Chapter 1: Into the wild black yonder IC

[With the Astropathic Choir]

Alexium thought carefully as Griffone spoke, keeping the face tilted toward her and empathetic to her plight. The child spoke carefully, each word thought out and with an emotional depth reserved for Griffone's particular character.

"I see. That is a problem, and I will speak with him about it immediately. But perhaps he has not the respect for the work as you do because he hasn't had nearly as much time to understand its significance. If only we could all be as dedicated to this position as you. I don't say it lightly when I say that you are the paragon we need in this choir." Alexium's face held a soft smile. The child's hands began moving in Astropathic Sign; Griffone would understand what they meant as though they were spoken aloud.

---Seguro is still young and full of pride. He will not respond to anger, and he is looking to frustrate you, to get a rise out of you. Don't let the child within him win. You have earned your place as his senior - try, just try, to inspire.---

+++

Alexium approached Seguro in the same manner. As the child had appealed to Griffone's innate sense of responsibility and desire to be recognized, it would appeal to Seguro's pride.

"Aye, finicky she is. But she does have a point. Certain protocols must be adhered to, Seguro, lest we create more work for ourselves in the long run. I can assure you that if those ciphers were to be lost, I would make sure that it was you who reconstructed them from scratch. We need to work smarter, not harder. Of course, you know that."

The child's hands moved in Astropathic Sign:

---You might think such work is beneath you because we both recognize your potential and skill. Don't fall down that path. Do what needs to be done and you will make less work for yourself AND me. One day, you will be in a position to give orders. We all know it.---

[Ignatio]
"Truly, my friend, you are an exception among your kind. You have stripped me bare with your perception, I think you quite right. I will do my best to trust in you. We can find together if I can put my faith into a God. But I think I can put my faith into a friend.

I know you are extremely busy with your preparations. Please come find me when you have some time to begin our ministrations. Until then, just let me know if I might be of help in your preparations."


[Alexium & Roderick]
Torian moved into the room, hand on the wall for support, and took the offered seat and filled the offered glass with a careful measurement of Sacra. Inebriated as Torian may be, spilling such a fine drink was unthinkable. He noticed a fierce looking bird staring down at him (or maybe it was just staring everywhere, those hawk-eyes were unsettling). He raised his glass to it and remarked "Glad you're on our side!"

"Roderick, you must try some of this, it's quite exceptional. A toast to Alexium! That idiot merchant took my outrageously low offer, he must have no idea what subskin armor is really worth. Can't say I blame him - the stuff is so rare - but I certainly don't mind profiting off his ignorance. Your armor panels are secured and waiting for you in the medical wing, with a team of magii prepping the necessary litanies and oils. For now, let's drink and talk shit!"

The Magos considered these words in silence, and that silence hung for a moment after Torian had finished speaking. Just as the young lord might have considered being on his way, however, Ignatio spoke.

"My lord, I have surprisingly little that requires my direct attention currently. My predecessors have performed admirably in maintaining their rituals and observances, and this holy vessel has stood strong against the ages, a true machine unlike any that can be made today, with an ancient and wise machine spirit."

"I am currently engaged in the process of familiarizing myself with the vessel, and all of the works of the ancients that remain aboard it. Specifically, I am walking the labyrinth of kadath. The passageways between sections and decks are more than they seem; they are the machine spirit's immune system, through which it may thwart and destroy foes who venture within."

He turned to wave his arm toward a stretch of corridor that ran off to the side. "I would be honored if you would walk with me, my lord, and learn the intricacies of what the ancients have put in place to defend us. Every machine is a reflection of the true machines in the realm of the Machine God, but those on this ship reflect the truth with great clarity. There is much you can learn from them."

Torian smiled warmly, "Please, Ignation, call me Torian. Titles are only useful when formalities provide advantage in commercial negotiations. Otherwise they just get in the way. Let us walk."

Iron and Metal wrote:

[With the Astropathic Choir]
---Seguro is still young and full of pride. He will not respond to anger, and he is looking to frustrate you, to get a rise out of you. Don't let the child within him win. You have earned your place as his senior - try, just try, to inspire.---

I will try. Though having some clerck-servitors could at least ease this work.

Her face remained somewhat disturbed. She was quite tired, having kept this place afloat.

Iron and Metal wrote:

[With the Astropathic Choir]
---You might think such work is beneath you because we both recognize your potential and skill. Don't fall down that path. Do what needs to be done and you will make less work for yourself AND me. One day, you will be in a position to give orders. We all know it.---

Sigh... I'll try boss. I just hate paperwork so much! If I was a pyromancer I would burn entire stacks of it.

[In the Astropathic Choir Chambers]

Alexium smiled and nodded to both of them. The answer, unsurprisingly, was that they both needed the exact same thing.

"I will see to it that clerk-servitors are top priority. In fact, I will see to it now. If the day-to-day is taken care of, then you two can both more readily focus on your tasks at hand."

Roderick downed the rest of his glass and smacked his lips while holding it out for a refill from Torian's bottle. Sacra was a good drop, most of the time. As the procurator spoke of his deal with the merchant, Roderick became a little tense. He had been unable to acquire anything during the mission or after on the forge world. His ability to seek out useful tools and relics was severely lacking at this stage. I might need your help in the future getting something together. Turns out I can't find a pot to piss in when it comes to useful items. I thank you, he said as his glass was filled. He leaned back again and inhaled deeply of the amber liquid, mustache pressed against the glass. He took a sip and savoured it for a moment, feeling it heat his tongue and gums. Not bad. The warming of the teeth is a nice feature. Now, what are you doing on this ship?

++++

[The Bridge]
Roderick made his way through the ship, looking for places of interest along his route to where he would spend most of his time during transit. When he entered the bridge noone was there to greet him, so he did a circuit of the systems and inspected each meticulously. He familiarised himself with the layout of the stations and their systems, down to the last dial. Some of the workings were beyond his understanding, but their overall functions were not lost to him. When the time came, he wanted to know this area inside and out so he could make the ship bend to his will. When a steed was properly brought into line, the wonders it could perform were endless. This ship would be no different. Lastly he found the Void Master's throne, from which he would be able to control the ship. He took his seat almost reverently, enjoying the feeling of commanding such a venerable vessel. He steepled his fingers in front of his face as he began to think of the future. Though they would be going into the out reaches, he knew that his rival would find him somehow. Let him come, Roderick brooded. With this ship, I will cast you and the rest of your worthless house into oblivion.

[With Roderick and Torian]

Alexium's face lit up as Torian delivered the news. "Wonderful! This is wonderful news!" The child looked as though it might jump up out of its small seat. But it couldn't help but feel down for Roderick's luck.

"We need to secure you some spoils of war, old friend," speaking to Roderick.

From out of the dark void it came, an ancient holy lander carrying the combined retinues of the Father Confessor and the Sister Brenonya and festooned with the intricate carvings and sigils of the Ecclesiarchy in total, a beautiful and terrible sight to behold as it came to rest in the hollowed bays of the venerable galleon. Solid metal scraped into position as a great ramp extended down from the lander,  the titanic slab of metal slamming solidly into the surface of the bay sending shock waves through to rustle those few objects not secured within. A long loud march begins to play across the laud hailers installed upon the hallowed vessel, the majestic stirrings of the Imperial Hymn "Ode to Conquest Oh Sainted Martyrs Rejoice and be Counted" begin to pick their way through the cavernous structure. The first refrain of blessed music calling the faithful to carry their burdens with hearts full of duty and backs strengthened by the Emperor's blessing, calling all who could hear to attend to the holy procession about to begin.


Broken, those who stand before us
Holy Lord defies them
Lost are they before his light and burned now are their lands.
Holy, men who stand beside Him
Before him do they charge forth
Conquering those blighted beast that would war against his plans.
Lost, those that do not know Him
Though they will be brought back
Shepherded by saints one and all whose life and light did give.

March now oh Men of Light, Martyred Saints do call forth
Rejoice and be Thee Counted twice against our fallen foes.
March oh Ladies Pure now, Martyred Saints do call forth
Rejoice and be The Counted twice against their dying throes.

Blessed, those who call forth
To the Sainted Martyrs
Whose Holy Wrath with fires pure do purge the rot that's grown.
Sainted, those who giveth
Of their lives their fullness
All we have we give to Him who rules from Golden Throne.
Holy, He who commands
Every angel to war
In His light and for His creed the righteous man does live.

March now oh Men of Light, Martyred Saints do call forth
Rejoice and be Thee Counted twice against our fallen foes.
March oh Ladies Pure now, Martyred Saints do call forth
Rejoice and be The Counted twice against their dying throes...


From deep within the lander a thousand thousand servo-skulls pour forth, each bearing a single candle burning its guttering light against the darkness. The penitent skulls of generations of priests now light the way for those who yet draw breath, their duty in life continuing as their light guides those who may be called at any moment to join their numbers. Moments later come the first wave of penitents, adding their voices to the choir of the hymn as they flagellate themselves upon every break, their collected flogging in perfect rythm to give time to the venerable hymn. Next come the lay priests and novitiates, their voices mixing in a harmony of booming refrain and heavenly voices that give strength to the already emotionally charged wave of jubilation that did pour forth from this august body of the faithful. Ever over the sounds of the drawing crowd did the joyous verses of the holy march ring out.


Foul, those who rise against us
Banished back to their Hell
Purge them now from our midst with holy flames we pray.
Harried, they flee before us
Shattered are their whole host
Drive them out from shadowed heart to face the light of day.
Cursed, the witch among us
Though they will be shackled
Bound before the Holy Choir their voices light the void.

March now oh Men of Light, Martyred Saints do call forth
Rejoice and be Thee Counted twice against our fallen foes.
March oh Ladies Pure now, Martyred Saints do call forth
Rejoice and be The Counted twice against their dying throes.

Sacred, the Pure Form
In the Emperor's Image
Fixed now for all time we see the perfect form of Man
Twisted, those who taint it
Lost are they to His faith
Broken are their hollow souls, cast out from His holy plan.
Hate, those that lost faith
In his Greatest Vision
Lost to them now is their place that once they had enjoyed.

March now oh Men of Light, Martyred Saints do call forth
Rejoice and be Thee Counted twice against our fallen foes.
March oh Ladies Pure now, Martyred Saints do call forth
Rejoice and be The Counted twice against their dying throes...


The procession continues down the main thoroughfares, calling out to the faithful to join the ever expanding horde of voices as they march ever forward. Farther back now steps out the familial blood, her armor bedecked form gleaming in the light of a million candles. Her mannerisms call image of an unbridled storm descending upon those hapless enough to stand in her way. Marching in rank and file beside her are those soldiers at her command, their own armors and discipline setting them apart from the holy mass as they marched forward in the wake of their leader. The scion's steely gaze watches all in attendance, absorbing the scene as she makes her way to her destined home.


Terrible, His wrath does march on
Ever conquering forward
Take now the Sword of His Hate and claim our lost glory.
Mighty, we are many
Billions set against thee
Every life a Holy Arm set to hunt down all our unclean Quarry.
Slain, the Sons and Daughters
Mourn we now their passing
Till the day He raise them up sacred duties to perform.

March now oh Men of Light, Martyred Saints do call forth
Rejoice and be Thee Counted twice against our fallen foes.
March oh Ladies Pure now, Martyred Saints do call forth
Rejoice and be The Counted twice against their dying throes.

Gifted, the True Calling
To His path we hold fast
Our duty ever to our Lord the Mighty Emperor
Joyous, those who serve Him
Filled with adoration
Weighed our souls against his scale our Final Measurer.
Counted, those that pour forth
Like a rising mountain
Called we are to be the might of His resounding Storm.

March now oh Men of Light, Martyred Saints do call forth
Rejoice and be Thee Counted twice against our fallen foes.
March oh Ladies Pure now, Martyred Saints do call forth
Rejoice and be The Counted twice against their dying throes...


Now steps forth the Confessor, a man of stern glaring and stony judgement, followed not by amassed clergy but by a horde of his own family. His collected wives do take point of pride beside him, each followed by a trailing cloud of progeny and grand progeny... and yet more who's ties are another generation deep. The collected river of humanity near bursts its banks with the weight of his clan as they push past those who might collect upon the edges of the grand event. As with the penitent before, the Father Confessor and many of his brood do flog themselves at the breaks in the hymn, showing they are not above the scourging that every man must exact for the Emperor's due. The vast host does continue to make their way, only splitting when they finally come to meet the collection of Filiantis blood and attendant allies.

The Confessor waits but a moment for the ancient hymn to finish, the last of the blessed refrains finish and an unsettling stillness descends where once the noise was near deafening. Finally he begins...

"Holy are those that cleave to the light of the Emperor, Blessed are their days and sheltered are their nights. All blessings to He Who Shelters Us and gives us of His holy flame, may it forever purge away all sin. May are burdens be a sacred duty, may our feet ever stay upon the Emperor's path, and may our words hold only the Imperial Truth. Let all who bare heresy within be cast into the fire and may their ashes be strewn among the void for all time hence. Thus speaks the Emperor's Creed and so it shall be."

Having pronounced blessings upon the momentous occasion, the Father Confessor stepped back to allow that others might speak...

As Father Confessor finishes, Brenonya casts her left arm in front of her with hand held open, reaching over with her right she tugs at a handle seemingly attached to a bracer on her armor. But what happens next is a flurry of steel and barbs, and as she pulls at it it appears as though a piece of her armor has come alive. A barbed metal cable unfurls where it was once fastened across her back and chest from shoulder to shoulder like a barbed mantle laid with carefully designed knots.

While it swarms around her she catches the end of it with her outstrectched hand, coils the thick metal bramble around it and reaches back to her right hand taking the handle in it as well. It falls still now, and you see it is a grox whip folded and hanging down from her armored gauntlet. She drops to one knee and begins flagellating herself, across her shoulder to her back, being careful to only leave thin scratches upon her armor.

Standing back up her face seems relaxed now, she speaks in an even tone balancing clarity, intensity, and a practiced purity, "In the name of the emperor of mankind, I have been called to cleanse this vessel of any vile heretical influence. And I do intend to meet each member of this crew and make a thorough inspection to ensure no one who serves my bloodline is corrupted by Chaos. I am Scout Sororitas Brenonya Helahla, you may address me as Brenonya."

Wendigo Bob wrote:

Sylphilis wrote:

She admits the house assistants with a silent bow.

"I understand. Where do we start?"

We will all need to get habituated to the warp-sextant in the ship. The technology is rare, and I know some navigators become claustrophobic in the sealed liquid environment.  We will also need to arrange shifts for navigation, coordinate with the carto-artifexes, an prepare a protection detail for our own safety; we have only a few Tzemopoulos bodyguards on station. Do you have any additional needs you want filled?

"I have requested heavier armor for when Im not aboard the ship. As far as my duties aboard? No. I do not see the need for anything else, though I would ask for access to the finest food aboard. I detest corpse starch and other gruels, thats the providence of lesser staff members."

Her preference for fine foods was known to the house, but would the rogue trader provide her with the choice cuts?

"Do you think I'll need extra security aboard the ship? That thought is rather disturbing....."

With her questions answered, she retrieves her staff of office, "Let us be off to the warp sextant."

[COMMAND]

Upon learning that he would unexpectedly now be ranking officer aboard, Torian threw himself into an intensive study of command and void warfare, as well as gaining a better understanding of the ship systems, meeting closely with key members of the bridge, and working closely with Roderick, Alexium, Brenyonya, and Lethia to gain a better understanding of their tasks. This was not this first experience in leadership, but the sheer size of the Anatem Imperabit Mundus was new to him, as was naval command. If he was to make decisions that would affect all their lives, he was going to make damn sure those decisions were well-informed.

[GREETING THE NEWCOMERS]
Torian stood with the other officers to greet the newly arrived ecclesiarch and warrior, slightly apart from the small army of retainers, concierge staff, and honor guard brought to deal with the influx. He wore a simple grey suit, impeccably tailored, with a silver pocket watch tucked into his waistcoat pocket. His eyes followed the shuttle as it descended to the chamber floor with hawkish precision. Behind him, a small team of staffers stood ready with their cogitators and servitors to record and implement the decisions he and the officers made.

The grand display put forth by the newcomers was overwhelming to every sense. The raucous din of the chanting, the flickering of candles, the smell and taste of incense and shuttle exhaust and mechanical oils, the pulsing beat of a thousand flagellants. Torian knew these were what the dynasty needed. Someone to inspire, invigorate, enthuse, and bring holy fire down on those who would not put their full effort into bringing the family back to power. Someone to lead its soldiers into battle, to back up the party of officers in their missions, to take charge of the weapons systems and soldier-crew of the Anatem. These two would cleanse anything we found. Chaos was bad for business, and Torian simply could not abide that.

When it seemed the festivities had reached a conclusion, Torian strode forward, arms spread wide in welcome. "Welcome, my friends! Rarely have I seen such an exuberant display. Word of it will quickly reach every corner of this vessel, and all will know that you have come to bring this vessel and all in it to the very forefront of the glorious light of the blessed God-Emperor. I look forward to the vitalizing and morale-improving effects this will surely bring. Such fervor and zealotry is exactly what is needed as we slip into the unknowns of the void.

Holy Father, welcome to the Anatem Imperabit Mundus. Welcome to the Filinatis Dynasty. Our concierge staff will see to your flock; we have set aside a section of quarters starboard-aft for them. Should you encounter any issues, please search me out and I will see to its correction personally. It is my honor to grant you the title and rank of Ship's Confessor, with all responsibilities and privileges thereto. I look forward to attending many enlightening sermons, and to seeing the heights of fervor your speeches will bring to those who serve this dynasty."

Torian raised a hand and gestured to the waiting staff, who proceeded to flow forwards into and amongst the father-confessor's brood and incoming crew to help with the logistics of influx. He then paused, and formed the sign of the aquila with his hands.

"Welcome, O brave and terrible battle-sister. It warms my heart to see more of mine kin aboard this vessel. We have need for your strong arm. Such monstrosities we are likely to meet in this venture are beyond comprehension, and I will rest easier knowing a dedicated and glorious warrior is leading our ranks. Your incoming soldiery will nicely bolster our forces, and will have a separate barracks and training facilities for their elite training. It is my hope that our forces may rotate into this training as well, so that all may benefit from your wisdom and skill. I am privileged to grant you the title and rank of Master at Arms, with all the responsibilities and privileges thereto. Our enemies will falter and despair at the knowledge of your coming."

Torian raised his other hand, and at once the honor guard moved forward, saluting before breaking ranks into discussions of logistics amongst officers and informal greetings betwixt the rank-and-file.

Brenonya loops and hooks her whip to her hip, as she walks toward Torian. "The welcome is appreciated. I spoke with the fair patriarch and I do hope we can overcome this curse, obviously some chaotic taint. Have we time to review the ship capabilities and possibly a formal inspection of our military forces? I want to see that at least our armed personnel do not stray into lethargy, which is exactly where heresy festers and takes hold."

[With Torian & the Newcomers]

Alexium stood nearby and watched as the festivities began. It was all over the top, of course, and the child loved every moment of it. Some held psykers like Alexium as beyond the realm of the Emperor's grace and love. Witches they called them derisively. It was irony at its finest; after all, Sanctioned Psykers all were the only ones to actually stand in the presence of the Golden Throne and experience the majesty and blessings of the Emperor of Humankind firsthand. For Alexium, this display was both funny and glorious. The child smiled.

Exceptionally fine silk robes covered its small frame. An equally fine sash wrapped around its eyes, preventing onlookers from seeing the burned out sockets. There was a sheath on the Astropath's back holding a well made monosword for no other reason than Alexium thought it looked awesome.

When the newcomers finally noticed the child, it spoke.

"Welcome aboard! I am Alexium Morai Dineh, Astropath Ascendant. It is good to make your acquaintance. We definitely could have used you both during the last shitsho- er- mission we undertook."

An innocent, childlike smile spread across a cherubic face.

Ignatio had of course been present for this introduction, as it was necessary to meet a new Filiantius as soon as possible. He had not expected such an over-wrouht display. He had no body language to betray his distaste at the practice of intentionally damaging one's body. The body was a machine, and proper care for a machine was a duty owed to the Machine God.

The speech by the new Filiantius about hunting out heresy also set the tech-priest on edge. Interfaith relations between the Machine Cult and the Imperial Creed were often difficult, especially among those most zealous. Over the course of the speech, many of the other tech priests in the chamber silently formed up behind Ignatio, taking shelter in unity and the protection of their leader.

The Magos stepped forward.

"I am Magos Technicus Ignatio Pulsanus, Engineer Prime of the Anatem Imperabit Mundus, and at your service, my lady. I am pleased to report that the holy vessel is in prime condition, that all systems are in better than working order, and that the ancient and wise machine spirit of the Anatem is eager to begin our journey."

"I must also remind you of the ancient compact, by agreement of the Emperor and Omnissiah, that the Cult Mechanicus and the Imperial Cult are not to interfere with each other's practice of faith. I, as well as DiagnostIcon Rai, will take responsibility for those of our crew sworn to the Omnissiah."

[TO ALEXIUM]

While Brenonya is by no means stupid nor ignorant of the ways of Psykers, thus is aware that "something is most certainly up" with this apparent child, she could not help but feel her instincts kick in to protect and care for this fragile lamb sporting what she thought it must have believed to be a pretty bad ass weapon.

She bent forward and locked her arms to her knees to peer down at the astropath. "Why hello there, Astropath Ascendant Alexium. I am sorry your previous mission was such a disaster, I do hope I can keep this team alive long enough to serve the god emperor's will sufficiently." She reaches out for a second to tussle the child's hair, but stops half way there realizing her mistake.

[TO IGNATIO]

"Great to hear that this vessel is running optimally. And to your point regarding the compact, such a division should indeed be respected, Magos Ignatio. So I will not subject them to my personal inspection. But as the Master at Arms of this vessel I do not only represent the Imperial Cult, my responsibilities also encompass the security of it. So, in the effort to secure your fellow magi from chaotic forces, I do expect a full report of your evaluation as promptly as is possible."

Brenonya appreciated those of the Adeptus Mechanicus, their god machines and aptitude for bionic implants had always impressed her, especially since her own legs were crafted by their order. However she feared the division of leadership might allow for priests to feel distant from any potential wrath she might unleash upon them, and that could not be allowed. She required them to respect her orders as they would respect those from any senior tech priest.

Chaos had sunken its teeth deep here, how else could anyone explain the curse. They would need to push back at it even harder.

The good Father stood by silently, allowing Brenonya to carry the conversation with her kith and kin.

[ALEXIUM & RODERICK]

Torian raised his glass to Roderick: "If it makes you feel any better, I acquired nothing either. My skill is in matters of commerce, and once you've tracked something down I should be able to secure it for you outside of the most extreme circumstances. But finding the damn things first, that is a roll of the dice we all make. One thing I can promise, though, is that the next time we find ourselves in a position to search for equipment again, I will be there alongside you. The equipment I have already is really all I require. We will find something together, and once we locate it I will bargain the merchant out of house and home.

I think I'm on this ship for the same reason any of us are; It's the best opportunity available to me. Perhaps our goals are different, but we both strive to accomplish them, no? I have tied myself firmly and formally to this family, and I will see them rise. It does nothing to help me to shirk my duties or ignore my peers.

Now it looks like I've gotten stuck commanding this bloody ship. What can you two tell me about the Anatem, what you do for it, and anything else that would be useful. Roderick, we must go around the bridge together and I must absorb everything I can of your immense knowledge. Alexium, tell me whatever you can that won't explode my brain."

[Brenonya & Odwin]

"Such a task requires we make time! I will send word for the soldiery to make ready for parade inspection. Tomorrow at 0600, if you will meet me at aft hold 1135 you may make whatever inspections you find necessary, and implement any training program you wish - should you find such a program necessary.

Additionally, we must discuss the readiness of ship's weapons and preparedness of our loader crews. I need to know that in the event of a voidfight, we are ready and able."

Torian gestured to the father, and leaned in closely to have a quiet discussion. It was a simple matter to drop your voice low enough that those around you cannot hear, while not seeming to whisper or attract attention. It was something Torian had long since mastered.

"Good Father, with you I must discuss the morale of our ship. It is my hope that you can informally take the role of commissar alongside confessor on this ship. Someone to inspire the crew on to greater bravery and valor in the name of the Golden Throne... and someone to bring hell and damnation down on those who do not. My authority on this ship is new and untried, and I must have it absolute or the command structure will fall apart. I hope I can rely on you to back up my commands with all the fervor and fire I see within you."

Ignatio lowers his head to Lady Brenonya, her orders received without conflict. "We shall perform an audit and provide you with a report of our results, My Lady." One could see the tech-priests behind him tense at the use of the word 'audit'.

"Furthermore, I have received a request for a clerk servitor for the astropathic choir. If your hunt uncovers any heretics, it would be most efficient to convert one in order to fulfill this task. At your discretion, of course."

[At the Booze up with Alexium and Torian]
Ahhh well I would appreciate the help when it comes time to swindle someone, no doubt. I'm more built for wagering and gambling than wheeling and dealing.

I'll make this ship move in ways that will make you jobby in your pants.he gave a wink as he took a sip. He savoured the drink for a moment then before clicking his teeth and continuing. I've had a look around the bridge already and gotten pretty familiar with it, but I'll show you around tomorrow if you like.

He continued to drink until the wee hours and then kicked the pair out when all the drink was gone.

++++

[Meeting Brenonya and Odwin]
The procession was ostentatious in the extreme and Roderick loved it. It was an excellent show of piety and power, that would have gone a long way to inspire a terrify the crew members in equal measure.

When the newcomers finally stopped to meet them, Roderick waited until last to introduce himself. Good day to you both. Welcome to our ship. He bowed to the Confessor first, We welcome those that being the Emperor's holy judgement to our halls. Out beyond the borders of the Imperium, it will be more important than ever to carry the Emperor's light with us. He made the sign of the Aquila across his chest and then turned to Brenonya. It's always a pleasure to meet more of our bloodline. It shows just how far our power and reach extends.

[TO TORIAN]

"I look forward to this inspection, and perhaps take the opportunity to do some training exercises. And yes, in any way I can help assess or improve our combat effectiveness, please do not hesitate to ask for my assistance."



[TO IGNATIO]

Brenonya bows, "Thank you very much for your cooperation, Ignatio, I will not forget this favor." And then a deep and rueful manner smile creeps across her face, "Oh, and I will most gladly volunteer any heretics I find for service to the family as your new clerk servitors." The best way to liven up any work space, some tasty righteous vengeance.


[TO RODERICK]

"Indeed, our numbers might be thinned but now is the chance prove the Filiantis bloodline is not defined by its accursed past." She eyes his stance and economy of movement, "in the spirit of family bonding, would you care to join me in a training session some time? We could practice some melee techniques I would love to show the troops." She tries to hide the excitement for facing a worthy combatant even in training, but utterly fails as her eyes widen and she is subtly bouncing shifting her weight from leg to leg with just a hint of hip wiggle.

The Confessor takes the proceedings in stride, a simple nod in assent to the request for fire and fervor, the proper blessing to proffered sign of the aquila. These were now his charges, his flock, and his watch had begun the moment he had stepped on board. All were suspect until proven pure, even if they were already secure in their own purity.

[To Brenonya]

I'll admit, my talents are with shot and bolt rather than the blade, but who knows, I may surprise you. I surprise Alexium all the time, Don't I little one? He winks at his friend before continuing. I haven't inspected the training cages, but I'm sure something can be arranged. There is someone down there I think I sh...you should meet since you'll working together. I can make the introduction for you.

[With TORIAN]

"Greetings, I am Lethia Tzemopolus of the navigator house of the same name. I have been chosen to be the master navigator aboard the shp during this voyage."

Her tone was polite and very, very formal. It was clear that she was a seasoned veteran in highly formal occasions. For someone of her age and size, that would be expected of high society.

Brenonya wrote:

She bent forward and locked her arms to her knees to peer down at the astropath. "Why hello there, Astropath Ascendant Alexium. I am sorry your previous mission was such a disaster, I do hope I can keep this team alive long enough to serve the god emperor's will sufficiently." She reaches out for a second to tussle the child's hair, but stops half way there realizing her mistake.

Alexium smiles back, happy to be in the presence of such a clear militant type who wasn't a total dickhead. They were few and far between aboard space-faring vessels; aside from the life-or-death shared experience, it was probably why Roderick and the child were such close friends.

"I have no doubt you will be an invaluable addition. If you ever need anything from me, call on me at any time. And, likewise, if you feel the need to rub my head, I give you permission for two rubs. Anything after that will cost you," Alexium quipped. The child bowed its head, freshly buzzed down. It was one more thing that made determining its sex so difficult.

When Roderick speaks, Alexium nods vigorously. "Indeed, all the time! For instance, during his last physical, the medicae said that he was completely free of VD. Couldn't hardly believe it. That's why he's the best!"


Alexium sipped the wonderful alcohol Torian had provided and listened carefully. They had both tied themselves to this family and Alexium could see clear similarities between their goals and purpose as such.

"We are all tied to this family now, and I intend to see its rise to glory. If one of us rises, all of us rise. If the family rises, then we will have brought back from the brink of extinction one of the great lines extending all the way back to the formation of the Imperium. It is truly something extraordinary to be a part of. As for what won't explode your brain..."

Alexium shrugged, as though everything it could say would destroy something's brain in the room. Then the child giggled and lit up a lho.

"I could bore you about the Adeptus Astra Telepathica and/or the Imperial Navy. I could share my scholarly knowledge of cryptology or the occult - though that would be better if we had more time. Perhaps you would like to hear what secrets I know of Psykers, Psy-technology, and the Warp..." The child let the last word linger. The living hell they were all forced to traverse was one of the scariest thoughts imaginable, and Alexium knew all too much about it. The child decided to keep it short and simple.

"I receive and relay the meta-messages sent at galactic distances. On the bridge when things get hot, I disrupt those communications for the enemy, protect ours, and in theory boost the morale of those around me. Roderick can attest to that much at least. On the ground, I specialize into getting inside people's heads... as a rule, I don't explode the brains of colleagues."

As Roderick speaks, Alexium perks up a bit. "Mind if I tag along? Haven't visited the bridge yet. Suppose I should familiarize myself."

+++9.465.847:M41+++

The Anatem Imperabit Mundus yearned to be free. As the last tubes and scaffolding retracted back into the drydock, it surged forth for the first time in decades. Its engined ejected powerful atomic fire, propelling the ship into the void. The golden duck at the prow flew into the emptiness towards the system's closest mandeville point.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++

In the ship itself, the crew went into action. In the meantime, several members of the officer corps assembled, with parade-ready armsmen, into the closest thing to training cage: Functionnal Demonstration Room A.

The room itself was part of the labyrinth of Kadath. Many mobile walls could readjust at high speed from a frontal console. It was frequently used by the armsmen to train in close-quarters combat.

The armsmen themselves where dressed in a mid-grade parade suit, under which their standard flack armor could be seen. Each was armed with a mono weapon, typically swords, axes or hammers, as well as a shotgun. A few where armed with autopistols or more exotic weapons. Most wore some form of badge, indicating their family lines, their honored ancestors, and their own (admitedly limited) honors. These where experienced fighters, ready to unleash their weapons the moment danger appeared.

[RODERICK & ALEXIUM]

Matters of the warp still put Torian on edge more than he cared to admit, and he was glad that such a gift as Alexium had inherited had not been bestowed on him instead. He knew of the strain such a position put on astropaths. Besides perhaps a navigator, no one sacrificed quite so much in the service of the Imperium and the running of a starship as a psyker. Seeing his taste for it, Torian made a mental note to set up a supply line of Sacra for Alexium at the next available opportunity. He deserved every drop.

The next day, at a sufficient hour late in the morning, and with caffeine plentiful in his veins, Torian met Alexium and Roderick at the entrance to the bridge. He carefully reviewed the names of bridge officers in his mind and made sure to start up small conversations with them as they worked their way through the bridge, discussing equipment, procedure, authority, and function. The Anatem crew-core was a well-oiled machine, that much had always been clear. Upon reaching the helmsman station, Torian stood at ease and turned his attention to Roderick.

[BRENONYA]

It was with a measure of pride that Torian stood looking at the ranks of troopers standing at attention before them. He took a second to ruminate. These were no lazy louts. He was hopeful there would be good learning that could take place coming from the notorious Adeptus Sororitas, but knew that Brenonya would have a modicum of tact in her assessment and suggestions. Insulting the pride of these troopers would accomplish nothing other than to make her job harder. Although, going too easy on them could end up hurting the air of authority she brought with that intimidating presence and the aura behind anyone coming from the holy Sororitas.

He grounded himself in the moment once more, and turned his attention to Brenonya. Whatever happened, he needed to focus on gaining as intricate a knowledge of the military forces available to this vessel as possible.

[LETHIA]

Torian gestured to the table of food and drink before them. It was laden with the finest offerings available aboard-ship, on a golden table overlaid with a genuine-plant-fibre linen that had come all the way from Hesperus in the Helican sub-sector. Goblets of wrought metal and blown glass held samples of the most exclusive reserve liqueurs and wine from the ship cellars. Brightly polished silver serving trays held exquisite delicacies and examples of culinary technique far beyond that common to a ship's cooking crew.

"I am glad to make your acquaintance, Lethia Tzemopolus. Long may your family thrive! I am Torian Siegel, of this house, from a bastard line with no traceable name to speak of. I come to inquire what I may of your particular talents, and how I might best utilize them in the service of this vessel. I also wish to inquire how I may best secure your person in the event of future off-ship endeavors. Of everyone on this ship, it is you who are most irreplaceable. I am glad to see the battle sister join our ranks, as she will serve the dual purposes of slaying our enemies while attracting the focus of their fire. But if there is more I may do, please suggest it. I have heard of your tastes for the finer things. I know little of the details, but enough of the sacrifices necessary for your station to grant you all that you may desire in terms of food and drink. I will set aside a portion of the kitchen staff to meet your needs."

Whatever hours Magos Pulsanos did not spend familiarizing himself with his new ship, command structure, and tech-fellowship, he spent in the motor pool workshop, modifying one of the Centaur carriers that had been acquired for the journey. While a completely open-topped design was adequate for standard troop transport and towing duties that such vehicles were usually put to, it was inadequate for the protection of the senior staff.

So he'd taken to designing and implementing a set of hatches, attached to a central frame on top of the vehicle, and able to be easily pushed open to allow the passengers to fire weapons from within. The heavy bolter would be removed to make room for an additional passenger, as the weapons that they each carried would significantly outmatch its firepower.

These might have seemed to the ignorant as if they would be simple modifications, accomplished in a day or two, but the Magos knew better. One did not simply slap a few pieces of metal onto an STC-designed vehicle. Every metal plate required the ritual of thrice-measure before it was cut, the plans were deliberated on endlessly by the various other tech-priests involved, and extensive prayer and negotiation with the machine spirit was necessary to ensure that it accepted the changes without being angered by the difference in load weight.

Wendigo Bob wrote:

+++9.465.847:M41+++

...In the meantime, several members of the officer corps assembled, with parade-ready armsmen, into the closest thing to training cage: Functionnal Demonstration Room A.

The room itself was part of the labyrinth of Kadath. Many mobile walls could readjust at high speed from a frontal console. It was frequently used by the armsmen to train in close-quarters combat.

The armsmen themselves where dressed in a mid-grade parade suit, under which their standard flack armor could be seen. Each was armed with a mono weapon, typically swords, axes or hammers, as well as a shotgun. A few where armed with autopistols or more exotic weapons. Most wore some form of badge, indicating their family lines, their honored ancestors, and their own (admitedly limited) honors. These where experienced fighters, ready to unleash their weapons the moment danger appeared.

Brenonya dressed down to her simple silver, gold-trim carapace armor over her robes, she took a long look at the gathered armsmen prepping and cleaning their various weapons before yelling, "Fall in!" She shifts to a ready stance with her folded behind her lower back and her robes snapped with the movement, "Attention! It is time for an overdue inspection of this force. While I have no doubts you have served this family honorably and to the best your ability, the intent today's inspection is two-fold. First, I want to gain familiarity with all of you through training drills followed up with sparring sessions. Second, snuff out any potential signs of heresy taking root in our ranks.

She let that sit for a moment and watched for any responses, then carried on. "To assess the extent of this garrison's abilities, we will drill close quarters combat techniques. Following that up we will rotate through pairs for sparring. Once we have all sparred to our heart's content, I will interview the officers and, emperor willing that we have the time, squad leaders.

Again waiting a moment to gauge responses, slowly she shifts out of attention to a more relaxed posture, a smile creeps across her face as she says, "before we begin with the day's training though, we will start with a uniform inspection." She claps her hands together, breaths deep, closing her eyes, and gives a quick of Prayer of Competent Armsmen to the god emperor. She walks through the ranks with Victoria, greeting them, getting names, exchanging some words, and mentally cataloging their demeanor and state of dress. The taint of chaos hides somewhere on this ship and she needed to be sure that those who served under her were not marked by it.

[With Torian]

She bows again, "Its a pleasure to meet you master Torian. May your house Thrive as well." she says, implicating the dynasty rather than the bloodline ties he did avoided mentioning.
"As you can gather, I would rather much not have to leave the sanctity of the ship.I don understand that this may not be avoidable though, I have procured some heavier armor for those times though. If we do leave the ship, I only ask that I be as well protected as able. I am important, but not irreplacable. I know for certain another member of my house lies in stasis for when She is needed. Its also possible my forbears have other navigator's aboard in stasis as well. Such things are commonplace among the houses and their allies."

[IN the Navigator's throne]

She watches the black depths of space from the room that would serve as her home while in the warp. She would soon make her necessity clear for all those aboard. The responsibility weighed heavily on her and she takes slow breaths to steady herself.
Once they reached the mandiville point, she would close her normal eyes to the empyrean and open her third eye to the hellish realm of chaos.

The only thing that made that endeavor worthwhile was the seeing the blessed light of the astornomicon.

[Brenonya]

The uniform inspection went adequately. While uniforms where clean & well-maintained, there was a tendency towards personal accouterments on each uniform. A variety of medals and clan-markings could be seen, either clipped on or stitched into the uniforms. The weapons also had a variety of self-made decorations, the most common being the imperial aquila and the imperial anatida (symbol of the family); coin-like decorations where also common, signaling ties to the cult of prosperity.


[Lethia]
The mandeville point was close, mere hours away. The voyage through the sector would not be difficult; but beyond... the emperor's light could go missing.

[In the Astropathic Choir Chambers]

Alexium made sure everything was in order. The child would broker no unnecessary complaints from Griffone, and no prideful malaise from Seguro. The time was nigh to make the first jump into the Warp, and while the safety of the crew lay securely in the hands of the Mechanicus on board to assure the Gellar-Fields remained operational, as well as the ship's Navigator Lethia to ensure their journey stayed within the light of the Astronomicon, the Astropaths needed to be ready to work.

"Griffone, Seguro, it is nearly time. We approach the Mandeville point and will soon be ready to enter the Empyrean. We must be alert and ready at all times. We three are the eyes, ears, and mouths of the Void. For the Imperium of Humankind, for the Emperor, and for House Filianatus. A toast."

From the beautiful silk robes emerged a bottle of fine amasec. The night with Torian and Roderick had been a great chance at "meeting the new boss" so to say, and Alexium had made sure to leave with enough of the fine liquor to ensure the Astropaths also got a taste. They were a finely tuned machine, after all.

The child poured three healthy shots and handed one to the others. With a quick gulp, it was gone, and the adventure was ready to begin.

EDIT: After taking the ceremonial toast to the Imperium, the Emperor, the Family, and one another, Alexium retired to ze's* chambers to meditate. Once inside, ze sat and stared at Sir Reginald Dark Horse. "Hello, new friend. We haven't spoken much since our last foray onto that interesting, but profitable world. How have you been? I am sure you can detect this ship's movements, but we shall be entering the Warp soon." Small talk was the name of the game, though Alexium knew full well the capabilities of this fascinating, ancient piece of psy-tech.


----
*Ze/they will be the pronoun I use to refer to Alexium from here on out. "It" always bothered me, but I didn't have a better solution until now.

[To alexium]

Yes, indeed. I sense the gentle pressure of the warp as we approach the mandeville point, the careful spooling of the warp-engine.

The bird seemed to look at you, pondering.

I believe I must take you as a student. You have power matching my usual juvenile wards. The ways of Jaicro must not dissapear like to much dust in the wind. What say you?

Father Confessor Odwin watches the crew and most importantly the officers with an appraising eye. Constant vigilance being the best answer to suspected heresy. His eye wandered over every man, woman, and child as he prepared his next sermon.

Throughout the inspections she maintained an accomodating front, giving out an aura of warmth and care. She seemed to move with a smooth candor through the ranks all the while keeping sharp eyes out for sacrilege. The inconsistencies and customizing of uniforms while not heretical did keep her on her toes and slowly diminished that smooth candor to candor. She did appreciate the displays of unity with the family and cult of prosperity, but she worried that this slow creep into personalized dress is a signal for things to come. Once the inspections were finished, she was happy to move on to training and contemplate on what it signaled later. Now was the time to do what she does best, combat.

She addresses the crowd again, "Attention! All right armsmen of Filiantis, let's move on to doing the next best thing to active combat, some training drills. A smile curls across her face, "Left face!" and on the far side of the hall they could see a space that utilized the fast moving walls of the demonstration hall to reveal targets and paths, essentially functioning as an obstacle course. She had coordinated with Victoria to equip some of the garrison appropriately to act as practice dummies.

"This course is designed to be run by squads of four, two equipped for melee and two for ranged, to proceed quickly and thoroughly without stopping. I shall run it myself first to demonstrate to establish a baseline of my expectations." Excited to finally get some action after spending so long in transit without a proper outfit of soldiers to accompany her, she made her way to get her kit. With her is a practice sword sheathed in a scabbard on one hip and a practice pistol holstered on the other, she entered the training gauntlet.

She could feel her heart rate slowly rise, and as the first target came into range she drew her pistol, aimed and fired in a fluid motion. In a swift exchange she holstered her pistol, leap, drew her sword and crossed swords with the on-coming armsmen. As they fought sword-to-sword she edged closer and managed to sweep the soldier's lead foot with her own out away from him. As he lost his balance she deflected his blade and made a mock killing slice to his neck as she continued swiftly forward.

Being an Adepta Sororitas in training, her showing while impressive that she is able to pass through so quickly on her own, but it definitely came off as a strained attempt to impress. At the start they are definitely taking note and watching intently, but as she comes to the end of her run she is visibly unkempt, her hair fuzzed up a bit, she's breathing heavily, and looks exasperated, they politely clap. She gives a breathy "Fall out." As they move out, it is clear to her they are just going through the motions from then on proceeding as teams without the enthusiasm and dedication she had hoped for.

She sees Torian standing in watch aloof as ever, walks over, and says, "I failed as their Master at Arms, didn't I?"

[BRENONYA]
"This was merely an introduction to your ranks. Could it have gone better? Perhaps. But you cannot fail what is not truly a test. Your test will come. It will come without warning, without pomp, without ceremony. When the emergency sirens wail and the Enemy we will find in the void come at us without mercy, then you will be tested, and it is then that you must succeed. All else is just preparation for that test."

[APPROACHING THE MANDEVILLE POINT]
The time had come. Torian trusted Ignatio with the Gellar-field and Lethia with their navigation. He trusted Roderick to be ready for any evasive maneuvers necessary should they be forced out of the warp unexpectedly. He trusted Alexium and his choir to stand ready for action, and Odwin to keep the morale high. He trusted Brenonya to be ready to repel whatever may board, and to work with Roderick should ship armaments be required. He looked around the bridge, running through each officer's name, position, responsibilities, and station. Finally, he turned his attention inwards, to reflect on his own readiness and preparation. He was not a seasoned veteran of captaincy, but he was what was available, and as he knew his companions would put their all into their positions, so would he put his all into facilitating and leading their journey.

He sat in the captain's throne and began pulling up data feeds. One last time he ran through as much data as he could about their position, their vectors, the various readiness feeds coming from the departments throughout the ship. He ran through a final verbal confirmation of readiness check with each companion.

Finally, he pulled up a pict-feed of the far-receeding Skarus Prime behind them, dwarfed by the planet it orbited. He had left his home planet many times before, but never quite like this. He would come back to that wretched moon and stamp out those who dared cross him. He would take this time to prepare himself and bring power to this dynasty. But somewhere in the serf-underhives of Skarus Prime sat a family who had to die. And that knowledge sat in the back of his mind at all times like a pestering splinter.

Once at the Mandeville point, Torian pulled up every sensor available to track the systems of the ship itself, to note any issues arising upon entrance to the warp. He sat upright in his throne, tensed and ready for the upturned stomach sure to come upon their jump. He turned his attention to the holy father Odwin, to ask for a rousing sermon to steel their souls for whatever may come. He gestured to Alexium and Benonya to stand at the ready. He vox'd Ignatio to commence the generation of the Gellar-Field. He then formally gave command to Roderick and Lethia as they made their final approach, to place them where needed and commence the jump.

Wendigo Bob wrote:

[To alexium]

Yes, indeed. I sense the gentle pressure of the warp as we approach the mandeville point, the careful spooling of the warp-engine.

The bird seemed to look at you, pondering.

I believe I must take you as a student. You have power matching my usual juvenile wards. The ways of Jaicro must not dissapear like to much dust in the wind. What say you?

Alexium pondered the words for a moment. It was nonsense to them, but the songbird clearly had an intellectual capacity beyond was it let on. Alexium was intrigued. Well, if you 'must,' then who am I to stop you? But I have questions, as any good student. So many questions. First and foremost, what is/are the 'Jaicro'? If it/they are at risk of disappearing, then consider me a more than eager student."

The Astropath was dying to ask about Sir Reginald's earlier students but held off for now. This was a most interesting turn of events, indeed.

Spoiler:

Iron and Metal wrote:

Alexium pondered the words for a moment. It was nonsense to them, but the songbird clearly had an intellectual capacity beyond was it let on. Alexium was intrigued. Well, if you 'must,' then who am I to stop you? But I have questions, as any good student. So many questions. First and foremost, what is/are the 'Jaicro'? If it/they are at risk of disappearing, then consider me a more than eager student."

I had hoped the 5000-year empire, prime architects of the Omnicopeia... no, that would be too much hope. To give you my limited summary, the Jaicro empire was a civilization found to the galactic north. I was a tutelary, a creature meant to train & guide Jaicro children with psychic potential, and eventually serve as their familiar. I am most likely the last of the Jaicro to still live & speak, unless they live far beyond this so-called imperium.

The bird ruffled its metallic feathers.

Most of my knowledge of the past is lost; I received most mundane knowledge through certain noospheric databases, which no longer exist. But my basic functions-security, psychic training and the like are hard-wired. I wish to transmit that knowledge, so it is not lost at my destruction.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The two astropaths shared the toast with you, sipping the fine amasec, a celebration before departure. Griffone drank a single shot, claiming to want to keep a clear head, while Seguro drank a bit too much, blacked out, and had to be returned to bed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The warp-engine spooled up, the whole ship vibrating with the effort. The gellar field started folding outwards, enveloping the ship in a protective blanket of mundanity.

Warp translation was not a matter of mechanics. The engines and calculations that allowed ships to rip a hole into the Sea of Souls were a veneer of science over a process that was, in essence, the violation of reality. What seemed rules were little more than reassurance to human minds. One of those rules was that warp translation should only ever be attempted far from the gravity of planets and stars.

A tremendous ripple of energy exited the ship and space began to crackle with multicoloured lightning. Lesions formed in the skin of reality, and ruptured to glittering voids. Impossible wings churned through the vacuum as hurricanes of blue-and-green fire danced over the ship as it translated into the realm of madness...

Lethia could sense at that instant that her initial calculations were wrong-it would not take a day, it would take less than 2 hours. The currents of the warp where always oddly predictable in heart of Calisota, but it felt as if the immaterium was encouraging the ship along. Soon enough you would be before the dread passage...


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Alexium sighed and would have rolled their eyes, had they any, at Seguro's so limited capacity to be a functioning adult. When he is in bed, Alexium turned to Griffone. "He has just had his last drop of my Amasec for a while. I shall be in my chambers. If you need me for any reason, you may find me there."

+++

Alexium moved to their chamber doors and locked them. Then, sat back down and thought on what the caged songbird was saying.

"Do you remember where, exactly, the Jaicro Empire was located? Perhaps this ship could find the area - see if any survive? It is a long shot, but if there is a civilization beyond the Imperium, surely making contact with us aboard this ship would be infinitely better than the alternatives. Regardless, I cannot abide such fragile knowledge to be lost. As I said before, I will be your student and take in what you have to teach me."

The excitement inside Alexium grew as much as it had when ze had met with the Jolanese diplomats. The galaxy, even still, was so full of information - forbidden by some standards - that could only help and aid the larger efforts of humanity. Alexium was eager.

+++++++

The child sat in silent meditation, posed with legs crossed over one another, right hand touching the floor, left hand resting on knee with index finger and thumb touching. Traversing the Warp required a personal ritual. This calmed, soothed, and comforted the Astropath. This was silent contemplation, and there was much to contemplate...

Iron and Metal wrote:

"Do you remember where, exactly, the Jaicro Empire was located? Perhaps this ship could find the area - see if any survive? It is a long shot, but if there is a civilization beyond the Imperium, surely making contact with us aboard this ship would be infinitely better than the alternatives. Regardless, I cannot abide such fragile knowledge to be lost. As I said before, I will be your student and take in what you have to teach me."

As far as I am aware, the Jaicro controlled the outside of the rimward passage out of The Cage. But I dont dare to hope.

Somehow, the bird managed to look a little sad through body language alone. Then he sparked up.

Oh-The Cage is an old eldar name for the area we are currently located. The empire itself spread out towards the galaxy's edge from there.

Using one of its claws, it seemed to scratch its chin in reflection.

The last lesson in my data-buffers concerned recent history, so I have some recollections concerning the empire. I know Jaicro-the homeworld- was rimward. The Gogol empire, their enemy, was spinward-or was it widdershins? I remember some military formations-The Thorgalson's Hjalmar, Istvaan's Warchanters, the 777th psychic brigade, the Gogol death-squadrons, Gel's Engineer-commandos.

[Torian on the Bridge]
Good to see you're still on the plane of the living, Roderick smiled as Torian appeared with recaff in hand. Had Roderick not been such a seasoned drinker himself, he would have been in the same state after last night. He had been standing at parade ready, with one hand on the hilt of his power sword and the other at his side, before clasping both behind he back and turning to the bridge. From this place, we will push the reach of the Imperium beyond the borders and bring wealth and power to the family. He walked forward from the Helmsman's throne, where Haast was perched, to the top of the wide stairs that led down to the crew pits below. He gestured to the various stations with nods of his head, pointing out the officers Torian would be dealing with. When Torian walked down to inspect each station and get acquainted, Roderick followed with his hands still clasped behind him.

When their circuit was complete the returned to his station and looked over the bridge once more. I'm going to be frank, if you'll permit Cousin. He waited for a moment to get the assent. This is a venerable ship with a storied history and the power to project our will anywhere we choose. With the crew we have, I don't see us running into anything we cannot see off without some graft. He paused again and inhaled deeply before diving in, It will take me time, but I will need to break the machine spirit of the Mundus to my will so that I am master of it. I will have to do things that may seem barbaric, crude, or even dangerous but for us to have harmony of spirit and purpose I will have to do what I deem necessary to complete that job. Once I have dominance over its systems, we will truly be a force to be reckoned with. I'll need to do things that run contrary to your orders if the situation arises. It may not, but I want it to be clear that it might. Believe me when I say it is not out of disloyalty or insubordination that I do them. It's just a matter of course that I must do what I feel necessary when piloting the ship. This ship will have a new Master soon, but at the moment it is a willful beast. Do you agree?

Alexium took mental note of everything the bird was saying, especially where certain parts of that empire were located. Ze would have to share that with Roderick and see what he made of it later. For now, of the military formations one in particular intrigued him.

"The 777th psychic brigade? Tell me of them, if you please."

Roderick shook his head, No, it's a process that is slightly more rudimentary in scope than just being able to hook in and press GO. This ship is a noble steed, full of grace and power. But like any steed, it needs to be broken and taught to submit to the will of another first before learning to work in harmony. It's a matter of time, familiarity, and...pain. The ship will try everything to dislodge me in the beginning. Systems may fail to cooperate or work at full capacity, while it tries to get the better of me. The longer I'm able to stick with it, and get back on, the stronger our bond will become. The task will be painful for the both of us as we spar, but I think I've got the metal to bring it to heel. He thought of Ignatio then, contemplating the tech priests various augmetics. An MIU will make the task easier in the long run though I'm not sure when such a unit will be available outside the gate. He gave a slight shrug, We'll just play it by ear. He held out a large hand then to shake with Torian. I appreciate your understanding Cousin. Some, when given the reins of leadership tend to tighten their grip at the expense of their mount and wonder why it eventually rebels. I'm glad you are of better stock than those. He gave a rougish grin then, Sharing a drink with your Captains always helps too. Let me know when you're keen for another round

After their conversation ended, Roderick whistled and Haast took flight, bolting out of the bridge ahead of him as he turned and left.

[BRENONYA]

3 different armsen, 3 section chiefs, awaited you outside your makeshift office.

Ahab Deloris, of the old line Deloris, wielder of the power harpoon, and colonel of the bridge guard. His stance held much swagger; he was dark-skinned with long, wavy black hair.

Eladrine Corland, of the old line Corland, guardian of the banner of the golden, and colonel of the hull guard. A small, mousy woman with light skin and a bald head.

Hecatomb Baldar, of the new line Baldar, colonel of the Engine Guard. A twitchy character ressembling a chameloen, he seemed constantly on edge.

Each carried documentation, assuming this was some form of tactical meeting.

Magos Pulsanus personally led the first vigil in the gellar field chamber, leading a cadre of tech priests in prayer around the ancient warding device, and in readiness in case of any last minute issues that might arise in the machine on which they all depended to protect them from the depredations of the warp. The first vigil of any warp journey was the most important, as most problems were likely to reveal themselves immediately. And normally, they would wait for word from the Navigator as to the status of their translation before shifting down to a more sparse delegation.

But when the report came that the rapid tides of the warp would bring them there within hours, the only sensible response was to extend the first vigil through the entire period in the warp. And so the Magos spent this first warp journey in the gellar field generator chamber, leading a dozen tech priests in ongoing prayer.