The Silent Sword Crusade - Resolve & Purpose

[TheOneTrueZon]

Hello fellow Templars of the Bolter & Chainsword, long time reader - first time poster... getting back into the Warhammer 40k arena after many, many years. Last time I played was 2005 and had the start of a good BT army. Held onto everything through the years and am coming back to the table with new ideas. Here's the first part of the fluff background for my updated army for 2016. Hope you enjoy and all comments welcome.

 

 

 

Inquisition Log #41.999.7981:001C

HLT Direct Edict Classified Authorization / INQ-UC / AA-BLTMP_HLBR

File Custodian: Inquisitor Valdena

 

With permission granted and directed by the High Lords of Terra, details regarding inquiry into the following charges as outlined:

Black Templar use of Pariah Gene descendants

(ADT DOC-Complaint: 41.998.4326:235Z)

Black Templar unauthorized use of Adeptus Mechanicus property - Stormbird Squadron VI

(ADMC DOC-Complaint: 41.999.5812:023)

Black Templar unauthorized use of Adeptus Astra Telepathica property - Aegis Deus

(ADAT DOC-Complaint: 41.999.0124:957)

This evidentiary document has been created post facto from surviving documents and other evidence gathered by my tenure of service which included first hand accounting of the creation and tactical implementation of the SILENT SWORD CRUSADE, of actions taken by Adeptus Astartes High Marshal Helbrecht of the Black Templars (herein referred as HLBR), Reclusiarch Grimaldus (herein referred to as CHGR), also of the Black Templars, and various subordinate individuals of aforementioned C&C structure.

The remainder of this document are my personal findings in regards to the curious occurrences leading to the founding of the Silent Sword Crusade, its use and alleged abuses against various Imperial agencies. It will be noted now that this was compiled without oversight or permission of the Adeptus Terra or Adeptus Ministorum and all documents cited herein is done so under the prerogative of the HLT to supercede any classified status claimed by the Ordo Redactus.

ARTICLE A:

Within the deep records of Ordo Heretics and it’s earlier incarnations in the Inquisitorial order have led me to believe that Amendera Kendel and other members of the Silent Sisters were brought into the founding of the Inquisition by actions taken by Malcador the Sigilite and Nathaniel Garro. Although never fully named as such in any known document after the events of the Horus Heresy, remaining inquisitorial records indicate female instructors which led to the finest witch hunters to be produced during or since the founding of the Inquisition well into the 800 years leading into the creation of the Ordo Hereticus.

“Silent and unrepentant in her methods, it was by the grace of her instruction that I was able to live and fulfill my service as an Inquisitor of the Imperium.” - Inquisitor Vexo Vindi Victus (ca 22.M33)

 

More importantly, as described, most ordained Sisters of Silence, as their title suggests, were sworn to silence, though hardly barred from the written word, some of them became quite prolific in their otherwise succinct but poignant after-action reports and observations.

“…and as such it is my recommendation along with >redacted< that training progress in secret on >redacted<. Furthermore I strongly protest to the constant meddling by the Ministorum, which has resulted in only impeding progress. I will not cede any trainees to the projects under the oversight of Culexus. We fight in the light, not in the shadows. Sigilite was right in his efforts to bring the remains of the sisterhood into this new part of the Imperium; however, our order is still called to a higher purpose as given by the Emperor himself, his light that may never die through our eternal vigilance. Never forget we stood in defence of Terra where most trembled to stand. To avoid any further taint by Ministorum hands, my most trusted coven of sisters set out in the Black Ship Aegis Deus to continue our fight, upon your own word, I trust you and you alone to see to it that they will not be interfered with. A great saddness weighs upon me, my Sisters never to be seen by my eyes again in this life, but in spirit I know they will pursue the path beset upon our destiny…”

This scrap of an transcribed originated from an instructor, this passage seemingly written by the very hand of Kendel, though sworn to silence, could say volumes in the written word.

It must be stated that this record indicates either a complete disregard for protocol or the ineptitude of the Ministorum and Ordo Redactus as a whole - most likely both - in that the location of the secret training facility for inquisition witch hunters is redacted, but no censor of details regarding an independent splinter cell of the sisterhood existing under it’s own charter? Perhaps the Ministorum regarded the sect so small and insignificant, not worth denial, redaction or comment. In either case, more questions than answers.

Further evidence suggests that the sisterhood survived on for many thousands of years in relative anonymity on a small number of worlds, in particular Cadian Prime and areas of Segmentum Ultima. It isn’t until the first war for Armageddon that I find actual evidence of the continuing lineage. Records indicate that during the cleansing following the first war for Armageddon, a small portion of hive residents were completely free of taint when all others fell to the infliction of chaos. Further investigation produced this summary record of interviews with a number of citizens exhibiting the traits of the Pariah gene:

“Subjects of inquiry exclusively female originating from Helsreach Hive. Gene sampling produced anomalous results which require further investigation and samples have been expedited to the nearest forge world for testing by Mechanicus representatives. Questioning of subjects via psykers completely unviable. Psykers attending or administering interrogation of subjects reported extreme discomfort while in their presence. Subjects possibly warp-resistant and show no sign of being compromised by chaos influence.”

Though Armageddon was nearly entirely wiped clean by the Grey Knights during the Months of Shame, I have found evidence that this lineage continued. The record of this surprising fact became clear in the last months of the Third War for Armageddon before the season of fire, as accounted in Article B.

 

 

TO BE CONTINUED, Article B and army WIP pics to come very soon...

Edited December 17, 2020 by TheOneTrueZon

[Honda]

Go on...

[TheOneTrueZon]

ARTICLE B

 

>LOG 53.940.1< / >audio recording started by sub-dermal implant by user HV<

-background noise of gunfire-

TYRO: Reclusiarch Grimaldus, I have a report coming in via wide-beam for you from the northern sector PDF garrison bearing the authorization code of a Inquisitor.

CHGR: Put it through…. A battle report from a Inquisitor, today is a day of many surprises.

TYRO: Yes Reclusiarch, the line is open.

CHGR: Identify yourself.

HV: Inquisitor Valdena of the Ord… >static<

CHGR: What of the Imperial forces?

HV: >static interference throughout< Gone, Reclusiarch, there are no remaining Imperial Guard at this position, but the Titan legions are proving their worth. I have an urgent request - there’s something about one of PDFs of Helsreach that has proven very effective. There is evidence they are descendants of Pariahs, Sisters of Silence.

CHGR: The Sisters haven’t been in existence since the first days of the Great Crusade.  

HV: I’m here under special charter, Reclusiarch.. >sound of close explosion< ...OLD THE LINE! >gunshots and ork screams< ...Pardon the interruption - during the first war evidence was found of a group of women immune to the taint of Chaos. One of the garrisons here consists of Blanks consisting of their direct descendants.

CHGR: That is interesting indeed Inquisitor, but this does not concern my order, much less while we're under siege.

HV: Is it not in your interest to have warriors descended of the greatest witch hunters known in the history of the Imperium? You know the rarity of Pariah gene, somethi..

CHGR: ..I know of the dangers Pariahs can pose, regardless of their use against psykers. Your claim is greatly exaggerated Inquisitor, but the fate of this PDF force is not for me to decide, your report is noted, and if you choose to remain you have my authority to command that garrison since the Imperials have all but retreated from that sector. Otherwise evacuate the hive area immediately, if you intend to live another day.

HV: Yes Reclusiarch, understood. May the light of the Emperor protect you.

>END OF LOG<

(if you read this book this conversation took place somewhere around page 91)

 

>TRANSCRIPTION OF INTERCEPT< / >recorded by HV via Inquisition LP encrypted tight spectrum scanner<

>BEGIN TRANSCRIPT<

::PASSIVE SCAN REPORT - ‘CHGR_SIG_REQ’ ACTIVE::

::INTERCEPT NOW ACTIVE::

CHGR: Servitor, Merek Grimaldus hailing Eternal Crusader, requesting immediate line to High Marshall Helbrecht.

SERVITOR: line confirmed...encrypting...connection accepted...connecting...

HLBR: Reclusiarch Grimaldus, report.

CHGR: Hive Helsreach is holding and the temple has been secured, but I have news from an agent claiming to be a Inquisitor under special charter that was observing the northern front. She believes a garrison of alleged Blanks there are descended from a line of Pariah gene seed.

HLBR: I find that unlikely. How can you vouch for this Inquisitor’s claim, Reclusiarch…

CHGR: Her evidence is valid, verifiable traces of Pariah gene seed, I’ve seen the test results first-hand. She brought them to me under the guise of our interest, but she obviously has a stake in this somehow with the Ordo Hereticus. A kill squad in the area also reported their right flank being held by PDF garrison which did not retreat after the Imperial line collapsed. The after-action report indicated the remaining PDF forces was a garrison comprised almost entirely of female civilian volunteers.

HLBR: If the northern front holds and they survive this, you are ordered to extract them and bring them to the fleet for further examination. Actual viable cultures of the Pariah gene is a valuable asset, if not of use to us the Inquisition will have a place for them within the Sororitas

CHGR: Very well, High Marshall.

HLBR: Your orders are to maintain your current defense formation, create a secondary line one click out from the primary and re-establish the FOB, techmarines will be dropping elements of 5th company to the southern pass after the next orbital bombardment, which will comm….

>SIGNAL LOSS<

>END OF TRANSCRIPTION<

(book reference - this conversation took place around page 192 while Eternal Crusade was briefly in orbit on a raiding pass)

 

>LOG 48.090.1< / >audio recording started by sub-dermal implant by user HV<

HV: Reclusiarch, I formally request that I stay and help in the defense of the Temple.

CHGR: Denied, the next transport leaves soon Inquisitor, you will be on it.

HV: Your orders are meaningless Reclusiarch, you know my mandate.

CHGR: Indeed, all the more reason for you not to die here. Your precious PDF forces are being extracted as we speak, under orders that you filed yesterday, I suggest you accompany them. Disobeying your own order wouldn’t reflect well on an otherwise untarnished service record.

HV: You faked an order! What could you possibly hope to gain from…

CHGR: You forget yourself Inquisitor. Thus far your contribution of intelligence has benefitted the Chapter’s defense of this hive. You stumble close to the line where you become an hindrance. The Temple of the Emperor Ascendant will be held at all costs, Inquisition present or not. We will not tolerate any meddling.

HV: Fine, I wouldn’t dare defy the will of the Templar.

CHGR: Lastly, it may have been overlooked by Commissar Sarren, but I know you’ve a got a sub-dermal recorder. If you hadn’t proven your worth several times over during this crusade I would have ripped it out myself weeks ago. Take that fact with you, Inquisitor.

HV: Th...thank you Reclusiarch for your discretion.

CHGR: There are plans in motion to ascertain the usefulness of the blanks you found, if our will prevails I may ask of the High Mashall permission to allow you to continue your charter.

HV: Very well, in that case I pray to the Emperor that the walls of this temple hold, Reclusiarch.

CHGR: The protection of my Astartes will only go so far Inquisitor, I suggest you leave immediately.

HV: I can handle myself. Fight well Reclusiarch…

>END LOG<

(conversation occurred around page 195 after the fall of Abraxas Foundry Complex)

 

>LOG 54.010.2< / >audio recording started by sub-dermal implant by user HV<

-sound of secure door entry and the heavy footsteps of power armor as HLBR enters-

HLBR: Let’s make this quick Inquisitor.

HV: I won’t take more than a few moments of your time High Marshall, I appreciate you meeting me in person on short notice, the Inquisition highly values your Chapter’s work on Armageddon.

HLBR: Flattery. How quaint.

HV: Then let me be direct High Marshall, I wish to join Reclusiarch Grimaldus when the Aegis Deus comes on-line...

-long silence-

HLBR: I will forget the insolence of your playing to know Chapter operations, which you well know is classified outside of my command, and when I find who told you this they will be ex-communicated from the order, Inquisitor. As for you…

HV: I will save you the trouble, Merek Grimaldus, it is Reclusiarch Grimaldus who ordered me to join the garrison just before the Imperial Guard pulled out and forced me to leave Helsreach with the survivors. My requisition of order from you is actually a mere formality, out of respect. My mandate comes none other than from the High Lords of Terra, and is beyond reproach. My position is well validated and recorded, you can see for yourself if you please.

-another long silence-

HLBR: If Grimaldus recovers from his injuries... I see you cannot be swayed Inquisitor, what was it, Valdena? I can only assume you are the one who alerted us to these alleged Pariahs?

HV: Not alleged, confirmed, High Marshall, I have the results of the testing done after the First War, and current field tests which verify the continuance of the lineage..

-pause as HLBR scans over documentation shown by HV-

HLBR: Very well, you have my authorization. Is that all?

HV: Yes, High Marshall. Happy hunting and may the Emperor bless you.

>END OF LOG<

Edited March 16, 2016 by TheOneTrueZon

[TheOneTrueZon]

<post removed in regards to old photo links>

Edited March 3, 2020 by TheOneTrueZon

[Ciler]

Interesting...

 

Though, from a modelling perspective, I would not have used SM bodies, they are too bulky.

 

One could consider IG bodies (which would be suitable to represent volunteers in a PDF) such as

http://cdn.bols.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/20140525_15_09_50_by_yorknecromancer-d7jo8wx-472x333.jpg

 

Or some of the non GW stuff

http://cdn.bols.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/2015_02_11_19_13_43_by_yorknecromancer-d8hlbxb-472x354.jpg

 

Both photos are from a BoLS from a year ago : http://www.belloflostsouls.net/2015/02/plastic-sisters-wait.html

Edited January 13, 2016 by Ciler

[TheOneTrueZon]

Ah, well they are certainly not in the PDF anymore...

 

ARTICLE C:

 

>CLASSIFIED COMMAND REPORT< / >Acquired by HV via CHGR<

T: High Marshall Helbrecht / F: Reclusiarch Grimaldus (TRANSMIT #906.5-10E)

RE: Aegis Deus Online / Silent Sword Progress

• Confirmed reactor hot, all systems nominal and first round of shakedown flights under way.

• As commanded, proceeding to location THETA after in-system shakedown completed.

• All verified Pariah gene descendants on-board have passed pre-flight.

• Training commencing on schedule of 178 Neophytes, 22 inductees found insufficient for implantation and reassigned to ship systems.

• Observations and testing show the presence of the Pariah gene in all volunteers but generational degradation of gene seed only allows a greater than usual resistance to warp influence, but not to the factor rumored to be attained by original Sisters of Silence. Regardless, this gives these Neophyte recruits the same resistance to warp as that of a psycho-treated and battle-tested veteran within our order.

• Monitor of usual channels still shows no sign of the Ministorum knowledge of the formation of this experimental Crusade, if we maintain the current security levels this should be easy to maintain until actual action is deemed possible by this force after appropriate training.

• The oddly helpful logistical support provided by the Inquisition does require mention, due to that very fact. Inquisitor Valdena appears to be genuinely dedicated to training the Neophytes in psyker hunting arts. I was particularly impressed she was able to produce a copy of the Psykana Occultis. I do not question her loyalty to our cause, though she still insists we continue to remove any mention of her actions in further reports from the command chain on progress, save myself. At this time I have no qualms over mild report censure to keep her happy, and will continue with this action with your approval, High Marshall.

• My next report will be filed before we make our jump to location THETA.

>LOG 67.460.9< / >audio recording started by sub-dermal implant by user<

HV: My shuttle will be arriving shortly, how many decided to come?

CHGR: We could take 200, and 178 of them are fit to fight, the rest are getting assigned as crew to the Aegis.

HV: Only 200? There were almost 370 women left in that garrison, why did…

CHGR: Helbrecht said 200, so I took 200. If this ends up being a viable Crusade we’ll go back for the rest. As soon as you arrive we’ll depart for the Forge World which has the supplies we’ve requested.

HV: Wait - they actually agreed?

CHGR: For a sample of the derived Pariah gene seed, yes, almost too gladly. However if officially queried they will deny any involvement and will file a complaint with Terra saying we stole them.

HV: How nice of them. Well one can’t look a gift Stormbird in the mouth.

CHGR: Your speech is beyond me, what does that mean Inquisitor?

HV: Nevermind, old Terran proverb. The Aegis is on our scopes now, beginning our approach.

>END OF LOG<

Edited March 16, 2016 by TheOneTrueZon

[TheOneTrueZon]

Though, from a modelling perspective, I would not have used SM bodies, they are too bulky.

 

My reasoning is simple enough - female combat troops (prime example: Israeli Defence Forces) are often just as laden with gear and armor as male troops, so any notion of seeing body type and shape through Space Marine armor seems frivilous. Also, I really don't like the Sororitas scuplts from GW, with those pointy faces and bob cut hair, those awful upside down bowl helmets. Just a bit too much like a bunch of hooker goth lolitas went to Burning Man and found Jesus (not that there's anything wrong with that). 

 

Run that same line of thought into the fluff machine and I'd say the insides of that just about any power armor can conform to it's wearer. And, it's armor, I think it should be bulky. A badass from the lower levels of Helsreach Hive who's worked her life on the docks wouldn't wear Sororitas armor with a grav gun to her head, am I wrong? Also I like the idea of an "off the books" experimental Crusade just taking whatever resources they can would mean that all their stuff is pretty standard, maybe outdated, perhaps antiquated, up until it gets to it's unit. Then they just go to town on their customization. Macgyver meets A-Team meets Delta Force meets Tuskegee Airmen meets Grimdark.

 

I'm a big fan of Vasquez from Aliens. Or Bobbie Draper from The Expanse books. Also, I have two nieces that are fascinated by my 40k stuff, so they were very excited I was building a partly female army.

[Ciler]

 

Though, from a modelling perspective, I would not have used SM bodies, they are too bulky.

 

My reasoning is simple enough - female combat troops (prime example: Israeli Defence Forces) are often just as laden with gear and armor as male troops, so any notion of seeing body type and shape through Space Marine armor seems frivilous. Also, I really don't like the Sororitas scuplts from GW, with those pointy faces and bob cut hair, those awful upside down bowl helmets. Just a bit too much like a bunch of hooker goth lolitas went to Burning Man and found Jesus (not that there's anything wrong with that). 

[...]

I'm a big fan of Vasquez from Aliens. Or Bobbie Draper from The Expanse books. Also, I have two nieces that are fascinated by my 40k stuff, so they were very excited I was building a partly female army.

 

Oh, I absolutely understand that, make no mistake. I was merely stating a personal preference, sorry if that was not clear. Besides, some inquisitors do wear power armour (Coteaz for instance) without space marine enhancements so there's no reason to think women couldn't have suitably adapted models.

[TheOneTrueZon]

<post removed due to old photo links>

Edited March 3, 2020 by TheOneTrueZon

[Firepower]

Hmm, chained jump pack wings...

 

Saved.

[Brother Captain Ed]

Who sculpted the female heads you used?

[TheOneTrueZon]

Who sculpted the female heads you used?

 

Statuesque Miniatures released some heroic scale female heads last year. I think these sculpts are some of the best ones out there in terms of facial proportions and volume. They have a couple types, I used the regular and veteran sets, there's also a set without hair for the AA sculptors out there. I just tried adding some longer hair to a model last night and it took fooooorrrreeeeeevvvvvveeeeerrrrrr. But worth it.

 

Regular:

http://www.statuesqueminiatures.co.uk/p/8774376/sma012-heroic-scale-female-heads.html

 

Veteran:

http://www.statuesqueminiatures.co.uk/p/9064683/sma014-heroic-scale-female-heads---veterans.html

 

Bald:

http://www.statuesqueminiatures.co.uk/p/9064684/sma015-heroic-scale-female-heads---bald.html

[TheOneTrueZon]

Hmm, chained jump pack wings...

 

Saved.

 

Wings were sized down from a WHF Brettonian (I think) pegasus mount... I have three other sets of wings, but not sure if I want to make a whole Vanguard squad with those or just keep it for the squad leader. Perhaps adding some wing bling to my EC or chapter master is a possibility.

 

Chain came from Builders In Scale - the medium duty 27 LPI

http://www.builders-in-scale.com/bis/parts-chain.html

[TheOneTrueZon]

http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a442/John_Buzon/Templar001_zpse4jfjn3h.png

[TheOneTrueZon]

<post removed due to old photo links>

Edited March 3, 2020 by TheOneTrueZon

[AndrewChristlieb]

Ha ha, love the "witchblade" style lightning claws there. Very cool look to them, and fitting for a Templar 

[TheOneTrueZon]

Prelude - The Sword is Forged

 

“Sword Brother MacLaren, I have a task for you.”

The holovid’s compressed playback of Helbrechts’ gravelly deep voice made it sound like an echo from the cold black void. The High Marshall did not give ‘tasks’. The use of such a trivial word coming from on high brought a rare smirk to the scarred Astartes grim visage as he watched. To the veteran seated in the cold, ornately carved stone dais of the chapter keep master, any order coming directly from his Lord and commander was as if it was spoken by undying lips of the Emperor himself.

The holo wavered with static for a moment as it continued.

“A new Crusade is being formed. A surgical strike force to combat the plague of rogue psykers that aim to threaten the will of the Emperor. You are one of the most revered and trusted among our veteran Castellan, and have trained some of our most honored brothers.”

A hard, but honorable task, Gregor MacLaren thought. The High Marshall did not extol lightly, and he listened very intently to the next words coming from the holo.

“Your experience will be brought to bear fully on a new set of neophytes. Their origins are unique, and have a storied past which I know you will appreciate.”

A very hard task then. His anticipation began to churn with morbid curiosity.

“Should you be successful in training this odd lot into a fighting Crusade worthy of our order, you will lead them as their Marshall. Choose whoever you deem worthy for your command. Reclusiarch Grimaldus himself will be sending you Chaplains chosen from his finest to accompany you in this endeavor.”

Who are these recruits, MacLaren wondered now, that would garner such attention.

“You are ordered to have your command structure chosen and ready for departure from Khreak before the next scheduled supply drop. Once ready immediately send word to the Eternal Crusader and your next set of orders will be given to you. Helbrecht out.”

The holo faded away into the wisps of light as the com panel powered down and receded into the dais.  

Free to choose his commanders and lieutenants, to be a Marshall of his own Crusade, there was truly a bloom of pride within him. Though he never sought to reach high command, the feeling of being chosen for this honored him greatly. He had never failed his Brothers in his 321 years of service to the Black Templars, and this would be his finest achievement yet.

He turned to address the waiting servitor, the only witness to the orders he just received.

“Rehcord meh reshponse to tha High Marshall,” he said in the low, thick accent of his home world Arbroath, descended of the ancient Scots of Terra, as his words rolled through the deserted vaulted chambers of the keep’s high chapel.

“Aye gratefully ahkcept this cammand, m’lord. Ahm honored ta’be choosen for such a task. Ah shall assmeble m’forces at once. Brother Gregor MacLaren, out.”

The humming, clicking cacophony from the servitor as it sent out the recorded vox message masked the sound of footsteps from down the main gallery hall.

Gregor looked up to the stained glass windows lining the upper edge of the great vaulted stone roof, it portrayed the battle of Terra, Sigismund prominently in the center, the black sword aloft over fallen daemon lords. In the falling light of the second moon setting, a holy glow took about the image of the first Emperor’s Champion.

“Grant meh tha strength t’see this through, m’great lord Sigismund. Tha’ah may serve with honor…”

He bowed his head and sighed deeply. This keep has been his home for almost 90 years. But the thought of what could lie ahead stoked the fires that have lain quiet for some time. Almost a century of training the best and most fearless warriors amongst Astartes. The din of the servitor stopped as it slinked away into the shadows, its work complete. The sound of someone approaching became loud and clear with the heavy footfalls of power armor, Gregor turned to see his own Marshall walking before him.

“Marshall Jager, ah have word from…”, Gregor started, but was quickly cut off.

“The High Marshall, yes, I know. I also received word from our Lord just now.”

Gregor stood and waited, wondering what if he was to learn anything new from his Marshall that Helbrecht didn’t tell him already.

“I have come to congratulate you, Brother MacLaren. Soon, I shall call you Marshall as well.”

Gregor stiffened slightly, standing at attention and looking straight into the eye of his soon to be former commander.

“Eet has been my pleasure to serve you Marshall Jager, ah only hope a suitable rehplacement chan be found in such short notice.”

“We will manage in your absence. But now, tell me, who are you stealing from my command for this experiment Helbrecht is cooking up…”

Gregor’s eyes lit up with enthusiasm.

“AH, yes! So glad you asked m’lord, ah have ah few notions to take ah right few troublemakers from ye, eef it pleases m’lord, of course.”

Marshall Jager smiled, “I will miss our conversations Brother Gregor, truly.”

Edited March 16, 2016 by TheOneTrueZon

[TheOneTrueZon]

<post removed due to old photo links>

Edited March 3, 2020 by TheOneTrueZon

[TheOneTrueZon]

Stormbird, check! Can't WAIT to rock this bad boy. 

 

 

 

 

[Marshal_Roujakis]

Fine addition to my Crusade as well... initially I plan on getting 2 Thunderhawks to get the entire Crusade on the floor, but if 1 Stormbird can carry 100 Marines, including equipment... ;)

[Marshal Reinhard]

Unless I missed some change to it, the stormbird can carry 50 models, not 100. That said you'd be hard pressed to find a grander mode of transportation

 

EDIT: then again, the rules I recall seeing of the Stormbird didn't feature those lovely ball turrets with HB's either, but had lascannons... Am I behind on my info?

Edited February 7, 2016 by Reinhard

[Marshal Reinhard]

Dumb double post, if possible I'd like it deleted.

Edited February 7, 2016 by Reinhard

[TheOneTrueZon]

Unless I missed some change to it, the stormbird can carry 50 models, not 100. That said you'd be hard pressed to find a grander mode of transportation

 

EDIT: then again, the rules I recall seeing of the Stormbird didn't feature those lovely ball turrets with HB's either, but had lascannons... Am I behind on my info?

 

I don't think and actual rules for the Sokar pattern have surfaced yet. From some fluff sources Stormbirds had a capacity of 60-100 troops. I'm sure there's going to be a variant of that model at some point to maximize profitability, like the Stormraven / Storm Eagle / Fire Raptor models. 

[Marshal Reinhard]

There's rules for it for Horus Heresy. While this is no guarantee it's going to be exactly like that in 40k, they typically haven't deviated that much between versions. The available HH rules state 50 model capacity, but also 5 twinlinked lascannons (and no alternative to have anything instead of the lascannons, so obviously they're due to be updated if they haven't been already)

[TheOneTrueZon]

Chapter 1 - The Sword Awakens

 

The hall of relics in the Eternal Crusader was vacant as he ordered, the servitors has done their duty and the eternal flames of the vigilant had been tended. High Marshall Helbrecht strode into the chamber and bowed his head to the grand statue of Dorn. After a long moment of thought, he turned to the waiting vox-coder servitor and spoke his orders for Grimaldus.

“Heed my words well Reclusiarch, proceed to Theta with the Inquisitor, but observe closely. No matter the deeds this one has done in our favor, you cannot yet assure there is another motive at work here. The very nature of their order demands it, and as such I find it impossible that we can trust anyone of the Inquisitor Ordos, ever. Must I remind you of Vinculus, or Vandire, the Templar blood spilt to wash away the taint of chaos from renegade Inquisitors and their like. If you continue on with this alleged ally, you may doom this endeavor before it even begins. I have given this Crusade everything it needs to succeed. If it fails, the dishonor will be yours to bear and yours to resolve. I can accept no margin for failure from the Reclusiam, much less you. We must hold the line against the coming chaos. Do what must be done, you above all other know your duty. Helbrecht, out.”

Grimaldus considered the words of his Lord in the quiet sanctity of the Reclusiam chapel within the Aegis Deus. The words rang true, and wise, as they should. The Inquisition was as contrary to the Templars as the forces of Chaos themselves. Yet Inquisitor Valdena proved she had a stake to play, a rare element that seemed to have the intention of actually fighting the darkness by all means necessary. The Reclusiarch meditated long on his next action. The will and light of the Emperor led him to his decision. If she was truly devoted then she has nothing to hide.  

Valdena knew something wasn’t right. She’d been among the Astarte before, but never in the company of Black Templars, but their stoicism had become even more resolved of late. This bunch were truly vigilant in following their orders of not paying attention to the Inquisitor amongst them. That task was easy enough. She knew Grimaldus was watching her constantly, but didn’t think anything of it. Her every action and word was on trial to the Templars. She hadn’t seen or heard of the Reclusiarch since first meeting upon arriving, but felt the presence of judgement wherever she went. The confidence she wore was purely born from the fact that her real secrets were of no consequence to these Astartes. She hoped. Often she mused to herself on how they lived entirely outside of the system which initially created them and their devotion to the Great Crusade. In so many ways, at their core, they held many of same beliefs as the Ordo she served. She always found that to be a testament to the Emperor’s will, letting these warriors exist in all these various ways, yet still all driven to the singular means to the end of protecting humanity. But always, she knew a reckoning was at hand. What happens when the unstoppable force meets the immovable object.

Training was starting and progressing, and the Templars were absolute in their regimen. When she wasn’t training the Neo’s in the foundations of hunting and knowing psykers, she was ordered to her private little bulkhead quarters nested deep in the forecastle of the ship, an unblinking servitor watching her door at all times. The ever-present reminder that she was there only by the grace of Helbrecht himself. It was not the sword brethren to question their lord, however that did not mean she came and went as she pleased.

The shakedown trials of the ship were almost done. Most of the Neos were already starting phase 2 implants and begin the real rigors of the training which would truly turn them into Astartes. It was then, amid the clamor of crew preparing for jump, that two fully armored Templars, Sword Brethern no less, awaited her as her bulkhead door opened. She feigned calm as best she could.

One of the marines stepped forward, bolter in hand but not pointed at her yet.

“Follow us, no deviations. Move.”

Simple enough, she thought. If they wanted her dead she’d be dead, that was going for her.

She mapped the route they were taking, counting the turns, the steps, noting how many Marines and crew she saw. Then suddenly stopped, and were before a black door, just like any other thousands of pressure doors on this cruiser. This one bore the mark of a comms array. The door hissed open, her escort motioned for her to go in. She stepped forward without hesitation as the two Marines took guard at the door.

A bare room, the stink of ozone and toxic cleansers. Reclusiarch Grimaldus stepped forward from the dark of the opposite wall, the skeletal grin of the unmistakeable deathshead helm grinning back at her.

“This can be a short, but important conversation, Inquisitor. However if I am unsatisfied, this will become uncomfortable, for you.”

She knew there was no point in lying, the biometrics cannot be easily fooled, even with her training. She also had no idea what he was about to ask or say, which made it hard to predict and react. The years of service to the Inquisition bestowed her with a wealth of knowledge that could be twisted into something heretical in the absolutes the Templars held. Her mind reeled at the possibilities of what was to come next.

“My lord has allowed you to participate in this Crusade. But we cannot accept your loyalty at face value. The time has come for you to answer for your transgressions, Inquisito...”

“What transgress…” her words were cut off by the sharp crack of a crozius coming to life in the Reclusiarchs’ hand.

“You may speak when I allow it.”

Valdena said nothing, holding her calm and keeping her eyes squarely focused on the red lenses of the deathmask. She immediately felt the depth of her situation, the trial by fire she knew would come was here, but not like this.

“You will satisfy my inquiry or there will be nothing left you,” he said with a chilling casual tone.

Still, she held clam, looking ahead at her singular judge and jury, waiting for what surely will be her doom.

“State your full name and rank.”

“Arin Solara Valdena, High Inquisitor of the Ordo Hereticus.”

“Answer simply, are you of the Xanthites?”

“No.”

“Who commands your conclave?”

“I have no conclave, but in the past have served under many Lord Inquisitors and conclaves in the course of my duties.”

“What is your mission.”

“My mission is to search for Pariahs, Reclusiarch. So that they may serve in Inquisition.”

Time slowly ticked by in her mind as he went through an endless stream of questions about the structure of the Inquisition before he finally came to something substantial.

“Why did you go to Armageddon?”, Grimaldus asked finally.

“My research led me there.”

“What is this research?”

“Evidence that a Sisters of Silence splinter group may have come to this system after the rest of their order disbanded and became part of the Inquisition.”

“How did you obtain this information.”

“I have contacts within the Inquisition and Minitorum that grant me access to ancient archives.”

“To what end, why do you seek their descendants?”

“They are powerful defense against the warp. Regardless of their dominance or purity.”

“Then why give them to us. Why did you solicit me to save them.”

“Because you were there. I had little option, I arrived on Armageddon a mere week before the Inquisition Astros began picking up signs of Ghazghkulls fleet mobilizing. Another month and I had barely scratched the surface of what I was looking for and Ghazghkull was nearly knocking on the doorstep. I finally came upon the blanks in Armageddon just before the siege began. No one else would have been able to help me. It could have been the Salamanders or Ultras for all I care, I just needed to get them out.”

“Extraction from Armageddon isn’t what I asked. Again, why give them to us.”

“Because what better than when a shield can be made also into a weapon?”

Grimaldus just sat there silent, he was done asking her to explain further. She sighed deeply and answered in full.

“Blanks get used a shields for Inquisitors against psykers, but over time I have grown tired of seeing these assets being misused and tossed away like yesterday’s trash. Blanks should be trained as warriors. They’re so rare, and completely misunderstood.”

“The sororitas have shown they are willing and capable of these duties.”
“Yes but they are a defensive force. They defend the shrines and chapels, but hardly ever take the offensive measures required unless pushed.”

“Then your Ordos should have received them regardless of your personal convictions. Surely at this point someone in the Inquisition knows of what you found on Armageddon.”

“IF anyone from the Inquisition knew about this to any extent, I’d be excommunicated in a heartbeat. But if I have a proven result, a Crusade of Templars comprised of blanks? That could change the wider view of how blanks are used.”

Grimaldus stood suddenly, the sound of the bulkhead behind her opening.

“This concludes my inquiry. The apothecary will administer the remainder of this interrogation Inquisitor. Consider it an honor upon yourself that you have made it this far.”

He stepped out briskly as an apothecary and two skull servitors took their place before her. A cold chill ran down her back as she felt a slight pinch on her neck. She tried to hide her surprise, but knew instantly there was another servitor behind her, and that it just stuck her with what surely was a truth serum.

“We will begin by reviewing the full line of questioning by our Reclusiach,” the apothecary said.

“State your full name.”

In what seemed like days later, and very well could have been, Valdena slept and rested as best she could while resuming her teaching of the Neophytes.

A week after the Aegis had made it’s jump to location Theta, her encrypted comms displayed she had a new message. She opened the holo message as the vox stream began.

“Your report surprises me, High Inquisitor Valdena. But then again, what can I expect from the Hereticus.”

The way she spat out the name of her order, an acrid punctuation, made her feel ill of what she was about to hear. She had come to expect this of Helynna Valeria. Regardless of her achievements, it hardly made her less of a b***h. In the depths of the Aegis Deus, the Inquisitor gazed back at the holo with morbid curiosity to the orders she knew she was about to disobey.

“The number of descendants you found on Armageddon negates every theory to date. At this point, how doesn’t matter anymore. You’ve set the path, by the Emperor you better see it through. I’m counting on this force to serve a purpose for the Inquisition. The Grey Knights are useless to me, let them have their daemons, but the heretics among us will continue to wither our cause if left unchecked.”

She spoke of Darkhammer. It was too convenient to say that Inquisitor was consumed by the warp, that he was bent on undoing mankind from within, but that was not her mission.

“Continue as planned. Remember, the Templars owe me. Valeria, out.”

The holo image of Helynna Valeria flitted into non-existence as she sat for a moment, contemplating her options. Her mission for so many years she had been to seek and find Pariahs. Gave them to the Inquisitors to be nothing more than living shields at times. Following orders, furthering the cause. Then she heard the stories of the Sisters of Silence. The more she dug, little by little she discovered the trail, finally leading to the carrot Valeria dangled before her.

“They owe me,” Valdena whispered under her breath mockingly, “what a b***h. YOU owe ME Valeria.” Distant relative or not, she was beginning to regret ever getting involved.

She knew the Templars weren’t entirely responsible for The Howling, no one could have predicted what killing Cacodominus would do to the Astros, but she will never be swayed from having someone to blame for the initial loss of the dimensional forge.

“Servitor, record this response and encrypt,” she chose her words carefully, and then her eyes unfocused as she stared into nothing.

“Proceeding as planned. The Astartes trust me completely. You will have your strike team Lord Inquisitor Valeria, by the Emperor’s will I shall not fail you.”

It was an easy lie.

Edited March 16, 2016 by TheOneTrueZon