from stasis by the time you depart.
AFTER THE MEETING:
As everything is moved aboard the Pios Immolation, you men find yourself at home, those of you that previously served aboard it. You recognize the crew and senior leadership, all of whom greet the squad, both new and old members. Your counterpart that you'll be shadowing and taking over duties for finds you and begins to brief you on specific aspects of your new roles while on board. Before the ship leaves you are summoned to the bridge for the ship's departure and entry into the warp on route to the rendezvous location.
The Captain welcomes you and reminds you of the length of this journey and your duties while en route, as much for you all, as the ship, crew, and other senior leadership.
For the next 6 months it will be my crew's job to bring you up to speed on the intricacies of running a Warp vessel and leading its crew. Each of you has a role and a mentor to learn from while we are on route to the Warp Gate. Each of you will receive intense training, schooling, and practice for your respected roles. In the event of an emergency situation, I will retain ultimate authority. The crew understand the unique situation and will treat you as their superiors. But make no mistake, this is my ship and crew and the Chain of Command will be respected. I pray to the Emperor for a safe journey and that he guide you men in achieving what you need for whatever upcoming mission you are deployed on....Now, if there is nothing further, each of you will take your places and be prepared to depart from the fortress and into the warp once at a safe distance. I expect each of you to report to me before we leave the system and to meet with the Navigator to make certain of our route and timeline. I will approve or disaprove your actions and suggestions. This is a learning experience, and my men have been instructed to ignore your renown and special status within the Deathwatch. It is their job to prepare you and I will leave it to their discretion on how best to do so. I will be watching. If you have any issues or concerns, bring them to your Captain and he can take it up with me. Are we all clear?
During the few days the ship takes to reach a safe distance you men begin to familiarize yourself with the ship and your responsibilities. You have a very busy schedule that leaves little time for combat training.
Once at the edge of the system, the ship enters the warp and all is fine, for the time being...
"I do not believe the Tigers Argent to be extinct quite yet," Lucian replies to the Inquisitor. "I met one of their number, an Apothecary by the name of Johann Ulthbert. A small cadre of his Brothers may yet survive, though I hold out little hope for the long-term future of their Chapter."
Lucian relishes his return to the Pious Immolation, having spent many months away from the ship. He listens to the Captain's briefing, amazed at the self-confidence he shows in the face of so many veteran Astartes. Once the man has finished, Lucian introduces himself. "Captain, I am Keeper Lucian Vartas. I will be taking command of our next vessel, and I thank you and your crew for sharing their expertise in a way of war that is not well known to me and my Brothers. We value your experience and guidance. With your leave, I will station myself on the bridge to learn from yourself and your command crew."
--- Meeting the Captain ---
"It's an honor to learn from you and your men, Captain. Only a fool and heretic would ever stop to learn new ways to fight the enemies of mankind."
--- Later ---
After the meeting ended, a small and frail looking man approaches Deleos, offering a quick salute followed by a snapping introduction. "Maj. Tiborus. Head of Flight. Commander of all small craft of this ship, including several void capable fighters, shuttles and boarding vessels as well as atmospheric flyers of over two dozen types, milord. I have the honor to teach you how to fly all those mighty vessels - if you have what it takes. I was told you are already used to pilot rocket packs for personal flight. That should be a little help but you will notice that there are thousand differences and only a few similarities. We will start with the venerable Thunderhawk of your Astartes kin, then move on to the more powerful Mauradeurs, Lightnings, Thunderbolts, Fury's, Starhawks and Shuttles of the Navy - and there respective fields of usage. If you are a talent, we may even be able to have a look at the most venerable designs of old: the Stormbird and Storm Eagle. Beside the training on the birds, I will teach you all that you need to now about aerial combat of every type. Now, now, Milord. Lets go. We have much to do, much to do."
Surprised by the long talk of the man, Deleos follows him down towards the vast landing bays along the spine of the ship were the flyers are stationed - accepting this new challenge as he had every other before: with a short prayer for the Emperor.
What follows are weeks of training sessions in cockpits, hangars and simulators - all the time with the frale Maj. Tiborus in tow retelling decades of air and void battles he survived. While the warp travel there are of course no opportunities for actual flying sessions but the simulators and the vivid telltales of the Maj. are proving invaluable.
To keep himself sharp, the Chaplain often performs strength training during the sessions and long distance running through the hangars while the Maj. takes one of his few hours of rest.
The only real exercises are done by using one of the teams Thunderhawk inside the hangars – hovering few meters above ground slowly piloting the gunship around the confined places.
The old man really lives up, while teaching every trick, experience and exploit to the angelic Blood Angel, while his body gets ever thinner and bonier. Once Deleos asks him to take it more slowly and respect the needs of his human body but the old one just waves off with a feverish glance in his eyes and responses with a fragile voice which is getting stronger and louder towards the end. "Milord, there is not the time for that, and you shall carry on all of my knowledge for the better of mankind. I am just a small and old wheel in the machinery of war. Now get back in that cockpit, pilot!"
After such a response, Deleos soaks up every word the old one says, giving his all to learn everything the Major offers with a determination fueled now by more than just his strong sense of duty.
At the meeting of the captain, Pyros stands at attention, when the captain has finished and after Deleos has spoken he bows low. "Understood captain, I think my brother has covered it, but nonetheless thank you."
As the meeting with the captain breaks apart, three characters approach Hammern and Pyros. The first to catch the eye due to his size, is a fellow Astartes, a grizzled veteran of the White Scars. Next to the imposing superhuman stand an immaculately dressed naval officer and a heavily scarred man in the carapace armour of the ships security force. The Astartes speaks first in a growly voice reminiscent of two stones grinding together. " Greeting's brothers, I am Asudai. As the senior squad leader I have been sent to greet you and act as your 1st sergeant for now." Obviously having noticed the other two approaching, he steps back to let them speak as well. Noticing her cue, the immaculately dressed naval officer pipes up " Pyros V'estian, Ulrich Hammern, I am Sabira, executive officer of this ship, and this is Rogan, the master at arms. We have been assigned to train you both. I will be covering what we as ships officers would expect from our passengers and what we can offer with regards to insertion of troops, support and reporting structures. Rogan will cover the role of Master at Arms. I realise that Brother Hammern has been appointed master at arms, but in the defence of the ship it is likely that any and all troops aboard could be required and it will be useful for you both to understand some of both roles."
Pyros addresses the trio. " Many thanks to you all for this, it will be an honour to train with, learn from and even fight beside you. If it is possible I would like a chance to speak to all our squads as soon as possible, is there somewhere we could use?"
Several hours later, Pyros finds himself and Hammern entering a hangar that has been cleared of crew. In front of them stand the assembled ranks of the astartes squads aboard. As they enter Asudai brings them to attention and the perfectly in step sound of boots hitting the ground reverberates around the chamber. Stepping forward Pyros adopts a parade ground voice and speaks out. " At ease brothers. I am Pyros of the Salamanders and this is Ulrich of the Space Wolves. We have been appointed as your commanders for the immediate future. I worried I would need to say a lot about your duty to Chapter, the Deathwatch and the Emperor, but then I saw you. Before me stands one of the finest bodies of Astartes I have ever seen and I am honoured to have the chance to fight beside you and lead you into battle. I recognise some of you and that I think is a good thing. Over the next few weeks we will train extensively so that we get to learn what each other can do and so that we can hone our skills at all forms of warfare. We know little of what to we will be asked to do when we reach the Dark Tide, so we must be prepared for whatever the xenos may throw at us. We will be both the hammer and the anvil that will crush all the xenos and bring more glory to the Emperor the father of our fathers. For the Emperor!" Raising his hammer he shouts the last and the hangar is filled with noise. Stepping back he offers the floor to Ulrich.
Xing' remains silent through the meeting and introductions, much of what he's learned and the mission itself weighing heavily on his mind. He is eager to meet Brother Pardis and learn more of experience surving and fighting the Necron. While Xing felt more at home and comfortable battling Daemons, he none the less knew that the two were intertwined and would see this through to the end.
While not very knowledgeable of Astrotelepathy, he knew the skill an important one while voyaging aboard a ship. He considered the potential advantages of it for himself and the mission at hand and would strive to learn what was necessary. He found the Choir Chamber and at first decided to merely observe and learn, needing to understand more, develop the right questions that would aid in his studies over the coming months. He also needed to know and develop more trust with the fellow Librarians and Psykers aboard. That would be nearly as difficult as defeating the Necron he thought to himself. But a threat this large, on this scale, demanded allies and he needed to find some he could trust.
Psynscience: (70) vs
If extended:
Psynscience: (70) vs Free re-roll (solo ability)
Psynscience: (70) vs
As time passes and the team gains more confidence in their ship roles, they hear of Brother Pardis' awakening, but he's refused any visitors.
Vartas finds many more doors opening to him, his ancient clavis easily manipulating the machine spirits and he moves throughout the ship unhindered. Very different than before. Tedious unlocking and codes, sentry guards protecting important areas, all give way to his new found Position. There is no secret aboard that couldn't be upturned.
Pyros and Ulrich address the men assigned to them. All of them seem to be veterans and of nearly equal renown in the DeathWatch. Still, no one questions your leadership and the men seem eager to follow your lead. While a few are taken aback by the cybernetic wolf, most pay it little attention once the initial encounter is over. Many men are eager to understand what the assignment is. You learn that the men have no idea what they are really doing here, a sign of their loyalty to the DeathWatch. Many ask of your encounters with the uknown Xenos, each seeming to have their own piece of the puzzle that is slowly being put together. But not all the pieces are present and/or have been found. And without a larger picture that is clear, its mostly guessing and sharing what little they know and are allowed to by Oaths. Pyros notices a group of Marines often group together and quiet down when others approach. It's only through training that you notice some of their tactics as ones you learned on your Dead Station Watch. Though none will openly admit it, you all share a connection that few others do.
Xing observes daily the ins and outs of the Choir and even has some instruction in telepathy, a necessary first step to sending messages to the furthest reaches of space. He feels the presence of a number of powerful individual Librarians. However one sticks out, though it seems contained by an unknown force. Very strange and your investigation leads to the Chambers where Brother Pardis is being kept. One day you feel an ancient and powerful force awaken and it nearly frightens you. The depth of the connection is unlike any you've encountered before. Any attempt to communicate further is met with anger and rage that's barely containable. But, as time passes, so does the intensity, until finally it seems more normal.
After you cross the halfway point, Vartas receives word that Brother Pardis is requesting to be placed in his Dreadnought armor. Though he has been revived for some time, he has remained solitary in his sarcophagus, refusing any visitors. He has been accessing information and catching up on what he's missed during his most recent slumber. He wishes to meet with the senior leaders in charge of this mission and discuss the Necron threat.
--- At meeting the Astartes ---
Deleos stand in the first row of the Astartes as Ulrich and Pyrus hold their speech. Pride fills him as he Brothers snap to attention. So many of humankinds best in one place, united by their duty, honor and faith in the Emperor... What an honor!
In the breaks of his fly lessons he will search the comradeship of these Astartes that will be with them, discussing the different kinds of known types they encountered and listening to whatever they are able to share. He feeds his enhanced memory with all the names of their brothers-in-arms and their origin, offering everyone his contact codes in case they ever need his spiritual guidance, making himself known as Chaplain.
--- Upon receiving knowledge of Pardis' awakening ---
He will of course offer his aid to ease the soul of the ancient but gets rejected as everyone else. Upon that he will visit the shrine and pray for several hours for the Emperor to help one of his mighty sons in his struggle.
I pray for your sanity, ancient one such that you can aid humankind once again with your knowledge and mighty strength.
With many duties and responsibilities to learn much of Vartas' time is accounted for, leaving him little opportunity to meet with his Brothers or take part in his normal ship-board routine of training, study, and meditation.
The impending wakening of Brother Pardis provides a welcome chance to catch up with his Brothers and for all of them to learn from the experience of an ancient and revered Astartes such as Pardis.
Entering the Mechanicum chapel-forge where the rites of joining are being enacted, Vartas greets the magos overseeing the procedure. "How is Brother Pardis faring?" he asks as he waits for the rest of the kill team to arrive.
For the first time in quite some time Deleos dons full plate for the meeting with the ancient, complete with the winged jump pack and the new wrist-mounted Angelus bolter, the relict hammer strapped to the back, the Crozius Arcanum at his side.
Upon entering the location in the depths of the ship they were given, he finds Brother Vartas waiting. He only saw the Ultramarine for a couple of time over the previous half year as their respective duties and responsibilities had about zero interconnections.
He greets the Battle Brother with joy and the warrior grip.
"Brother, I think I did not congratulate you to your introduction to the rank of the Keepers. It is a honor beyond most, but also a sacrifice as it means you may never return to Ultramar and Macragge in your life for the secrets and duties of the Keepers to never end. I don't know much about the keeper introduction but it is said to be one of the most straining. The Emperor must have been with you to be able to endure those to the satisfaction of those that came before us. My respect, Son of Guilliman."
Only after he is done talking with the Ultramarine does he look around, taking in the expression of the large room.
News of Pardis' awakening finds Pyros deep in discussion with Asudai, their Chapter's vast differences have led to heated debates over tactics, however they have now started to hammer out ways of using them together. (A stationary tough anvil and a lightning fast hammer) Interrupted by the message, Pyros claps Asudai on the shoulder, leaves training with him and heads off to prepare for the meeting with such an honoured ancestor.
Entering the Mechanicum Chapel-forge, Pyros breathes deeply of the smells of worked metal, arcing electricity and ozone, his faces crinkles into a smile at the refreshing heat that warms his face. Seeing Lucian and Deleos already there he salutes them with the crashing of his fist against his chest.
"Welcome brothers, I have not seen much of either of you in these busy training times. I hope things fare well with both of you. I am anxious to meet our honoured ancestor here, but is good to see you both also. The Lord Inquisitor clearly expects important hings on this mission, for the Deathwatch brothers who accompany us are very worthy warriors, every one."
Varryl becomes a seemingly permanent fixture aboard the bridge, constantly swarmed by a cloud of servoskulls bearing various reports.
Initial officer scheduling improved efficiency by more than 12% however showed a severe detriment to crew morale. Through numerous debates behind closed doors the First Mate finally conveys the importance of alotting breaks in the schedule.
Even with the scheduling resolved there remains a touch of animosity between the officers and Varryl.
What little time Varryl finds free from duty he spends in the forge assisting in maintenance on the Astartes equipment.
---
Varryl is the last to arrive, having remained on the bridge until suitable command protocols were in effect. He arrives clad in armor and fully armed, his swarm of servoskulls trailing behind.
Ulrich watches Asudai, Sabira, and Rogan impassively while they speak. Once they have given their introductions, he nods to them one by one, "Greetings to you all, and may the Emperor watch over us all. It will be good to understand the duties and responsibilities we shall have in the months to come. I thank you for interrupting your normal routines enough to share this knowledge with us."
***
Ulrich steps forward, flanked by the huge form of Lori on one side, and the armored bulk of Pyros on the other. He is silent for several long moments as he meets the eye of each Marine present. When he speaks, it is in a conversational tone, just loud enough to reach them all, "Each one of us has dedicated his life to the defense of Imperium of Man. Each one of us has proven himself in the fires of War. Each Marine here is of unimpeachable character, possessed of ferocious loyalty, and hand picked for a duty for which we have been told next to nothing. In this, we are all Brothers. We hail from many different Chapters. I am a Space Wolf. Brother Pyros is a Salamander. I see Ultramarines, Imperial Fists, Dark Templars, Dark Ravens, White Scars, Space Wolves, Salamanders, and many others before me. We who have sworn the Apocryphon Oath belong now to the Deathwatch Guard!"
Ulrich pauses, glancing down at the left pauldron of his own armor before returning his gaze to the assembled Marines and reciting a part of the Apocryphon Oath, "On the honor of your chapter, your Primarch, and the Emperor, you are sworn to destroy the Alien, confront the myriad enemies of the imperium, and obey the most solemn vows of the Apocryphon Conclave. You will watch in the dark places, you will safeguard the night, and annihilate the vile xenos and bring unto them the judgment of mankind. You will stand as the bulwark upon which the Imperium persists, from now, unto the ending of the universe."
He pauses once more, letting the last echoes of that portion of the Apocryphon Oath fade before continuing, "This is the oath that binds us into a single body; a single purpose. We stand shoulder to shoulder, an unbreakable wall of the Emperor's will made manifest to protect the worlds of Man from the predations of the foul Xenos. I do not need to tell you what we will do, for Brother Pyros has said it very well, and each of you knows your duty in your very bones. It is undoubted that some of us will not return from this mission, for such is the strength of the foe we march to face. We march to war steadfast, with eyes open and bolters ready, and I am honored to lead you, stand beside you, and if necessary, die beside you." Ulrich's voice rises to a thunderous shout, "We are the Adeptus Astartes, the Space Marines, the war gods and terrible swift sword of our Emperor! We are His will, and we have always been so! For the Emperor!"
In the weeks that follow, Ulrich is seen in every part of the ship, studying its strengths and weaknesses with a tactical eye both for offense and defense. He observes the tactical drills of the ships defense force, participating in and eventually conducting them under the merciless eye of Guard Captain Rogen.
Though Rogen seems to take no pleasure in teaching and giving orders to one of the Adeptus Astartes, neither does he afford Ulrich any of the deference he has come to expect from mortals. Rogen knows the intricacies of attacking and defending starships better than any Ulrich has thus far met.
Before long Ulrich and Pyros are practicing wargame exercises with Captain Rogen in a variety of permutations; two on one attacking, defending, one on one attacking and defending, Space Marines against Naval security, and every combination imaginable in every part of the ship.
Though his tactics are almost never up to the standard of the experienced spacer, Ulrich's ability to find his 'enemies' and to detect an ambush are unmatched. His forces' morale is unshakeable, and Ulrich's ferocity is unnerving to the 'enemy'. Lori, once she understands that they are playing at war as she once did as a pup, is almost gleeful in her participation; much to the alarm of the 'combatants'. She is quickly accepted, however, as her uncommon playful demeanor endears her to the crew; once they understand that the wolf bigger than they are will not actually eat them.
The team arrives and finds themselves all together for the first time in a long while. While paths had crossed and meetings had been held, training exercises and had been a full schedule and whatever down time you had was spent reading and learning more of the tactics necessary to fill your future roles.
As Deleos is persistent in his offer to Pardis, it finally pays off. He is sent an invitation prior to the others, asking Deleos to join him at the Chapel Forge. A single tech-priest emerges from a large enclosed chamber when you arrive and requests the Chaplain follow him. The Ancient One has requested you enter first to pray.
Deleos can hear words in his mind as he enters, the Ancient one reaching out to him through telethapy. Pray with me Chaplain Deleos, for I have much burden and each awakening is like standing under a waterfall of repressed memories and emotions that can be overwhelming. I trust your will and devotion will protect you from my own inanities should they rise to the surface...stay with me and calm the fires, less I break something...The awakening process while aboard and in warp transit, is far from ideal circumstance, but yee have need of my knowledge.
After 4 long ours the tech-priest emerges again and invites the marines ouside to enter and join Brother Deleos. Upon entering, you can feel an ancient mind pressing against yours, as words in a voice you've never heard appear in your minds at the same time. The Necron have awakened and so have I, their factions will be their undoing, for they have no honor and can not be trusted. All power hungry machines. We must learn how to further exploit this. As you get closer and focus on what's in front of you and the intial shock of the strong telepathic connection fades, you find yourself looking upwards, an ancient suit of Dreadnought armor, though unarmed and without munitions.Let us see what you know, then I shall know where to begin. Ask your questions, I will share all I know.
--- Meeting the Ancient ---
"Your trust honors me, Ancient Pardis."
He bows deep, dropping to one knee in a few moments of reference and acclimatisation to his powerful presence.
Then he begins a slow, highly-pronounced sing-prayer:
"Fear not for your soul, for HE made it strong as adamantium.
Listen to HIS presence and you can feel its strength and purpose.
The Emperor folds his arms over you, protecting you from the forces of the Unborn,
to the hour were your soul is strong enough again.
The years of the deep sleep are over, you will march to war again,
HIS name in your mind, wielding the weapons HE gave you.
You will endure and destroy the enemies HE tasked us to erase from HIS galaxy.
You bear the knowledge and power to help us with HIS task.
We WILL complete HIS task.
For we are Astartes.
You
are
Astartes!"
Ulrich steps inside the room, glad to be back in the company of his full squad once more. The sight of the mighty Ancient Pardis strikes him as deeply as ever do those who continue to serve past the endurance of even one of the Adeptus Astartes. He bows deeply to the ancient one, "Greetings, Honored Brother. I know very little about these foes, only that which can be learned in a single contact with them. Know you from whence do they come, and why they are only now rising to be a threat to humanity?"
Deleos stayed silence for some time after praying with the ancient, only after Ulrich had spoken, does he stands back up.
"How do you reliably kill them? What do you know of their weapons. How do you fight those phasing weapons that seem to be impossible to parry and that ignore any armor like it is nothing? What do you know about their tactics?"
Posting here to see if she awakens.
As Brother Pardis more fully awakens and becomes fully aware, his voice and temper calmed by the prayers and company of the Chaplin quickly turn. He has an anger in his voice and an authority that could intimidate even a space marine. Centuries old and mentally unstable, he speaks as he notices and fully understands he is speaking to a blood angel. What do you know of your Chapters history with the Necron he demands, stepping forward almost aggressively, towering over Deleos, though fortunately unarmed.
Still kneeing in a position of prayer and deference, Deleos answers in a calm voice after thinking for only a moment.
"This is the first I ever heard of any previous contact of any of my Brothers with this particular Xeno breed.
But I took up the rank of Chaplaincy only during my service in the Deathwatch, not at my time with my blood brothers.
Maybe there was a previous encounter with them, that was deemed secret enough to not be spoken of in the wider circle of the Chapter.
Master Commander Dante and his closest advisors must know of course.
I could sent them an Astropathic message if you think they might provide insight necessary for this mission, honored one."
Your chapter, the only in known history, aligned themselves with the Necron....it is ancient history and perhaps unknown to any still living in your chapter, they will not know anything that I and... The others do not... his temper mellowing slightly above your defenseless posture. How does that knowledge weigh on you young one? Would you too make the same decision if given a choice?
Surprised, Deleos pounders on that revelation for a while.
"I can only guess what dire circumstances would have brought one of my predecessors to such a decision."
After some more seconds of thinking, he rises to his feet and raises his voice to the powerful prayer-tone he has taken up together with the Crozium Arcanum upon ascending to Chaplaincy.
"There was once a man, walking the native ground of holy Terra, that said:
'Every decision is unique and depends entirely on the unique circumstances.'
If the survival or future of humanity depends on such a decision ...
Who are we to decide against such an option?
Who are we if not the protectors of mankinds survival and future,
hoping against hope that the Emperors light will shine once more in the galaxy one day.
And until that day comes, we must make any attempt to prevent the demise of humanity before the Emperor can rise again.
If such a decision would require me to temporarily ally with a foe against a bigger threat and load guilt on my very soul - so be it.
That is just another sacrifice my Chapter would be willing to bring, in his task to protect the future of mankind,
just like our beloved father Sanguinius sacrificed himself for us all against the Arch-Enemy."
After the private meeting.
Pardis turns to the Wolf priest and responds. The Necron are older than humans recorded history, older than Tera perhaps... Their empire spread the known galaxy and they ruled the stars unmatched. But they were not always the cold machines they are now, they were once humanoid and just as vulnerable...Why they slept aeons I do not know, but they believe all others to be trespassing on their domain and will rise and sweep the galaxy unlike any threat we have ever encountered... For now they slumber, but they shall rise and we must be ready.
Ulrich nods to Pardis respectfully, "We will be prepared, Honored Brother, there is no other alternative." A troubled look crosses Ulrich's features, "The Necron we encountered spoke of factions within the Necrons, perhaps a fact we can use to our advantage? Do you know of these factions? Are they internally contentious, or do they seem as unified in purpose as the Tau?"
"What is known of how and why they rise, Honoured Ancient? If we know these things, then maybe we can stop them from rising, rather than having to mobilise substantial forces to halt their advance?" Lucian asks, struggling with his ignorance but eager to learn more.
Pyros bows low in respect for the ancient one. " Honoured brother, I have served in a small capacity that has brought me into contact with these necrons before, and yet I still know very little. Would you tell us your story and what you have therefore found to be their strengths and weaknesses. I understand one of their strengths to be their ability to heal from grievous wounds, do you know how we might stop this? And lastly do you know what happens to them when they disappear?"
I know more about fighting them than their history. While I know nothing of a particular dynasties, I do know they are split in their reactions and dealings with other races. Their long slumber ends for a number of reasons, be a Tyranid invasion or a kill team stumbling upon their door step. I have been asleep for a a while and know not what our current intelligence is. The dark pattern has been a focus for some with the inquisition for many centuries, it is no simple puzzle. As for negating the regeneration, only enough damage can cause them to phase away. BUT, there are devices that aid in their repair, vehicles that speed up this regeneration, and disabling or destroying them can give us an advantage.... They are clever enough to remain largely dormant, for a grand awakening would draw much attention that could jeopardize the protocols in place... You see, sophisticated computer AI s are largely responsible for monitoring and controlling Tomb worlds, I believe you encountered such xenos heresy in your last mission. Then turning to Pyros he speaks to you directly I have been awaken for a reason, one of which is to help prepare you for what battles may come, and your unique experiences will aid me well... It is time we explain who the Dead Cabal is and what our true mission is... That is the only purpose in my a awakening and this rally of troops... Though oaths of silence must be given by your brothers before we may continue.
"I have no doubt that my brothers here will swear the oaths you ask, and I have to say my heart will be glad to share such secrets with my trusted brothers. I will aid you as best I can ancient one."