[DW] Blackthorn/Swordhand: Episode III - The Sundered House

[A.T.]

Atratus stood near the door, observing the tactical displays while the rulers of this world squabbled, one question at the forefront of his mind, "has the xenos command ship been sighted?"

 

Somewhere amongst the oncoming storm the true prize still lay, the guiding force of the invasion. "The hulks that circle this world might be guided towards the fleet as decoys, to test the xenos response. If they learn to ignore them then perhaps they might be useful for something more."

[Commissar Molotov]

The doors to the ballroom open and Captain Desiato departs, his crimson coat billowing around him. General Wrex takes up a data-slate from the large table and hands it to you. On it you see dispositions and logistical informations for the Levy.

 

"We have ordered all surviving PDF units to withdraw to Beregar itself. We have managed to organise four Infantry Regiments; two manning the walls of the city, and two split into eight infantry battalions, incorporating under-strength units and the survivors of the cultist uprising. We have also two armoured tank companies and two artillery companies. By securing the city, we will be able to survive for the longest time possible - until the Imperium responds and sends us greater forces. I have already issued orders to consolidate food and water supplies, and to prepare for a protracted siege. We estimate a month, at most, dependent upon the Tyranid forces."

 

Captain Locke listens to her counterpart before answering in her turn.

 

"The system defense vessels have limited weapons capacity, and work best en masse. The King of Kings and her frigate escorts will be able to hold their own against bio-vessels of comparable size, and perhaps even larger. Our Battlefleet has had little experience against the Tyranid fleets, but I have read reports from the Tyrannic War. They rely on leader-beasts. If we are able to destroy the greater hive vessels, there will be a period where they will scatter, unable to act coherently. I cannot speak as to Captain Desiato. His vessel bears the hallmarks of a cruiser, but Rogue Traders have a tendency to hide their true strength."

 

At Tyber's voiced question, the Captain responds levelly: "Our vessels do not carry world-enders. Such weapons are the purview of the Inquisition or the Astartes."

 

To the Raptor, standing quietly and speaking thoughtfully, Locke nods. "There are hulks in the sector - several system ships and the Voice of Thunder. These vessels could be repurposed, if we had time, although some have begun to drift toward the edges of the sector. We have yet to identify any of the Tyranid vessels closely."

 

 

Vortis speaks up in response to the Sanguinary Priest's last question.

 

"We have heard nothing in the last ten days. Our Astropath speaks of an oppressive force blocking all telepathic communication."

 

The scope of your task is becoming clear: Syndalla must survive as long as possible until the wider Imperium is able to reinforce the world. General Wrex and Captain Locke both stand expectantly, waiting to hear who you will select as commander of the orbital defense.

Edited February 20, 2019 by Commissar Molotov

[Steel Company]

"Our vessels do not carry world-enders. Such weapons are the purview of the Inquisition or the Astartes." Came the words of the Ship captain in a level tone.

 

Tyber in response folded his left arm across his chest while resting his right elbow in the palm of his left hand, the fingers on his right hand gripped the bridge of his nose, while he closed his blue-grey eyes as he let out a slow deep breath. Strategic class weapons should be on all capital class ships… this is a prime example of why! His inner voice screamed. On one hand he could see the reasoning for keeping such weapons out of the hands of mere mortals, but to leave he inquisition as one of two authorities to be able to authorize the use of such weapons seemed to be folly. The mortals of the Inquisition have too much power, it is against the order that the Emperor envisioned… he continued to muse in the back of his mind

 

More musing out loud than to anyone in particular he said, low enough that perhaps the mortals would miss it, “Perhaps we would be better off cramming ourselves into boarding torpedoes and getting inside to kill the hive ship before they made it close enough to launch spore pods…”

[A.T.]

Atratus nods slightly, not noting the tone in Tybers words, estimating transition time from the planet and the likely distance at which such pods might be launched based on previous engagements. "Captain, we will require more accurate disposition of the xenos fleet.".

 

By concentrating the defences above the city they might redirect the initial assaults to the outer walls. but such a defense would be futile if warships were able to close to bombardment ranges.

 

Glancing towards the mechanicum representatives, and then Desiato before turning back to Tyber, "I have seen no weapons on this world portable enough to strike effectively from within a tyranid vessel, if it becomes necessary to board them we will need more powerful explosives, and more effective weaponry to press through the defenders."

[Mazer Rackham]

Akkad waited for a pause in the deliberations and as Tyber pinched the bridge of his nose, used the distraction to leave the room.  He marched into the Governors' quarters, still quite the mess from before and searched the room.  It had not really been disturbed past the mounting of flakboard but he knew what he sought.

 

MolGM:

I'm looking for that painting of that warship The Dark Lantern - is it still here?  Akkad will contact Captain Locke and describe the displacement, armament and appearance of the Dark lantern from memory if not.

 

+Does any ship known to you match this profile?+

 

MR.

Edited February 21, 2019 by Mazer Rackham

[Steel Company]

“Brother Atratus, if the Imperial Navy Cruiser in system has melta torpedoes, could we not remove a warhead and bring it with us? I am sure that such a device would be more than enough to destroy the brain of the main hive ship.” Spoke Tyber, while still keeping the bridge of his nose cupped in his fingers.

 

He opened one eye to look at the room, to see what kind of reaction his train of thought would generate, or if anyone in the room could see his thought process.

Edited February 21, 2019 by Steel Company

[Slips]

“Brother Atratus, if the Imperial Navy Cruiser in system has melta torpedoes, could we not remove a warhead and bring it with us? I am sure that such a device would be more than enough to destroy the brain of the main hive ship.”

 

 

"Its a possibility, Brother Tyber, and we have all sworn to give our lives freely in service to the Imperium so I have no issue with the idea but, this is something we should only consider as one of our final options for it is rather final in its application and the situation isn't so dire...yet." he responded, crossing his arms and slowly nodding.

 

"If only these thrice-damned xenos weren't blocking our astropathic communications..." he sighed. "Alright then, Captain Locke, you will be in charge of coordinating Orbital defenses. General Wrex, you'll be in charge of our Planetary forces. Our Primary goal here is to resist them as long as we can. If we're lucky the initial astropathic communique we had successfully sent out on our first day on-world will have reached other ears capable of coming to our aid and are on route. So, that said, I am expecting constant communication and cooperation between the both of you and if I hear so much as a whisper about disobedience, the Emperor himself will not save you from my wrath. Am I clear, General, Captain?" he concludes taking a step forward and looming over the mortals with his stoic gravitas barely containing the simmering fury that was almost a visible aura around him.

 

Instantly shifting back to his professional demeanor, Solastion continues:

"My Brothers and I will do what we can to disseminate any knowledge we can about combating Tyranids that we haven't already. The main goal of the xenos is, as has been mentioned, the siphoning of a planets entire biomass so, if it comes to it, we may be forced to employ scorched earth tactics. Captain, if feasible, continue looking into those hulks, we cant discount them just yet but do not stretch yourself too thin, things are volatile enough as it is."

Edited February 21, 2019 by Slips

[Commissar Molotov]

Solastion:

 

Both Locke and Wrex nod at your words, though you sense neither of them is entirely satisfied by the compromise that has been arranged.

 

Over your squad's internal vox you hear the Eradicator, laconic as ever: ++We needn't wait for the Tyranids to destroy this world. These two will do it for them.++

 

You are aware of Brother Akkad departing the chamber unbidden. Captain Locke speaks, oblivious to Varvost's wits.

 

"I will depart now for the King of Kings, to prepare for the void war. Should you need to discuss anything further, you will find me there." You have the immediate sense that the Captain is far more comfortable on the deck of a cruiser than on the earth of a planet. Her heels click together as she salutes crisply and turns to depart.

 

General Wrex nods again, though this second time is more to himself, as though processing this new situation. He addresses you directly.

 

"I will continue to ensure the city is prepared for a protracted siege. I will be at the Levy's training grounds."

 

Seizing his moment, Governor Vortis clasps his hands together.

 

"We shall reconvene tomorrow, then."

 

At the Governor's words the various Adepts and officials begin to file from the room. It is only once the room is empty that Vortis turns to you. On his face is an expression of relief, as though removing a mask that has been worn for too long.

 

"I am not a military commander in the way that the Captain and the General are. I am honest enough not to pretend to be one. But those three - Locke, Desiato and Wrex - hold all the of military assets Syndalla needs to defend itself. We have a week to prepare this planet for a war of the kind we have never seen before. If you cannot ensure they work together, then we are in grave danger. "

 

 

 

Akkad:

Many pairs of eyes follow you as you depart the chamber, separating yourself from your brethren. It is hard for an Astartes in their snarling warplate to be subtle or unobtrusive, after all.

 

You follow the corridor to the chamber where Governor Orlai was eviscerated by the Broodlord. The door still hangs off the hinges; the herringbone-pattern parquet floor is still cracked from the fight between Greysight and the Broodlord. You take all of this in within seconds, and move swiftly across to the fireplace. Once more you repeat the actions from your first fateful night on Syndalla; you press in a brick and a panel above the mantel slides aside. You see a dark wooden frame, a brass panel upon which the name 'THE DARK LANTERN' is carved in gothic letters - and nothing else. The painting itself is gone, neatly sliced from the frame itself.

Edited February 22, 2019 by Commissar Molotov

[Steel Company]

"I am not a military commander in the way that the Captain and the General are. I am honest enough not to pretend to be one. But those three - Locke, Desiato and Wrex - hold all the of military assets Syndalla needs to defend itself. We have a week to prepare this planet for a war of the kind we have never seen before. If you cannot ensure they work together, then we are in grave danger.” Spoke the new Governer.

 

Tyber could see he was not fit for the role he found himself in, Another fine example of a mortal reaching too far… he thought to himself, as he touched his bolt pistol he spoke, very bluntly, “Locke and Wrex will work together, I have little doubt of it. They both know their place in the Imperium after all. It is Desiato that concerns me. He is hiding something; when I pressed him on it, he deflected then retreated from the room.”

 

Taking his hand from his pistol, he looked to Solastion to try and read his thoughts as he continued with; “My instincts tell me to board and seize his ship and assets, then turn them over to Locke to aid in the defense of this world… I have a strong feeling that Desiato will flee right when we need his ship the most.”

Edited February 22, 2019 by Steel Company

[Mazer Rackham]

In frustration Akkad ripped the brass plaque free from splintering wood.  He tore the rest of the frame apart, finding the pinned and stretched remains of the canvas the painting had been shorn away from.  He had a flap of it and to ensure safety he racked Cadence, dropping a bolt shell into his palm.  He twisted the round off, drained the powder and snapped the primer.  He scooped up wood, grains and the flap of cloth and stuffed them inside, pounding it shut, maglocking it to his waist.

 

GM/Mol:

Can I determine how fresh the cut is? Or how sharp the blade that did it from fraying? Can I taste or smell the fragments to detect anything?

 

+Ahu, Ahu are you there?  Is Captain Locke still with you?+  He began to hurry back into the ballroom-come-strategium.  He did not disguise the urgency or concern turbulent in his mind.

 

MR.

Edited February 22, 2019 by Mazer Rackham

[Slips]

"Then tell me, Brother Tyber, what if his Writ of Trade was signed by the hand of the Emperor himself millenia ago? I've not spoken to the man or had many, if any, encounters with Rogue Traders before but, as the name implies, I'm going to assume they're more of a Rogue Element. Now, from what I know of their ilk, he is likely to be in possession of home valuable archeotech indeed but forcibly taking action to take control of his ship might just cause him to scuttle it." he mused.

 

"No, I'd rather risk the chance of him coming to our aid of his own volition - until evidence to the contrary is presented - than risk it being a possibility at all." he said. "Keep an eye on him though. Speaking of which..."

 

Think of this as coming in a microsecond after you send your own message out, MR.

++Brother Akkad, I've noticed your absence. Tell me, what has drawn your attention so to cause you to depart without a word?++

[Mazer Rackham]

 

Think of this as coming in a microsecond after you send your own message out, MR.

++Brother Akkad, I've noticed your absence. Tell me, what has drawn your attention so to cause you to depart without a word?++

 

+Your pardon Kill Team Leader, my humours were imbalanced and I thought to check something.  The painting of the Dark Lantern is gone, cut away.  I have the remains and will attend you presently.  If Captain Locke or Vortis are there, please waylay them.+  He used the same tone as with Tyber.

 

He continued to hurry, which became a jog.

 

MR.

[Steel Company]

=][= Records deleted =][=

Edited February 24, 2019 by Steel Company

[Commissar Molotov]

GM: Captain Locke is gone, having already departed for the King of Kings. Governor Vortis remains within the chamber with the bulk of the Kill-Team.

Edited February 23, 2019 by Commissar Molotov

[Slips]

He nodded gravely at the mention. ++The Governor is yet within our presence but Captain Locke has departed for her vessel. I'll retain the mortal.++

 

 

"Governor Vortis, before we part ways for the day, I would require another moment of your time, it seems Brother Akkad has found something of interest."

[Commissar Molotov]

At the Sanguinary Priest's words, the Governor smiles nervously and uncertainly. 

 

"As you wish, my lord. However I can help." 

Edited February 23, 2019 by Commissar Molotov

[Mazer Rackham]

He finally barrelled into the room after a few moments  He laid a hand on Solastions shoulder, then Tyber's.   He stood close to Vortis, not even the least out of breath.

 

+Nobilis Domine,+ He bowed, +have you been into the old Governor's room at all?+  Akkad took the fragments he had recovered, prising open the bolter case and making use of the startegium table.

+Please think Lord,+ he laid out the square of vellum-like canvas, with it's odd letterbox vandalism fresh and raw, followed by the plaque, which he laid across the bottom and gestured with the long fragment of frame, +this is the remains of a picture, one that hurts the eyes to look upon.  A starship, a cruiser against a riot of colour in space.+  He indicated the edges, where the paint was still streaked thinly.

 

+Can you recall such a painting in any room of the manse?  Or in the house of anyone else you may have visited?+  Another thought struck him.

 

+Can you remember your son, The Emperor guard him, ever encountering any ships of cruiser sized displacement at all recently?+

+The steward?  Is he your own house, or is he a retainer of the old Lord Orlai?+

 

MR.

 

 

EDIT: Altered as per GM request

Edited February 23, 2019 by Mazer Rackham

[Commissar Molotov]

At the sudden return of the Astral Claw, the Governor's brow furrows. At his unusual questions, the furrows deepen further. 

 

"I have entered the former Governor's chambers, though they hold little comfort for me. I have spent little time in there. I wear borrowed robes, and those rooms are only a reminder of that."

 

 

As the Astral Claw lays out the remains of the picture frame, the Governor shakes his head. 

 

"I have seen nothing like this before. This name... the Dark Lantern? I have not heard of it. It is the name of a vessel? My son served only in the Levy's Flotilla. I purchased him a commission as an officer, and that was the last of it. I doubt he would have seen any vessel of the sort you describe. As to my steward? That would be Hadros, the old man who has served you. He comes from my household."

Edited February 23, 2019 by Commissar Molotov

[Steel Company]

Taking his helm back off, this time tucking it under his right arm, Tyber asks what may seem to be an odd question, “The ship in this painting, you said it was dagger shaped? It sounds like a crusade era cruiser grand cruiser hull. The lack of jutting bow of more common Imperial hulls, such as the Vengeance and Exorcist class Grand Cruisers, that I am more familiar with… were you able to see what was on the broad sides of the painting? Did it have more weapon batteries or did it contain large launch bays?”

 

His tone shifted to somewhat darker and sharper; “Perhaps we know what Desiato is after… were the pistol and blade you mentioned still there too?”

Edited February 24, 2019 by Steel Company

[Mazer Rackham]

+Only the Painting was gone Ahu.  As for the ship...it lacked the jutting prow we are familiar with, so most likely an older pattern of cruiser, standard cruciform shape, heavy weapon batteries. Engine clusters are standard, Mars shipyard template I would imagine.  From my experience it seems to be a Grand Cruiser of some kind. +

 

MR.

 

EDIT: Altered as per GM request.

Edited February 23, 2019 by Mazer Rackham

[Steel Company]

Tyber rubbed his chin, stubble starting to grow there, his mind was racing with what he knew of Grand Cruisers, several hull types had fallen in with those that turned from the Emperor, trying to put together in his mind the combination of clues that Akkad had said, It hurt to look at, dagger shaped hull, large weapon batteries on the flanks and a Mars standard engine layout… “Based on everything I have heard Ahu, I would take a guess at this Dark Lantern being one of two hull types: Executor or Retaliator. My reasoning on those two is due to you saying that it hurt to look at the painting… Both of those hulls have had a… questionable history.”

 

Will adjust, depending on what CM says.

Edited February 24, 2019 by Steel Company

[Commissar Molotov]

[DELETED]

Edited February 23, 2019 by Commissar Molotov

[Slips]

Placeholder

 

Solastion is...concerned...has some questions for the rogue trader now.

[Commissar Molotov]

+++

 

At that, the Kill-Team departs the former ballroom for the relative safety and security of their private chambers. It is here that the Kill-Team has prosecuted its campaign to secure the city of Beregar over the last three weeks - a campaign that has proven successful. 

 

The Watch-Sergeant's supine body remains within one of the chambers, having been tended to by the Sanguinary Priest. Another room has served as a makeshift armoury for Sabaan to tend to the arms and armour of the Kill-Team. Supplies have been short, necessitating strict rationing and fire-discipline. Each of you knows that the forthcoming battles will take a great toll on you.

Edited February 23, 2019 by Commissar Molotov

[Commissar Molotov]

As the Kill-Team returns, Varvost doffs his ugly helm to reveal his ugly features. He turns to Akkad and Tyber. 

 

"Tell me, Brothers. Why on the cusp of a Tyranid invasion are you so interested in a stolen piece of artwork? Surely we have more urgent things to concern ourselves with?" 

Edited February 23, 2019 by Commissar Molotov