Dark Vigil 1

[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 8:13 PM
The battle catechisms ring in your mind. The chapel's service was solemn, yet full of the triumphant reminders of your prowess, as sons of the Emperor.
Though only a mortal, the Confessor of the Wrathful Descent demonstrated remarkable affinity for the prayers and incantations often associated with the Astartes. He had proven himself as a spiritual guide even to you in the last two voyages Kill-Team Obsidian had made on this vessel, ever willing to clear the chapel of those mortal adherents who would prove only a distraction to your needed meditations. This service now, from which you have just come as you walk down the corridors, has been of particular importance, resonating deep within you.

You walk down these corridors, for the rites of the Martian priesthood are next. For the many weeks you've been on board this vessel, the mortal crew of the Wrathful Descent has never grown accustomed to your presence. Even now, well beneath your notice, they step aside mouthing prayers as you pass by, fighting the urge to look directly at you. Their deferential behavior is well beneath your notice. The hums of the plasma drives pushing the vessel onward is well beneath your notice. Even the dangerous exit out of Warp did little to grab at your attention - the Watch-Captain's briefing has taken hold of you, and your focus remains on the task ahead.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister
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 — Today at 8:13 PM
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 8:23 PM
Your senses begin to call at you, milliseconds pass, something calls for your full attention. Yet before you can truly comprehend what pulls at you, you feel the click on the flat of your mag-boots locking you into place against the deck-plates.

Around you, navy ratings, servitors, serfs, clusters of tools, and a single tech-priest fly past you at an awkward upward lateral angle, violently colliding against gangway corridor's sides and ceiling, in often bone-crushing manner.

Something has gone terribly wrong.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 8:50 PM
Seconds later, the grav-plates pull everything, and everyone, back down. Klaxons wail, and various orders are barked through fixed vox-grills on the walls.
+Kill-Team Obsidian, do you read?+
The voice is the Captain's. You can hear the strain in his voice.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 8:56 PM
Priad checks his armor's vitals and conditions, noting green across the board. This included his brothers in Kill-Team Obsidian.
+We read you, Captain. Things were more rough for the crew and support staff. What is the situation?+  Priad's voice is clear and low in tone as his brother's hear him confirm with the ship's Captain.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 8:58 PM
cycles through some of the commonly used vox channels on the ship attempting to assess the situation for himself while waiting for the reply.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 8:59 PM
+Reroute to drop-launchers.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:01 PM
Priad pauses and looks around before nodding to himself. +Understood, Captain. Emperor be with you.+ He looks to the Kill-Team. +Ready yourselves. It seems we drop sooner than expected.+ Priad then leads the way, saddened that he cannot lend aid to the crew. The mission comes first, as does the glory.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:02 PM
A disorienting force makes the crewmen rushing past you walk at awkward angles.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 9:04 PM
Bringing up the rear Brother Balthazar looks up the line towards Priad. +Communicate with the Captain and ensure that our armaments are loaded before we drop.+
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 9:04 PM
+It seems the situation is worse then expected then.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:05 PM
The Tech-Priest Magos of the Wrathful Descent armory rushes through the corridors ahead of you. He makes a turn you will soon have to, directly to the drop-launchers.
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 9:05 PM
Kaatanevalaa follows along with Captain Priad
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:07 PM
+Captain, can you confirm our armaments will be at the pods?+ He sees the Magos of the armory heading in the same direction. Balthazar in his wisdom gives a good reminder to make doubly sure.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 9:07 PM
Tarsonis moves quickly with his squad.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:07 PM
+Unable.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:09 PM
"Magos!" Priad's voice booms from the vox-speakers in his helm as the turns the corner, moving faster to catch up. His boots thumping loudly against the deckplating.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:09 PM
The readings in your visors then flash at once - warnings not to remove your helms. The tell-tale signs of bleeding atmosphere surround you, then.
Blast-doors are slammed shut behind you.
Brother Damiel — Today at 9:10 PM
+That's not a good sign.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:10 PM
+It becomes more apparent the haste in which we are deploying.+ Priad says over the squad's channel.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 9:11 PM
+Typically not. With luck we won't have to ride the remains of the frigate down to the planets surface.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:11 PM
As you make the turn to the drop-launchers, you pass a viewport. Through it you see the local star flash by; the vessel appears to be violently tumbling.
Brother Damiel — Today at 9:12 PM
+We best hurry.+
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 9:12 PM
+Aye+
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 9:12 PM
+Affirmative.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:13 PM
Priad chuckles darkly over the vox. +An understatement, Brother Damiel.+ He's still moving as fast as he can while also keeping his squad together.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 9:13 PM
+Orbit is stable. Becoming space debris is a bigger threat.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:13 PM
+Terminator Astartes to the right.+
Before you can determine the source of the transmission, the Magos appears before you, just behind the entrance of the drop-launcher bay.
Brother Damiel — Today at 9:14 PM
+Magos.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:15 PM
Priad stops before the Magos, and waves his brothers in Terminator suits to the right.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 9:16 PM
Nodding his helmeted head towards the Magos, Balthazar moves to the directed location.
Brother Damiel — Today at 9:16 PM
Damiel moves into position.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:17 PM
On the panels indicated by the Magos, several servitors fix themselves to the deck and bulkheads with various mechanical appendages while holding firm onto equipment caskets marked with the hallowed symbols of the Deathwatch. The Magos has managed to secure most of your war gear.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:18 PM
+Ever are our Mechanicus allies vigilant in their duties.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:18 PM
As soon as the terminators stand in place, the dizzying work begins.
Brother Balthazar receives the bulk of the orchestrated servitors' attentions.
Then, the Magos leaves the targeting console, and turns his head to communicate something to the bridge.
++Your concerns are noted, Magos Ultimor. But I can hardly guarantee the Frigate's integrity. They will have to launch.++
The Magos, then, looks up directly at you.
+All Astartes to the pods.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:22 PM
+Have you secured our gear into the pods, Magos?+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:23 PM
+Wargear parameters are sufficiently fulfilled.+
Brother Damiel — Today at 9:23 PM
Damiel moves into position.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 9:23 PM
Tarsonis takes his place in the pod. +We shall accomplish our mission regardless.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:24 PM
Priad narrows his eyes, not that the Magos could tell. He simply nods, his helmet bobbing lightly as he turns and begins boarding the pod. +Emperor be with you, Magos.+
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 9:24 PM
Lorenso takes his place in the drop pod.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 9:24 PM
Balthazar approaches the pod and observes the weapon status for his mounted wargear, ensuring that all systems are functioning within parameters.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:25 PM
"Magos, with respect," a naval officer says with some hesitation. "We cannot find vectors in these conditions. We are launching blind."
Before a reply can come, the pod hatch begins to slide closed, then locks into place.
Brother Damiel — Today at 9:25 PM
+May the emperor protect us.+
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 9:26 PM
Kaatanevaala enters the Drop Pod.
+The Emperor Protects.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:26 PM
An impossible acceleration blasts you outwards. It is followed by complete silence.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:27 PM
+Armament and systems check, brothers.+ Priad intones.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 9:28 PM
+Tarsonis... Systems nominal...+
Brother Damiel — Today at 9:28 PM
+Damiel systems nominal.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:28 PM
Against one of the wide corners of the pod, the occasional red flashing light reveals the presence of a shaped robe.
++Astartes, report status of vox-systems.++
The Magos remains as cold as ever.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 9:29 PM
+Armament and system check confirmed Kill Team Leader Priad. Systems functioning within acceptable limits.+
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 9:29 PM
+No issues detected. It's all green.+
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 9:30 PM
+No issues detected.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:30 PM
+Very good, Brother Balthazar.+ Switching channels to the Magos. ++Vox-Systems show all green.++
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:31 PM
++Running automated wide-range scans. Survival odds have reduced to unacceptable near-zero levels- my continued presence may not be relied on. The Machine-Spirit will search for the known patterns of the Inquisitor's signal.++
Then, on your internal displays, all background signals from Wrathful Descent go silent.
The silence inside the pod is broken as you begin to enter the atmosphere.
All readings point to a dead drop, no signals return from the scans the drop-pod's internal mechanisms attempt again and again.
12 kilometers.
Then eight.
Six, temperatures rising to expected maximums.
Then, a single pulse. A signal is found, and you experience a 20G correction from the boosters. Forces that would kill a mortal.
Still, the eerie form in robes remains in place. Unaffected by the hellish conditions.
A thunderous crash follows as you slam into the ground, throwing dust and debris into the air. Almost immediately, your harnesses release and the pod's doors fly open.
As you take in your surroundings, you realize you have landed through the roof of an Imperial chapel, crashed down in the midst of pews, tiles, and statues. Through the hold made by your drop, you can see it is a dark and rainy night, water pouring down onto your armored forms.
Brother Damiel — Today at 9:42 PM
+Not the worst landing yet.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:42 PM
Through shattered doors, you can see Lordsholm, an ancient and crumbling city, soaked in rain and ablaze with uncontrolled fires stretching off in all directions.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:42 PM
+Another fortunate landing.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 9:42 PM
Tarsonis begins comparing his current location against the position of the pulse.
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 9:43 PM
+Though it seems things have really gone bad for the city.+
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 9:43 PM
+Glorious combat awaits, Brothers.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 9:44 PM
+The drop pod has successfully delivered us to the signal Brother Captain+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 9:44 PM
Balthazar exits the pod and immediately scans for hostiles, swiveling his two autocannons.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:45 PM
+Blessed are the Emperor's Mechanicus servants.+ Priad pulls a battered brass flask from his webbing. +One moment brothers. Then we proceed.+
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 9:45 PM
Kaatanevaala checks his weaponry.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 9:46 PM
Tarsonis retrieves his gear as quickly as possible.
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 9:46 PM
Lorenso begins grabbing his gear and checks that his jump pack is secured.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:46 PM
Priad performs his Chapter's Rite of Water, with a solemn oath to Ithaka, Chapter, and Emperor to complete the mission set before them by his Holy Inquisition and the Death Watch.
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 9:47 PM
He clenches with his power fist and chuckles. Kaatanevaala joins in Priad's prayer.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:48 PM
The rolling thunder outside barely masks the sounds of explosions and distant cracking of weapons fire.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:49 PM
+If we are at the exact signal, the Inquisitor must be nearby. If not under us.+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 9:50 PM
+Kill Team Leader Priad, just outside a battle is already in effect. Two opposing forces have formed lines and are firing at one another. Heat signatures show explosions and sustained heavy fire.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 9:50 PM
+To be more accurate, we are within roughly 50m, of the signal.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:51 PM
+How far, Brother Balthazar? Brother Tarsonis, see if you can scan the vox-channels for Inquisitorial bands to find our dear Inquisitor.+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 9:51 PM
+There are roughly a thousand combatants, seemingly human, in participation.+
+Between fifty and a hundred meters Kill Team Leader Priad.+
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 9:52 PM
Puts his hand to his head as he begins feeling out through the warp.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 9:53 PM
+Negative team lead, known vox channels empty.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 9:53 PM
+We join the battle then, secure the site, support our mortal allies. That should allow us to quickly locate the Inquisitor.+ Priad draws the Claymore off his back, arcs of lightning crackle off it as it activates in his hands.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 9:54 PM
+Taking overwatch position.+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 9:56 PM
Balthazar nods and begins making for the building's portal. Cycling his rounds and removing the safety lock on the missile pods he intends to break the enemies of the Imperium with righteous fury and heavy firepower.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 9:57 PM
Fires up his jump flying out of the hole the drop pod made, looking for a position on the roof to give him an overwatch of the ongoing combat landing once its acquired.
Brother Damiel — Today at 9:57 PM
Damiel begins securing the building.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 9:59 PM
Your approach reveals to you the true scale of the battle.
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 9:59 PM
Kaatanvaaka moves forward with Team Kill Leader Priad.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 10:01 PM
+Which side Brother Tarsonis?+ Balthazar nears the exit and is preparing to unleash a full salvo on one of the sides of the conflict.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 10:01 PM
+A smaller organised force of PDF is engaging a horde of disorganised fighters, transmitting positions of forces to your huds+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 10:02 PM
The fighting is a savage affair. Squads moving to flank their opponents, heavy fire and grenades wiping out men, bodies dragged back into cover by comrades.
Brother Damiel — Today at 10:03 PM
Damiel draws his bolter in preparation for war.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 10:05 PM
The Iron Snake readies himself alongside his brothers. Raising his weapon in both hands, so the sword stands straight and up before then lowering it. +Let us position ourselves to the left of the chapel, brothers. Brother Balthazar shall rain holy fire on the rabble and we shall swing into their flank from our position.+
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 10:06 PM
Takes his hand from his head and grips both hands onto his Force Thunder Hammer.
Brother Damiel — Today at 10:07 PM
+Following you Captain.+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 10:07 PM
+Are we weapons free, Kill Team Leader Priad?+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 10:07 PM
+Confirming mutations on the disorganised force.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 10:07 PM
+Excellent. Permission granted, Brother. Advance!+
Priad begins to charge towards the enemy flank.
Brother Damiel — Today at 10:11 PM
Damiel keeps pace with Balthazar.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 10:25 PM
Unleashing concentrated bursts from his autocannons, Balthazar mulches a dozen of the charging mutants. Two missiles fly over the charging mob and slam into the nearest building that is garrisoned by the xenos scum. The missiles flash green and blue, releasing their plasma payloads and collapsing the buildings face.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 10:37 PM
+Moving to engage enemy heavy weapons teams+, Flying towards another roof Tarsonis takes a single shot touching off a heavy weapon's ammo.
Brother Damiel — Today at 10:38 PM
Damiel fires upon the charging horde and puts down a few targets.
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 10:40 PM
"FOR THE EMPEROR,  FIGHT TILL DEATH!"
He runs up 30 meters.
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 10:48 PM
Focusing his mind he reaches out to one of the enemy's in the flanking horde, hitting the creature to cause their blood to boil but ends up not killing it as he feels some level of fatigue.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 10:49 PM
The PDF holds tight, fighting on along the lines. On the ground, and on altitude they pour fire in, despite the dismal odds.
Taken aback by the attacks on their right flank, and key positions, the rebels loose effectiveness as they attempt to shift to compensate for their new adversaries' arrival on the field.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 10:57 PM
With a quick command Priad switches the external vox-speakers of his helmet. With a commanding voice rich in charisma he begins to yell.

"LOYAL SOLDIERS OF THE EMPEROR. YOU ARE NOT FORSAKEN, FIGHT WITH ALL ENERGY AND SKILL AT YOUR DISPOSAL. DEATH TO THE MUTANT. DEATH TO ALL WHO FORSAKE THEIR VOW TO THE IMPERIUM AND IT'S GLORIOUS EMPEROR. SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF HUMANITY, MAKE THEM PAY WITH YOUR FURY. KILL THEM ALL!"

His voice booms like a thundercrack, the closeness of the various buildings helping to echo and bounce his voice for many hundreds of meters. And hopefully distract the enemy and falter them.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 10:58 PM
A cheer begins to spread through the ranks. Yet sensing this rally, the enemy responds in turn.
From amongst the throngs of rebels, a massive figure emerges. Seven feet tall, and rippling with muscle, he screams a challenge at the PDF and charges, dodging and seemingly even ignoring overwatch fire from the Lordsholm PDF.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 10:59 PM
+Brother Balthazar! Target the charging mutant!+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 11:11 PM
Swinging his arms to the right Balthazar places multiple large caliber rounds into the creatures skull, which expands and bursts under the concentrated fire. Satisfied the priority target is dealt with the terminator turns his attention to the charge following the rebel leader and unleashes another salvo of plasma rockets which crush the charge in a myriad of green and blue energy bursts.
+Mutant dealt with, Kill Team Leader Priad. The following charge is also dispersed. I suggest using this time to reorganize the PDF.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 11:14 PM
+Well done, Brother Balthazar. We'll have them back in working order shortly.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 11:16 PM
Tarsonis spots a bandolier of grenades on one of the mutants manning a heavy stubber, hitting it causes a chain reaction, collapsing one floor of the tower and causing any survivors to flee.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 11:17 PM
+Acknowledged.+
Brother Damiel — Today at 11:18 PM
Damiel moves forward into a position of cover and a better shooting angle. +Finding a better shooting position.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 11:18 PM
+Enemy heavy stubber formation combat ineffective+
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 11:20 PM
Kaatanevaala runs up to clean up the staggering forces and kills 2 of the rebels.
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 11:22 PM
Lorenso engages his jump pack moving up close to the area where Brother Kaataevaala is to help assist in the melee combat.

[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 11:24 PM
The PDF troopers perform valiantly, but the numbers begin to wear them down. The right flank is all but abandoned, and the race to a new set of positions is a messy affair.

From the garrisoned rebel positions a missile hurls itself through the dark sky, striking Brother Balthazar on the chest with a roaring blast.

When the smoke clears, the Terminator remains, unscathed, unmarked.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 11:27 PM
Seeing the enemy tide turning from the Kill-Teams heavy and accurate fire, Priad begins to rapidly move towards the PDF defenses. +Brothers, I'm moving to support the defenses of the PDF, continue to hammer the enemy.+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 11:36 PM
Balthazar grunts at the sudden flash from the explosion that fills his vision and returns fire at the offenders. The plasma missiles scream as they hurtle into the fortified building before exploding in incandescent green fire and collapsing the building in a shower of dust and rubble. During it's collapse it spills down onto the avenue, crushing the advancing rebels underneath it's weight.
Satisfied that vengeance is served he turns and unleashes a torrent of autocannon rounds into an advancing formation.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 11:38 PM
The burst of fire rips through the flank. The rebels halt, seeking cover, and soon you see them begin to return to safer ground at the rear.

Brother Tarsonis — Yesterday at 11:42 PM
Surveying the battlefield once more, Tarsonis spots a vox operator and potential commander. His single shot hits the vox engulfing the two in flames, unfortunately Tarsonis notices his next round doesn't chamber. Skipping the Magos' blessings has its consequences.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Yesterday at 11:43 PM
With the left flank in full retreat, the center destroyed underneath rubble and unable to advance, and the right flank being pursued by Astartes at full sprint, the rebels feel the sudden death of a field commander. Without a guiding voice, there is nothing stopping them from fully rolling back their lines unorganized and in full panic as the reality of the arrival of the Angels of Death fully sets in. The PDF, however, take no chances, levelling non-stop fire at their foe, stopping only when the commands run up and down their lines to halt and conserve ammunition.
Brother Balthazar — Yesterday at 11:45 PM
Seeing the full retreat and seeing the close pursuit from his squad-mates, Brother Balthazar turns from the fleeing rebels and advances down the PDF line to find Kill Team Leader Priad.
Brother-Captain Priad — Yesterday at 11:46 PM
Noting the enemy is in full retreat, Priad does not stop his running until he near the PDF defenses. He slows himself to a walk as he passes the PDF holding their positions around buildings and rubble.
Brother Kaatanevaala — Yesterday at 11:46 PM
+Kill these vile Heretics for the EMPEROR!" He continues killing the retreating rebels.
Brother Damiel — Yesterday at 11:46 PM
+Seems we have the upper hand for now.+
Brother Balthazar — Yesterday at 11:47 PM
+The rebels flee before us Kill Team Leader Priad.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Yesterday at 11:47 PM
+That they do, Brother Balthazar. Fortunate for us this is only the beginning.+
+Do not pursue the enemy too far, brothers. Regroup within PDF defenses.+ Priad then finds the closest NCO or officer, whichever is closer before inquiring. "Who is in command here?"
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Yesterday at 11:48 PM
The approaching Astartes have an immediate effect. The men look up, in utter astonishment. Looking at every detail in the Space Marine weapons and armor. Looking for all the signs of their divine origin. Some, tired, prostrate themselves dropping to one knee.

The Emperor has answered their prayers.
Brother Tarsonis — Yesterday at 11:49 PM
+Enemy command element eliminated, will observe that the centre continues to retreat.+
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Yesterday at 11:49 PM
Charges in with his hammer and he smashes one of the rebels under the force of his Force Thunder Hammer instantly killing the xeno's as he lifts his hammer his rage for killing begins to fade.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Yesterday at 11:50 PM
Before the sergeant can answer, a man in officer's tunic comes forward.
"Captain Ascote, 117th Lordsholm, my Lord."
His demeanor is different. Not without awe, yet not like the ranks.
Brother-Captain Priad — Yesterday at 11:52 PM
Priad unseals his helmet with a hiss of depressurization as he pulls it off and clips it to his belt. Revealed is a face craggy and scarred, skin olive-colored. Long, black hair is braided into a top-knot and above his right eyebrow is three golden service studs.
"Well met, Captain Ascote. I commend your defense of this area...What elements are left of the PDF in this city?" Priad then begins to drill questions about troop strengths and positions, to get a better overall grasp of the situation.
Brother Balthazar — Yesterday at 11:55 PM
While Priad speaks with the PDF leadership, Balthazar takes up position behind him, but facing towards the enemy side, and scans for potential threats.
Brother Damiel — Yesterday at 11:56 PM
Damiel moves to a position near Priad.
Brother Tarsonis — Yesterday at 11:56 PM
+Enemy retreat continuing, full rout, seems to be to a known location+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Yesterday at 11:57 PM
"Clusters, my Lord, not unlike my own sorry lot. The rebels have taken hold of comms equipment. We can hardly rely on the secure channels we once utilized for coordination."
The Captain gives a few orders to his junior officers and NCOs and begins to walk towards the chapel.
Brother-Captain Priad — Yesterday at 11:58 PM
Priad begins to follow the officer, his larger form allowing him to take longer, slower steps.
+Keep an eye on it, but do not stray too far, Brother Tarsonis. I need you close.+
Brother Damiel — Today at 12:00 AM
Damiel stays with Balthazar observing for any enemy movements.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 12:00 AM
+Copy, going to investigate the enemy command post, see if anything didn't burn+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:01 AM
Once out of earshot, the Captain explains that he set the transponder under instructions from Inquisitor Claremonte, and briefs you on the pitiful condition of the loyalist forces.
The Governor has pulled back many of their best, to defend Magistria, and refuses to provide further aid. The Captain appears frustrated, going so far as to say the Governor has ignored the uprising as little more than civil discontent.
Ascote leads you back into the chapel, still dominated by the wreckage of your drop pod. Once inside, and out of sight of the men still holding the positions, he pauses and lets out a sigh.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:03 AM
Priad sheathes his mighty weapon and nods slowly as the Captain makes the dismal situation known. "Know that your efforts, despite the shortcomings of others are commendable Captain Ascote."
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:03 AM
"Thank you, my Lord."
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:04 AM
"Know you the location of Inquistior Claremonte now? Further instructions perhaps?"
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:05 AM
Then, a ripple seems to run down the captain's body and his form distorts and shimmers, taking on a new shape. Before you can fully grasp what is going on, a lithe female stands before you - clearly a member of the Callidus Temple of Assassins.
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 12:05 AM
Lorenso makes his way over to Where Brothers Damiel and Balthazar are as they watch for enemy movements.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:05 AM
Praid folds his arms and quirks an eyebrow. Interesting.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:06 AM
"Apologies for the subterfuge, my Lords, yet blessed be the Emperor for your arrival. It seems my mistress's faith in the Deathwatch was well placed. Would that she were here to greet you herself, but I fear the xenos have her somewhere in the city, and for several days I have worn the guise of the PDF commander simply to hols these men together so that there might be a place for you to land."
"In truth, the city is about to fall. The Genestealers have infected much of the population and those that remain are badly demoralized and exist only within a few isolated parts of the city like this one. Added to this, the Inquisitor expects the vanguard of the Tyranid fleet will soon arrive. Our only hope is to send a message through the combined strength of the world's astropathic choir before the shadow falls, perhaps using your Chapter cyphers, as we must assume all other encoded information on planet is compromised."
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 12:08 AM
"Hope our Landraider is intact somewhere." he says to both Damiel and Balthazar.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 12:11 AM
Nodding at the librarian Balthazar keys his microbead. +Any information on our assets or mission objectives Kill Team Leader Priad?+
Brother Damiel — Today at 12:12 AM
"Emperor knows where it landed."
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:12 AM
"Troubling...but we would not be here other wise, assassin." Priad ponders a moment before coming to a decision. "Our main objective includes doing such a thing. Do you know the quickest route to the House of Echoes? And perchance have you any intelligence or sighting of the Broodlord?"
Priad pauses. +Assets unknown as current, will discuss objectives soon.+
Brother Damiel — Today at 12:14 AM
"Hopefully it didn't end up at the bottom of a lake."
Brother Balthazar — Today at 12:15 AM
+Acknowledged.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 12:15 AM
Having found little of value, Tarsonis returns to the group, jumping over the fallen rubble before walking the rest of the way.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:16 AM
"The Magistria District. The tower stands tall above the rest, just a kilometer away from the Governor's manor."
"Even for the PDF, however, the district is strictly locked down."
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 12:16 AM
"Hopefully that has not happened though with what we went through in our drop, it could be on the other side of the city."
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:17 AM
+...ou read...+
A faint signal comes up.
+Kill-Team Obsidian, do you read?+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:18 AM
Priad nods. That will not be a problem for us. "Are you still fit to lead these men and women of the PDF-" Priad stops as he hears a new message coming over the vox net.
+Identify yourself.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:18 AM
"Yes, I will remain in my post for as long as is necessary. The PDF must not collapse."
+Stand-by.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:19 AM
He turns to the Callidus again. "Pull the PDF back towards the Magistria to a stronger position. You have time while they regroup."
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 12:19 AM
Noticing the faint signal, Tarsonsis returns to the roof of the chapel, attempting to act as a relay.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:20 AM
Your heads-up display begins to light up. New, encrypted vox channels appear, Imperial.
+Transmission net online. Patch in, Kill-Team.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:22 AM
Hearing the tell-tale sign of an encrypted channel Priad gives a respectful nod to the assassin before donning his helm again, the armor pressurizing with a slight hiss.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 12:23 AM
Balthazar connects to the new vox net and begins cycling through channels, seeing if he can pick up any word from the kill team assets.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:23 AM
+I am relieved to see you made it out.+
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 12:23 AM
Lorenso connects to the new vox net as well.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 12:24 AM
Configures his vox to account for the new network.
Brother Damiel — Today at 12:25 AM
Damiel connects to the vox network.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:25 AM
+Tactician Kyrian Vol, I am serving as your liaison with Imperial assets at your disposal.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:26 AM
+Well met Tactician Vol. Please give us an update on what is available.+
He looks down at the Callidus assassin, his speech now distorted and loud through his vox-speakers. "Do you have a name, Callidus?"
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:28 AM
+Chatter tells us Imperial assets on Avalos Spaceport are combat capable, but require assistance. We have contacted their commanding officer and stand ready to bring them into the vox network. Artillery section could prove useful.+
"Sybilla, my Lord," she says with a bow of the head.
+An Astartes ground-transport asset of unknown mark was recovered from Wrathful Descent, and its retrieval is currently being facilitated.+
+Finally, as we finalize geosynchronous orbit, Orbital surveillance will become available.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:31 AM
"A strong name, Sybilla. We shall yet save this world from the wrath of the alien. Remain vigilant and stand proud. Your work here is important. Let us return. You must reorganize your ranks, and I must convene with my brothers before moving."
He gives the woman a respectful nod of the head.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:31 AM
She nods, returning her body to its PDF form.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:32 AM
+Brothers, meet me at the edge of the PDF defenses, near the enemy champion our Brother Balthazar blew to bits.+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 12:32 AM
+Acknowledged.+
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 12:32 AM
+Understood.+
Brother Damiel — Today at 12:32 AM
+Copy.+
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 12:33 AM
+Understood.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 12:33 AM
Tarsonis leaps off the church, cushioning his fall with the jump pack, as Priad emerges he joins him stating. "Not much at the command post, just that the enemy have the PDF communications completely compromised.+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 12:34 AM
Balthazar begins thumping his way towards the mutilated corpse.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:35 AM
+Aye, I was told as such. The local channels are a mess if not completely compromised.+
Brother Damiel — Today at 12:35 AM
Damiel follows behind thrumping with Balthazar.
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 12:36 AM
Follows along with Balthazar and Damiel over to the corpse.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:36 AM
Once everyone is gathered Priad begins to fill in Kill-Team Obsidian.
+Things are worse than initially thought. Of course we would not have been called here if it were a ray of warm sunshine.+
He then reveals the true identity of the Captain Ascote and the information given of the Inquisitor and which objective they should focus on.
+Given present circumstances our objective will be to send an astropathic message. Afterwards we shall help organize and rally the defenses. By then our the broodlord shall reveal itself so we can strike the killing blow.+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 12:40 AM
+Understood Kill Team Leader Priad. Let us not tarry.+
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 12:41 AM
+Especially with more battles awaits.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 12:42 AM
+Do we have an ETA on the landraider kill team leader? We will need it to get to the manor in any reasonable time. I propose we head south and assist our assets at the spaceport while we wait if there is time.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:43 AM
+An excellent point, Brother Tarsonis.+
+Tactician Vol. Do we have an ETA on recovery of our transport? And patch us into the network of the base commander.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 12:45 AM
+I estimate we can reach the spaceport in approximately 20 minutes on foot.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:45 AM
++Kill-Team Obsidian. Asset retrieval successful. Descent commenced. Please clear suitable landing ground.++
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:46 AM
+Brother Tarsonis, direct landing area for our transport.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 12:47 AM
+The city streets are likely too tight, I propose that this has just doubled the value of the spaceport.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:49 AM
+As Brother Balthazar has said, let's not tarry. Advance to the spaceport.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 12:50 AM
Tarsonis plots a route, transmitting it to the team and takes point, leading the group far enough ahead to avoid them giving away his position. +Taking point+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:52 AM
+Well done, my brothers. This was a much better combat drop than our last mission on Volvix Prime.+ Priad compliments the Kill-Team as they move to the spaceport.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 12:53 AM
++Be advised, Major van Meer of the 13th Elysian Helldivers is now ready for rapid deployment, orbital conditions permitting.++
Brother Balthazar — Today at 12:53 AM
+I agree Kill Team Leader Priad. That is where we lost Brother Callus to the greenskins.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 12:54 AM
+May his memory of glorious death be remember ever more in the hall of the Death Watch. A glorious Black Templar, steadfast and skilled in combat.+
++Confirmed. My thanks Tactician Vol.++
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 1:00 AM
+PDF artillery position identified, under attack by rebels, transmitting positions.+
+Rebel force significantly outnumbers PDF, contains heavy weapon assets+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 1:02 AM
+On the way to spaceport?+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 1:08 AM
+At the spaceport+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 1:13 AM
+Excellent. The Emperor guides our righteous hands, brothers. We shall engage and salvage our artillery assets.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 1:17 AM
+Genestealers coming in from the north, PDF seem unaware.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 1:30 AM
+You and Brother Lorenso head off the Genestealers. Buy time while the rest of us break the main force.+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 1:32 AM
Balthazar cycles his ammuntion and deactivates the safety switch for his rocket pod as the group advances on the rebels.
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 1:34 AM
+Understood.+ he says as he jump packs his way to a building near to where Brother Tarsonis is.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 1:37 AM
+In position, uncompromised, they saw that Brother Lorenso+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 1:41 AM
+All that matters is you delay them, brothers.+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 1:42 AM
Balthazar decides to ignore the rebels directly ahead of the group and instead focuses his weaponry on the group attempting to flank the artillery position. With two plasma rockets and a volley of autocannon shells the entire rebel charge is crushed with brutal efficiency.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 1:48 AM
Hearing the start of the assault, Tarsonis' jump pack roars into life lifting him into the air, he flies low in the air and begins to soak the genestealer formation in flames, causing a number to fall and writhe on the ground.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 1:53 AM
Swinging his weapons back towards the primary rebel force Balthazar releases another salvo of rockets and autocannon shells into the rear of the enemy formation. Surprisingly they maintain formation, despite the mass casualties.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 1:56 AM
+Genestealers ignoring the threat, they are close to completing the flank+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 1:56 AM
Two bestial xenos, once hidden in the mob, charge Brothers Balthazar and Kaatanevaala.
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 1:57 AM
Brother Kaatanevaala parries the attack from the incoming Genestealer and crushes their chest with a retaliating blow.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 1:57 AM
Razor sharp claws prove insufficient against the Terminator's armor, and the beast hisses with a long sharp point-ended tongue in full display.
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 1:59 AM
Kaatanevaala tries to support Brother Balthazar by attacking the Genestealer, but misses his attack.
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 2:03 AM
Lorenso quick changes direction and jump packs back towards the main group landing on top of the building next to them.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:06 AM
With practiced ease Priad whips his Claymore off his back and with several strokes cuts the genestealer into several wiggling pieces.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 2:10 AM
Tarsonis follows the genesteelers continuing to bathe them in promethium. This combined with the earlier wounds causes the remainder to hesitate and begin fleeing.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 2:14 AM
Continuing his barrage, Balthazar decimates entire swathes of rebels with raining plasma, from the airbursting missiles, and the heavy caliber rounds from the autocannons.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:15 AM
Underscoring the desperate logistics situation the PDF face, as soon as the rebels break, all fire ceases.
++Kill-Team Obsidian. Package is on final approach.++
Even now, you can hear the familiar shriek of engines echoing above, getting nearer and nearer.
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 2:19 AM
Turning as the rebels run, Lorenso conjures up Blood lance from the warp, firing it straight through the group killing several of them
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:20 AM
+A welcome prize to another glorious battle.+ Priad says as he wades through the field of corpses to the main runways of the base.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 2:20 AM
Tarsonis lands infront of the retreating mutants, burning the stragglers.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:22 AM
From an altitude that borders on the unsafe, the vehicle is let go, free-falling on the rock-crete slab below. The sight practically freezes the PDF soldiers. Never before have they seen such a venerable vehicle. In their hearts, the world is surely saved.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 2:22 AM
Balthazar slowly follows Priad up the avenue, closer to the spaceport proper and the landing zone for the transport.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:23 AM
++Acknowledged, thank the venerable pilot for deploying our transport.++
Priad moves to the Land-Raider and looks it over.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:23 AM
++Kill-Team Obsidian. I am observing a full-scale advance from the Fabrica District. Numbers are off the charts.++
++By the Emperor, they will flood the city with their numbers.++
Your internal displays begin to show what the Tactician sees.
Hundreds of thousands, pouring out into Calistria. Yet an organized advance it is not.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 2:26 AM
++Tactician Vol, We have rescued a PDF artillery unit, can you tap into their comms and coordinate their support with us.++
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:27 AM
++I can. I am in contact with their vox operator now. Soon they will be++
Suddenly and all at once, your internal systems flicker, and go out.
From the North-West, the night sky is lit with a sickly green light of impossible brightness.
A tower of light, followed by an immense explosion. One that without a doubt has destroyed a sizable portion of the city.
Your systems come back online, but every light in the city has gone out. Only the spotlights used by the PDF provide a source of visible light.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:30 AM
++Tactician Vol Report.++
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:31 AM
Before Vol can be contacted, the orbital visual comes in first.
Fabrica is gone. The Promethium reserves set alight, a plume of smoke engulfing the city, obscured only by the storm already raging above.
++My Lords, I...++
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:33 AM
+Ithaka's holy seas...+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 2:33 AM
+That is new.+
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 2:34 AM
+What in the name of Baal caused that?+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:34 AM
Only then do you realize the shockwave, barely noticeable to you, has shattered anything of glass remaining. The PDF soldiers holding onto their ears in terrible pain.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 2:35 AM
Tarsonis looks towards the green light, observing. He heads towards the landraider.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:35 AM
+That green light is...unnatural.+ Priad observes.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:36 AM
+Can someone tell me what just happened?+
The voice is new, yet augmented. A space marine, likely the operator of your transport.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 2:36 AM
+I believe whatever it is we are about to ride directly towards it brother.+
Brother Balthazar — Today at 2:36 AM
Balthazar follows the others twoards the land raider, assuming of course that the squad will shortly be heading directly towards the light.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:37 AM
++Kill-Team Obsidian. We have energy signatures radiating from the source of the explosion. Focusing scanners reveals little of use.++
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 2:38 AM
+Think our target did that?+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:38 AM
+Unlikely. A new enemy has joined the battle. I suspect it is now a two-front war.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:38 AM
From your internal displays, you see the swarms of xenos and their sympathizers shredded by what can only be described as massive floating masses.
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 2:39 AM
+Odd, I feel something Brother Priad.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:40 AM
+Do tell Brother Lorenso.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:41 AM
"Where are we going?" the operating marine calls back.
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 2:41 AM
+From what I can tell it seems... non aggressive, it seems to be some sort of communication, but I am not sure beyond what message it is trying to deliver.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:42 AM
Priad pauses, torn between this new, massive threat, and their current objectives. +We stay the course. We must reach the House of Echoes and send that astropathic message. Now more than ever. Mount up, brothers!+
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 2:43 AM
Lorenso makes his way over and mounts up onto the land raider.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:44 AM
Without reply, the massive engines of the vehicle roar, pushing you forward. Behind you, the PDF troops, confused, carry out the Tactician's new orders - setting up their artillery pieces and awaiting for further instructions.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 2:44 AM
Tarsonis boards the landraider.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:45 AM
The vehicle pushes North, rolling through the spaceport walls.
The Landraider's guns spin, spitting out a stream of steady fire.
A mob of cultists and xenos are shredded in seconds. Some by the crusader's weapon systems, others by scarab-like creatures ripping through them in suicidal waves.
The vehicle's weapons shift targets now to the waves of these creatures.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:51 AM
+I do not recognize these new enemies...hmmmm.+ He ponders this over the cacophony of the Land-Raiders gunfire.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:51 AM
Ahead now, the high walls of the Magistria district are visible. And through the clouds, the smoke, and the rain you see the tower as lighting flashes.
As the PDF informed you before, the district is locked down. The towering gates shut, sentries barely visible atop overseeing towers and along the top of the walls.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:54 AM
++Tactician Vol, please advise the Magistria district of our arrival and the new threat. Time is of the essence.++
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:55 AM
++We have made contact. No formal reply is forthcoming, however.++
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:56 AM
With disdain Priad curses. +Damnable mortal 'nobility.'+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:56 AM
++Governor Thorsholt insists it is a local uprising. A matter for the PDF.++
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 2:57 AM
"Shall I or Lornenso to talk to the sentry?"
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 2:58 AM
+Go on Brother Tarsonis.+ He switches back to Vol. ++Then we must illuminate the Lord-Governor of the problem at hand. Otherwise he will regret incurring my wrath.++
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 2:59 AM
Opens the ramp of the land raider stepping out looking towards the sentry towers.
Brother Balthazar — Today at 2:59 AM
+I believe my rockets may be of use for gaining entry Kill Team Leader Priad.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 2:59 AM
++My Lord, they refuse to pass along any of my transmissions. Governor's orders.++
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 3:00 AM
Engaging his jump pack he flys to the nearest trooper.
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 3:00 AM
+We'll try diplomacy first, otherwise the path of violence will be the route, Brother Balthazar.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 3:00 AM
"In the name of the Emperor you will open this gate."
Brother Kaatanevaala — Today at 3:00 AM
+I prefer violence myself.+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 3:01 AM
"Or we will open it for you."
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 3:01 AM
++Perhaps I can patch you in directly to their vox network.++
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 3:01 AM
"Inform your commanding officer of that."
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 3:01 AM
++Do it.++
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 3:01 AM
+Do you wish for me to join Brother Tarsonis in his efforts?+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 3:01 AM
+No, he has it well in hand, I'm sure.+
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 3:02 AM
The sentry doesn't move. The sight of Brother Tarsonis in the dead of night something utterly paralyzing for the mortal.
"Sir... sir" he says calling to someone inside. "Sir, we must call for the governor."
"I've already told you, orders are--"
"Emperor be praised."
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 3:03 AM
"The gate."
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 3:03 AM
"At once," the commander nods, rushing back inside.
The heavy mechanisms push the massive gates open, then.
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 3:04 AM
"Ensure our PDF allies are allowed inside when they arrive."
Brother Librarian Lorenso — Today at 3:04 AM
+Well call me impressed Brother Tarsonis.+
Brother-Captain Priad — Today at 3:05 AM
+Forward, Brother.+ He instructs the driver.
[+T+] Tywin Lannister — Today at 3:05 AM
+Moving+
Brother Tarsonis — Today at 3:06 AM
"Carry on." Tarsonis steps away from the men before reigniting his jump pack and landing ontop of the troop carrier.
+Thank you Librarian Lorenso+