TW: Warhammer 40K (IC)

[ArcaneStomper]

In the far reaches of space lies the Cauldron. A vast vortex of energy where the warp intrudes upon reality. A sight to inspire terror and insanity in those who behold it, normally the races of the galaxy would give the swirling maelstrom a wide birth. But this warp storm is different. There are paths through. Paths that are stable and allow passage without destroying the souls of travelers. And these paths lead to the very center of the storm. Here in the eye of the Cauldron lies a treasure beyond price. The collected remains of wrecked hulks that have spent eons drifting through the warp. Here they have reached their final resting places. A shoal of real space thrust into the sea of the warp where uncounted numbers of derelicts have beached themselves.

And so the Eye of the Cauldron has attracted the attention of a multitude of beings. Here they come to scavenge its wrecks. To pull the secrets of the ancients from its uncharted depths. To mine the masses of drifting debris ripe for picking. The scouts and pathfinders were the first to arrive, but they will not be the last. Already the call has gone out.

To the Imperial Hives of Hyperion IV, where regal bureaucrats move fleets around like toys in the hopes of securing their position in the next of Mankind's many Crusades.

To the small unnamed moon of Megiddo IV where momentary flash marks the arrival of an Eldar fleet. Here to further the dreams of a dying race.

To the hidden Corsair bases on the edges of Hyperion where the Dark Eldar lurk in ambush ready to prey on the unwary fools too eager to make the treasures of the Cauldron their own.

To the world of Daemons Reach where vast warp portals spit out the fleets of the Traitor Legions holding up a dark mirror of the Imperium's dreams.

To a world plagued by monsters where the distant touch of the hive mind has alerted the splinters of a once great fleet to a feast in waiting.

To an ancient world where dark warriors slept untouched for millennia, only now to wake and commence their cleansing war.

To the tiny wordlets of Gork and Mork, where the teeming green throngs of Ork kind pause their endless battles at the prospect of a much greater Waaagh!

To the newly colonized world of Tas'Hel where the great battleships of the youngest of races poor forth an army of warriors to contest the prize for the Greater Good.

The call has been sent, the warriors have answered, now the question remains. Who will claim the Cauldron for their own?

[Exthalion]

Above the nameless moon, or rather the moon with no name of consequence, a sleek vessel slid into view. There was none of the grandiose display that accompanied the warp dries of the younger races. The ship appeared almost to stand still, a curtain of spacetime slowly pulled back along its length.

On the bridge all but two stopped for a moment, aware of... something. The feeling was muffled but unpleasant; like someone drunk and loud and singing a terribly vulger song on the other side of a thick wall. For the Silver Prince, face unreadable as the rest behind a stoic mask, it was neither as intense nor as disconcerting.

Sunhera Athmoryan had already dismissed its iron flavored scarlet and purple notes. From a decorative null entropy case he removed something like a scroll. The rollers and page were sun as one piece. On it foot long length several words were written in different though dark colors. The words were gibberish, but as he ran his hand gently over them flashes of people and worlds came to his mind. The scroll you see was written in the blood of over two dozen species, and memory echos lingered still. When he finished he carefully rolled it again and placed it back into the stasis cask.

"Make for the rendezvous point. We will need all the assistance we can muster in this degenerate age."

[Umbranar]

Big Mek Ghorak Main Depot

Boss, why we no killin`da other orkz? Orkz want fight! Morga was Ghorak`s second and been asking all day about the next battle to come.

Shut ya talker, Morga! Told ya dat we need otherz to fight hoomans 'n claim da big scrapheap in da warp. Wherz da tranzmittah?!

An ork with a huge antenna strapped on the back and some sort of patchwork microphone and speaker runs up to Big Mek Ghorak.


To Madnutz, Gronark & Hagazes
Orkzez o`da other moonz, dis iz Big Mek Ghorak. A WAAAGH! iz comin`. Da no-Orkz want da big scrapheap in da warp. Datz Ork treazure 'n I say we claim it for da Orkz! Then we go 'n kill da no-Orkz!

[Rafinius]

The Rok Moonbreaka carrying Boss Gronark and his boyz just came out of the warp a few days ago and has settled in a far orbit around the planet Eye of Gork/Mork (Tarsus III). Recently a Kroozer has landed on moon-A and ork nobz and boyz with the Blood Axes symbol and dressed in camo-shirts have come out to resupply, bash some 'eads (ork partying) and get some recruits by boasting about the "Smaat Ork Empaya" they gonna be part of and the "Kunnin' & Smashin' & Stompin'" that they will do on the way to that.
However, if asked it will easily slip from one of the boyz that "Da new boss tried to snik da big boss but dat went nurd. But da big boss was a bog'ead so we go with da new boss and we zogget 'roun' da warp. Now we here. But don't jab 'bout all dat to da other boyz."
If some local boss asks what's going or tries to push them around the nobz have rehearsed the following message:
"Our boss be boss Gronark. He be in da big Kroozer dere and wants to talk."

OOC for Orks (HerbieRAI, Umbranar, Rafinius, League) and GMs (ArcaneStomper, Thelonius)
I don't expect orks to join me crunch wise, but this action is what brings me fluff wise to the ground army level I have as stat, so that I also have a bunch of local orks with me. It also is meant to establish my faction for future reinforcements, inform ork players about all the stuff I have written in my faction description and allow diplomacy to begin (through the last message).
It would be nice to know which PC ork factions are comming from elsewhere and which ones are native, as well as threads for any other info we should know.
Also I will need all the openly availlible info (gained through talking to the locals) about the planets in the Tarsus system (terrain, inhabitants, potential loot). I think all of us orks would appreciate that.
P.S.: I'm using some oky words sometimes, which I found 'ere (http://wh40k.lexicanum.com/wiki/Ork_Language#.UEdNMJZGr6M).

EDIT {Didn't see the previous post until I posted mine for some reason} :

Snikstompa - Flagship landed on moon A
A Big Mek calling for a Waaagh? Interesting. Gronark grabbed his own Transmittah. While his message was only ment for Big Mek Ghorak, it was probably recievable by anyone in the whole Tarsus system.
"'ere speaks Boss Gronark. Me and me boyz are also 'eadin' for da scrap'eap. Lets Waaagh in togetha an' stomp da oomies, den share da loot later. It'd be a shame fo' ah boyz to dreg each otherz 'eads and fo' us to get naffing, don't ya thinkk?"

[LongVin]

The Black Brigade
Hyperion Hive World

It had been several weeks since the Brigade had arrived in system and they had quickly made themselves home. The commandeered merchant spire was the perfect place to base their operations and was the proper atmosphere for the soon to be arriving Inquisitor. Some of the resident merchants had complained about the highly illegal nature of the seizure of their property and expressed their opinion to lodge official complaints with the governor...but a visit from some heavily armed guardsmen questioning their loyalty to him-on-earth had quickly persuaded them to quietly drop their complaints and find new living arrangements.

On the Spire's docking bay a whole platoon was out as an honor guard for the soon to be arriving Inquisitor Steiner. The palatial yacht set down on the dock and the ramp opened out marching the Inquisitor and his retinue. Amongst them were 4 guardsmen of the Black Brigade, still wearing the black trenchcoat but now sporting a red lapel meaning they serve with the Inquisitor. This is the highest honor any brigadesman can be given and while not usually a permanent post when they returned they were afforded the highest honors. It is even rumored that a guardsman who never returned was promoted to the rank of full Inquisitor and even now still wears the black trench coat in honor of his roots. But, that was just rumors and now it was time to plan for the coming crusade.

Message to all Imperial Factions:
The Black Brigade will be moving towards Hyperion II with the intent of seecuring that planet for the glory of the imperium.

Message to Hyperion Battle Fleet:
The Black Brigade will be deploying to Hyperion II to secure the sector. We are requesting a Naval escort to protect our forces through their transit.

[razovor]

The Necrons

Silence envelops the dusty stone halls of the Necrons. Not a single sound, the squeak of rats, the dripping of water, of the soft hum power-generators whose glow would have penetrated the otherwise pitch black halls.

Apart from a few basic defences, only one machine remains active, a single small clock, ticking away inaudibly, counting out the seconds since the peak of the Necrontyr empire.

Tick... Tick... Tick... Tick... Tick... Thump

The device stops, and begins to glow, thin lines of power running across it's surface. The lines creep out in all directions, reactivating old circuits as they go. The glow reaches a long forgotten mechanism, the protective shell retracts revealing the fearsome figure of a Necron Lord. The lords awakens with a start, eyes glowing with pervasive menace, as he steps calmly out of container.

The Lord walks down the hallway slowly, the lines of power racing ahead of him, power generators flaring into life as they go. The Lord walks out onto the balcony ahead of him, a console activating as he approaches, it's virtual screens displaying read-outs of the entire facility. For a few moments, he stares motionlessly, assessing the information before him.

"Reactivation confirmed. Communication established with Klantaek Dynasty. Orders received."

The Lord makes a motion with his hand, stepping through the screens as they disappear back into thin air. Standing on the edge of the balcony, he looks out across the vast black chasm before him. With a flash, the chasm bursts into light, revealing a vast chamber, kilometres wide.

Rows upon row of pods line the chamber. Every pod opens simultaneously. Thousands upon thousands of Necrons emerge from their slumber, stepping out into chamber. With impossibly perfect rhythm, the legion marches out of the room to gear themselves for battle. Above, the unmistakable sound of necron ships can be heard, vast engines lifting them up into the night sky, to spread the message of death across the stars.

[dhenn]

Aboard the Kabal's flagship, Archon Xelena held court. The final entertainments were coming to a close.

Stripped to the waist, an Astartes warrior, stripped to the waist, swung a long sword at his opponent. Yet he was gone long before the blade fell. The wych swung to the side, jabbing a small knife into the Marine's shoulder.

The fight continued for some time, a dozen small wounds drawing out the suffering, for the pleasure of those seated around the small pit. The wych used only knives, so that it was harder to land a killing blow. Eventually, even the altered physique of the Marine began to falter. Before the audience could grow bored, the wych vaulted onto his back, and with practiced skill, drove a blade into each of the Astarte's hearts.

Now to business. All eyes turned to the Archon. Seated on a throne made from the weapons and armor of those she had defeated personally, she returned their gaze. These were her elite, having proved their merit over decades of violence. While each one coveted her position, as any Dark Eldar worthy of sitting in on her councils would, they knew none could command the support of all the others. Those who let their ambitions become to transparent were soon dragged down, more often by their fellow aspirants than Xelena's loyal cadre.

"It must truly be miserable to have the mind of the mon-keigh. Such predictable psychology, such limited capacity."

Above the pit, a vast display of stars and planets appeared, each appearing to be translucent colored crystal. The Marine, and those who had fought before him, lay forgotten below.

"You all know the crossroads have opened, and, to the surprise of none, humanity is the first on the scene. Both the kin of the Eye and the devotees of the Cadaver are already here.

We can all expect how they shall act. First, they draw their forces close together, believing that their multitudes might keep them safe. They are mistaken. We shall show them nowhere is safe.

Then, we shall drive them apart. They will overextend and falter, so unknowing of their own limitations, and we shall ensure they do not survive to regret those failings.

The Cadaver god commands the largest forces, so we shall bleed them first. Yet those of the Eye may yet be a more potent force. They know they can trust none but themselves. That knowledge shall not save them.

Yet we must remain wary. We shall not be the only ones seizing this opportunity. We may not even be the first. But we shall make them fear us too.

Go to your ships and ready your followers. We shall strike at the system they call Hyperion at once!"

[Thelonius]

Exploration Update 1

Hyperion System Factions

Call for Help [Hyperion I]

An Astropath’s call arrives from the Hyperion I. A small Imperium fleet carrying a number of Ecclesiarchy Missionaries, and thousands of inspired pilgrims was ambushed by an ork ship that somehow managed to slip into the system undetected. The faithful had to land on the planet, and are currently evading Ork search parties.

An Old Mine [Hyperion III]

Everybody knows about a large mining complex that used to operate on the Hyperion III, supplying the factories of Imperium. It was shut down, after an accident killed a lot of workers as production was already falling. Now, with the approaching crusade and growing demand for raw materials to manufacture ammunition, some speak about possibility of reopening the mine.

Lore 4 Factions

A cunning and powerful Ork Pirate Gromishka has been raiding Hyperion system for the past year. His successes over Imperium forces are so great, that Imperium propaganda is forced to supress all mention of him, rather than admit the full extent of damage he has done.

Lore 8 Factions

A Rouge Trader has been investigating a site on Hyperion II recently, hoping to unearth some archeotech treasures. His expedition hasn’t been heard from for more than eight months now.

Lore 12 Factions

Deep underneath the Hive Cities of Hyperion IV, ancient machines work to prevent earthquakes. Few actually remember about their existence.


Tarsus System Factions

Pit Boss (Tarsus II)

There are rumours, that Big Boss Kharzzag is holding regular prize fights on Tarsus II. What distinguishes them from the usual ork fights is the showmanship and lethality. None of the contestants so far survived past round four out of twenty. Kharzzag holds a large number of slaves – all great warriors of their races as well as most deadly beasts from across the sector, whom he pits against any challenger.

Dead Ship (Space: South Western Corner)

A ship has emerged from the warp recently. It drifts through space unpowered.

Lore 4 Factions Only

On Tarsus I, an ancient device is collecting energy from the sun and beaming it into nothingness. Whether one would wish to loot it for spare parts or use it for some purpose, one must first avoid being hit by energy beams and then get to the control center to shut it down.

Lore 8 Factions Only

A Rouge Trader is hiding his presence on the Tarsus V, yet one disgruntled deserter from his crew has sold out his location.


Lore 12 Factions Only

On the Tarsus II, apart from Kharrzag’s fights, a racing competition is held in the typically ork fashion. Thousands of orks and their contraptions take part in each race, demolishing everything in their way, as they race across the planet. The winner (survivor) gets the vehicles (scarp) of the losers.


Meggido Factions

Perfect Storm (Meggido II)

On Meggido II, periodical powerful storms occur in one part of the planet. There is a suppositious belief among many of the Chaos followers, that the storms are sent by the Chaos Gods to test the faithful and passing through them unprotected gives the survivor their favour.

An Unknown Ship

A ship has emerged from the warp at the [north western] part of the system. The few, who have seen it close, only describe it as very odd. The ship has been flying in circles, neither going deeper into the system, nor retreating into the warp.

Lore 4 Factions Only

A Dark Eldar ship has been spotted near Meggido II, its anti-detection measures failing briefly.

Lore 8 Factions Only

A weapon has recently made its way on the black market from the Space Hulk Erephrus. It’s markings clearly identify it as one of the weapons of the Reclaimer’s Space Marines.

Lore 12 Factions Only

There is a hidden Dark Eldar base on Mediggo II. It’s filled with slaves captured on the many raids. The base belongs to Ekawomiyafu, The Howling Dark Wolf. A legendary Dark Eldar pirate, who looted a thousand worlds and slain countless foes.


Tas’Hel System Factions

Awakening (Tas’Hel I)

On Tas’Hel I, Tyranids are awakening from their slumber and emerging from the swamps.

Fight for Power (Tas’Hel I)

The Imperium on the Tas'Hel is divided, between those following Governor Constantine and those following a revolutionary Inna Velmont. The human infighting leaves them an easy pickings for awakening Tyranids.

Lore 4 Factions Only

There are rumours of a hidden outpost of the Inquisition, somewhere on Tas’Hel.

Lore 8 Factions Only

An unknown ship has been spotted in the [south eastern] part of the system, clearly collecting information on what’s happening in the system.

Lore 12 Factions

There are hidden, underwater human settlements on Tas’Hel II.

[Zemalac]

The Rogue Trader
Approaching Hyperion IV

Ambrose didn't trust windows on starships. It seemed to him that there should be something more solid than glass between him and naked void, an opinion that he maintained no matter how many times Sebastian told him that the windows were actually much, much stronger than glass. They appeared weak to the Trader, and if there was anything in this universe he despised it was the appearance of weakness.

Even he had to admit, though, that sometimes they were nice to have around. Right now, for instance, with Hyperion IV spread out below his captain's chair, hive world lights gleaming from horizon to horizon. Beautiful. And in the darkness beyond, hidden by the void and the burning stars, was something far more precious. The trader's eyes were hungry as he raised his gaze from the planet below to the star-ringed black. Out there were the monsters; and with them, the treasures.

Time to make some money.

Message to Imperial Factions

I feel we should aid the pilgrims on Hyperion I posthaste, not only to ensure the safety of Imperial citizens, but also to (perhaps) eliminate the ork pirates in the system. Take them by surprise while they are otherwise occupied.

[hydroplatypus]

1st Hyperion Regiment
{forgot to put in fluff, so editing that in now}

Colonel James Taylor looked over the assembled forces of his regiment. They had held the line in the systems for a long time, and now with the rest of the imperial forces arriving the morale was higher than ever. As they look up at him he begins speaking Men, you have done the imperium proud. You have held the line until the rest of the imperial forces arrived to aid us, and made the emperors superiority clear to all of our enemies by doing so. Now we no longer have to hold the line, we take the fight to them. We will drive them from these systems, so that their foul taint may never again corrupt the world of the imperium. With this the guardsmen roar with approval, and after some cheering are dismissed, and told to report to their transports for deployment.


To Imperial Factions

We propose that for the moment we focus our efforts on first rescuing those on Hyperion 1, followed by moving to reopen the mines on Hyperion 3. As Hyperion 1 is on route to Hyperion 3 we believe that this is an efficient way to secure the glory of the Emperor. We do however request that someone with Naval resources (as opposed to our unarmed transports) escort us to Hyperion 1 and destroy the orc warship that is in orbit, as it could cause problems for the ground forces. Additionally Hyperion 1 seems a good location for the hyperion system as it is central, and has fairly easy access to most other planets in the system. Perhaps it should be the default resting place for our naval resources in this system. After all it is no more than 2 turns away from all planets in the system save 5, but nothing is close to that planet.

[LongVin]

Black Brigade

To Imperial Factions:
We shall provide forces to relieve the church's siege. However we shall also continue our expedition to Hyperion II in order to secure that world before any of the enemies of man can secure a beachhead there.

[Eldan]

Megiddo, the Corsairs

"Brothers. It is dawn. The stars are red. This day, I dream of blood."
Raider Elethaine wore a pathfinder's cloak, though not the hood, the cloth shimmering and twisting. It was not set on camouflage today, instead merely bending the light around him at strange angles and throwing rainbow projections on the midnight blue autarch armour of his his house. He waved a hand, vaguely, lazily, and saw the fleet move in his head though not, as he observed with satisfaction, on any of their detection equipment.
The Redstar fleet sailed into realspace now, paper-thin sails unfolding from complex origami patterns into elegant, curved shapes, hungrily drinking the solar wind.
The young races had smelt treasure, and they were flocking together. Foxes squabbling over a carcass before the wolves arrived.

[puppyavenger]

The Path of the Virtuous is Always Harried

Epistles of Saint Krakus

Having Arrived on Hyperion IV, the crusade had rapidly established itself, taking over a habdome near the space port and rapidly converting it to something more in line with the emperors wishes. At the same time, lay preachers and clergy were rapidly spreading throughout the Hive.

The saint himself was occupied on other matters however. Reading the reports and astrocom transmissions, he was almost shaking with incandescent rage. The very idea that such virtuous aspirants would be attacked was an affront to His plan, and a sure sign of the systems corruption.

The Saint had started his career as an wandering preacher among the hab-blocks of a hive, and it showed. Tall, and with white-blond hair reaching his shoulders, even the aura of majesty created by the Emperors Grace could not disguise his thin, wiry frame. Despite all that, his clean-shaven face was unblemished and his personal power armour and robes of office seemed to fit perfectly.

Leaving the small chapel the Crusade had found in this hab-block when they arrived, which had taken to sleeping next to, he walked to the closest thing to a "War Room" he had. Flanked by two of his Adepta bodyguards he looked over progress. the Renovation of the Hab-block was nearing completion, and evangelism in the surrounding districts were going well. the crowds hearing his disciples were growing larger and larger, and workers were even beginning to throw down their tools and join the Crusade.

But there were disturbing reports, of Guild legbreakers trying to harass of even injure holy men doing the Emperors Work. Yet another immperfection that would have to be dealt with. The Hive could barely be called imperial really, criminal networks, corrupt guilds and decadents nobles had effectively divided the world between them, and any one of them could be open to subversion or corruption by the Enemy, even if, by some miracle, there were all loyal at the moment. Something Had to Be Done.

Composing himself, Saint Krakus composed a transmission to the other servants of the Emperor


Imperial Factions
We will provide our full support to relieving the innocent pilgrims currently trapped by the orks. In fact, I would lead the expedition myself.


To Black Brigade, Hyperion Home Guard The Hives of Hyperion are vital to our war effort, and I fear that the Enemy will use any chance to gain a foothold in it. Therefor, with the approval of the Holy Inquisition and the local Commander I would like to investigate the main Hive Spries and Guilds for any signs of disloyalty to the The Emperor or His Servants. Sabotage on the planet could destroy the whole crusade, we must be proactive to prevent it

[Greystone]

Praetorian's of Molten Blood

The Caldra of Zek, named for the action that founded the Praetorians, was a masterpiece of engineering. Based upon the Imperial Guard Leviathon Command vehicle, the Caldra was smaller and more mobile- trading space for troops for extra shielding and relative speed. It was here that General Arcturius always made his command- whether in the field or safely on a Chaos held world. These were for purely practical reasons- the General does not trust anyone.

Since the warband made landfall upon Meggido III his office had been inundated with requests, threats, and bribes to become the guest to one host or another. All had been denied, politely at first and then violently if the harassment continued. Soon enough the warband had carved out a sizable domain on the planet- ejecting or recruiting the tenets within.

The General was a man of austere good looks- an aristocratic jawline, an unmistakable twinkle of arrogance in his blue-grey eyes, and short black hair that was impeccable- not a single hair out of place. He was also lean shaven, with a finely pressed grey uniform with only his insignia as decoration- his rank and the new symbol of his unit, a broken Imperial Aquila. Currently he sat heavily in his personal quarters, looking over several data slates.

He tapped a finger in annoyance on his desk before flipping to the next slate. These were troop reports, the newest he had available, of his own unit. So many tank crews and squads reported as serving one ruinous power or the other- such a damnable bother. Khorne worshipers too often broke ranks in attacks of suicidal ferocity, those who praise Slaneesh were so wrapped up in their own pleasure to often think straight, the servants of Tzeentch were damned flighty, and the pestilence soaked Nurglites were always a threat to weaken the integrity of the warband.

A cold smirk graced his face briefly as he remembered the last time a coven of Nurgle worshipers attempted to unleash a plague to 'better' his unit. The lovely Major Besk had reported them and he had them shot. When their plague infested bodies survived the first two volley's, he had them burned instead. No, the renegade former members of his original regiment (most of whom made up his personal guard and crew of the Caldra) and those who worshipped Chaos undivided were his most useful tools.

He stood. There were vox calls to make, and a campaign to be launched.

To Chaos forces
Attention to the forces of Chaos, enemies of the False Emperor:

The Praetorian's of Molten Blood, the finest renegade armored warband in the damned galaxy has arrived. We must discuss plans of action before sitting still causes to many of our 'allies' to start looking at each other instead of outwards for blood.

The Space Hulk in system is certainly a threat and source of possible great wealth, and harm but my warband is suited for other more... ground based operations. We must decide- secure our home sector? Or strike the Imperials before they get the chance to dig in.

Awaiting your replies,

General Andul Arcturius

GM
What must a warrior do to survive the storms?

[LongVin]

Black Brigade

Transmission to Saint Krakus
I lend my official support to your investigation of the hive's loyalty to him-on-earth and eagerly await your report on the matter. If the taint of chaos is found the Brigade will be ready to act to stamp it out.

-Inquisitor Steiner

[Exthalion]

Sons of Kurnous and the Reïanar Tan-Lerunoc, a whisper in from the dark
I think it best that we avoid the ruined world were dwell those who's songs are lost. They are a wound we lack the proper tool to lance at this time.

By means of listening to the songs of the outer sky I have learned that the debris accretion known as Erephrus appears to be composed of fragments from a mon-keigh warrior order known as the Space Marines.

There was also a Commorragh made ship in orbit around the second planet. It is likely that the unknown ship is related to this in some way.

My tentative assesment is this: There is something on the Second Planet that is important to the Lost of Commorragh. I do not think any of the mon-keigh items will be of use to us, though we could perhaps attempt to destroy it to prevent the ruined ones from gaining it.

If we are interested in securing the system we should destroy the hulk. If we are interested in our own gain then we should investigate the second planet and the two ships.

[Eldan]

Reïanar Tan-Lerunoc to the Eldar Factions, the Dark Replies


Our fleet surpasses most in size. It is our suggestion that in this cycle, we will spread and survey this zone carefully, approaching the second world and the broken ship, which lie in the same direction.

[Rizhail]

The Void Stalkers

Aboard the command vessel

The command team for the Void Stalkers strode purposefully through the wide open corridors of the vessel, heading toward the command center at its heart. Despite the fact that they were aboard their own vessel and not currently in combat, each was either armed and armored or accompanied by a pair of bodyguards; surprise assaults by Eldar reavers had taught the Tau to be prepared for surprise boardings early in the unit's history. At the center of the group were three Fire caste warriors, two armoured as pathfinders and carrying pulse carbines while the last wore the full armor of a Fire warrior with a pulse rifle slung over her shoulder. An older Ethereal marked by the scars of combat strode beside them, his bodyguards only a step behind. A stocky Earth caste foreman and a tall, slender Air caste commander brought up the rear of the group, while a trio of Kroot marched at the front.

Guards at every door and junction stood straight and proud as the group passed by, though the officers were so engrossed in conversation that they never noticed. The first scout reports of the system had been delivered only a half hour before and the Tau had no intention of sitting on their laurels.

"I'm concerned about these sensor readings anti-spinward of us. Our presence is not yet well known in this sector, and it is best if we remain that way," said Kor'El Sha'is, admiral of the fleet section of the Void Stalkers. The others voiced their agreement.

"I agree wholeheartedly. Prepare a strike force, El'Sha'is, and see that any vessels in the area are either destroyed or driven off. If they can't be destroyed, they must be denied the chance to gather intelligence on us," commanded O'Sera'Yon. The Air caste commander bowed slightly and fell out of step, speaking into a communicator while the others continued their discussion.

Looking to the other Fire warrior armed as a pathfinder, he spoke again. "El'Shi, split up the scout sections. We'll need to explore the system quickly yet thoroughly. Coordinate with El'Sha'is and plan on using combined stealth ship and stealth suit teams to scout the nearest asteroid fields and planets. With what we've learned of this system, we're going to need greater resources before moving forward with our mission."

His stealth force commander nodded and fell back to converse with the admiral, leaving Shadowhunter to focus on organizing the rest of his forces. Humans, tyranids, and who knows what else. And these reports... This mission will be taxing.

GM

Should I PM anything my force would want to communicate to the various NPC Tau factions, or post them here in spoilers? Also, what sort of Tau forces are in system besides my own, assuming said forces are allies.

[GnomeGninjas]

The Shattered Mind

Lobnaeth was happy, they had exited the webway right near a juicey imperial world with a fair population and quite a few Space Marines and other champions of humanity, champions of humanity are great for experiments and it is always fun to see the Imperial's reaction to finding on of their saints wallowing in the mud like a pig and denying all loyalty to the Imperium. "Ork 54, please open comunications with our craftworld kin, and our dark-city fellows I have to tell them something." An ork who have been standing silently beside him silently obeys.

Since I can only send one message out of system I'm not sure if I can send it to multiple people, if it can't be to multiple people than this message is just to Dark Eldar and Eldan. If I can send to multiple people then the other Eldar can read as well.
"Hello brothers, despite our differences I believe that we can work together, some of us may be craftworlds dwellers who worship dead gods and do things that betray the very meaning of the word Eldar but we are all still Eldar none the less and there for we will triumph becuase we are better than anybody else. I would be willing to help you capture slaves or find pricelss treasures or obey silly things your seers tell you or what ever if you guys also help me. Don't destroy my ships and help me with my battle as well, if you guys want me to signifigently put my neck out for you then I would because you are my kin and I'm sure you would be eager to ship me a few of your citizens in return as well as help me out in a similer situation. If you have any concerns contact me I hope that this agreement will work out favorably to all parties." The transmission ends.


Game Master
I am going to move my fleet to Hyperion I and III 1/4th of my fleet going to each of those worlds, then dispatch ground troops to the Space Port of Hyperion I and to the abandoned mine on Hyperion III. I am going to try to keep the ships as safe as possible but unfortunatly that means that the ground troops will have to disembark prematurely and less carfuly so the ships can stay out of reach of the planitary defenses as much as possible.

[Eldan]

Reïanar Tan-Lerunoc

The transmission is faint, flickering, as if relayed by a weak psyker.
"No seers. No gods. In the void, there is only the hunt."

[League]

Mad Mek Madnutz

The ground seemed to rumble from the noise coming from work sheds Mad Mek Madnutz had set up when he arrived from warp a week ago. The pounding of hammers, the roar of machinery, the explosions never seemed to stop. Already there was grey smog in the air and the nearby river had turned to a shade of brown as the sheds polluted at a very impressive rate. There were now plenty of weapons and devices to entice the native orks into joining Madnutz.

Quite down ya idiots im trying to er what da other bossz av to say.

To Ork factions
Madnutz ere, I agree wit ya, best work together. All with looting but best keep some boyz ere in case some gits come by,

[puppyavenger]

To Inquisitor Steiner, Hyperion Home Guaed

Wonderful, we shall begin by purging the enforcer corps of those who are unreliable or less then totally devout in their duties, in order to ensure that no attempted coup or mutiny could get off the ground

To Hyperion Battle Fleet
The Saint will be journeying to relieve the pilgrims currently besieged in the inner system, and would request an escort in force in case there ate more of the green scrum nearby

[LCP]

High above the dull, angry orb of Daemon's Reach, a ripple passed through the shifting fields of dust and debris that circled the planet. There was a long moment of stillnesss.

Appearing slowly at first, a worm of bruised light appeared against the void. It lengthened and spread, sparks of red and purple whipping out from its jagged edges like cracks in glass. The debris field puckered and distorted, the rift sucking in streamers of glittering dust as it grew, hundreds of kilometres long.

In one livid flare of light, a great arrowhead prow surged through the widening rift. Banks of macrocannons followed it, dragging behind them a towering bridge and a fat cluster of blazing engines. The ship shook as it drove back into realspace like a dagger, strings of warp-stuff clinging to every nook and crevice in its ancient architecture.

As the jaws of the rift closed behind it, the Harbinger of Despair killed its engines, gliding away from the collapsing tear in space-time on its momentum alone. Micro-asteroids broke and scattered against the heavy cruiser's void shields, streaming around it in a lozenge of sliding rock dust. Along the lines of its pitted hull, sickly lights winked into life, heavy shutters pulling back in constellations of yellow and green.

On the bridge, seven towering figures gazed out at the dark planet far below. Six of them looked round to the seventh. The seventh held silence.

To the Forces of Chaos

Arcturius. Death Guard cruiser Harbinger acknowledges your communication.

We bring the Long War to the servants of the corpse god. All other objectives secondary.

M.

GMs
Can I get as much information as is available on the planets of the Megiddo system, please?

[Falgorn]

The Dark Claws of Xalxes
Aboard his flagship, The Frenzied Vanguard, a Dauntless Light Cruiser of, obviously, Imperial origin, Xalxes grew bored. He had been appointed to lead the Vanguard after his daring actions in securing the vessel. He remembered the battle fondly; while it certainly wasn't as swashbuckler-esque as Blackheart's taking of the Wolf of Fenris, Xalxes certainly enjoyed the bloodshed and carnage rendered upon the Imperial troops. Piracy wasn't about profit to Xalxes, it was about joy.
But he took no joy in sitting aboard an idle ship. The pleasures of warfare were eluding him now, and knowing that enemy forces were alive and active relatively nearby only taunted him further. These things were of no matter at the moment, though; Xalxes had to coordinate with those who pledge allegiance to the Ruinous Powers.
To Chaos Forces:
Forces of the Dark Gods, hear my words: I am Xalxes of the Red Corsairs, commander of the Frenzied Vanguard, and warlord of my "Dark Claws." In the coming days, we shall destroy any and all who oppose the will of the Ruinous Powers.

General, I have thoughts on the matters presented. You say you are suited for ground based operations - my forces are opposite. We fight amongst the stars. If we were to pool our collective powers, we could cause havoc in the region.

I suggest we strike the Imperials quickly, and without remorse. They will, no doubt, be one of the largest threats in the area; if they can be dispatched quickly, we will have much more room to maneuver. The hulks can be plundered later, as well, after some foolhardy explorers are killed by whatever horrors lurk in them. Those are my thoughts on the matter.

-Warlord Xalxes, of the Dark Claws.

[dhenn]

The Shattered Mind

The Kabal of the Amethyst Flame has survived for five centuries with no need for your assistance. That has scarcely changed.

That said, these crossroads are ripe with targets, so there should be no reason we cannot pursue our own paths independently. If you abide by two key principles we shall have no reason to quarrel.

Most importantly, the mon-keigh and the rest must not discover the location of the webway gates. If we cannot move about freely the pleasure of this excursion is greatly diminished.

Secondly, you shall not harm or hinder our forces. We shall afford you the same luxury, as long as we have no cause to regret that decision.

We are confident you shall find these principles agreeable, and abide by them.

[Umbranar]

Da Mek Geneeuzuz

To Madnutz
I thought ya own gunz might hav blown yer 'ead off a while ago.
Da boyz in da starwachtas notices da big ship enterin Tarsus system. It lookz like it be broken but haz great deal o metal. Wanna split da profit? Me boyz tink da yer gunz on our tankz and Gargants would giv da best boom.

[Imperial Psycho]

96th Ornesian Rifles

Colonel Sebastian Dorn stood alone,. watching the Hyperion Hive. He wore the faded white and grey battle armour of a Guardsman in the 96th. He had always hated Hive Worlds. Impossible to defend, unruly, and as likely to spit out gangs as Guardsmen.

Still, it was his first field deployment, and he felt a mixture of excitement and trepidation. There was a heavy Guard presence on Hyperion, and not all of them saw eye-to-eye. But as long as we all serve the Emperor, what does it matter?

To Imperial factions
I agree with these prioritys. However, I do not think the full might of the Emperor will be needed to deal with these Ork Pirates. With permission, I would send my men to secure the mine.

[Sheep Overlord]

Hyperion Battlefleet

Admiral Acclay thumped the flickering pictcaster, bringing it back into focus with a hiss of static, before ordering his assistant to bring the communications reports. The officer on-screen relayed preliminary scanning information about the immediate area, and was dismissed before the communications reached the admiral's hands.

He sifted through the files on the dataslate; most were routine communications and promptly archived. A few, however, required his personal review and response. Flagging those, he perused them more thoroughly and typed a quick response. Handing the dataslate back to his assistant, he opened another channel on the pictcaster and began to issue orders. Momentarily, the fleet began to move.

Re: Saint:

Request granted. The bulk of our navy shall escort you and provide logistical support in the effort to relieve the pilgrims.


Re: Black Brigade:

Request granted. An escort force will be provided. Be advised that the majority of the battlefleet is moving to escort and engage pirates on Hyperion I, so a full force cannot be provided. In the event of major naval confrontation, your escort is to run screening tactics and reconnaisance before retreating. Your transports are advised to do the same.


Imperial Factions:

Battlefleet Hyperion moving to Hyperion I to provide logistical support and anti-piracy measures; communications and auspex hub to be established there. Elements moving to Hyperion II. Recommend against moving to Hyperion III-VI until I and II have been secured to avoid overextension. Request that first contact with xenos in system be reported immediately for purging with extreme force to ensure good morale among local civilians, which should prevent them from hindering the war effort with riots or protests. We cannot afford to divert military resources to handle such heretical insurgency at this time.

[The Zoat]

The Tyranids: HFKronos Splinter alpha

Broodlord M was displeased. HIGHLY displeased. How hard can it be to control tyranids? They barely have free will! This one was different. This one was ANNOYING. This one was- "Rwuff!" "Okay fine, you will get your 'biscuits'", M replied to the drooling Hive Tyrant, "Now leave me alone!"

He hated that thing. "M, your annual training report is here." said the Tyranid Prime as he entered the chambers. "Hurry up and give it to me. I'm not feeling particularly patient, so you know." "Okay," replied Prime, handing over the clipboard-like 'nid.

"So how are our negotiations with the nearby Tau going, Prime?" "The zoats still haven't arrived yet, M. Have some patience at least." "Very well, Prime. If they succeed we will have allies. If they fail or die, we have reserves and not to mention lunch." Prime began leaving but froze as M left him with parting words.

"Don't give me any losers, Prime. I won't forgive you if you do."

[razovor]

The Klantaek Dynasty

To the Orks
Message Designation: Alliance Proposal

Terms of Alliance:

Orc forces granted sovereignty over two of the following planets; Tarsus I, Tarsus II or Tarsus V.
Remaining two planets granted to the Necrons.
Ork and Necron forces granted permission to move freely around this sector. Must remain more than two galactic hectares away from each others planets.
Ork and Necron forces will not deliberately attack others territories or forces.
Other items of interest in the sector to be divided based on nearest planet, or future agreement.
Permission retained to exchange planets later on if both parties consider it mutually beneficial.
Necrons to inform Orks of items of Ork interest found during explorations. Orks to inform Necrons of items of Necron interest found during explorations. So that an mutually beneficial trade can be arranged.


Reasoning:

Necron forces to small to be considered threat at this time.
Both factions benefit from cessation of hostilities, both in casualties prevented due to lack of fighting, and ability to reduce garrison on worlds due to lower threat.
Both factions benefit from trade of Ork and Necron items of interest.
Potential for stronger alliance in the future. Joint military action. Destruction of mutual threats.

[Greystone]

Praetorian's of Molten Blood

The camp around the Caldra suddenly exploded into swift and purposeful movement. Transmissions from the General's Command Center reached platoon and squad commanders roused their subordinates from their slumber or frivolity. Uniforms were donned, and motors roared to life as the Dark Mechanicus and Combat Engineers began their inspection. Prowling like monstrous black scions through the ranks of tanks and stiffly at attention renegades. Without passion the Mechanicus pronounced their judgement- from an untuned engine to a dangerously dirty command panel.

After barking at his crew with the depths of his personal Landraider, The Hound of Endless Vengeance, Captain Vess stood up through the top hatch to view his command. Powerful, as any astartes, with a bald head and full golden beard he once was a loyal Imperial Fists marine fighting the Emperor's enemies. All that changed when he fought with a large combined fighting force- marines from the Imperial Fists, Ultramarines, and Salamanders against a massive demon incursion. With the bravery and discipline of a Space Marine they held the line as comrades got cut down one by one. Finally an Inquisitorial strike force, with a full compliment of Grey Knights. The demons were banished and the Imperium planet was saved. Unfortunately the Inquisitors decided that the taint chance among the surviving marines were to strong... and had them purged.

Vess saw a Salamander who saved his life beheaded by a force pike, and his battle brother's chest exploded from a trio of storm bolter shells. He fought, and escaped with a small band of other survivors- swearing vengeance on the Inquisitor who slew his comrades. The Inquisitors gave a warrant for their death, and even their home chapters turned them away.

"Stuck in the past again?" the voice was light, almost child-like in its inflection causing the Space Marine to turn. Sitting on the edge of his tank sat Major Janya Besk- the witch and infiltration specialist of the division. Her long red hair pulled back in a shiny ponytail, and her well filled grey uniform decorated with the blue of her god of Change. Vess's mouth curls downwards as he takes he in "Stay out of my mind Witch"

She laughed, sliding down the tank tracks before jumping off "I don't need to read your mind Vess- its clear on your face" her tone turns more mature, more dangerous as her full lips pull into a smirk "Though I did anyway. Be focused Ventral, can't have you distracted now"

By the time he had pulled his bolter from his side holster she had scampered off, her laugh still ringing in his ears. "One day" he growls "One day".

Chaos Forces
Warlord Xalxes we accept your offer. We should make way shortly. Gentlemen, what should be our first target? The Hives of Hyperion? A more unprotected planet in the sector? My men will be ready to bring the full might of our armored fist upon them.

General Arcturius

[League]

Mad Mek Madnutz

Da Mek Geneeuzuz
Me ‘ead might ave been knocked off once or twice, me best gunz were thought up after though. I think ya be having da same idea as me, better bring some boyz an Kroozerz case there be some fighting ta be had.

To Ork factions
Me think them nercon be scared of a good fight. Owever, der be better ‘eadz ta smash and better plundering ta do en the scrap fields. Madbutz sayz we should agree, fer now.
We orks should best grab a planet or two in anotha sector before their all gobbled up. Fer tha plantes ere, I think me boyz be best fer Tarsus I.

[Forum Explorer]

Sons of Kurnous to all Eldar factions
Our priority must always be the protection of the Eldar race, as always. To this end we must begin to secure this system. Our fleet will move towards the hulk in order to destroy it and prevent it from luring or drawing unwanted attention.

[Rafinius]

"Uuh...What? Necron are dem bony slow oomies dat glow 'n' stuff, right?"
"I tink dei be more studs or tinboyz or sumthin'."
"You be da Mekboy. You know best. Know what dei be jabbin' about?"
"Lemme see Boss. Dei giv two planuts as gift to da orks, including Boss Kharzzag's planut. Den dei say of dem not 'urtin' us if we not 'urtin' dem and instead we'd be talkin' allot 'bout all da gubbins we find 'n' stuff."
"Ooh, da fun part is da end part! Dei say dei doing dat cause dei be weak and don't wanna fight, but dat dei want to rippof and give sluggas and gubbins and dakkas I guess. And maybe stomp dem oomies togetha later."
"So dei be 'fraid of us."
"Uuh... Didn't say dat anywhere..."
"Of course it does. Ya jus' dunno how to read between da lines, ya naffkop!"
"Ow, boss... What you mean, "between" da lines?"
"Jus gimme da trasmittah."

Boss Gronark - Tarsus broadcast:
"To da ...Necron friens. Thank you for da planets, we didn't know dei were yours. We be very flattered by you friendliness, but we will havva talk with da otha boyz 'bout all dat stuff. You'll hear back frum us."

....

Ey Bossboyz. Ya all lug dat wurr ting? I say you come to me shag where me krooza fell unda slag 'ere 'n' we gobabout all dat so naa uda git can lug in.

Translation (only orks would understand it in detail so don't read if you aren't one :smalltongue:).
Hey fellow Ork leaders. Did you all hear that strange message? Why don't you come to my place on moon A and we discuss our actions in private, with no enemies listening in.

[GnomeGninjas]

Kabal of the Amethyst Flame
Agreed, I shall not interfear with you. I am sorry that you cannotaccept my deal however.

[HerbieRAI]

Hargazes pirates came from the warp near Tarsus III.

Aight boyz, listen up. Da umies have been bringin lootz to dis area. We'z gonna bash 'em and take it for us!

Boss, dar be a lot of talkin on da tranmittah.

So some uder bosses doin da same ting we is. Lets see if we can get a propa WAAGH goin.

To Da Ork Factions.

I dun like dem necron umies, but I dun tink we'z needz to attack dem. Me and my boyz is gonna start smashin Tarsus II. Youz can join in da smashin.

[LCP]

To All Chaos Forces

Plans made without knowledge of our enemy mean little. Reconnaissance necessary.

Request surface audience. Lander descending with representative aboard.

OOC: I have some suggestions which I think it would be best if our characters discussed face-to-face. They're also super-secret, so if you guys will consent to the meeting I'll open the proceedings by PM.

Also, not meaning to be a grammar pedant or anything, but for Greystone: “Praetorians” shouldn't take an apostrophe. Awesome name, though :smallbiggrin:.

[Sithis]

Raptors

Just outside visual range of Hyperion IV, the battlefleet of the Raptors 4th Company silently cuts through space. In the center of the formation is the Raptor's Strike Cruiser, the Dawn of Battle. It was in the Strike Cruiser's war room that Captain Serro and his Sergeants discussed the coming campaign.

"We've been monitoring communications ever since we entered the system. It seems that there are at least three regiments of the Imperial Guard, an Imperial Navy battlefleet, a some kind of...Ecclesiarchy...crusade, and at least one Rogue Trader. All these groups are in system to investigate the secure the Cauldron. Presumably." Veteran Sergeant Turak looked up from his data slate. "Trying to make any kind of organization out of this mess is going to be problematic, especially with no clear hierarchy."

Captain Serro sighs. "Regardless, they are what the Emperor has given us to work with. Though I wonder about this...crusade. And isn't there an inquisitor "advising" one of the Imperial Guard regiments?"

"So they say."

"Even better."

Imperial Factions

While securing the safety of imperial citizens and destroying orcs are both worthy goals, we must remember that securing the Cauldron and denying it to the Heretics and Xenos is our primary goal. Perhaps it would be wise for at least one of our forces to attempt to get an early beachhead in the warp storm. Should no others wish to do so, then of course my Company will be willing to make this attempt.


GM

This may have been addressed, but do we have any idea that the Dark Eldar are actually in the system with us? Or do we just have to wait until they attack someone to discover it?

[Greystone]

Praetorians of Molten Blood

Chaos Forces
My personal vehicle, the Caldra of Zek, is available for such a meeting. If this is unacceptable then merely send coordinates and I shall send a trusted representative.

General Arcturius

OOC
Ah gotcha. Feel free to start whenever you wish.

[Falgorn]

Dark Claws of Xalxes
To All Chaos Forces
That is fair; we will send a representative.
OOC:
Yeah, it's fine with me, too.

[puppyavenger]

Imperial Factions If the Angels of Death wish to venture into the pits of hell, who am I to deny them? However, the Hives of Hyperion are the linchpin of all the Righteous Efforts to save this subsector, and if it falls then the Cauldron falling to Xenos or the Enemy is impossible to avert. Therefor you must forgive me if I believe that we must secure our own house before we venture into the wild

Battlefleet Hyperion It is good that we can trust our journeys across the Void to such virtuous men, I shall leave with much of my most elite forces then

[Umbranar]

Da Mek Geneeuzuz

Ork Factions
Two planets? Let em take one 'n den we see wot dey plan to do. I dun trust dese walkin dead guyz. Will fire up a Krooza 'n come yer way Gronark.

[The Zoat]

The Stuff The Zoats are sending over:

To the Tau:
Dear Tau leader, I am broodlord M, and I have a proposition to make.
This proposition is a treaty, and I, for one, hope you will accept it.

THE DIVISION OF TAS'HEL

rule 1: We each get half of each planet, including or including our home worlds is a matter of choice.

rule 2: We share knowledge of relics that may be used for our mutual benefit.

rule 3: No segregation, ever.

WHAT WE CAN AND CANNOT DO

rule 1: Complete peace between factions.

That's pretty much it. I hope this letter finds you in good health. BTW, we WILL eat you if you do not agree to at least a ceasefire.

[razovor]

The Klantaek Dynasty

To The Nekrataal Dynasty
Communication established. Chance of interception: 0%

Designation: Klantaek Dynasty, Third Fleet, Ninth Regiment

Status: All units reactivated;
Infantry, light vehicles and heavy vehicles totalling 24 battle groups.
Attack craft and battleships totalling 27 battle groups.
No scouts.

Requesting status of your forces.

Proposed plan of action;
50% of infantry and navy left behind to defend planet
50% of infantry and navy proceed to Tarsus IV, secure planet immediately.
All data processors dedicated to determining the location of other tomb worlds in the sub-sector

[Rafinius]

Boss Gronark to da Necrons:
Uuh... Me again. Boss Gronark. Why we no get to choose da Tarsus IV or VI planets? 'spesiully da IV is to me likin'. So how about I get planet IV, huh?

[Imperial Psycho]

96th Ornesian Rifles

Dorn watched as the vehicles of the 96th were loaded up for transport. Leman-Russ after Leman-Russ filed into place, ready to deploy onto a hostile world. At his side stood Commissar Richmond, one of the survivors of bloodsoaked origins of the Rifles, and one of few Commissars who stood with Dorn, and a close personal friend. Eyebrows had been raised at the fortuitous survival of officers close to Dorn, but no man could say Richmond shrank from battle. Indeed, the man volunteered for the frontlines, and reveled in war. Now he scratched at a scar and seemed mesmerised by the constant stream of men and munitions. "Where are we going now Sir? Seems like just yesterday we arrived on the Hive."

Dorn glanced back, then returned to his duties. "The Cauldron. Or somewhere in Hyperion. Either way, we'll need to be ready for transport. Have you seen Damaris?"

Richmond grinned. "Tall man, long coat, in the Navy, sir? Not since yesterday."

Dorn scowled. "Well find him. And get me Tobias too. We will discuss matters on-board ship."


To Imperial Factions
I concur with the Raptors. We must not become over-invested in the Hyperion system. The Cauldron is the prize the Emperor has tasked us with capturing, and we must not forget it.

I would volunteer my men on this expedition. We will not need every piece of the vast force the Emperor has given us here to simply secure this system.

[razovor]

The Klantaek Dynasty

To Boss Gronark
False proposal identified as attempt to intimidate Necron forces. Attempt Failed. Necrons do not feel fear.

Ork bosses would not benefit from possession of Tarsus IV or Tarsus VI. Nothing of known worth to Orks on either planets. Planets to far from home world to properly defend with current forces. Over-extension of forces puts Orks at dangerous risk of alien attack.

Damaging negotiations with Necrons is not a good move. Alliance of great benefit to both races.

[ArcaneStomper]

To the Spindleshanks Crusade and Inquisitor Steiner
Choose your words carefully when you threaten my world with a purge. The citizens of Hyperion are loyal to the God Emperor and such a thing would at best cause disruptions in the work schedules they must adhere to as the sector prepares for crusade. At worst it may cause the very rebellions and dissent you seek to stamp out.

By all means though, do not take my word for it. After all if my people are suspect then so am I. Seek out Inquisitor Lord Hamial. He is already conducting his own investigation into possible traces of corruption. I am sure if he has found anything, then he would welcome your aid in stamping it out.

You did not after all think you were the first to worry of such things.

- Lord Torreon Longhorn, Planetary Governor

To the Void Stalkers
NPCs are in the second post in the OOC thread. More information on them would require lore checks or just plain old talking to them. They are however loyal to the Tau Empire and allies of yours. At least in theory. In practice the Fire Skulls are a fairly independent bunch, and the Fio'Tak has duties to protect the colony and so cannot stray far from it.

To the Raptors
There may be rumors of pirates, but that's put down to the occasional Ork marauder. If they start making large moves however their presence will be fairly obvious.



General System Information: Rigellus Subsector

Hyperion System
Hyperion I - An Agricultural World, that has been supplying Hyperion IV and nearby systems with its products. About 90% of the plants on the planet are edible in one form or another. The population is loyal to the Imperium and the world is mostly ignored, as long as food shipments are delivered.

Hyperion II - Hyperion II is a Shrine World, the resting place of the Saint Timur. A steady stream of pilgrims visits the planet. It's a pleasant and beautiful world, protected by Battle sisters of Abbey Rosenheart.It's a center of trade in luxuries and knowledge, frequented by the wealth nobility of the sector.

Hyperion III - An inhospitable world, with mildly toxic atmosphere and treacherous, ragged terrain. It originally served as a penal colony, intimidating the population of Hyperion IV as the threat of being sent to Hyperion III kept order better then a force of arbites.

Hyperion IV - The largest and most populous Hive World in this sector. It is fairly standard for such a world, covered in vast teeming hives where billions toil for the Glory of the Emperor. It was the Planetary Governor of this world who first alerted the rest of the Imperium about the value of the Cauldron.

Hyperion V - In anticipation of a succesful campaign and an influx of a vast amount of new materials and salvaged ships to repair the Mechanicus has sent in a force to prepare. There was already a major refueling station here, but now the foundations for several large shipyards have been laid by busy Mechanicus servitors.

Meggido System
Meggido I - A wilderness planet with mountains and volcanoes, but some beautiful valleys as well. A rich and deadly flora and fauna much of which has been mutated by the warp wait to test any who come here.

Meggido II - Primitive settlements dot the surface of this planet. Feudal humans are the norm, with the majority of the kingdoms ruled by minor psykers who have proclaimed themselves to be god-kings.

Meggido III - A planet ravaged by the warp. Warp portals dot its surface. Dark Mechanicus forges busilly churn out replacement wargear, even as slaves toil in the ruined mountains to harvest the bones of the Earth. Across its surface the various chaos cults strive to please their gods. The worshippers of Khorne makes the plains run red with blood as they fight each other in svage combat. The towers of Tzeench worshipping sorcerers crackle with Eldritch might. Slanesh cults turn entire mountains in debauched pleasure warrens, and the detid swamps of Nurgle cover what little remains.

Meggido IV - A small dead world surrounded by asteroids. A few crackles of energy occasionaly cross the moons, but since that happens a lot in warp wracked systems like this no one takes much notice of it.

Space Hulk Erephrus - A somewhat stable space hulk that drifted out of the warp a few decades ago. The occasional determined band of scavengers fights through its stowaways to claim long lost valuables, but for the most part it remains unexplored.

The Tarsus System
Tarsus I - A lonely dead world close to its star. Most of the atmosphere has long ago been stripped away leaving only the thinnest remainder to shield the ruins of a long dead race from the fierce sunlight.

Tarsus II - A lush world settled by Orks. Or at least it was lush. Now the constant fighting has torn up much of the landscape, and the rest is in the process of succumbing to the unique Ork ecosystem.

Tarsus III - A huge gas giant surrounded by a swarm of moons. It is clear that most of the moons are habitable, and in fact inhabited already by huge hordes of feral Orks.

Tarsus IV - Where Tarsus II was lush Tarsus III is just overgrown. Swamps and jungles cover the surface, and the occasional rusty tower poking above the treetops bear testament to previous failed attempts to wrest the world away from nature.

Tarsus V - This medium sized gas giant is surrounded by rings of debris. Most are natural, but a few appear to be composed of metal. Something born out by the presence of several large alien structures that have clearly been abandoned for millenia.

Tarsus VI - A long dead world. The ruins of ancient pyramid like structure occasionally poke above the ground. Some of these appear to have activated and are pulsing with a sickly green energy.

The Tas'Hel System
Tas'Hel I - Once an Imperial Hive world. Some Hive cities remain, but cut off from the rest of the Empire they much reduced. Many abandonded hives have settled into swamps, in which a significant amount of lifeforms can be detected.

Tas'Hel II - A massive world more ocean than land. A few islands stick up here and there, but the rest of the world is covered by endless water.

Tas'Hel III - A death world. Or what was formerly a death world. The once overgrown jungles are being devoured by Tyranid, and the reclamation pools are already visible from orbit.

Tas'Hel IV - Many strutures orbit this gas giant. Clearly they are of Imperium make. Just as clearly they have been long abandoned.

Tas'Hel V - A small world which is fertile despite being so far from it's star. The Tau have planted a small colony here.

Tas'Hel VI - Many of the moons of this gas giant have atmospheres and support modest amounts of life, but no species appears to have colonized them.

[hydroplatypus]

1st Hyperion Regiment

To Imperial Factions

With the 96th Ornesian Rifles going to the cauldron We will divert forces to Hyperion 3 to secure the mine after dealing with Hyperion 1. After that we will review the situation and decide what we are going to do.

[Killerloop]

The Nekrataal Dynasty

To The Klantaek Dynasty only

Communication established. Chance of interception: 0%

Designation: Nekrataal Dynasty, Royal First Fleet, First Regiment
Communications authored by Phaeron Kaervek of the Nekrataal dynasty

Status: Reactivation underway, process at 20%

Infantry and light vehicles totalling 6 battle groups. No Heavy vehicles
Attack craft totalling 6 battle groups. No battleships.
Wraiths and other scout units totalling 18 battle groups

All data processors currently parsing beacon data for proper war theatre evaluation.

Cannot execute proposed plan
--> Not enough reactivated units
--> War theatre not compiled yet
--> Scout network not deployed yet

Dispatching scout teams to Tarsus IV and other planets in the subsector, information discovered will be relayed to your highest ranking Lord.

Detected broadcast from primitive race containing words: "Necron", "Tarsus", "Get"... requesting clarification.

[razovor]

The Klantaek Dynasty

To the Nekrataal Dynasty
Proposed plan to take place this period. Time allowed for reactivation. Requesting time estimation on reactivation process.

Negotiating terms of cease-fire with primitive species; Designation Orks. Larger threats present in Subsector. Trick Orks into wasting forces against larger threats. Betray Orks when situation more tenable.

Warning! Ork forces may possess significant Scout assets. Orks may be scouting all planets in system. Larger scouting forces may be safer.

[Rafinius]

Boss Gronark to Necrons (Orks may listen in):
Naa. You gettin' me wrong. I didn' wanna 'ntimidate you. I jus' was curious 'bout why you not givin' us dose two planuts. You see, I dun' really like Tarsus I, V 'n' VI. Dere be nothin' to eat dere. An' Tarsus II already has a Boss... How about you give us Tarsus IV and anotha one sum otha Boss wants an' let us care 'bout dat over-'stension stuff, eh? Then we have a deal 'n' great benafit for us races, as you say. Good, no?

[razovor]

The Klantaek Dynasty

To Boss Gronark
Necron forces have no desire to see Ork forces weakened at this critical stage. Will not however prevent you from picking planets of no clear value.

Proposal:
Ork forces control Tarsus II, Tarsus III, and Tarsus IV
Necron forces control Tarsus I, Tarsus V, and Tarsus VI

[LongVin]

To the Spindleshanks Crusade and Inquisitor Steiner
Choose your words carefully when you threaten my world with a purge. The citizens of Hyperion are loyal to the God Emperor and such a thing would at best cause disruptions in the work schedules they must adhere to as the sector prepares for crusade. At worst it may cause the very rebellions and dissent you seek to stamp out.

By all means though, do not take my word for it. After all if my people are suspect then so am I. Seek out Inquisitor Lord Hamial. He is already conducting his own investigation into possible traces of corruption. I am sure if he has found anything, then he would welcome your aid in stamping it out.

You did not after all think you were the first to worry of such things.

- Lord Torreon Longhorn, Planetary Governor


Message to Governor & Inquisitor Hamial
By all means I will inquire with Inquisitor Hamial for his report.

Message to Hamial:

Brother Inquisitor I humbly request your report on the status of Hyperion IV and any findings you made on the planet in your recent visit. We are operating sensitive operations out of the system and need to assure the intregity of Imperial loyalty.

-InquisitorSteiner

[puppyavenger]

To the Governor Respectfully, it is the duty of the Eclesiarchy to maintain doctrinal unity within the domains of Him-on-Earth, and, as the most empowered representative of the church and avatar of His will, I would be remiss in my responsibilities if I did not undertake a survey of my own. I hope you understand?

[Killerloop]

The Nekrataal Dynasty - Tarsus System

To The Klantaek Dynasty only


Communication established. Chance of interception: 0%
Designation: Nekrataal Dynasty, Royal First Fleet, First Regiment
Communications authored by Phaeron Kaervek of the Nekrataal dynasty

Reactivation systems green, power feed now stable...
ETA to reactivation: Medium size force in 1 tick, Large size force in 2 ticks.

New race identified: ORKS... retrieving information, upgrading war theatre and simulator. Done.
New race identified: HUMAN... retrieving information, upgrading war theatre and simulator. Done.

Warning received, Nekrataal scouts will fly using Evasive Protocols and will not engage Orks.

System scan complete, uploading results to your highest ranking Lord:
1) Unidentified ship appeared from Warp. SW of Tarsus V. No energy emissions and no shields detected. -- Priority: Gamma

2) Tarsus I: Dead World, valuable energy device not in our database, surface ruins could be of Necron origin. Attempted awakening and assert authority protocols failed -- Priority: Alpha

3) Tarsus V: Gas giant, flying debris could be Necron. Attempted awakening and assert authority protocols failed. -- Priority: Beta
WARNING: Human fleet detected, designation: Rogue Trader, size unknown

4) Tarsus II,III, IV: Huge number of Orks, several designated groups detected, they are apparently challenging each other moving on light vehicles.
Priority: None, Threat Level: HIGH.

Request clarification on your interests on Tarsus IV. We propose Tarsus I first.

[razovor]

The Klantaek Dynasty - Tarsus System

To the Nekrataal Dynasty
Communication established. Chance of interception: 0%
Designation: Klantaek Dynasty, Sixth Fleet, Ninth Regiment
Communications authorised by Overlord Sylane of the Klantaek dynasty

Results received. Proposal accepted. New actions;
1) Twenty-four battle-groups proceeding towards Tarsus I
2) Twenty-four battle-groups proceeding towards Tarsus V

Proposal:
1) Send Nekrataal scouting forces ahead, to survey Tarsus I and Tarsus V before arrival of battle-groups.
2) Send Nekrataal scouting forces to investigate unidentified ship

Estimation:
Nekrataal forces possess 22 processing units. Correct?

Side-note:
Only 15 battle-groups remaining to defend Tombworld. Do not expect attack for at least two periods. Klantaek dynasty will ensure new reinforcements are battle-groups. Propose Nekrataal dynasty call in more scouting forces.


(OOC: ArcaneStomper said our forces could start up to one-square away from our tomb world. If you start one square to the west, your scouts will be able to reach Tarsus V this turn.))

[Killerloop]

The Nekrataal Dynasty - Tarsus System

To The Klantaek Dynasty only


All communications will be now directed to Overlord Sylane
Course of action agreed and confirmed
Estimation correct

Rerouting communication power to reactivation systems. Emergency beacon operative in case of dire needs.

Transmission ends.


Kaervek disconnected the communication interface and stopped the Chronometron. No need to overload his circuits to handle communication, battlefield evaluation, protocols compilation ecc. ecc.

Even a Phaeron has its limits! If only one of the other Lords had answered the call...

But there was none. No Lord was answering the Awakening protocols, he had to lead alone the entire Nekrataal host.

Suddenly, the ground bursted with living lightining. a tall Necron wielding the holy staff of light emerged from the very earth and knelt before him.

A Cryptek.

"Not a Lord, but of great help indeed" said Kaervek with his metallic voice, the first words to enter the chambers in sixty million years.

[razovor]

The Klantaek Dynasty - Tarsus System

To the Tyrannids:
You are one of the smaller powers in this sub-sector. It is to our benefit that you grow stronger, and destroy the larger powers.

Tarsus IV is an overgrown jungle world. Your kind would benefit greatly from devouring the abundance of life that dwells there.

That is all.

[Rizhail]

The Void Stalkers

O'Sera'Yon was settling into his command chair to check for updates on the scout units' readiness when his communicator beeped.

"Shas'O, our communications section just recieved a...rather strange transmission. You will want to see it."

Strange... "Patch it through."


-------------

An hour later, O'Sera'Yon was still sitting in his chair, deep in thought. The message purpotedly sent by a Tyranid force had caused quite a bit of chaos amongst the command staff, who were unsure how to respond. The kroot Shaper had been adamant that the abominations be wiped out; unsuprising, since the kroot referred to the Tyranids as 'inedible', something of an extreme curse/insult in their culture. The Fire caste leadership was split between favoring outright assault and simply containing the Tyranids while assassinating the synapse beasts that controlled the swarm. Only the Air caste favored a less hostile approach, preferring to build up forces while studying the enemy. Afterall, no Tau had heard of a broodlord sending messages before, and El'Sha'is had made the case that caution was warranted.

Coming to a decision, the commander pressed a button on his command chair.

"Communications: ready a courier drone to relay my response to this 'Broodlord M'. After it is sent, open a channel to the admiral of the Fio'Tak and the head shaper of the Fire Skulls."


------

To the Tyranids:

"To the Broodlord known as M,

Your treaty proposition must be denied at this time. Worlds that include Tau populations or interests must fall solely under the auspices of our people according to the requirements of Tau'va. However, the offer of a cease fire is acceptable under the sole condition that you do not in any way threaten the colony of Tas'hel V, nor any of our scout forces throughout the system. This includes sending any forces whatsoever within a day's space flight of the colony. In return, we will not intrude upon your current homeworld of Tas'hel III, nor will we approach within one day's space flight of the planet.

Should you find this deal unacceptable, or should you agree and then break it, the full force of the Tau in this system will be brought down upon you.

-Shas'O'Ki'Ishan'Sera'Yon"

((OOC: When I say '1 day's flight', I mean 5 hexes, or what a non-scout navy can move in one turn. If that time frame isn't quite right, then assume that the commander actually said whatever would work out as 'don't come within 5 hexes of our homeworld'))




To the Tau forces aboard the Fio'Tak and the Fire Skulls kindred (aka the NPCs):


((OOC: I'm assuming that I can send a second communication this turn due to the fact that all three Tau factions are on/orbiting the same world. If that is not the case, please disregard.))

"Admiral, Shaper, I will be brief:

The Tyranids are in system, they are aware of our presence, and they possess a leader-beast capable of sentient thought and the ability to communicate with us.

They have offered a peace treaty that is not agreeable, but have stated an interest in peace. As the Y'he are not trustworthy and, as my own shaper advisor has told me, are inedible to the kroot, I suggest the following course of action.

For the Tau forces: begin preparation for anti-Tyranid warfare. Distribute copies of the strategies and briefings of previous missions against the Tyranids to the Fire and Air castes, especially information regarding Shas'O'Shaserra's victories against the splinter fleets at the time of the Third Sphere Expansion. Crisis suits should be configured for fighting hive beasts, with a heavy focus on burst cannons, flamers, and missile pods. Ensure that any Fire warriors under your command are prepared for the horrors of fighting the hivemind.

For the Kroot: prepare your kin for a fight with Tyranid forces. Take stock of your kindreds' armaments and put in requests for better arms should you need them. We will be putting the manufacturing facilities of our command vessel into overdrive to prepare for the invasion we will no doubt have to repel once the Tyranids feel they can attack us.

Plan to assault the Tyranids once they begin attacking the world of Tas'hel I. While they are occupied with attempting to devour the life of that world, we will attempt to cut off their forces and burn them to ash. Should this attack not have the desired effect, we must be prepared to handle any assaults that will come our way.

Tau'va!"

[Forum Explorer]

Sons of Kurnous

To Fire Skulls
Greetings noble hunters,

Your mercenary work is well known across the galaxy and we wish to hire you. You can assure your Tau partners that we mean them no harm. For now we are just concerned with defending our own system.

To Fio'Tak
Greetings Young Ones,

It seems that many of the more brutish races are threatening us both alike. As long as the threat of the brutish greenskins, devourers, Chaos, and Mon-keigh remains the chances of our races prospering in this sector are dim. We seek to work together with you in order to better both of our races so that all of us may enjoy a brighter future.

[Exthalion]

Auroiel - the Young Suns

Sons of Eldanesh (Other non-dark Eldar)
By our estimations I possess the greatest potential in the spirit arts of all of us. I have heard the echos through the shadowed world that you seek communication with the young Mon-keigh (ooc note, the terms does not refer to humans, it has a similar meaning to barbarian and applies to almost everyone else in the galaxy much the same as xenos covers most non Imperial groups.). We have consulted records new and ancient and have noticed what may well be the maker's mark of our people upon them.

More to the point, they seem the most tractable. Or at least the most easily pointed at a target and able to motivate themselves into dealing with it.

I suggest that we approach them jointly and form a coalition with them. massing forces with them means that we can concentrate our power on targets and get them killed instead of us.

Tau:
In the well of the star the Mon-keigh had named Megiddo a lone Eldar floated in the void. For a time there was utter peace and he relished it for the short time it would last. The angry color of the warp spilled across the sky, a reminder of why he could never again experience a true peace.

Wordlessly he began to sing. It was not a regular song, its words reached through the veil of Asuryan along the ringing chord that connected this star to another. For even the stars had souls and they sang to one another.

In that distant place a tiny object, no larger then a grain of sand appeared. As the song continued it grew, stretching out frail fronds until what human might have recognized as a comm relay of gossamer thin wraithbone hung in the light of an unknown sun.

With a final note the Eldar ceased and continued to hang motionless while his ship slowly drifted toward him.

[The Zoat]

To The Tau Leader Guy:
Just that? are you kidding? Cut me some slack here. You seem to be a rather egoistic guy. Go ahead, act like we're weaker than you, that you can simply cow us into a raw-ish deal. Splinter Alpha has decided to adopt a method we call mutual co-interdependence.
We are still a bit fuzzy on what exactly this means, it involves making our friendly relationships more substantial than a simple ceasefire. Though we have no intention of intimidating you into a treaty, I am willing to simply give you any two planets you want as long as I can install a few people of mine to help keep you honest.
Now look, neither of us is very powerful, and if one of us falls, the only faction willing to bargain with us will be the necrons. Nobody wants to bargain with the necrons. I am not a violent nid, Mr Tau Leader Guy. Try to see me as a sentient being.

[LCP]

The White Shroud

Cutting up out of the dense clouds of the upper atmosphere, a tiny speck of light rose into the shoals of debris above Megiddo III. Threading its way through belts of slowly-turning rocks, the Thunderhawk gunship soared up and away from the tortured planet below. In the depths of the debris field, a huge, dark shape was waiting for it.

A yawning hangar bay opened, and the small craft vanished like krill into the mouth of a whale. Twenty minutes later, the darkness rippled with sudden lights, three huge plasma drives flaring into brilliant life.

Ice and rock dust streaming from its void shields, the Harbinger of Despair swung ponderously around, until its sharp prow faced directly out into the void of interplanetary space. The engines pulsed, and the cruiser began to accelerate slowly away.

OOC: EoT sent.

[Rafinius]

The Klantaek Dynasty

To Boss Gronark
Necron forces have no desire to see Ork forces weakened at this critical stage. Will not however prevent you from picking planets of no clear value.

Proposal:
Ork forces control Tarsus II, Tarsus III, and Tarsus IV
Necron forces control Tarsus I, Tarsus V, and Tarsus VI


Boss Gronark to da Necrons (and da otha Ork Bosses):
'Kay. Dat sounds fine, right boyz?
And ya Necronz, dun' worry. Orks are never weak.

[Thelonius]

Exploration Update 2

Shattered Mind

Hyperion I:
Your scouts detect a force of humans operating at one of the planet's abandoned factory sites. They are clearly excavating something.


Black Brigade

Hyperion IV

Lord Faulter of the Hyperion aristocracy has been found dead on the streets with a message written in blood implicating several nobles and high ranking arbiters in allegiance to chaos gods.

Hyperion II

A number of pilgrims are being torn apart by some vicious creatures, that escaped into the lush parks of Hyperion II. This has caused great concern to many an tranquility of the Shrine World is a major morale issue.


Nekrataal Dynasty

Tarsus V

You fail to pinpoint the exact location of the derelict, though you are close to eliminating all the possibilities of where it could be.

Your scouts locate the Rouge Trader Ship, hiding near the Tarsus V. They also detect mineral rich planetoids orbiting the planet as well as some strange disturbance on the surface of the planet.


Da Mek Geneeuzuz

Tarsus II

Your scouts hear rumors of Eldar presence on the planet, although those are very sketchy, as Eldar are very shifty.

They also hear some weird stuff happens sometimes in the plains, though it could be just paint fumes talking (local orks seem keen on painting the ground with various chemicals).


Gronark’s Band

Tarsus II

The remaining forests would be a somewhat better defensive positions, as at least as they would hide your forces. The various mining pits could be converted into defensive encampments. The rest of the planet is mostly flat plains.

The Orks are mostly feral. They are separated in about thousand ''factions'' or more. They are loyal as much as any ork is loyal. Pretty orky all things considered. The leaders defences vary, some bands have more paranoid bosses and some don't care that much about it.

A few runts are willing to join your scouts. They don't contribute much in terms of firepower. The betting on the arena appears to be worth it, if the bets are sufficiently high, as this is when the Arena Boss joins in. Grimsnik studies the security measures of the pit fights and while they are sufficiently advanced, he believes he knows how to sidestep them. There are of course other factors - like strong-looking armor on the Pit Boss, crowds of spectators and weird slug creature that appears to be War Bosses pet. Plus the fights always change location, so setting up the ambush would be tricky.

Your scouts hear rumors of Eldar presence on the planet, although those are very sketchy, as Eldar are very shifty.

They also hear some weird stuff happens sometimes in the plains, though it could be just paint fumes talking (local orks seem keen on painting the ground with various chemicals).


Ambrose Orthesian

A certain high ranked official owing you favor provides access to a restricted data on the Pirate Gromishka's attacks. It appears, that to the major embarrassment of Imperium forces, his raids were actually detected, but through superior flying skills, he managed to outmanoeuvre the forces, that were sent to intercept him and plunder his targets. His ship has a superior maneuverability and speed to pretty much anything the Imperium has in the system and apparently it also hosts a technology that allows for teleportation, allowing him to deploy and retrieve his looters with ease. It's far from perfect with lots of orks getting stuck in walls or exploding into green goo, but apparently that doesn't faze them in the least. This data is very useful in anticipating Gromishka's tactics, as he doesn't appear to change them. Of course how you plan to counter his advantages is the real question.


Spindleshanks Crusade

Hyperion IV

Lord Faulter of the Hyperion aristocracy has been found dead on the streets with a message written in blood implicating several nobles and high ranking arbiters in allegiance to chaos gods.

Hyperion I (?)

Update will be posted, once ArcaneStomper confirms, you've arrived to Hyperion I. As of now, it was marked as Hyperion II in your EoT response.

[Rafinius]

Gronark's Band

"Heh. Nice 'n' orky dis slag. All dos feral boyz ah no match fer us. Should call Boss Gronark, give 'im ah Reepoat?" Barkskarr looked at his partner Grimsnik who only nodded once as an answer.

To all Ork player factions and former Ork player factions:
'Ere speaks Boss Gronark. Jus' got a report from me Kommando Boyz on Tarsus II. Gonna sent ya a transkript.
{OOC: Orks may read my Exploration update}
...
Ya got dat all? Good. 'Eres I sayz 'ow we proxeed:
Me boyz get bettin' in d'arena to draw out dat pit boss. He seems da grimmest git on da slag. Knowing 'er 'e is we rukk down in ordz an' duff 'is skull. Den we dregg de arena, but let all da runts spread da news dat weze da biggest Orks now and dat all boyz join our Waaagh! or be stomped in its way. Good plan, eh?
Anywayz, bout dose panzee eldar 'n' de trippin boyz, or wut eva dat otha ting be, we can care later.
OOC To clarify: I will use my partnered VIPs to draw out the unsuspecting pit boss and to disable the defenses. On their com-signal all ground forces that we have decided to be used for Tarsus II will drop down on the arena in good orky fashion. It is not necessary to kill him, but we shouldn't go out of our way to let him survive. A strong VIP to subdue him would be helpful here (my VIPs share one stat-pool so they'd be a non-optimal choice). Once we have shown our force on the most important ork there, we will recruit the feral orks with demonstrations of superior dakka. Anything else of interest will be concern for later.

[ArcaneStomper]

Turn 2

The Perils of the Warp
No warp storm is ever truly stable, and the Cauldron has proven. In a matter of days the warp lanes grew unstable, then chaotic and finally they shifted entirely. The result is not so different from before except in one matter. The system of Tas'Hel has been cut off from the others. If the rumors of Tau and Tyranids there were true then no doubt they will continue their own private war, but no longer will those two most adaptive of species be of concern for the races in the Cauldron.

The Perils of Chaos
Somewhat more predictably the force of chaos have fallen into disarray. Unable to determine a war leader and unwilling to cooperate they have begun fighting each other in a vast civil war. Meggido has become a charnel house, not altogether different from its previous state, and the forces of chaos fight across the planet in support of their champions. Whether the forces of Chaos come out of the fray united and stronger or hopelessly dissipate themselves against their own "comrades" is anyone's guess.

Sithis
Your force makes it into the Cauldron. (I will put a map up later.)

Zemalac
Your navy makes it about halfway to Hyperion I.

[LongVin]

Black Brigade
Hyperion Hive World

The once luxurious parlor of some fancy merchant was now hardly recognizable, where fine art and even finer furniture was now rests military equipment, pict casters and a series of heavy duty tables laid out with maps and data slates. A formerly plush carpet had been ripped to shreds by the soles of jackboots and grease from leaking servitors. Around a table positioned towards the center of the room a cadre of officers an Inquisitor huddled.

"This is most alarming news. We will need to act quickly," said the Inquisitor.

"Indeed. My lord will you be granting us your authority to arrest them on behalf of the Inquisitor," responded the colonel.

"No. I believe it is best we work with the governor first on obtaining the arrest warrants. If he fails to act promptly we can always intervene."

"Understood my lord. Captain! Draft a message to the governor and the other Imperial units on the planet."

Message to Imperial Factions & Governor
The murder of Lord Faulter is extremely troubling news. If there is indeed a chaos cult operating on the planet at such a high level it could prove a disaster to our efforts in securing our interests across the sector.

I hereby request that arrest warrants immediately be issued for these individuals so that they may be interogated to discern their loyalty to the throne.

-Col Wolff

@GM

The Army units on Hyperion 4 will be dispatched to arrest those implicated as worshipers of the chaos gods. Psyker Marlitz is being dispatched with them in case any of those to be arrested turn out to be sorcerors.

On Hyperion II - 2 army units and 2 scouts will enter into the jungle to hunt down these creatures and destroy them. Major Peiper will personally oversee the operation.

[Killerloop]

The Nekrataal Dynasty

Deep space near Tarsus V

Kaervek sat motionless in the command room of the scout party, watching the ship scanner.
Two words, the same two words were flashing in it for at least a day:

No readings

Yet the derelict ship had to be somewhere... with Necron patience at hand, he will eventually found it.

Still, there were more pressing issues to address.



Tarsus V - Near Rogue Trader ship

Scout Beta to Phaeron Kaervek:

- Tarsus V high orbit reached, disengaging inertialess drive, shifting to sublight propulsion
- Surface scanners reveal unkown disturbances. No Necron signs.
- Human ship detected. Designation: Rogue Traders. Estimated threat level: minimal
- Lightning Arcs at 100%. Opening communication channel

"HUMAN SHIP --- SURRENDER IMMEDIATELY --- YOU HAVE 0% CHANCE --- ACKNOWLEDGE BY LOWERING SHIELDS AND POWERING OFF WEAPONS --- ANY HOSTILE ATTEMPT OR WARP DRIVE INITIATION WILL PROMPT IMMEDIATE TERMINATION."



Tarsus I

Scout Alpha to Phaeron Kaervek:
- Tarsus I high orbit reached, disengaging inertialess drive, shifting to sublight propulsion
- Surface scanners reveal energy readings of Necrontyr magnitude, commencing awakening and assert authority protocols
- ....signals accepted and replied
- WARNING! Enemy scouting party detected! Lightning Arcs charging up.
- Bioscan completed: enemy warriors are members of Ork race
- Awaiting instructions

A human would have probably cried with joy, but Kaervek merely recorded the 'signals accepted' and moved on to communicate with the enemy ships:

"Ork scouts back off immediately. This planet is ours. You have two minutes to comply"

[GnomeGninjas]

Did I successfully capture the spaceport?

[Thelonius]

Tarsus V

Abandoned Space Station

Some alien species have constructed this space station. What happened to them is unknown, but now it stands, abandoned, but pretty well preserved and ready to be restored to serve its new masters.

Asteroid Field

Several large planetoids and scores of smaller ones orbit Tarsus V.

Planetary Surface

The planetary surface has high gravity, toxic atmosphere, poor visibility and a host of other different things that would end up killing you, unless you are already dead or wear protective gear.

Planetary Rings

Tarsus V has pretty standard planetary rings around it. There doesn’t appear to be anything out of the ordinary with them.

Planetoid

The largest satellite of Tarsus V appears to support basic life, having water and stmosphere.


Tarsus I

Old Starport

The old Starport has remained standing unchanged, while the surrounding buildings have crumbled. It’s covered in layers and layers of dust, but restoring tis operations shouldn’t be difficult. The few surviving craft in the hangars on other hand probably won’t take flight again.

Alien Orbital Structure

The vast structure orbiting the planet is collecting energy from a series of sattelites orbiting the star. Whatever it used to do before, now it’s shooting focused energy beams randomly into space. Surprisingly, very few appear to be hitting planet. The space near the ancient device is dangerous for space craft navigation.

Odd Settlement

A singe settlement, that differs significantly from others. It has massive structures, that don’t appear to serve practical purpose, surrounded with half-crumbled giant statues. Sensors detect some faint activity within the sprawling complexes.

Ocean City

A city built in the planet’s ocean that apparently was used for extracting resources. The ocean surrounding the city is covered in a thick layer of kelp.


Tarsus II

Orkport

The ''orkport’’ is a grand collection of scrap metal, from which the Ork-Ships launch into space. It’s located in the center of the plains.

Orky Great Plains

The vast empty spaces (and former forests), where tides of green clash against each other. The various gangs of orks spill vast amounts of chemicals to colour the land various colours, most of them different shades of green, but there are reds, blues and oranges as well.

Orky Pits

The hills and plains have aquired a large number of deep pits, where the gretchins or smaller orks mine for minerals.

Un-orky Forests

The forests that once covered the entire planet are now being slowly reduced. The weaker bands at pushed there, as less desirable land. The trees of the Tarsus II have displayed remarkable resilience and only the relentless drive of the orks allowed them to clear so much of them.


Hyperion II

Starport

Starport of Hyperion II is a busy, bustling place where pilgrims, traders and nobles arrive daily.

Shrine of St. Timur

The destination of many pilgrimages, where tens, if not hundreds of thousands come daily to pray. The remains of the saint are heavily guarded.

RosenHeart Abbey

The Abbey is domain of Sisters of Battle, dedicated protectors of the Hyperion II. The abbey is well known for its beautiful rose gardens and fields. The oils distilled from them are believed to be holy.

Noble Estates

Many of the Hyperion System nobles have vacation houses on Hyperion II and possessing land here is considered a mark of wealth and opulence.

Andercity

The great city shared between the local population and the visiting masses. It’s filled with delights for less ascetic pilgrims, bustling markets and local craft guilds.


Governor Longhorn to Black Brigade

''You name important and influential men as enemies of Imperium. I will require evidence of any wrongdoings to be submitted to the Lord Inquisitor Hamial, for verification, before issuing any arrest warrants''

[OOC - Do your orders to troops still stand?]


Hyperion II [Black Brigade]

Several problems arise with tracking down the monsters. First, the reports of attacks on pilgrims are sketchy. As the news spread, hysteria took in and now for one actual attack or sighting, three dozen of false ones are reported, with house pets or ordinary muggers confused for perpetrators.

Second, the monsters might be hiding in the vast estates of nobles or lands belonging to the Abbey. However, the guards of these territories are convinced, they couldn’t have missed something like that and refuse to allow intruders. They might be right or there could be a nest of creatures hidden under their noses.

Also, the monsters appear to have some sort of natural or unnatural camouflage and avoid engaging dangerous targets, so tracking them down is tricky.


Rouge Trader to Nekrataal

A grabled message arrives from the Rouge Trade ship:

Xeno Vessel.

This is the last ship of my fleet. All the rest were destroyed. There is something on the planet's surface. We killed our engines and hid. Couldn't get away or it would detect us. They would have detected your approach. Prepare or they will destroy you. Together we might succeed in escaping.''

[Killerloop]

Xeno Vessel.

This is the last ship of my fleet. All the rest were destroyed. There is something on the planet's surface. We killed our engines and hid. Couldn't get away or it would detect us. They would have detected your approach. Prepare or they will destroy you. Together we might succeed in escaping.''

[/spoiler]

The scout fired its Lightning arcs, missing the ship by meters. The other five in fomation with him slowly circled around the Rogue Trader ship

"ELABORATE 'DESTROYED', 'SOMETHING', 'DETECTION MODE' --- YOU HAVE ONE MINUTE AND TWENTY SECONDS TO ANSWER OR BE TERMINATED"

[Thelonius]

Tarsus V

Rouge Trader: ''A thing of Chaos! It’s a terrible spirit, that rends the ships asunder with its claws! We have little time to spare! My Psyker reports, it has begun to move!''

Tarsus I

The Ork fleets appear to be moving in on the structure in the orbit of the planet.

Orks

''The first issue is with getting on the artifact without being hit. One would think that the odds, that energy beams shooting out of it would hit anything in space would be abysmal, but a few of smaller ork crafts are incinerated on approach. Well, perhaps it won’t happen with the next batch of orks.’’

''What information the incinerated orks gained shows this structure is really un-orky, so figuring out how it works might be difficult. Plus, it appears to be made of really hard stuff and has a complicated layout. The standard ''break down the walls to make way'' exploration method might require more work then usual and navigating inside is going to be a problem.''

[Umbranar]

Da Meg Geneeuzuz

Tarsus I scout force (fluff)
The scout force of Da Meg Geneeuzuz stay near the force of Gronark. The surroundings are barren with barely anything to see except for some rocks scattered around the place. Suddenly a message is heard on the crude radio: *....ip to sc.... boyz. Da arti.. .. not on planet but i. .rbit ar.... planet.

Razogh listens carefully. Ya boyz hear dat? We at da `rong place.

Razogh! Da be Necro gitz in da distans. We blast em?

Dun `no tink we bettah get back.

To All Ork Factions
Dose Necron gitz look angry `n da artifact blast da scout force. Maybe send in da kruisahs to pick it up? Could piss off da Necrons moar but I dun care much bout dat. Attack on Tarsus IV soon startin`. Could try `n fight da boss on T2. Its not da safest plan but could win moar in da long run.

[Killerloop]

The Nekrataal Dynasty

Tarsus V - Abandoned outpost

Scout team Gamma to Phaeron Kaervek:

- Location designated as "Outpost OUT1-T5 reached, disengaging inertialess drive, shifting to sublight propulsion
- Surface scanners: no readings
- Bio scanners: no readings
- Searching for suitable docking point. ETA: 30 minutes
- Current Command: Take control of outpost


Tarsus V - Near Rogue Trader ship

One of the scout broke formation and moved towards the human ship

"HUMAN SHIP --- WE WILL GET ABOARD NOW AND TAKE CONTROL --- STAND DOWN"


Tarsus I - High orbit

The Necron scout team assumed combat formation, Lightning arcs buzzing into the void of space as they charged up with energy.

The guttural, metallic voice of Kaervek himself spoke:

"Ork scouts, we received no reply. We had an agreement on this planet. Recover your forces and leave immediately or we will consider our agreement null and void."

[Umbranar]

Da Mek Geneeuzuz

Tarsus I
Radio Message from Ork scout party to Necron Scouts. The Ork ships appear to arm yellow painted rockets and guns point towards the Necron ships in response.

"Dun point yer gunz at uz! Da planut will be for ya Necrons. Agreement din say we could not `ave a look. Tarsus I iz close to Ork world so wer checkin` wots der. If yer `avin problems wit dat ye talk to da boss."

[Thelonius]

Tarsus V

''Dreck. They haven’t bought it.''
''What idiot would believe that. Rouge Trader plus rich asteroid field. Answer’s obvious.’’
''Could have worked if those were orks and not, whatever blight-spawned xenos these are.''
''Orks would have started with shooting.''
''Well. Try to get us out of this. Half of their ships are busy with the station and we can probably take a blast or two. Maybe Emperor has some mercy for us.''

- Enemy vessel attempts escape.
- Targeting engines.
- Sending boarding parties.
- Weak resistance encountered.
- Threat Evaluation.
- Threat Level: negligible.
- Awaiting orders.