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In the grim dark future, the existence of humanity balances on the edge of a knife. The Imperium of Man is defended by the innumerable masses of the Astra Militarum and the bio-enhanced warriors of the Adeptus Astartes. But when unique, insidious threats emerge, another force - the Inquisition - is called to deal with it. The holy ordos seek to confront the worst dangers, be they xenos, daemonic, or heretical, that mankind faces.
You serve the Inquisitor Brannor Smythe of the Ordo Hereticus, having been drawn into his cadre of agents. Each of your unique talents is a boon to Smythe, and though some have found their current position by chance rather than plan, you each serve the Throne of Terra. Acting as the vigilant arm in the dark, you seek the worst of dangers, that which grows within the hearts and minds of your fellow man – corruption, greed, heresy.
The Enemy Within.
Greetings, one and all. I am looking to run a Dark Heresy game, the rpg system by Fantasy Flight Games set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. I will be using the 1st edition ruleset, with some updates from the subsequently released games by the same publisher.
A little about me: I have been gaming for about 25 years, starting with my introduction through AD&D in the early 90’s. Though medieval fantasy and D&D have always been a core part of my gaming experience, my experience has diversified across multiple systems and genres over the years. I have similarly been playing Warhammer 40k since my mid teens, and always felt the setting lent itself to so much more than wargaming. So, you can imagine my excitement when the 40k rpgs were released.
Several years ago, I relocated for my marriage, and though I have still managed to game some with my old group via Skype, I miss having a more regular gaming experience. My wife has actually been encouraging me to delve back into the hobbies I enjoy, and so I find myself here on these forums. I did a good deal of play-by-post back in the day on other sites, and feel it works well for story driven games. I take great joy in crafting an adventure, then placing it into the hands of a willing party and watching it evolve (often in some most unexpected ways).
CHARACTER CREATION
Sources Available I am open to most of the published content for Dark Heresy (1st Edition). I have significant reservations regarding the Lathe World book, as there is a notable power disparity between much of its content and other publications, so tread there carefully. Similarly, Ascension is designed for high level play, and as such is not currently available.
Stats You will roll your 9 stats in order, and may reroll one stat after completing your rolls. To allow for some customization, you may pick up to 2 pairs of stats and swap them, should you desire (ex: WS for WIL and DEX for STR). After these exchanges, apply any modifiers from homeworld, backgrounds, and the like.
Experience & Rank You are all experienced individuals who have been selected by the Inquisitor for your skills and talents. As such, you will start with 1200 xp to spend on character creation. This puts you at Rank 3. Please ensure the experience is spent at the appropriate rank (so you have 500 for rank 1, 500 for rank 2, and 200 for rank 3).
Backgrounds I think these are a great way to flesh out characters. As such, you gain 300 experience worth of backgrounds. Note that this does not add to your experience total as a character. Should you want more, you are free to spend experience during character creation to delve further into these.
Skills We will be using the shortened skill list that evolved over the several different 40K RPGs that were released after Dark Heresy. If a career grants you one of the previous skills, you gain the new consolidated skill instead. If the career normally grants more than one of the previous skills, you may select an appropriate alternate skill in its stead.
- Acrobatics (Acrobatics, Contortionist)
- Athletics (Climb, Swim)
- Awareness (Awareness, Lip Reading, Search)
- Charm (Charm, Performer)
- Command
- Commerce (Barter, Commerce, Evaluate)
- Common Lore*
- Deceive (Blather, Deceive)
- Dodge
- Forbidden Lore*
- Inquiry
- Interrogation
- Intimidate
- Linguistics (Ciphers, Literacy, Secret Tongue, Speak Language)
- Logic (Logic, Gambling, Tactics)
- Medicae (Chem-Use, Medicae)
- Navigate
- Operate (Drive, Pilot)
- Parry (Not previously a Skill; any character with WS advances should have the Parry Skill)
- Psyniscience (Invocation, Psyniscience)
- Scholastic Lore*
- Scrutiny
- Security
- Sleight of Hand
- Stealth (Concealment, Silent Move, Shadowing)
- Survival (Survival, Tracking, Wrangling)
- Tech-Use (Demolitions, Tech-Use)
- Trade*
- [Toughness*] (Carouse -Carouse has been removed and should now be resolved with a Toughness Characteristic Test)
Weapon Training The initial system made training in weapon based on weapon type and class (ex: las pistol). I will be using the updated system that streamlined it in future iterations, removing the differentiation of pistol vs basic training. Heavy training allows you to use heavy weapons in any category of weapon you are trained with. In some cases, you will now receive the same training twice from your starting career. If that is the case, you may substitute it with another weapon training available at Rank 1 or with a matching cost skill or talent from your Rank 1 career chart.
Specializations Bolt, Chain, Exotic, Flame, Heavy*, Las, Launcher, Low-Tech, Melta, Plasma, Power, Shock, Solid Projectile.
As agents of the Inquisition, combat training is an available option for all character. All weapon trainings can be taken at the rank and cost at with your career grants it, or at the below listed rank for 300 xp.
Rank 1: Las, Low-Tech, Solid Projectile
Rank 3: Launcher, Shock
Rank 4: Bolt, Chain, Flame, Heavy*
Rank 6: Melta, Plasma
Rank 7: Exotic, Power
Character Story Some prefer the classic “appearance/personality/history” format, others the “ten minute background”, still others go freeform. That I leave to you, but please conjure a character of more than just statistics. I do ask that you include how you can to be in the service of Inquisitor Brannor Smythe.
Equipment & Wealth We will handle these details after character selection. I have disliked how Dark Heresy assumes you still are paid commensurate with your past life when you are now an agent of the Inquisition, and so will be handling things a bit differently. That said, if there are any distinct, signature items that you feel fit your character concept, feel free to mention them.
"We are at war with forces too terrible to comprehend. We cannot afford mercy for any of its victims too weak to take the correct course. Mercy destroys us; it weakens us and saps our resolve. Put aside all such thoughts. They are not worthy of Inquisitors in the service of Our Emperor. Praise His name for in our resolve we only reflect his purpose of will."
- Inquisitor Enoch, the Book of Exorcisms
Maybe I'll finally get to play this game (or any of the games in this same series).
Just going to use the CRB (since that is what I currently have).
Imperial World.
Going to swap Per and S. Final statline:
WS: 28
BS: 38
S: 31
T: 36
AG: 26
Int: 29
Per: 36
WP: 35
Fel: 33
Hey Vrog, thanks for being the first to hop on the thread. I sent you a PM regarding access to other material for Dark Heresy.
Also, not sure if I was clear or not, but you can do two ability score swaps if you'd like.
Okies. I think I'm good with what I have stat wise though. I'm currently leaning toward an Arbiter or a Guardsman.
Hey , Oblivion, welcome to the boards!
you mention Lathe worlds..what about The Inquisitor's Handbook, some neat backgrounds in there...thinking specifically about the Moritat.
Gonna be an assassin anyway I think...
To clarify, I am allowing the below material. If you are interested is something from a source not listed below, please ask and I will consider it on a case by case basis.
Core Rulebook
Inquisitor's Rulebook
Book of Judgement
Blood of Martyrs (minus Battle Sister; use Sororitas from Inquisitor's Handbook)
Daemon Hunter (minus Grey Knight)
Radical's Handbook (with caution; no Daemon Vessel)
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Woo! Dark Heresy on Paizo! A rare treat. Hello to you, Oblivion's Scion! Welcome to Paizo.
I've had a concept I really enjoyed playing for a DH game a while back that unfortunately ended too soon, a Noble Scum from a rather criminal house. I'll do the rolls down here for now, and continue on tonight. Probably going to be mostly focusing on noticing and rubbing elbows, and the occasional stab in someone's back.
So I've settled on a Noble Born Arbiter. He's waging a personal war against the forces of Khorne, who all but wiped out his family.
Ok....rolling!
WS: 37
BS: 28
S: 40
T: 35
Ag: 34
Int: 28
Per: 30
WP: 29
Fel:22
Class: Assassin
Muscular
Old one
Dark
Red
Green
Beetling brows
Orange is the color of disaster and death
"A suspicious mind is a healthy mind.” Increase Perception by +3.
Right now to spend those xp !! :)
Greetings Everyone,
I would definitely like to jump in on this one! I've got many of these rulebooks collecting dust on my shelf and will spend the weekend brushing up and posting a character.
For transparency, I am one of the long time friends that Oblivion discarded when he decided to get married and move away... Joking aside, I've played a lot of games with OS. This will be fun!
I will need the same. The only thing I have, is the original printing of the DH book, so I think I fit in the requirements.
Will see if I can find my books. :)
Never played Dark Heresy but I’m a sucker for all things 40k!
: Imperial World
Swapping WS for Int, and WP for T.
WS 27
BS 31
S 31
T 30
Ag 28
Int 35
Per 30
WP 29
Fel 24
Class: Tech-Priest
Fit
Stripling 23
Dyed (Rust Red)
Blond
Lenses (Bionic Eyes)
Devotional Scar (Binaric Script)
Backwater
Thought begets heresy, heresy begets retribution. +3 Str
3
Think I’ve got the basics sorted, now I need to figure out background, equipment, and XP.
@Spasmodeus You have a reroll available for one stat which you have not used yet.
@Lion Cleric Like the concept, interested to see how you build it out. Should be an interesting counterpoint to Vrog's Arbiter.
@HippieKilla Happy to have you along for the ride.
@Mokshai I sent you a PM to help you find the other rule books.
@Simeon You have a reroll available for one stat which you have not used yet.
Also, people are welcome to select their homeworld, rather than roll, if they so choose.
Ah, yes, thanks for the reminder, Oblivion.
@All, if you need access to the books, PM me and I can help out.
Rerolling WP. Got a few questions as well. First, I’ve been having trouble finding resources online for backgrounds, anywhere in particular I could look?
Secondly, could I start with a few extra cybernetics? I’ve got proficiency with a utility mechadendrite, so I’d love to start with at least that. Something like an auger array could also be neat.
A last point, I’m totally new to Dark Heresy so feel free to bring up any questions once I’ve finished my sheet.
Extra rolls
Oblivion, just a clarification on xp.
Do we count the starting 400xp as part of the 500xp we get for Rank 1?
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Right, so this is what I have for now.
Weapon Skill: 31
Ballistic Skill: 37
Strength: 32
Toughness: 30
Agility: 34 (2 Adv)
Intelligence: 32
Perception: 38
Willpower: 28
Fellowship: 41
Wounds: 12
Fate: 3
Insanity: 0
Corruption: 0
From Noble Born:
Speak Language (Low Gothic) (Int),
Speak Language (High Gothic) (Int),
Literacy (Int)
From Scum:
Speak Language (Low Gothic) (Int),
Blather (Fel), Replaced with Charm (Fel) as per HB rules
Dodge (Ag)
Deceive (Fel),
Awareness (Per),
Common Lore (Imperium) (Int).
From Noble Born:
Etiquette
Vendetta
Supremely Connected (Peer (Nobility, Underworld))
Wealth
From Scum:
Ambidextrous
Melee Weapon Training (Primitive)
Pistol Training (SP)
Basic Weapon Training (SP) Replaced with Drive (Ag)
Life isn't easy on Fenksworld. Not even on Nova Castillia, the iron gauntlet over the two lesser hives, where life is brutal, short and filled with back-breaking work from start to end.
The story of Yelisaveta begins with her birth, but rarely is a scion's story unconnected to her dynasty's origins, which would be explored. Her great-grandfather, the famous and infamous Grigory Aksakov, the Volgite Adder, began his life in a small shack somewhere in Volg as the first free man of his family, exiled in Volg for crimes forgotten long ago.
The man didn't waste his various natural talents, and by his late fifties, a fifth of Volg's drug, smuggling and human trafficking ran through his gang, and another fifth ran with his permission. Having an organised ring so big attracted the attention of the higher ups in Nova Castillia. After seventeen unsuccessful assassination attempts and three unsuccessful Arbites assaults, the discussion on whether the eighteenth to involve an Imperial Assassin was abruptly ended with a brilliant idea and a brilliant smile from the governor. I'd rather have him inside and pissing outside than outside, pissing inside.
An ancient document, listing the noble lineage of the Aksakov line found its way into the lavish office in Volg, ink still wet. The document was accompanied by another, smaller and less formal letter, politely informing the mob boss that the carrot is present in the envelope, and the stick is somewhere in an Officio Assassinorum temple, not yet aware that it's a stick yet. And would he, kindly, sort out the affairs in the Kruger dynasty.
The Kruger-Aksakov dynasty soon gathered power in the legitimate business, investing heavily in less-than-scrupulous traders, merchants and loans. Known for his hard bargaining methods, Grigory retired after bringing the dynasty in the black, something not seen as possible by the Administratum.
Eli saw the chance to sneak by the maid, and she took it. Running into the empty hallway, she snuck into the broom closet, and started choosing her destination. The kitchen was pretty busy at this time, and the mean one was on shift. The guardhouse wasn't an option any more, especially since she accidentally mentioned she played cards with the guards. Speaking of which, she hadn't seen any of those guards since...
She sighed, before taking a peak outside to see if the coast's clear, and decided she hadn't snuck in her grandfather's office soon. Maybe play with the lizard, or do some drawings with the fancy pen.
Making her way quietly, she had to duck behind a vase, when she saw two guards escorting a man towards the office. Now she absolutely had to see what's going on there. The trio entered the office, slamming the door shut. She quietly made her way there, just about to lay an ear to the door, as she heard voices from the other side, echoing through the marble hallway.
"Now, Lev, is an opportunity for you to see how you solve situations with lacklustre loyalty." Her grandfather's voice. And Lev was there too, her biggest brother.
"Uh-huh." An uneasy answer.
"You're sixteen now, Lev. Everything here, I'd leave to your father, and he, to you. I heard that you've got quite the head for accounting, and that's admirable.", Grandfather responded. He does sound quite proud that Lev's smart. And Sasha's a дура, she thought, thinking of her bigger sister.
As the two entered the room, she closed her eyes, listening for any movement. As she heard nothing, she moved inside, putting a cheek to the thick mahogany door.
"---and you thought that it's easy, didn't you, Artyomushka. Just work the numbers, pocket some thrones." Her grandfather was angry. He always tried to sound, you know, smart and use big words, unless he's angry, then he sounds like the guards. Even the accent.
"I'm sorry, Nikolai Grigorievich... I'll return it all...", the voice of the man rose. He's scared.
A creaking was heard from behind the door. Grandfather was opening his drawer. "I understand, Artem. You've been working as a foreman for, what, six years now? The books show the results as almost adequate. A bit under the norms, but that's to be expected." He paused.
"...Well, Nikolai Grigorievich, sir, I do my best...", the man responded nervously, and a thud was heard, a fist hitting the desk.
"I can see that, Artyomushka." The anger was rising again. "Your best is not good enough. You've worked there for six years. If it'd been someone young, someone hungry that tried to steal, I'd bring him in, break a leg or two, and explain to him why he can crawl away, and that he can expect a bright future with us. Because he's someone with drive, and desire for betterment. You? You're neither capable, nor loyal."
A loud bang was heard, and a loud gasp followed. "Take the rug and its contents to the incinerator. Send his last wage to his wife. And you, Lev, I want you to go to your room, and think about what I just did, and why I did it. Don't ask me anything. Tomorrow, I'll come and get you for lunch, and we can talk about the hows and the whys." Eli took her cheek away from the door, and wiped away a tear. She started running long before her brother left the office.
Eli was rushing home. The darkness had long ago fallen on the spires, and it was even darker down here. She shouldered her hefty bag, a Chorda Premeditation, worked darkstalker hide, matte electrum finishing and vox-locks. She'd learned quite long ago that the nicest things are usually the most expensive ones. She tucked away a strand of hair, and took the usual shortcut, half a kilometer to get to the service elevator. The chain fence was unlocked since her last time she'd went on a small trip to the middle levels.
A shuffle from behind a dumpster was the first sign something's gone wrong. Some дурак's wearing work boots.
Two burly men, dressed in tatters, slowly creapt out from the side alley, followed by another one, surprisingly quieter behind her.
"Good evening there, miss.", the fatter one in front said, revealing a terribly gaudy and expensive golden smile. The other one flashed a knife, but decided to stay silent. "Give us that purse, and we'd play nice and soft, девочка." She took a step backwards, expectedly running into the third one, feeling two heavy hands on her shoulders. No weapons drawn. A complete мудак.
She let out a scared sigh, a half-assed attempt by normal standards, and slowly raised the purse in her hands, tossing it in a muddy puddle. I'll be very, very cross in roughly ten seconds.
"Let me go now, please!", she said nervously. Again, by bad acting standards. Chuckling, one went over to check the newly uncovered loot.
Two clicks were heard as the pistols jumped in her hands, and a silenced pistol went off into the man behind's crotch area. The man let out a non-silenced scream of pain, which in turn got silenced as well as the second pistol went off into his skull, the contents not doing any good for the cleanliness of the alleyway. She fired another two shots at the man gripping the darkstalker skin like an absolute savage, and as he dropped, turned them towards the talker. "I remember saying please, сволоч.", she said, cold fury pulsing in her voice. "Pick up my Chorda."
"Uh, the what?"
"The bag, слабоумный." The man rushed to pick up the bag, and handed it forward, showing the courtesy of attempting to clean it with his rags. "Uh, sorry, miss. There's no need to waste bullets on scum such as ourselves any more, am I right?", he asked, with a grin. Shame. He'd been quite the charmer, if only he showed some effort in his life.
Eli smiled, taking her bag, then fired the last two bullets in his knees. The man fell on the ground, screaming, as she moved closer and started stomping on the man's body. "You want to tell me what I need, мудак? You want to tell me what I want?", she shouted in between stomps, blood covering her boots, latest Scintillan fashion. "I... want... you... to apologise... for bleeding... on my... адский... St. Ellisias!", she finished, the steel heel finally caving the skull in, splattering brain matter all over the fine (and fashionable) boot.
She took a deep breath, placed the bag on another dumpster, and slowly, methodically reloaded and sprung the guns back inside her sleeves. She managed to do it on the third try.
Yelisaveta Alekseevna was rushing through the corridors. I wonder what Grandfather's got in mind. I should've visited the old негодяй more often... This desk job's driving me insane..., she thought. Any chance to leave the stupid office was welcomed. She understood the importance of having a family member present on new people's inductions into the higher ranks, and better than most, but it was completely dull. And most kept staring. Should've gotten Sasha to do it. If she can show up sober.
She stopped outside the door, pulling out a small case from her bag. And he mentioned meeting someone important. A man. She quickly checked her make-up, and decided it adequate. She gave a quick glance at her jewelry and clothes, frowning at a wrinkle on her shirt. I wonder if it's the maid, or me. Whatever. She tapped the door twice, giving a last glance at her liner in the mirror and putting away the set.
She opened the door, walking into the familiar office. The rug's been changed, again, she noted, as she turned her gaze at the table. Two men were sitting on the table, and an armed woman standing behind the unfamiliar one, holding a storm bolter? casually. The man himself was wearing a fine tailored, but not too gaudy suit, and had appeared to be just receiving a glass of liquor, coming from a fine crystal philter. He's in for a treat. She smiled, and made her way towards the table, ignoring the bodyguard as etiquette dictated.
"That's my granddaughter, the one I was telling you about.", Grandfather said to the man, pouring a generous helping of Volg Gutrot. The bodyguard frowned at the smell. They toasted silently, then the man took a sip. The apparent lack of a reaction surprised Yelisaveta. "...I see.", the man replied, clearing his throat. "Please, take a seat.", he gestured at the empty chair. Yelisaveta sat, politely placing her hands in her lap. "Remember, Eli, I used to talk about place in the world, and drive.", the old man said, smiling. "I had strongly recommended that you take a bigger part in our affairs, but your father's been quite against it. And while we have our disagreements, he's in charge now, and with a reason. I'd have suggested this sooner, but it's just today that this opportunity arose. And I remember you being quick to act, especially back then." He smiled. "I apologise. It's rare you get time with your family, as I'm sure that you'd agree. Anyway, as I was saying. This man is a representative of an old... acquaintance of our family."
The man nodded, braving himself to take another sip, making the woman frown once more. "Right then. My name's not terribly important, but the name of my superior is. Brannor Smythe.", he allowed himself a smile. "Or, if we have to get really specific about it, Inquisitor Brannor Smythe."
Ебена мать..., Yelisaveta thought. She swallowed. The man continued. "We've exchanged some information with your grandfather in the past. And kept some other information quiet, too. The Inquisitor's looking for acolytes, men and women of exceptional caliber, and you came highly recommended. What's most unusual, however, is that you actually have a choice in the matter whether to join, or not."
Her grandfather nodded. "You see, Eli, sorry, Yelisaveta, what I decided was to give you an opportunity. You'd never become the heir of the house. You'd be doing a menial, clerical job, until your brother or father decides that he needs to cement the relationship with another house. It's not a terrible life, all things considered." He paused, taking a long sip and lighting up a cigar. The woman's frown intensified. "The other thing would be to work, and work, and work. The only limit to what you can achieve would be you, your failings and your talents. One day, you might even join His Holy Inquisition as an Inquisitor. But there's no way back, once you join."
"Or, she might get eaten by a daemon or sacrificed by a crazed heretic.", the woman muttered. Yelisaveta's honed hearing caught the line, sending a stare at the woman. Сука., she thought.
She remained quiet, staring at the window. Inside, she was weighting options, thinking of other options and plotting courses. She turned her eyes at the man, smiling. "Very well. When do we leave and what do I bring?"
Yelisaveta is tall and wiry, though certaintly not without feminine shapes. It is obvious to anyone that she takes great care of her personal appearance. She's visibly in her late-twenties, a fact accented by her preference for heavy make-up and jewelry.
In formal and non-confrontational surroundings she prefers form-fitting dresses of finest make, preferably of Scintillan or Malfian fashion, fur and silk collars and high shoes, which in combination of her height makes her exude an aura of vicious competence and superiority. While in such surroundings she's not in possession of a characteristic big bag, she's still managing to hide an item or two. Her hair, usually dark brown, is often put in a fancy coiffure, and her dark blue eyes aren't afraid to stare anyone down.
When expecting physical confrontation, she's wearing a fine attire, superficially resembling the stereotypical Volgite ganger: A long, knee-length coat, tight trousers and tall boots, accompanied by massive pistols. She still wears her heavy battle paint, however, and is incredibly irritable when situations don't allow her to put some effort in her appearance.
A true member of the Fenskworld nouveau-nobility, Yelisaveta is charming and courteous, with hints of predatory superiority. While she often enjoys blathering about the topics of fashion and politics, she's almost never losing a grasp on what her conversant is saying and meaning.
In the events of under-handedness and treachery, however, her Volgite roots shine through, as she explodes in a harpy-like monster, shouting out ear-blistering phrases in a barely understood dialect, and isn't afraid to slap (in formal surroundings) or kneecap (usually not in formal surroundings) the offending party. While confident in her abilities and superiority in some matters, she's seen pride coming before a fall all too often and attempts to swallow it, with various success.
Now, a couple of questions: The only non-psyker or renegade background for a Noble Scum is Enforcer, which does work pretty good with my background, or Impostor, which kiiinda doesn't. So I was asking if I could get treated as a Hive Worlder for the purposes of backgrounds? I'd be willing to trade the arguably rather useful Etiquette for that, since I don't want to set a precedent.
Second question: What's your opinion on re-flavouring things? I really like the Tainted Blood of Malfi being the debauched and somewhat disturbing noble, could I use that package without actually being from Malfi? Again, totally don't want any precedents, so I'll be very ok with a no. (That, too, trades in Etiquette)
I think that's about what I have for now, I'll be quick to finish when you let me know what you think!
EDIT: Forgot Fate Points.
@Spasmodeus The errata clarified that the starting experience does count toward advancement (unless it is spent on backgrounds). That said, instead of 400xp, you have 1200xp to spend, putting you into the beginning of 3rd rank.
@Simeon Sadly, I am not aware of any consolidated source listing all the backgrounds. Instead, they are scattered throughout each of the rulebooks. As for mechadendrites and bionics, we can definitely consider options as character development moves forward. It would be a said state to have tech priest with no tech.
Regarding Backgrounds, if you find one you think fits your concept but you don't meet the requirements for it (often based on Homeworld or Career), propose it and I will consider it.
Gotcha! Thanks
Just a clarification, which set of psyker rules are you using.
I am asking in advance in case my rolls are good enough for one of them.
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Realised I had one in mind, but didn't write it down.
On second thought, I think Malfi might be a bit much - we'd be Ordo Hereticus, after all. A Malfian might be okay for Xenos or Malleus, but you can't fight corruption with corruption!
The one background I was looking at was The Beast Slaver, since Volg is known for all sorts of beasties and cage fighting. Other one was Underhive Merchant, for getting involved in shady underground deals!
Ok, so I am always down for some 40K, and I was thinking of playing a Mind Cleansed character, and if the stats allow it, an adept.
Reroll WP
Ok, so...I'll switch S and Int, no point in having QUITE that strong an adept instead of being that smart...
Still a much better fighter than expected, wonder what dirty deeds he did before his cleansing?
@BoggBear Welcome to the mix. Yes, those stats could make for an interesting backstory. Question is, was it the Inquisitor who had you Mind Cleansed, or had that already been done when you came into his path?
@Lion Cleric I think Beast Slaver and Underhive Merchant would both be perfectly fitting to create your noble criminal backstory and approve of the pair for your Scum.
@Mokshai My apologies, I presume I am missing something, but where is the second psyker ruleset presented? I am only aware of the mechanics listed in the Core Rulebook for psykers.
@Simeon As you said you are new to Dark Heresy, I wanted to point out that Forge World is a possible home world introduced in The Inquisitor's Handbook. Might be a better fit for your character than Imperial World? Just a thought.
Wow, it's been just over 24 hours since I kicked off this recruitment and already we have 7 characters in at least a conceptual state. And there is a nice spread of ideas, no less. With such a positive launch, I am excited to see how things progress over the coming days.
Characters (in Progress)
Vrog Skyreaver - Noble Born Arbiter
Spasmodeus - Feral World (Dusk) Assassin
The Lion Cleric - Noble Born Scum
Simeon - Imperial World Techpriest
BoggBear - Mind Cleansed Adept
HippieKilla82 - ??? Cleric
Mokshai - ??? Psyker
9 total wounds
2 fate points
The blood of greatness.
x2 (noble)=124
Also, after reading through the book(s) a bit more, I think I'm going to swap my WS and BS. I think I'll make a more melee focused character. Also, I'm gonna scratch my previous swap of per and s.
Interesting, Forge World does fit my concept a whole lot better, and works a bit better mechanically too.
Shame about the backgrounds thing, but I’ll manage.
Okay, I have my character mechanically done...I think:
Noble-Born Arbitrator (Rank 3: Regulator)
WS: 43
BS: 28
S: 36
T: 36
AG: 26
Int: 29
Per: 36
WP: 30
Fel: 38
Wounds: 9
Fate: 2
Skills:
Awareness (Per)
Common Lore (Adeptus Arbites; Int)
Common Lore (Imperium; Int)
Dodge (AG)
Forbidden Lore (Daemonology; Int)
Inquiry (Fel) +10
Linguistics +20
Scrutiny
Talents:
Basic Weapons Training (SP)
Etiquette (+10 to charm, deceive, and scrutiny tests for high authority and formal situations)
Hatred (Daemons)
Melee Weapon Training (Primitive, Shock)
Light Sleeper
Quickdraw (ready weapon as a free action)
Takedown
Origin Benefits:
*Vendetta (gain powerful enemy: The cult of Khorne)
*Wealth (Start with double starting thrones and noble for monthly income)
*Lineage of Renown (The Blood of Greatness; Inquisitor Lord Tobias Merriweather Grimn)
Backgrounds:
Daemonic Vanquisher (gain forbidden lore: Daemonology skill and Hatred: Daemons)
Advancement:
Per adv 1 -250
WS adv 1 -250
Awareness -100
Dodge -100
Scrutiny -100
Inquiry +10 -100
Melee Weapon Training (Shock) -100
Light Sleeper -100
Takedown -100
Equipment:
Arbitrator ID
Brass Knuckles
Chrono
Club
Doses of Stimm x3
Flask of Amasec
Injector
Knife
Mesh Vest
Shotgun and 12 shells
Uniform (Good Quality Clothing)
Synford-Pattern Shield -90
34 Thrones
Caius is the descendant of one of the first Inquisitor Lords to come to the Caliax Sector; a man so steadfast in his battles with the Xenos that in order to be considered in line to head the family, any heir must have killed a Daemon (and be able to prove it).
Caius was a young man when a Bloodthirster was summoned to his town by the cult of Khorne, who had infiltrated nearby settlements and taken root, all in an effort to wipe out one of thier true enemies.
Caius fought the Bloodthirster to a standstill in order to allow the inquisitorial forces to arrive and vanquish the unclean thing.
When they arrived, none could explain how he had managed to survive. Even those who watched were at a loss for words, and Caius was taken into custody.
After more than a year in the custody of the inquisition, Caius still had no explanation of the battle; indeed, he holds no memory of it at all.
He found that during his time in confinement, his family had been destroyed by the cultists in retaliation for his heroism.
Finally, he was freed and told that he was being reassigned to the service of the Inquisitor who had petitioned for his freedom. That was how Caius came to serve at the priviledge of Inquisitor Brannor Smythe.
With nothing truly left to live for, Caius threw himself into the work.
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I think the following is correct, according to the consolidated rules, but it should probably be given a look-over.
Noble Born - Grants Literacy 3 times for Literacy +20?
The Beast Slaver - Gain Forbidden Lore(Mutants) and Peer(Underworld), Weapon Training (Shock),
Underworld Merchant - Gain Commerce, Weapon Training (Las), Make Do - Fix Jams in Weaponry with no waste and no reloading.
Scum - Awareness, Charm, Deceive, Literacy (replaced with Awareness +10), Dodge, Common Lore (Imperium)
Talents: Profiency (Low-Tech), Proficiency (SP), Proficiency (SP) (Replaced with Drive), Ambidextrous.
Dreg:
BS Advance (100)
BS Advance (250)
Wil Advance (250)
Outcast:
Common Lore (Underworld) (100)
Stealth (100)
Inquiry (100)
Ag Advance (100)
Rapid Reload (200)
Regarding Gear and that, I was hoping to grab a Death Light Lasgun (from the Inquisitor's Handbook), as a decent Fenksworld weapon (probably from a gun smuggling operation from Magnagorsk to Volg?). And to exchange my starting autopistol for a hack shotgun, if possible? Kneecaps and all. Other than that, I would like to get some basic armour, as the Scum doesn't start with any, but that's about it. Nothing too special.
My idea is that he was mind cleansed before the inquisitor had him "conscripted".
I was thinking of taking the Verispex Adept alternate rank, and the reason for that is that it would leave the question of, does he know as much about crime as he does because he used to be a lawman of some sort OR because he used to be a criminal?
Either way, this would explain what use he might have to an inquisitor, but leaving the question of HOW he got that skill open.
I'm currently looking for one or two background packages that might add a little more color to the idea.
Cold Trader with the xeno alternative might be fun for example?
Okay, my responses seem to be getting longer, so I am going to use spoilers to help keep the multi-page posts managed.
Nicely done overall, a couple minor adjustments.
My apologies, Linguistics has taken on Speak Language's capacity as a Skill Group (like the various Lores). So, having two languages (low gothic, high gothic) would require separate investitures. The remaining skill of Literacy is to be replaced with another suitable skill (but not a +10 to Linguistics). As Charm, Deceive, and Scrutiny are all skills that benefit from the Noble Born Etiquette ability, I would recommend it be one of those - likely Scrutiny, as you already get the other two from Scum. I'm also okay with Inquiry or Stealth, which you purchased with experience later and fit your backstory.
You currently have Peer (Underworld) from both your Noble Born origin and Beast Slaver. You can trade out one for Common Lore (Underworld) which you purchased with experience later.
The experience spend looks good, with the exception of the aforementioned adjustments granting you an additional 100 or 200 experience still to spend (100 if you choose Scrutiny, 200 if you choose Inquiry or Stealth).
You painted a great image in your background and fluff, and your equipment will definitely reflect that. Similarly, I will find a way for the Noble Born wealth benefits to play in as well.
I really like the concept, but have two concerns.
First, you serve an Ordo Hereticus inquisitor, while at some point you may encounter a daemon, it will be a rarity. As such, I would hate to see your background abilities never put to use. Second, I must advocate a storyline adjustment based on power scale. In the Deathwatch rulebook it purports a greater daemon, such as a bloodthirster, as being a good final encounter for a massive campaign, one that would require multiple rank 9 or 10 space marines to combat. One man...? Perhaps as a arbite trooper you were assigned to an investigation team that stumbled upon a cult binding a Khornate daemonhost, which you ended up battling.
As for replacement Backgrounds, here are a few to consider. Remember, you have 300 xp worth for free, so you can combine them.
"Tranch War Veteran" (100 xp, Inquisitor's Handbook) fits the horrific cult battle, and hatred (mutants) would be more applicable throughout the campaign.
"Red Vaults of Laggnum" )100 xp, Inquisitor's Handbook) your mind has hardened in the aftermath of the horror it faced.
"Justice, Now Law" (200 xp, Radical's Handbook) fits the concept of someone who faced a major horror and how it fostered his fury to hunt his foes after.
"Calaxian Pattern Killings" (200 xp, Inquisitor's Handbook) takes a more analytical approach to your character's focus in the aftermath.
"Proven Innocent" (100 xp, Book of Judgement) finding you as the only survivor made the Arbites doubt you and put you through untold interrogation, only to come out clean in the end. It's a nice overall boost, but it does come at the cost of a Fate Point, just something to consider.
A final option, if you wanted to go the particularly pious route, would be "Witness to the Divine" (300 xp, Blood of Martyrs), which grants you the Pure Faith talent. This could eventually grant access to the Faith powers laid out in Blood of Martyrs.
As to the lack of memory of the encounter, you have no idea. That is something we can leave for a later discovery...
On to the mechanics of your build.
My apologies, Linguistics has taken on Speak Language's capacity as a Skill Group (like the various Lores). So, having two languages (low gothic, high gothic) would require separate investitures. The remaining skill of Literacy is to be replaced with another suitable skill (but not a +10 to Linguistics). As Charm, Deceive, and Scrutiny are all skills that benefit from the Noble Born Etiquette ability, I would recommend it be one of those - likely Scrutiny, as you purchased that with experience later in character development.
As your backgrounds are still to be adjusted, I will wait to give further commentary on the spending of your experience as that may effect it.
Finally, and I may have missed it, but have you rolled your Divination yet?
I like the Verispex Adept as a direction, will fit well into an Inquisitorial retinue.
There aren't a ton of backgrounds, unfortunately. You can take Cold Trader, just realize it does not give you the skills, but instead makes them "Basic", which means you can roll for them untrained against half the applicable statistic. Not all that beneficial.
Perhaps Sibellus Scrounger (200 xp) might be a good one to tie into your backstory from before you were mind-cleansed. Maybe they managed to keep access to certain portions of your knowledge from before?
Two general notes:
First,if you have a duplicate skill, it does not grant a +10. Rather, you can select another skill that would conceptually work with your character concept. The exception would be if a +10 advance was available to that particular skill at Rank 1 on your career chart, you can select that advance instead (for example, Scum get access to +10 Awareness at Rank 1).
Second, I realize there is a lack of good backgrounds for some stories. If you write a background but don't see anything that fits, please let me know and I can customize something for you.
really like the concept, but have two concerns.
First, you serve an Ordo Hereticus inquisitor, while at some point you may encounter a daemon, it will be a rarity. As such, I would hate to see your background abilities never put to use.
Fair enough. I think I'll swap it out for the Caliaxian Pattern Killings (200 xp) and Proven Innocent (100 xp).
Second, I must advocate a storyline adjustment based on power scale. In the Deathwatch rulebook it purports a greater daemon, such as a bloodthirster, as being a good final encounter for a massive campaign, one that would require multiple rank 9 or 10 space marines to combat. One man...? Perhaps as a arbite trooper you were assigned to an investigation team that stumbled upon a cult binding a Khornate daemonhost, which you ended up battling.
I was just basing this off some of the novels I've read (Which I'll grant could easily be considered high level characters/power creep). What if I changed it to a Chaos Marine of Khorne instead?
On to the mechanics of your build.
My apologies, Linguistics has taken on Speak Language's capacity as a Skill Group (like the various Lores). So, having two languages (low gothic, high gothic) would require separate investitures.
Sorry, I misunderstood that. I have both speak low gothic from both my origin and my class. I got speak high gothic and literacy from my origin. I'll swap out the second iteration of low gothic for Interrogation.
Finally, and I may have missed it, but have you rolled your Divination yet?
I didn't know I need to do that. I'll go look through the book for it.
The gun is mightier than the sword lol
Hello, Oblivion's Scion, and welcome!
I've ran and played a great deal of the 40k rpgs in person and have been in a number of pbp games here.
I very much approve of tweaking the DH 1e ruleset. There have been a lot of improvements since then between the various 40krpgs.
Questions:
1. Will you be using the last official FFG errata, namely version 3.0?
2. Will you be using cell directives such as those in Blood of Martyrs p73-74? Daemon Hunter and Book of Judgement also have some.
3. Do we have any idea of Inquisitor Brannor Smythe's allegiances, allies, or factional leanings? At least what he makes of radicalism?
4. Would faction-specific alternate career ranks and elite packages be available? I am interested in Tyrantine Shadow Agent for example.
In a long-ago game on a now-lost forum, I played a morose imperial psyker from the decaying Imperial World of Sinophia Magna. I will resurrect the idea for this application.
Julien Lambert
70 - Irradiance
9
2
"A mind without purpose will wander in dark place" +1 Fate Point for a total of 3. Also, it's rather apt for Julien.
Swapping T and Wp, and WS and Ag, and adding Sinophia Magna attributes (assuming 3.0 errata is in effect, not getting "Superior Origins") and background, Julien will start with:
WS: 32
BS: 35
S: 32
T: 33
Ag: 37
Int: 34
Per: 37 (32 +5)
WP: 41 (39 -3 +5)
Fel: 31 (34 -3)
9 Wounds
3 Fate Points
1 Insanity Point
0 Corruption Points
Still thinking of more details but will post what I have so far.
Julien stands a little over six feet tall, fair of skin, grey of eye, and black of hair - apparently. His eyebrows are drawn on and his short black hair is in fact a wig. His lips and fingers bear the signs of an often-indulged lho habit. He has the detached, appraising gaze of a man who has seen some of the worst that humanity has to offer.
A Sinopian, Julien grew up as a junior scion in a minor trading house. He was driven to find success and found that fate favoured him. At least as much as it favours anyone it deems unworthy enough to be born on that slowly-rotting world.
The reason for that luck is what got Julien kidnapped on a rainy night by a canal, walking back from a taphouse.
He disappeared for three months and was given up for dead. Then the bedraggled Julien was fished out of the same canal, with no memory since he had felt himself lose consciousness.
His luck then completely ran out: a black ship of the Adeptus Astra Telepathica was in orbit that very day. Their auspexes determined that Julien was in fact demonstrating minor but significant psychic potential. He was taken to Holy Terra and a measure of his good fortune returned to him.
Julien was tested and found not wanting.
That said, Julien's testers found that while they could determine the strength of the testee's mind and his psychic potential, they could not *read* it. It was determined that to make best use of this anomaly, the newly trained psyker would be assigned to Inquisitorial service, back in the Calixis Sector where he was originally found.
Greetings All,
I've brushed up on the rule set and I've got an idea for a Schola Progenium Cleric.
Lets see if the Dice gods will be kind today. Maybe I should sacrifice a few mutants first.
As far as I know, it's not impossible to have more than one background correct, as long as you can afford them?
I'm thinking that Cold Trader and Sibellus scrounger might work pretty well together.
True that the basic bit isn't so useful, especially since I'm likely to get both those skills anyway.
Perhaps Sibellus Scrounger and Underhive merchant though? Scrounge things, sell things?
wow, worse than a 26.
WS 38, BS 33, S 37, T 27, Agi 31, Int 29, Per 24, WP 32, Fel 32
The stats could work for an assasin or cleric at a glance.
@BoggBear: yes, you can have as many as you can afford at character creation.
I still need to make some final decisions on a few class advancements and purchase gear. Anyone know of a decent online character sheet for DH 1st edition?
In the meantime, Introducing Balthasar Fagerfeuer:
Born the second son of General von Dernbach of the 1982 Frommersian Suns, Balthasar was blessed with acceptance into the Schola Progenium, where he hoped to follow in a long line of von Dernbach’s who achieved greatness in the Commissariat. Unfortunately for young Balthasar, his father, along with the entire 1982 Frommersian Suns, the 1992 Jurassian Kings and the 954 Tolkien Ring Bearers, turned to the Enemy in what was officially decreed the 114th Geller Irregularity. Now the son of a traitor, Bathasar was subject to repeated “interrogation” concerning his loyalty. With pious devotion to the Imperial Creed and steadfast determination to his own purity, Balthasar survived his ordeals. After years of trials and observation, Balthasar proved his innocence and the Schola produced a fine member of the Ecclesiarchy whose Commitment would make even the most puritanical member of the Ordo Hereticus beam with pride.
A loyal acolyte to Inquisitor Brannor Smythe, Balthasar Lagerfeuer (as he is now known) lives only to assist the Ordo Hereticus in burning the heretic, slaying the mutant, and purifying the unclean.
Rerolling Fellowship:
Fate 1d10:
Wounds 1d5:
Insanity 1d5:
@Vrog if you want chaos space marine, I am okay with it. Just realize whatever got you through that first encounter will likely not be present the next time you encounter a traitor astartes. Be careful.
@Decimus thanks for the questions, and for joining the thread. I am all for recycled and updated character concepts. So many never make it past initial creation.
1 - yes, we will be using the errata 3.0. I actually have the 2nd printing of the Inquisitor's Handbook, with superior origin already listed in the alternate homeworld, so at first I was not sure what you were referencing.
2 - I will likely employ the cell directives, but that is something we can get into after a party is selected and gameplay begins.
3 - I will share more details of Inquisitor Smythe shortly. Suffice to say that for nearly a century he has been an ardent Amalathian, but careful attention in the last two decades would suggest that his beliefs have somewhat broadened, perhaps in response to a rising darkness...
4 - if you read between the lines, I think you might find the answer regarding your suggested alternate rank....
@BoggBear you can have up to 400 xp of backgrounds. In this case the first 300 is free, so the remaining 100 would come out of your spendable experience.
@Kevin O welcome to the thread. You can keep the initial roll of 26 for your perception.
I cannot say enough how humbled I am by the amount of applicants this far. I do want to clarify that, given the current Pace of applicants, I will likely not be able to take you all, but definitely a sizeable cadre will be selected. I am excited to get this party together and delve into the grim dark with you all!
Ok, let's see what else...
Divination: Men must die so man endure +3 Toughness
Wounds:
Fate: 3 Fate points
Insanity:
Ok, I think that is all, the Character is all but done now I believe.
Let me know if I missed anything.
(Can't change profile picture right now for some reason.)
Question, if you edit a post will the Dice rolls remain the same or do they recalculate?
@Oblivion's Scion: Thank you for clarifying those. I'll work out xp spend for Julien today hopefully.
@Havelock: I was wondering if you were playing a masked character - or a mutant. ;)
There is an ongoing issue with changing avatar pictures on the Paizo boards. No timetable for resolution either.
You are all unworthy. Thankfully our esteemed master, Inquisitor Smythe, has seen fit to appointment me to oversee your penance. Rejoice, for a path to your salvation is at hand. Come, join me in assembling a purifying pyre for our resident witch, Julien.
"Burning the God-Emperor's sanctioned psykers without cause? That sounds just a little zealous, not to mention a waste of resources, Balthasar."
Do not take it personally Julien. You are TAINTED. Your soul has been corrupt since the moment of your birth. Sanctioned though you may be, eventually the warp will take hold and turn you from the Emperor's Light. It is as inevitable as the Emperor himself. But Have No Fear! For in that moment I will be there to purify your soul before harm comes to your companions.
Come let us together renew the litanies that safe guard us from your filth.
"Balthasar, with friends and companions-in-arms such as yourself, I have little to fear from the terrors of this galaxy. Litanies and lots of them, absolutely."
Yes, as certain as the emperor himself, whom we all know (but tactfully do not mention) is the most powerful psyker in the universe.
I can see how this will in no way cause tension...heh.