Of Foul Sorcery and Tainted Weapons


Upon meeting the Sage, introducing himself as Adept Putiance of Adeptus Terra, Tiberiax would be surprised, even alarmed at the amount of information this Adept possessed and operated with. However, such strenuous emotional states were quite within the demesne of his emotional inhibitors, despite his recently discovered penchant for emotional outbursts.

The individual was not only blessed - but also cognizant of those around him. Tiberiax realized that such level of enumeration was several degrees of magnitude above those found in the uninitiated that he has met so far. Without preamble Magos replied:

"Salutations Adept Puitance. I require your assistance in the matter concerning the future of Kommitzar."

What Went Wrong?

Cloistered within the gifted man's office, the two labored to find the root-cause of Kommitzar's insurrection. The mystery - a heresy in the making across the span of decades, was quickly matched with Tiberiax's experience and massive processing power coupled with Adept Puitance's uninhibited access and data-collation fitting for a Priest of Terra.

A few moments after the man finished his speech, what would be the product of the cooperation and a testament of Puitance's skill in Winsole's employ, Tiberiax responded:

"As suspected, initial negligence resulted in degradation of order, until it escalated into outright riots. However, the fact that this was staged before the occurrence of Cicatrix Maledictum phenomenon is troubling and hints at the greater plans of the Enemy. Kommitzar on it's own is a world of little importance."

A stepping stone? One of many worlds seeded with strife and doubt in a cascading string that would result the Achilius Crusade to grind to a halt? A machination to not only thwart this world and stop the Crusade, but to seceded entire Jericho and Calixis Sector from the Imperium!

"Thank you for your cooperation Adept Puitance. Upon compilation, transmit a copy of Kommitzar Report to me as well."

Taking his leave, Magos left behind Adept's office, catching a newly operational mag-lev train back to the Central Complex, and the new headquarters of Kommitzar's government.
Sitting in one of many booths of the passenger compartment, his eliptical head hung downwards, dendrites on his chest, Magos detached from the environment around him, the two machinelings scurrying over his body in a effort to dissuade any too-curious onlookers.

Omnissian Poleaxe resting deactivated in the embrace of his perplex arms, Tiberiax was idling as the ride zipped to it's destination. Apart from menials, he seemed to be alone in the train's compartment, taking this time to enamor himself more deeply within the content's of the Report.

With father's heroic sacrifice, it seems young Frenden was a teen when he attained the office of Planetary Governorship. In retrospect, the charges of negligence and treason, subsequently followed by his termination now seem wasteful. As I previously thought, the man could be salvaged and used in furthering the Crusade's ambitions in the Hazeroth Abyss. The man was emotionally unstable and unruly, but nothing that can't be re-conditioned by Magi Psychologists.

With internal discussion ending quite rapidly, Tiberiax thought to his next course of action. Lady Winsole seemed steadfast in her faith and duty, but her zeal in this case was to their disadvantage. Magos thought to raise the point with Adept Puitance considering the man's analytical skill and previous service with the Inquisitor. But challenging Inquisitor's judgement infront of it's underling can lead to disastrous results and despite Tiberiax's affinity toward the female, he had to admit he knew very little about Inquisitor Winsole.

Imperial Strategical Training

Disembarking and moving past the newly erected supply yards, Magos noticed Hunter Company - the Guardsmen who breached the prison with the Inquisitorial envoy, hard at work, training the prisoners under Captain Meyer's scrutiny. Seeing him overseeing the largely inefficient new recruits, reminded the Data-Predator of the scene when he met Meyers for the first time in a bunker, days ago.

Judging by his facial expression and mannerisms, the man seemed frustrated at the failure of his training methods.

His head whirling between the training grounds and the Captain, Magos replied:

"Captain, I believe we can be of assistance to each other."
For a few moments, Tiberiax remained at Meyer's side, observing the recruits as they trained. Standing side by side, the height discrepancy between the Guardsman and the Techpriest was only accentuated, Tiberiax being an entire head taller then Meyers.

"Your training methods seem to be inefficient. Resulting prognosis is not optimal for the time-frame given, Captain Meyers. If we are to make these rehabilitated convicts into efficient fighting force in such a short time, you may need to employ more radical measures."

@bossaroo
Resting the weight of his Poleaxe with a crunch! into the thick snow, Tiberiax stood motionless as a statue for a moment, his manner even more inscrutable then usual, before resuming the conversation in a more animated fashion:

"As you may know Captain, Adeptus Mechanicus has it's own standing armies. Skitarii are one such force. You probably know them by their Low Gothic name, the Tech-Guard. I will lend you one such warrior to advise you on training programs you may have not used before, but may find useful. It holds the rank of Alpha, or your equivalent of a Sergeant. "

"I have summoned it to help you in your efforts. In return I require you to form an effective program for training these convicts down the generations."

Pausing to let the full import of his words be absorbed by the Captain, he added: "Quite a task Captain, but I trust you able to match it. It is a confidence born from my summary of your tactical abilities."


Martian Extreme Makeover: Penal World Edition


The clang of hammers, buzz of power-saws and dull throb of newly activated plasma and atomic reactors, gave to Tiberiax a sense of familiarity he has not expect to feel, so far away from a Forge World. Walking down the construction site, amid the crowd of menials, artisans and techpriests, for the first time since he landed on Kommitzar he felt the reassuring sense of progress. Of a direction toward something greater in Kommitzar's, Omnisiah willing, productive future.

Life is directed motion.

Plucking from noosphere, rumors of Lord Vindex and Archmagos Instaurabo intending on making Kommitzar repent for it's previous heresy of attempted secession by increasing their tithe grade, Tiberiax decided to devote his powers in assisting their efforts. After all, moral danger is reduced when one works. Only when an individual is free with their time, does the mind wanders where it should not. If you keep busy the populace, less chances that heresy will be able to take root.

Supposedly, not only would the penal world supply only men and women for conscription, but processed material as well. Tiberiax calculated from what he knew of Kommitzar's mineral and production capabilities, as well as it's infrastructure to house, maintain and rehabilitate it's convict population for conscription and as a labor force, resulting in increase of it's tithe grade from Solution Tertius to Solutio Prima.

Possible to execute with significant effort, though increased tithe suggests that this world would be a good staging ground for the reclamation of Achilius Crusade. A good supply point for the Retribution Fleet Vindex.

Meeting with a Techpriestess Artisan and Marshal Lauson, Tiberiax greeted them both using fleshvoice, for Lauson's benefit.

Scanning construction blueprints, Tiberiax confirmed his previous assessment of tithe increase. Turning active attention to Lauson, he queried:

"Marshal Lauson, how do you find coping with the new duties, in light of Lord Frendel's departure? From what I've seen you had no previous administrative experience outside of Arbites and you were quite close to the boy."

This effort, in the end would be all up for naught if the new Governor proved to be as incapable as the last one. On the other hand, despite the inexperience evident in the Artisan beside Lauson, she seemed to have earned favor in the eyes of the Machine God, sporting Cog Mechanicus upon her Power Axe - making the weapon Omnissian.

++And with you Magos Artisan.++

Such individuals were quickly on the rise within the hierarchy of the Priesthood, and Tiberiax naturally paid close attention to them, recalling the visible information within her noosphere silhouette.

++You may assist by blessing this world with the edifices worthy of Machine God! I foretell from the available data, that we may need it for the reclamation of the Achilius Crusade.++

The censer clanked against the blade of his Omnissian Poleaxe as he came closer to the pulpit infront of the massive new structure that was being built.

++By your projection, Omnissiah willing, when will the revitalization of the planet's industry be completed?++

<Eternal Crusader> @Uriel1339 @WanderingJester

"I gave you my word and so it shall be. You will hear my tale before the next deployment starts," Wilhelm told Enyo, watching him exiting the chapel and leaving him with the squad of Ogryns and battered Exorcists Chaplain.

"It is not ours to allow you to do anything of the sort. This is the house of the God-Emperor, all of those seeking His blessing can do so freely and without hindrance. So if you felt that somebody prevented you from doing it in the past, rest assured, he wasn't doing God-Emperor's work and as such, he is not fit to smear these holy halls with his presence," the Castellan told the Ogryns before turning his attention to his cousin.

"Small mind is easily filled with faith. I know my catechisms well, Chaplain, but I don't think you wanted to discuss with me the finer points of our creed. Tell me, what is it that you wanted to talk to me about?"

Victory Grub

After ensuring that her husband had been properly looked over by one of the Sisters Hospitaller for his inuries, Aurelia took some time carefully cleaning her equipment, carefully polishing her carapace until it shined, ensuring every link in her flail was spotless and her tabard was spotless. A Crusader's equipment was her instruments with which she praised the Emperor after all, and she wouldn't allow such tools to be tarnished. Never had she felt greater shame than when her master-crafter power flail was lost to her.

Once her equipment was in perfect order, the crusader donned a simple white robe and sandals. It was the only clothing she had outside of her armor, and it was rare indeed for someone to see her in it. Eventually she made her way to the cantina Enyo frequented on the ship. She certainly looked to out of place there, her white robe clearly marking her as unusual to the rest of the crowd. After gathering her meal and water she made her way over to her now one eyed husband, who seemed to have some company already in form of two Guardsmen. Taking a seat beside her husband, she offered him a gentle smile before greeting his company.

"Emperor's blessing gentlemen, I am Aurelia, the Lieutenants wife. It's an honor to meet you both." Having said hello, she took a moment to pray, offering the God-Emperor thanks for the sustenance provided to her. Still, she missed the foodstuffs from Therius Primus, home her monastery. Freshly grown vegetables and baked breads, water distilled from a nearby spring. They ate simply, but at least it wasn't this mass produced gruel.

"Did you men serve on Kommitzar as well then? I understand it was a taxing campaign."

@Uriel1339 @WanderingJester

Sustenance for the Soul

Later in the 'evening', Aurelia naturally found herself in the Chapel. More often than not one could likely find her here, but after any encounter with the Ruinous Powers she ensured that she spent as much time as she could cleansing her soul from even being near such taint. At such late hours there were few left in the Chapel, allowing her some private time with the Emperor of Man.

"Mighty God Emperor, this humble servant offers her thanks for your guidance through these two campaigns. Through your will were we able to bring these worlds back into the warmth of your radiant light. May they serve your dominion faithfully. Watch over my soul Emperor, and may it be cleansed from any taint it encountered when facing the ruinous powers of Chaos. Purge it with your righteous flames, and as well as the souls of the rest of the Inquisitors retinue, including my beloved Enyo. Glory to the Golden Throne and He who sits upon it. Ave."

After her prayers were completed she took time to meditate, and see if there was anyone else there of interest. It was always wonderful to meet others who sought nourishment from their Father on Terra.

@WanderingJester

When did she get here?

It occurred to Aurelia that there was apparently a new member of Equilius' retinue that she had been completely unaware of much to her surprise. Being one of his oldest servants, she made it a point to be familiar with all of his followers, to ensure they felt welcomed and understood the Inquisitor they served. Equilius was a mighty servant of the Emperor, but he was... Well, strange. It certainly took her time to get used to his methods, but she know knew that they were brutally effective.

Upon tracking her down to her quarters, she knocked on her door, giving the apparent Commisar a curt bow, crossing her arms over her chest when she opened up. "Emperor's blessings Commissar Abel, I am Crusader Aurelia Virtus, humble servant of Lord Equilius. It came to my attention that you are a member of his retinue as well, I wished to welcome and congratulate you. It is a high honor indeed to capture his attention."

@Jammysod

<Jean: Making Connections>

As the Apothecary sits ruminating on his latest inquests, wondering how to proceed, his mind turns to other members of the Inquisitorial retinue. One in particular - the Magos named Tiberiax Zeth. He seemed reasonably senior - as senior as one might expect of those who could yet find themselves at the beck and call of an Inquisitor. Perhaps he might have some leads on the resilient materials required to fabricate the tools he needed.

Turning to his data-terminal, Jean prepares a message for Zeth. @High_Adept_Zeth

+ + +TRANSMITTED: Task Force Vindex, Elros Contingent
+ + + DESTINATION: Magos Tiberiax Zeth, Task Force Vindex, Kommitzar Contingent
+ + + + + + + +DATE: 4.XXX.XXX.M42
+TELEPATHIC DUCT: Martin deGibier, Fleet Astropath Secundus
+ + + + + ++ + +REF: Inq/90840958940324323432/LA
+ + + + + +AUTHOR: Yochanan Rambeau, Apothecary, Raptors Chapter (Deathwatch)
+ + + + + +SUBJECT: Sourcing of materials resistant to exotic chemical attack
+ + + + +THOUGHT: Knowledge is power. Guard it well.

Honoured Magos,

Please find attached some preliminary findings on a sample of biocorrosive material recovered from the Elros theatre. It appears to attack any and all available substances, making extensive testing and storage unviable. Would greatly appreciate your input on this matter, particularly with regard to sourcing of exotic materials capable of remaining inert to this substance. Looking forward to your further collaboration in this matter.

For your information and appropriate action, please.

Regards

R.

>>ATTACHMENT #11: CHEMICAL_ASSAY_1<<

>>PROCESSING<<
>>EXLOAD COMPLETE<<

Assistance Granted

Adept Putiance gave a respectful nod to Magos Tiberiax Zeth. "Very well, Magos Tiberiax Zeth. How may this servant of the Holy Ordos and Adeptus Administratum assist you?" the sage repeated his question, though with no annoyance at all. So long as it did not interfered with the task he had been summoned to perform. Putiance flipped another page on one of the two books in front of him, titled On the Obliteration of Darkness. Incidentally, a tome written by Lord Inquisitor Vindex himself, its spine and cover decorated with the icons of the Inquisition.

It seemed that their leader had touched his hands on academia for a bit.


@High_Adept_Zeth


To Understand Damnation is to be Damned Yourself

"'Heresy grows from idleness' indeed, Magos Tiberiax Zeth," Adept Putiance replied with another sigh. The man seemed genuinely tired by what had happened to the Imperial forces on this world, though whether it was due to the loss of lives or the sheer wrench it threw into the Adeptus Adminstratum's schedule and logistical system remained a mystery. "I daresay also that 'complacency courts damnation' as well. In this age especially, with the escalation of war across the Imperium."

To the magos' observation that the events began long before the coming of the Great Rift, the adept shrugged surprisingly.

"The plans of the archenemy already being in place and in motion before the coming of the Cicatrix Maledictum is unsurprising, given the history of this sector. Calixis Sector had always been a cauldron of schemes and treachery, even before current events in the wider Imperium. As to the enemy's goals, I try not to speculate or dived into the mind of the damned: it's likely the main reason why, by the grace of the emperor, I have retained the integrity of my soul and my sanity throughout my career, unlike many of my less... puritan colleagues."

For the first time, a slight hint of disapproval came within the professional and academic tone of Adept Putiance, though he quickly shifted from it. He bowed in respect to the Magos as he departed. "It has been a pleasure to serve alongside a member of the Adeptus Mechanicus. I've often found the Scions of Mars' rationality and commitment to the cold facts and logical data to be refreshing. I shall have the report sent to you once I've finished it later today."


@High_Adept_Zeth


The Long Road Ahead

Marshal Lauson's face turned grim at the mention of the late Frenden scion. "Lexander always hid his fears behind a mask instead of confronting them. Unfortunately, that meant burying his head as deeply into the ground as possible while the world burned around him. Each time I tried showing him what was going on around him, he would retreat deeper into his own mind. Perhaps the Emperor's mercy was the best relief anyone could give him at this point." He straightened up, looking directly at Magos Tiberiax Zeth.

"No need to worry about me, lord magos. Most Penal Worlds in the Imperium are actually under the direct command of the Adeptus Arbites, with a Marshal commanding them. I've received the adequate training in completing this duty as with any other when I was promoted, though I only exercised them in a consultation role since historically the Frenden family held the position of planetary governorship here. There'll be a period of adjustment, but I'm sure things will smooth out soon enough."

Looking over the blueprints, the Magos could see that most of the mini manufactorums were actually refineries for the minerals scheduled for extraction from the plant itself. They would connect to the first of the dig sites by transports and then linked to a landing area for tithe pickup. The landing area fulfilled the most basic requirements for a standing spaceport, looking more like a civilian port than an Imperial institution. Still, it would served to both exchange new prisoners to the world for penal regiments and supplies off world adequately.

At the same time, the Artisan nodded before replying in binary. ++It is my duty to serve the Omnissiah and the machine spirits. By the will of the Machine God, this world, along with the others we liberate, will assist in ridding the hereteks from their holes in this domain of the Imperium.++ She then brought up all relevant schematics of the rebuilding of Kommitzar, but focused upon the new constructions rather than the repairs to existing structures.

++While the neglect had dishonoured and damaged many local housings for the machine spirits on this world, we are repairing and reconsecrating all facilities at an optimal pace. Reconstruction of all surveyed damage should take no longer than 2.5 standard Terran months at most, though my personal estimations concluded it closer to 1.583 Terran months, with a margin error of .0326%. What will take considerably more time however, are the buildings of the new facilities and defences for them.++

Through the noosphere, as well as pointing at the blueprints in front of them, the Artisan gestured to each portion of the plans as she spoke, likely to the marshal's benefit as Zeth could follow without trouble on the noosphere alone. At this point, for the benefit of the new head imperial representative of the planet, she switched to flesh speak. Her voice was surprisingly human.

"The raw material extraction and process system on this world require the construction of four new parvos level refinery-manufactorums from scratch. Each need overland connections to two nearby dig sites sized with the allowance of future dig site development in mind once the efficiency of the original two fall below acceptable level. Then they'll all either need a transport route to the minimus level spaceport which we are also constructing from the ground up.

Each site, whether the mineral extraction sites or the refinery-manufactorums, must include the necessary defences to contain any localised disturbances from spreading to the larger complex, as well as guard barracks and medical facilities, security checkpoints, sustenance halls for the prisoners, minimus level workshops for the tech priest on station there along with his servitor assistants. Since the raw materials will be transported via armed overland transports, a central medius level motor pool is also required to support the local workshops in the transport's physical upkeep, along with the vehicles of the prison guards and the local Adeptus Arbites contingent."

The Artisan gave an overview of the grand renovation plan, though in a sense where she merely noted duties to be completed, though Marshal Lauson seemed more resigned than anything to this plan. The Artisan continued her expounding.

"Overall, even with the current workforce, I estimate that it would take a minimal of six to eight standard Terran years for every facility to become fully operational. Realistic timescale models accounting for unknown variables and delays put it closer to eight to ten standard Terran years. However, we should have partial operation up and running within the end of one standard Terran year. Praise be to the Omnissiah for the completion of 87% of the tram system already, as it will help dramatically with transporting the necessary personnel to construction sites falling behind schedule.

However, the Archmagos had made it clear that the current situation is only temporary, and that he had no intentions of using the Ark as a mere construct vessel and keeping it in orbit of this penal world. Rightfully so, I might add," at this the marshal frowned, but the Artisan either didn't notice or, the more likely, ignored him. "However, this pushes our work here back dramatically, with the new models showing the timeframe taking anywhere between one to two and a half standard Terran decades for total completion, with a margin error of .853%"

At this point, the Artisan pulled a bit of data from the larger noosphere and showed it to Zeth. It was a map of the retribution fleet's projected route towards the sector capital, their first ultimate destination. A new mark placed on the data indicated Idumea, a forge world and apparently the next planet on their journey.

"However my hopes is that once we've reached this forge world next, we may replace our personnel losses here to full capacity, as we are even now under optimal number for our workforce. Should we receive that number, we can shorten the estimated time of completion by a sizeable fraction. I have not ran that model yet, but a rough estimation could have all major facilities constructed by five standard terran years."

At this time, the Artisan seemed more conservative in her presence in the noosphere and she switched back over to binary.

++Magos Catharc, I have a request if I may be so bold. While I am tasked with overseeing the constructions here to their completion, I will have to select a replacement as the ruling tech priest remaining here to assist Marshal Lauson. Yet this is a large and demanding project, and as such, all within it shall have a certain amount of pressure upon them to meet expectations, especially when it comes to the timetable. From my studies and experience, it is under pressure when those entrusted with the care of the machine spirits... compromise.++

Here, Zeth would notice the mood of tech priestess darken at the subject, feelings of disgust over the local noosphere of this conversation.

++Certain... individuals, in the name of fulfilling their duties, begin to deviate from the proper rites and traditions designed to safeguard them from the abyss of heresy and damnation, even daring to venture into the realm of... innovation.++ The Artisan spat out the last word in disgust, as though receiving a particularly poorly constructed vessel of the machine spirit.

++One only need to remember the after reports of the Cleansing of Forge World Kellin IV to see how the road to madness is a gentle one. Therefore, my request is this: I know of your role in rooting out and destroying tech heresy, and I would like to ask you if there is any way to permanently station safeguards here against such things from taking root here on Kommitzar. I understand that there is no definitive defence outside of our faith in the Omnissiah, but I know little of your order, and would like to request any and all counter measures you may impart upon this project, and the lasting machine cult, here."


@High_Adept_Zeth


The Sons of Dorn

The bone'ead scratched his head, obviously confused by the big words Wilhelm used to address him. Somehow he worked out that he wasn't in trouble though, and gave the astartes another salute. "Thankee, lord godlings. Dah Emperah protects." With that, the abhuman began corralling the rest of his squad, along with another ogryn, out of the chapel, their simple devotionals completed. When the last of them departed, the Excoriator Chaplain turned back to the Black Templar.

"You are correct in that I did not come to pontificate upon the matters of faith to you, though as I have said you are more than welcomed to come to me if you require any assistance on the spiritual war against our enemies. I've had scant little contact with any other Sons of Dorn, aside from those from my own chapter in the Crusading Company. Therefore I would rather be redundant than assume anything," the chaplain said seriously, looking directly into Wilhelm's eyes.

"I will not mince words: there have been unconfirmed reports, whispers of a despoiler class chaos battleship being spotted. The details of each message and rumours differ, but one thing remains constant: its description in every instance matches the characteristics in all available records of the Sword of Sacrilege." The chaplain needn't explain the significance of the statement; every Dornian Son who knew even an iota of their lineage's history knew of that vessel's name, of the hatred it stirred in their hearts.

"Every chapter that was present at the last Feast of Blades had been notified and all agree to remain vigilant for any sign of the ship. Word is being sent to all successor chapters that could not make the ceremony or do not traditionally attend. Once we've acquired the coordinates for the cursed ship, we are to send them via this vox channel, and bring our full wrath down upon it," the Chaplain sent the data to the Black Templar, along with something a little extra.

"I wished to inform you of this, but also to make a request: I know you are afforded considerably more freedom given your presence in the Inquisitorial Retinue. Given this fact, I expect you shall have extensive opportunity for reconnaissance in the future. Some time past, our chapter lost a valuable relic, a banner entrusted to us by the Primarch-Progenator himself, was captured by the Alpha Legion. I have sent you its depiction, and should you come across any information on its whereabouts, I ask that you please notify me or another Excoriator, so that we may purge this stain that had long plague our honour. My thanks, cousin."


@Colapse


A Time of Fellowship

Aurelia would be correct in her assumption that not many visitors attended the chapel this late into the night cycle of the ship. Most of the crew from the day cycle had already paid their respects and honour to the Emperor, and those working in the night cycle busied themselves with their task. Though she passed a few battle sisters on the way into the chapel, she had assumed that they too were paying their supplication to the Emperor.

However, what Aurelia didn't expect was when she finished praying and paid proper attention to the others in the chapel, that she would see Cardinal Ropierre finishing his blessings of a few stray worshippers to the side. Once more proving his deviance from the mainstream upper echelon of the Ecclesiarchy, he wore the simple robes of a common priest. Rather than stand in the middle of the chapel or at the head in front of the main altar to sermonise to any who came in, he stood to the side, humbly offering his services to any who passes by.

As the few crewmen in front of the cardinal thanked him in hush, but profuse tones before they departed, Ropierre turned and noticed Aurelia.

Giving her a welcoming wave, he gestured for her to come over and said, "ah, my brave daughter of the Crusaders. Come, come. Might you fellowship with me in the presence of the God-Emperor, and let this old man pray for you? I sense that you have seen much darkness and shall see even more before this task of ours is complete. Allow me the privilege of bearing some of the burden on your shoulders."


@Keidivh

The Giant falls

With the monstrous dragon-ogre following him around, Razael was dancing a desperate dance, running, jumping, dodging and occasionally shooting the beast. It went against all of his instincts to give any kind of ground to the damn thing, but he latched his stubborness onto something else, the fact that, no matter what, he would not allow himself to die with the ogre still alive. So when he finally recieved support from their reinforcements, he was more than glad. A few more shots and blows later, the giant lay on the floor before him.
He would more than gladly take up the Nemesor sergeant up on his offer.
"It shall be my honour."
With that, he stepped towards the ogre's head, ritually cooling his plasma pistol, before placing it straight at it's forehead.
Woe to the Unclean.
And with that, he liquified whatever brainmatter was contained inside the ogre's deformed skull, to the glorious sound of cultist armies routing in fear.

But he didn't allow himself any rest. He brushed aside the death cultists in their religious fervour, which were only hindering the Astartes in their eagerness to signify their misguided worship. Only when Razael stood before the devastated fields of Pellenor, and through his own scope saw not one hcultist left alive, and when communications attested that all enemies had been exterminated, Razael calmed down.
Moving back towards the rest of his squad, he let himself be examined by the apothicaries once more. The pain suppressant had finally lost it's bite, and the pain came screaming back.
It was acceptable. No major organs had been damaged, his black carapace had only been cracked by the ogre's hammer, and of course been sliced by the medusae's cursed weapon. He was however quite glad to not have been hit by that hammer more than once. Under the professional care of an apothecary, his black carapace would soon rebuild on its own.
The mix of toxins in his blood however, while counteracted by Jean's chemical cocktail, would take a few hours of rest until they were completely filtered by his Oolitic kidney. Well. That was to be expected.

@Colapse
While he was being examined, he also heard the Black Templar's words. He was never one to fully understand his chapter's principles of honour and overbearing prie, and as such was quite suprised.
"While I respect your decision Castellan, the reason why this victory appears hollow to you escapes me. I fail to see disgrace in your archivements."

@WanderingJester
As to when Equilius appeared, the out-of-place joy the inquisitor displayed was nothing that he couldn't deal with. Either way, once he was able to, he spoke himself.
"I was the one to send out the request for reinforcements, Inquisitor. Take from that what you will. On another note, you are looking a bit disheveled. Did you have complications? I thought you were taking a bit long."


<Aboard the Eternal Crusader>

Sufficiently patched up for now, Razael made his way towards the local chapel, for his daily dose of cleansing prayer. Although, when he arrived, it seemes that it was already occupied. Out of habit maybe, the Dark Angel did not enter immediatly; an old leftover from his time as a Veteran Scout Sergeant, listening in on his disciples, and further hardened by many year of the caution a Kill-marine had to display. He hid in the shadows of the hallway, his superhuman senses listening in to the conversation between Enyo and the Black Templar.
He realized how rude what he was doing was only when a Bone'ead and his flock entered the church.
It seemed they hadn't noticed him when they entered. All the better. It would have been quite awkward had they seen one of their revered Astartes eavesdropping.

This chapel was obviously full, so he decided to go to another. As the Dark Angel slowly started to walk towards his goal, he bumped into a small figure leaving the chapel.
Oh for Terra's sake......this sneaking habit never goes away, does it?
After taking a step back, he could identify the figure as Enyo Virtus, an auxiliary officer from Equilius' retinue. A curious choice, but he certainly had some kind of skill if the young joker had an interest in him.
@Uriel1339
"Enyo Virtus, from Inquisitor Equilius' retinue, am I right?"
He gave the Auxiliary the universal language for "don't mind it".
Normally, an Astartes would have just given the mortal a cold shoulder and maybe a stare at most.
But well, he had to stay in touch with the more "average" citizen of the Imperium to complete his missions.
And humility was a warriors greatest asset after all.


Once that had been concluded, he found himself a chapel to pray in. While in Meditation, he planned his next steps. After this, he would seek out other Unforgiven, if there were any in this fleet, and generally gather information on their Situation in the Calixis sector. He had been cut off from his brothers for quite some time after all.

<Before> @BlackNecron

"We don't share the same views on certain things, Dark Angel," Castellan replied, his voice flat and emotionless, "The failure I feel is of my own doing and I will deal with it, one way or the other."

<Now - Sons of Dorn> @WanderingJester

"Thank you for your offer Chaplain. You were correct in your assumption that I need some sort of assistance, but it's not about the thing you suggested. I have no need of spiritual guidance when it comes to slaying my foes, the Sword of Ruin is still sharp, my will even sharper. However other things bother me."

"Since you aren't someone to waste time on empty words, I will be blunt. Duty aside, separation from my company and brothers don't sit well with me. I long for the ease of brotherhood us of the same Chapter share and I don't say this lightly," in these moments, it was easy to see the flaw of never actually spending time outside your Chapter force. Wilhelm, being a son of Pretorian of Terra, addmited so himself.

"Fighting with marines from other Chapters and with different cultures is taxing. I was in command of our Astartes section on Elros and not a single battle brother shared my views. Raptors Apothecary, using underhanded tactics in order to win. A Dark Angel and a Minotaur, both full of secrets and guarding them close. What kind of a warrior has secrets if not one who is hiding a great shame? Then a completely unknown Iron Knight and finally, a Steel Predator witch."

"Can you even understand how it's like my cousin? Perhaps not, given how you are still surrounded with your Excoriators brothers even now in this Emperor-forsaken place."

Speaking out what was on his mind, Black Templar eased a bit, placing a hand on the edge of his crusader swird, the lenghty blade refecting the candlelight. "As for your request, I give you my oath. If your lost standard appears on the same field of battle where I am, I will stop at nothing to reclaim it for your Chapter," Wilhelm nodded, almost biting his tongue as he wanted to add a part on how do they managed to live with the shame of losing something so important. But he didn't, not everyone, not even among the Dorn's blood, had the same sense of honor and duty as the Eternal Crusaders.

"As for the cursed ship, during my lifetime I've heard about its sightings at least twice. It was never true so don't get your hopes up. However since we are honor-bound to destroy whoever commands that vessel and avenge our fallen Father, if you spot it notify me at once. I will join you in the assault and paint the walls of that ship with the blood of our enemies."

Listening to Lauson's answer, Tiberiax stood in-between the Techpriestess and Marshal, his oversized head slightly inclined toward the acting governor, a gesture that he was listening.

"In training you, the Arbites show foresight that serves us well now. However just like young Frenden, by attaining governorship of this world in the Omnissiah's stead, you are in the spotlight now."

Nodding to the governor he added: "Let me tell you something Marshal, something i have learned from centuries of experience. In the hour of your greatest need Marshal, remember, lead by example. Let us leave Frendel's mistakes behind."

With another nod and a soft laugh escaping his organic volcabulator, Tiberiax turned to the Artisan as she was finishing her exload of the construction data planned for the next decade. His words not only earned him a very concise summary of the rebuild and expansion effort, but also served to rile the Techpriestess up, her zeal being quite commendable, thought perhaps a bit too emotional.

Sensing her scorn, transmitting as a binharic sludge, seeping between the ordered lines of code in the cascading wall of data, Tiberiax giggled, allowing his amusement to show. Careful not to rile her up further, the youngling being quite fleshy and thus a victim to her own self-righteousness, Tiberiax replied in binary:

++I share your concerns Magos Artisan and the tale of Kelling IV is most instructional in our efforts here. However doubt unchecked unhinges the orderly structures of the mind. Doubt is pain too lonely to know that faith is it's twin brother. If you doubt your brother or sister in faith, instruct them, if you can. Faith in the Machine God reflects in one's deeds not words. We cannot forbid all instances of lateral thinking. Why, we might as well surrender all Rune Priests to Logicutioners! A mot unproductive endevour.++

Stopping himself for a moment, Tiberiax pondered his next words carefully. Resting one of his arms on her shoulder he continued:

++Considering Kommitzar's past, defenses against moral threat I have already integrated within your construction blueprints as codescrubbing stations and small shrines to gather Magisterium Sanctoris guard. If weakness of flesh again prevails over the general populace...we shall not suffer!++

He beamed at her, to her oculars, his noospheric form shimmering with light of faith and certainty.

++My order has no powers over the domains that are not given whole to the Omnissiah. However, with Idumena our next destination, I will commune with Archmagos Insturabo in a effort to leave greater amount of Mechanicus armed forces on the Kommitzar.++

Realizing he reached understanding with the Fabricator-Architect, he left her and the Marshal, to their duties.

As restoration and expansion efforts started in earnest, Tiberiax oversaw some of the reconsecration efforts being conducted in a more defiled areas of the primary complex. As minoris Adepts erected Hex Signs to banish the taint, Tiberiax mused on the flow of work and thus hierarchy among the Priesthood. Struggles largely invisible to the eye of general populace and Imperium, where happening right before them, usually augmented by inhumanly complex hierarchy within the Adeptus Mechanicus.

Kommitzar is a good example of this, as the construction effort was always a struggle between three Divisiones: Artisans (the architects), Fabricator (tech-wrights, enginseers and macroteks) and Prefectus (administrators). Granted, Kommitzar is only a Penal World, but with it's tithe increase, its' production and subsequently Mechanicus presence increases and thus problems that may seem alien to Kommitzar's prison population.

On a Forge World, such strife is only increased, not counting myriad other Divisiones involved, that are not currently present on Kommitzar. That's why Tiberiax observed with such amusement the Techpriestess's concerns. Once you earn the stature of an Adept Majoris and thus the lowliest rank of a Magos, the enmity between lower adepts becomes inconsequential, despite occasional cries and accusations of techno-heresy.

His own work thought, started to lessen as newly reformed PDF took over, where yesterday tanks rumbled and Stormtroopers marched. Finding increased time-allocation outside of duties and obligations Magos found a secluded place within a finished area of one of the manufacturms.

The chamber he has lent from a Macrotek Enginseer, was made both walls and floor of beaten iron, it's incredibly high resistance to corrosion, a testament of skill to the Fabricator's extracting and production methods. The chamber, observed top-down was of a circular shape, with many alcoves within it's circular wall taking a form of a tooth in a cog. Within each alcove devices were installed that would allow Macrotek Techpriest to observe and record construction and expansion process in each part of the manufactorum and beyond. With Magos's arrival however, most of the devices were silent, in silent respect to the Data-Predator.

With lumen-strips modified to minimum, the chamber took an aspect of a iron cavern, with clamor of distant work revebrating thought it's structure. Seating on a perch in the middle of the chamber, Tiberiax mused upon events that has transpired over several days. His oversized head falling on chest, his brains sloshing within their metal confines like chunks of oily mercury do in vials of algebraic elixirs. Magos pondered on many things.

Finally at peace, he recalled all previously buried issues and thoughts without resolution. Despite his age, he had perfect, almost mimetic recall thanks to his recent revival.
My resurrection. The weaknesses I find within my thought patterns. That Thallax. Lady Winsole's latet decisions and my role in all of this. Have I not earned the peace of death? What I am doing here, so far from Agripinaa? What of my world? What of the Orb?

@Draconion
With rumors of Cadia's fall, Techpriests's dendrite shuddered and machinelings squealed softly, somewhere beneath his robe, resonating with their host's discomfort. However, despite his distance, he could not excise the Omnissiah's blessed breath, as his noospheric sense pinged with a message.

A local Teletech, receiving an Astropathic beam from orbit sought him out via noospheric link, forwarding the message.

Upon reading the content and the author's identification, his multi-minds flashed him with hazy images of an Astartes clad in white and black. The low quality of the recall frustrated him, but it wa quickly spent as he investigated the attached file the Apothecary has forwarded.

The analyte in question being digestive secretions of an alien lifeform, Tiberiax studied the provided document with passable amusement before compiling a reply:

To: Yochanan Rambeau of the Second Founding, Bearer of the Helix, Alien-hunter;
From: Magos Tiberiax Zeth, Data-predator of the Adeptus Mechanicus, Catharc of Prefecture Magisterium;
Subject: RE: Sourcing of materials resistant to exotic chemical attack
Thought of the day: Knowledge without Him, is worthless.

Apothecary,

With due respect, I am no Chymist or Xenologist. However, despite my shortcomings I find I may still be of service to your investigation. Guided by your analysis I am led to preliminary conclusion that the analyte in question can be kept safely within container of crystalflex or armplas material. However, the later is not easily obtainable and is most difficult to fabricate.

My advice is to request the containers to be fashioned of crystalline, yet transparent substance - crystalflex from the Caretaker of the starship's Enginarium or local Forge Father. The material is used in fashioning transparent surfaces in void-built structures and as such should be of abundance.

As for tools with which to manipulate the matter, I will devote some thought to the material and bring the prototype to your person.

You can expect me.

Realizing the option available, he pinged his thanks to the Teletech and dismissed the Astropath-Techpriest, forwarding his message to a local Voxmechanic. With Kommitzar's vox-infrastructure operational, it should be no problem to relay the message to orbit.

@Maleth
A second after he received the message, the allocated fragment of his consciousness returned back to the unified whole, finding the entity know as Tiberiax, summoning one of it's kin - or more specifically one of it's children. Dedicating this time he had to resolve one of the quandaries, he beamed to the Thallax or whatever Skitarius Consul or Cybernetica Adept handled the machine-warrior:

++ SA582 blessings upon your warrior. He ordained mending of your steel and ceramite, I have investigated the hrono-log of your activities you have exloaded on my request several days ago. As a Catarch I am tasked with your moral well-being child. What is your current location? ++

Komitzar Epilogue Part 3 - The Prisoners
@WanderingJester - Goff

"I would like to think that most of Ultramar are like me. But times are getting tougher since the Indomitus Crusade. Not quite the paradise they paint over here." Enyo said with honest truth, shrugging slightly. "But it always will be my home sweet home." He could not help but smile.

"As for the rest, just doing my duty, Goff. Like I'm sure you will do yours vigilantly." He replied in his casual conversation volume before increasing his volume. "Of course! Our friendship shall not get between our service with the Imperium." He made a theatrical bow and couldn't help but let a low chuckle out.

"Stay safe. Both of you." He gave the child a gentle tap on the head and Goff another handshake before starting to walk off, he stopped at the door and gave them a final look, smiling and nodding. This is why he joined the PDF all those years back. To save souls like these, pure and fair. They have gone under enough hardships. Although, the middle-aged man could only wonder why Goff was a prisoner to begin with. But it mattered little, whatever man he once was - now he was a great father and protector of his family and friends.


Komitzar Epilogue Part 4 - Naval Law & Order
@Jammysod | @WanderingJester

"Do not worry yourself about that." He waved dismissively when she addressed his eye. In fact he already had a plan in mind for it, he just needed to wait until one of his newest allies was more available. Hopefully he was willing to help however. Time would tell.

"As for the equipment. Gear is only as good as it's wielders skill. Which is why those requirements and safety measurements such as a quartermaster in place. The last thing we need is to hand out exquisite weaponry to those with friends in high command but no skill. I rather give a plasma gun to a lowborn ratling who can handle it, rather than some snobby major who achieved his rank through politics." Enyo said, not really trying to argue but simply being pragmatic. It was how it would work in his perfect world, but sadly corruption was too real. At least there were people in the Astra Militarum and even amongst Astartes who would cherish his thought process.

"Either way. I suggest to get familiar with everyone in the retinue. Cohesion is based off of familiarity." He inclined his head politely. "And of course of all three lead inquisitors. Equilius, Winsole and Vindex. Surely I do not need to tell you as a commissar that we need to be friends and such, but at least we should focus on the things we have in common." He smiled softly as he realized that she was a perfect fit for Equilius type of retinue.


Komitzar Epilogue Part 5 - Blessed Crusader
@Keidivh

Enyo felt like his mother was inspecting him after one of the harsher training lessons, but smiled on how caring Aurelia looked him over. He made use of the situation and grabbed her gentle by the cheek to place a quick and gentle kiss on the lips, before distancing his face and smile at her, his thumb rolling over her cheek.

"The assailant is dead and I'm fine. Just a cosmetic wound and a little bit of an... Adjustment." The stalwart soldier said with a soft smile, finding it unnecessary to state that it was no less than an Astartes. He was not the bragging type. A simple soldier who did his duty.

"And technically, I am a weapon in the God Emperor's eyes. So he did answer your prayers, derling." He smiled widely, losing himself in the beautiful deep as the ocean eyes of Mrs. Virtus. "There was something else on Komitzar that I saw though." Before speaking the next words, his right hand landed on her abdomen, his eyes never leaving her face.

"I know it is an unfit time, but I just wanted to ask you... Once our part in this crusade is over... Well..." Enyo laughed a little nervously, his left hand going to his head and scratching it. "A man I helped out... He had that beautiful little girl nuzzling on his chest... I only could wonder. If you were ever ready to put your blade and shield aside." His smile was awkward and his eyes teary. Not of sadness or hope, but filled with overwhelmed joy to be with his beloved again and what they might become after their part in the crusade has been fulfilled.


Komitzar Epilogue Part 6 - Hidden Lion Knight
@BlackNecron | @WanderingJester

Enyo came right around the corner before bumping surprisingly softly into an Astartes. He was about to plead for apologies when the space marine stared down at him and addressed him. A heavy weight seemed to press down on his heart and his breathing became a little faster. But then he took a deep breath and relaxed. Looking over the insignia and seeing the winged sword one one side, the Deathwatch icon on the other, he realized that it was a member of quite a well known chapter. Even if he only learned of the Dark Angels because they also aided in the Indomitus Crusade to Lord Commander Guilliman's aid.

"Uhm... Y-yes. I am Enyo Virtus. Lieutenant Enyo Virtus. 142nd Heavy Infantry Regiment of Ultramar's Auxiliary forces." He bowed deeply, but not as deeply as he did to Wilhelm before. "How may I be of service, Lord Astartes of the Dark Angels?" He finally asked, blinking a bit with his one remaining eye, the other covered with a black eyepatch and the twin-headed eagle on it.


Komitzar Epilogue Part 7 - Victory Grub Start
@WanderingJester | Anyone else who wishes

Enyo shrugged on the crappy joke. "Is alright, lads. At least I walked away with my head still on my shoulders." He smiled brightly. "I'm fine, Sergeant." The man was swift and determined about his reply. He also ate between the sentences.

"Also I can't help but feel like at home. Should've come to the canteen earlier." He leaned a bit back and looked around before turning back to the two across of him. "Makes me miss my old band. From the young teenager cadets who dreamed to ascend to Astartes. All the way to the spoiled privileged ones who got shoved into a temporary PDF service by their highborn parents as punishment. How are your homes?" The Lieutenant gestured with his spork at them, before putting it in his mouth.


Komitzar Epilogue Part 7 - Victory Grub Little Later
@WanderingJester | @Keidivh

"Sergeant Walker." He pointed at the older of the two. "Corporal Allen. Both of the 2nd Squad, Third Platoon, Fox Company, 97th Terran Guard. I met them during the initial deployment before the first assault on a patrol." Enyo quickly introduced the two to his wife.

"Sergeant Walker. Corporal Allen. This is Aurelia Virtus, Crusader of the Order of Sacred Shields and Bodyguard of Inquisitor Equilius." There was clear pride in the achievements and title of his wife. "Without her, I literally would not be sitting at this table."

@WanderingJester

Bulls of a Herd Sticks Together

Goreparan shrugged and replied to the captain in a neutral tone.

“ As a minotaur and as an intendent, I am more than aware of the blood in our veins captain. As for the Ordo Xenos, it’s a side diversion to diversity the chapters knowledge. After all, there were no complains when I added my info on the Necrons during the Orpheus campagin.”

After the captain listed out the new bloods name goreparan couldn’t help but chuckle

“If people can get past the new bloods then the intendents have got soft. My achievements speak for themselves captain. If you’ve become so bored as to question an old bull like me then I am more than willing and able to help you work out any rust you have. The emperor preserves our souls but only we can preserve our bodies”

With his word said the minotaur bowed to the captain and headed over to the company’s section of the ship. After getting past the check points he asked around until the new bloods could be found. Upon finding them he would address them

“Barnabas and Ciphas. You’re assigned to me.”