BobTheNinja
Sword of Possibility
- Location
- Multiverse Sector Texas
Ooh, definitely going for more Mechanicus specialists, explorators especially. I've added that option to my vote plan.
Last edited:
A 40k Rogue Trader in the Multiverse
- Thread starter LordNymphys
- Start date
- Crossover Art Quest Mature Sci-Fi
If someone else wants to vote, otherwise closing like today or tomorrow
BobTheNinja
Sword of Possibility
- Location
- Multiverse Sector Texas
Wait, just to be sure, the prior vote to open a Shadow Bank account was already completed, right? At least I thought it was.
Yes, the vote counter thought was a vote because of the [X]
40k, Rogue Trader, Narrative “Nine Joy-Girls”, Vote
The steel rod was grey, smooth, cold; he could feel tiny furrows under his finger tips: so solid, so real. He still had to trust the veracity of his senses. More than 6 months in the 41st Millenium. Yet, there were moments in which all of this seemed just a dream. He raised his chin to gaze the small hauler moving around titanium ingots: he was warned not to touch those, since they had been stored close to the molten metallic magma.
The warm smile of Jalna, her full lips:
"I hope, my Lord Hans, that my purchases satisfy you."
"Very much so, Mein Schatz. Very much so. I hope that admiral Karras has replied constructively to our request to access macrocannon shells: I kinda regret having sold a few of them."
She nodded, gently: "The admiral is very appreciative of our availability to hunt down the Black Boa and has agreed to give us license to purchase up to one hundred macrocannon shells, which, unfortunately, is more than what we can afford with our current cash flow. There are three main kind of macrocannon shells hoarded here in Necromunda by the Astra Militaris. Would you like to know the specifics?"
The engineer in him smiled, openly "I love specifics."
"Each of the three kind of shells is mostly made of ferrocrete: a ten meters long, three meters high and wide ogival cilinder. Since the acceleration or the projectile more is then Quater Milia Terran Gavitas, the ferrocrete turns into plasma. The plasma is not very effective against voidshields, but the airburst raze unshielded buildings in a radius of tens of miles, if we are targeting a planetary surface. The high penetration material is the one that can withstand the acceleration. We have three different patterns available in bulk here in Armageddon: the Mars Pattern, with graphite cores, very similar to the Necromunda-Pattern. They contain a cubic meter of graphite. The graphite typically shatters during acceleration and one or two major shards typically are big enough to penetrate a voidshield or survive atmospheric ablation. They contain less than one percent of the whole macrocannon hit, but that's still enough to penetrate a void ship hull or to crater the land. Than we have the Gryphonne IV Pattern, where thousands of synthetic diamonds coat the macrocannon tip. Hundreds of diamonds survive the acceleration and the plasma burst spread them for hundreds of kilometers. These shells are not so much effective against compact, shielded targets, but are perfect to cause widespread damage to extensive areas, like urban sprawls or infantry formations. Than we have the Lucius Pattern, containing one cubic meter of adamantium at the core. These shells are the ones preserving more kinetic energy at the impact: they can cause major earthquakes, crush deep bunkers, collapse unshielded hives and annihilate whole voidshields, with the note that those ammunitions have an higher chance of being deflected by voidshields on unanticipated trajectories. As you can imagine, they come at a premium price, and the Admiral capped at ten the maximum number of Lucius Pattern shells that we can purchase in the sector."
"Price?"
"The Gryphonne Pattern, one K ATC each. The Mars Pattern, one thousand five hundreds ATC each. The Lucius Pattern six K ATC each."
Hans whistled.
"But the admiral graciously gifted us one macrocannon shell, from the Astra Militaris stock, at choice between the Mars and Gryphonne Pattern. After some… persuasion, of course."
Hans found himself staring at the tight shirt of the seneschal, delineating the perfect hard spheres of… Scheiße! He really needed to get laid. He would discretely ask the designated person to arrange something with the joy girls. He knew most of his male officers, and a few of the female ones, were regularly having fun with the joy girls, yet, Hans never had sex with a prostitute in his previous life… well there was that time he had too much alcool and drugs, back in his university years, and he wasn't so sure of what him and his friends had done… but, apart from that, never. For God's sake, he made love with the same woman for almost thirty years. But that was another life, another world and, the more time passed, the more this started to feel like this was the real one, and the old one just a distant dream.
———
Options
Get for free
[X] One Mars Pattern macrocannon shell
[X] One Gryphonne Pattern macrocannon shell
Purchase
[X] {specify number} Gryphonne Pattern macrocannon shell
1,000 ATC each
[X] {specify number} Mars Pattern macrocannon shell
1,500 ATC each
[X] {specify number} Lucius Pattern macrocannon shell
6,000 ATC each
——-
Hans was anxious, despite the mounting sexual urge he started to feel after the rejuv treatment, the idea of being with a woman again was making him feel agitated. He knew he had a young body again, more athletic than he ever was in his past life, but, still, he felt the burden of his years inside and, being with a young woman again was a weird prospect. Even more considering that in his old world the way in which he acquired the Joy girls would have been considering trafficking. He gave instruction for them not to be molested if they didn't want to have intercourse with the crew and, while it was clear that they were being treated far more humanely then in the slave's pits of Necromunda, he knew that there was some deal of exploitation in the communal brothels set up all over the ship. It wasn't exactly like those women had a real choice. He probably should feel more uncomfortable about that, but, maybe, there was iridium in each man's heart, with the call for profit being louder than the call for humanity.
He sighed. At least that was stuff he wasn't directly managing. He was going to be gentle with them. Maybe even changing the life of one of them.
Nine women entered, escorted by two troopers.
Hans watched as the nine women entered his quarters, one by one, each with a striking presence that hit his senses. His initial nervousness had softened, replaced by a mix of curiosity and anticipation. He knew he wasn't here to analyze personalities, yet he couldn't help but notice each woman's distinct features, their allure heightened by the exotic clothing they wore, meant to both reveal and intrigue.
Sarai moved with a lean grace, her skin the deep, rich brown of polished wood, contrasted by purple-blue eyes that gleamed with a quiet intelligence. A subtle scar along her jawline hinted at a harder past, but her expression was softened by a knowing, faint smile that seemed reserved for those she chose to trust, maybe just a mask she wore.
Leah, golden-haired with a cascade of loose curls that fell to her waist, was vivacious and bold. Her full lips curled into a smirk as she took in her surroundings, visibly impressed by the luxury of the quarters. She had generous, well rounded curves in her bottom and her breast, highlighted even more by a slim waist and flat belly. Her voluminous golden hair framed her erotic body. Her mischievous, challenging gaze made her seem like a woman who'd learned to thrive in the midst of chaos.
Mira had a softer presence, her dark hair hanging loose, framing her face like a veil. She was petite, with delicate features that gave her an almost ethereal quality. Her green eyes darted around, lingering on the unfamiliar luxury of his quarters, a touch of wonder in her expression as she hesitated before glancing at Hans, a faint blush coloring her cheeks, giving the impression of innocent beauty.
Iona stood tall and proud, her hairstyle was a side shave, blonde hair with purple streaks, highlighting sharpness of her cheekbones. She had a nose piercing and, through her semi-transparent white shirt, Hans could see she had piercing in other areas of her body as well. Her bronze skin glistened under the room's soft lights, and she held herself like a warrior, arms folded as she observed Hans with a piercing stare. Her figure was athletic and lean, her confidence radiating from every movement, a woman who clearly felt at home with her own strength.
Lia was serene, her movements slow and deliberate, with skin that was a warm olive, giving her an air of calm that contrasted with the others. Her almond-shaped eyes were a warm brown, framed by dark lashes that seemed to brush her cheeks whenever she blinked. She moved as though each step was a dance, her presence soothing, almost meditative, as she settled gracefully into her seat, crossing her beautifully smooth legs. She had very elegant ankles and feet, framed by high heel shoes.
Nara, the youngest of the group, had wide, innocent hazelnut eyes, her skin a soft, milky shade, almost translucent under the lights. Her hair, a cascade of straight, jet-black, seemed to make her pale face all the more striking. She clutched her hands together nervously, glancing around with a mix of fear and wonder, as though she were in a dream she couldn't quite believe.
Cora was energetic and full of life, her copper-toned skin and cropped auburn hair setting her apart from the rest. She was shorter but muscular, well-toned body contrasting with her rounded cheekbones, with a face that seemed to always hint at a grin. She brushed a hand over the silk tablecloth, laughing in surprise as she touched the fine material, her bright blue eyes sparkling with mirth.
Iris had a reserved, analytical air, her dark brown skin flawless, with high cheekbones and short-cropped curls that framed her face. Her slender fingers ran over the edge of the table, her movements precise, almost calculating. She met Hans's gaze with a sharp, curious stare, as though assessing him and filing away every detail.
Her seriousness contrasted with the way in which the joy-master dressed her for the occasion, or better, undressed her, wearing only a rainbow colored thong that left little of her asscheeks and of her groin to imagination. Her hard breasts were almost fully visible, only her nipples covered by small stickers emblazoned with the Zimmerman coat-of-arms.
Vera, the last to enter, was strikingly beautiful, with a halo of curly red hair that fell wildly around her shoulders. Her fair skin was dusted with freckles, and her eyes, a shade of amber, held a softness that made her seem vulnerable yet resilient. She held herself with a subtle grace, her movements slow and cautious as she looked around, her gaze softening as she settled into the luxury of the room.
As they took their seats around the lavishly set table, Hans couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in the atmosphere he'd created for them. The meal was opulent, a far cry from the bland, nutrient-rich food of the void and corpse starch they likely knew all too well. Platters of roasted meat glistened with juices, accompanied by bowls of steaming vegetables and exotic fruits from far-off worlds. Rich, fragrant sauces and delicate pastries filled the air with a tantalizing aroma.
Sarai took a bite of the succulent meat, her eyes widening slightly as the flavor burst across her tongue, the white scar on her jaw moving as she chew. Leah leaned forward eagerly, tasting the thick, creamy soup with an indulgent moan of appreciation, her blonde curly hair framing her gestating expression, while Mira's shyness seemed to vanish as she savored each bite, her lips curling into a small smile, Her petite hands reached hesitantly for new dishes, as if she couldn't believe food this good could exist.
The conversation turned lively as they began to relax, each woman revealing glimpses of herself between bites and sips of fine wine. Leah cracked jokes, her laughter filling the room, while Cora eagerly recounted stories from the lower hives, drawing giggles from Mira and glances of mild amusement from the others. Nara, still wide-eyed, asked about every dish, as though each one were a mystery to be unraveled.
Hans watched them with a mix of amusement and intrigue, drawn to the way they each responded to this rare moment of luxury. As the meal wound down, he extended an invitation for any who wished to stay and share the evening further. He'd offered them a choice, and he meant it. None would be forced to remain, and for the first time, perhaps, they had the freedom to choose.
Some glanced at each other, uncertain, while others looked at him with a newfound curiosity. Leah met his gaze directly, a playful spark in her eye, while Mira gave him a soft, almost shy nod. Iona's smile was faint but genuine, a rare moment of warmth from a woman who seemed to guard herself fiercely.
Iris stand up, first gazing at the women leaving the room, than at Mira, in a harsh, disapproving, yet protective way, and confirmed she was staying.
As the evening settled into intimacy, Hans found himself drawn to each woman's unique allure, the firelight casting a warm, flickering glow on their forms.
Sarai, with her lean, lithe frame and smooth, dark skin, moved gracefully in his arms, her quiet strength and poised elegance lending itself to a slow, sensual rhythm that seemed to stretch time itself.
Leah, bold and mischievous, pressed close to him, her golden curls spilling over her shoulders as she laughed softly in his ear, her body curving naturally to his with an ease that matched her playful spirit.
Mira, her slight frame almost ethereal in the low light, was more reserved, but her wide green eyes held a curiosity that matched her hesitant yet eager touch. Her slender fingers traced
gentle paths over his skin, each gesture filled with a shy sweetness that felt as delicate as her figure.
lona, on the other hand, was fiery and direct, her muscular form both commanding and responsive. Her
strength was evident in the way she wrapped herself around him, each movement deliberate, as though savoring every shared moment with intensity.
Cora, her compact, copper-toned body radiating warmth, was playfull yet attentive, her hands exploring freely as they intertwined, her laughter mingling with the soft sounds of the night. She shifted with an easy agility, her figure pressed close in a dance of mutual discovery.
Iris held herself with a serious, composed air, her intense gaze never wavering, even as her near-bare body seemed to defy her reserved nature. The bold, rainbow-colored thong and the small, crested stickers on her firm chest added a sharp, exciting contrast to her otherwise controlled presence, sparking something raw in Hans. Her eyes met his, steady, assessing, even as he ran his hands over her smooth skin. She softened-reluctantly, yet invitingly—as he pulled her close, his touch firmer, savoring the interplay between her discipline and the allure she hadn't chosen but wore all the same. Her breath quickened as his hands traveled lower, her controlled exterior slowly unraveling under his touch, yielding fully, as she gave herself to the moment, her serious demeanor dissolving in their shared, unrestrained ravenous movements.
As he was riding the moment with Iris, Mira came closer, dividing her attention and her care between Hans and Iris.
Each woman, in her own way, contributed to a tapestry of shared intimacy. They took turns and shared glances, the night unfolding like a quiet symphony of connection and warmth. Hans found himself lost in the ebb and flow of bodies and soft murmurs, each moment an exploration of the senses, a brief respite from the galaxy's harshness—a memory he would carry, treasured, into the stars.
Hans stirred in the dim light of the remaining candle, its flame casting soft shadows across the vast bed.
Beside him, Cora lay nestled against his side, her warmth pressing close, her curves fitting comfortably beneath his arm as her head rested on his chest, her breathing calm
and steady. On his other side was Leah, with her golden curls cascading over his shoulder, her skin soft against his, bringing a different kind of energy-a playful presence even in sleep.
lona lay belly-down further down the bed, her figure draped across his legs, one arm loosely around his knee, her face turned slightly into his hip.
Her unrestrained confidence, even in rest, brought a faint smile to Hans's lips, her body sprawled in a way that -spoke to her fiery spirit.
Mira and Iris had settled together at the far edge, arms loosely wrapped around one another, the quiet affection between them creating a calming scene. He felt the light brush of Mira's foot against his, and he marveled at her serene grace, contrast, with Iris's seriousness that even in sleep seemed to linger, both drawing him in with a quiet allure that was all their own.
The last woman, Sarai, rested toward the foot of the bed, her figure curled with a quiet strength that belied her softer side. Hans's gaze lingered on her, struck by her resilience and the subtle vulnerability that had surfaced over the evening: the scar on her jaw wasn't the only one the slavers of Necromunda gave her.
In this rare moment of peace, Hans felt a deep, conflicting surge of protectiveness and responsibility.
These were more than fleeting encounters; each woman had a
story, and he wondered if perhaps his role was to offer them something more than mere obligation.
————
[consequence, Hans is stress relieved -for some time-. He is slightly more decadent and starts to feel more self confident about his rejuvenated body]
Vote Option, Hans can keep a maximum of two among the six women as his personal Joy Girls, relieving him of stress when needed. They are technically slaves, as they would be if Hans were to send them back to the brothel, but, at least they can have a better life.
Hans (in addition or in alternative) can also set free two women, offering them either to open for them a stall so that they can build a profession. He can offer them to host them in his quarters (as guests) or buy them a house in a safe planet.
[X] keep max. two woman as personal Joy Girls {specify which ones}: permanently decreases stress, permanently increases decandence.
Joy girls will count as officers in terms luxory ratios consumed
[X] Free Max. two Joy Girls {specify which ones}: decreases guilt and decadence, no stress relief per se, unless one of them decides on her on volition (will roll in other turns) to become Hans' mistress. Will cost 2 kg of gold if we settle them in a feudal world, 1 ATC in Imperial world or if we loan them money to open a buisness inside the ship. Will cost as officers if they stay in his quarters.
[X] send back min. two Joy girls back to the ship's brothel, back eating corpse starch and taking care of horny crew members. This option is mandatory for at least two Joy Girls (Hans doesn't wanna appear as if he's hoarding too many crew resources). Can be more than two if we don't take the other options.
————
Will follow description of the mechanicus encounter, after rolling the dice, and vote if we wanna leave the system or not. Next turn.
Stay tuned.
The warm smile of Jalna, her full lips:
"I hope, my Lord Hans, that my purchases satisfy you."
"Very much so, Mein Schatz. Very much so. I hope that admiral Karras has replied constructively to our request to access macrocannon shells: I kinda regret having sold a few of them."
She nodded, gently: "The admiral is very appreciative of our availability to hunt down the Black Boa and has agreed to give us license to purchase up to one hundred macrocannon shells, which, unfortunately, is more than what we can afford with our current cash flow. There are three main kind of macrocannon shells hoarded here in Necromunda by the Astra Militaris. Would you like to know the specifics?"
The engineer in him smiled, openly "I love specifics."
"Each of the three kind of shells is mostly made of ferrocrete: a ten meters long, three meters high and wide ogival cilinder. Since the acceleration or the projectile more is then Quater Milia Terran Gavitas, the ferrocrete turns into plasma. The plasma is not very effective against voidshields, but the airburst raze unshielded buildings in a radius of tens of miles, if we are targeting a planetary surface. The high penetration material is the one that can withstand the acceleration. We have three different patterns available in bulk here in Armageddon: the Mars Pattern, with graphite cores, very similar to the Necromunda-Pattern. They contain a cubic meter of graphite. The graphite typically shatters during acceleration and one or two major shards typically are big enough to penetrate a voidshield or survive atmospheric ablation. They contain less than one percent of the whole macrocannon hit, but that's still enough to penetrate a void ship hull or to crater the land. Than we have the Gryphonne IV Pattern, where thousands of synthetic diamonds coat the macrocannon tip. Hundreds of diamonds survive the acceleration and the plasma burst spread them for hundreds of kilometers. These shells are not so much effective against compact, shielded targets, but are perfect to cause widespread damage to extensive areas, like urban sprawls or infantry formations. Than we have the Lucius Pattern, containing one cubic meter of adamantium at the core. These shells are the ones preserving more kinetic energy at the impact: they can cause major earthquakes, crush deep bunkers, collapse unshielded hives and annihilate whole voidshields, with the note that those ammunitions have an higher chance of being deflected by voidshields on unanticipated trajectories. As you can imagine, they come at a premium price, and the Admiral capped at ten the maximum number of Lucius Pattern shells that we can purchase in the sector."
"Price?"
"The Gryphonne Pattern, one K ATC each. The Mars Pattern, one thousand five hundreds ATC each. The Lucius Pattern six K ATC each."
Hans whistled.
"But the admiral graciously gifted us one macrocannon shell, from the Astra Militaris stock, at choice between the Mars and Gryphonne Pattern. After some… persuasion, of course."
Hans found himself staring at the tight shirt of the seneschal, delineating the perfect hard spheres of… Scheiße! He really needed to get laid. He would discretely ask the designated person to arrange something with the joy girls. He knew most of his male officers, and a few of the female ones, were regularly having fun with the joy girls, yet, Hans never had sex with a prostitute in his previous life… well there was that time he had too much alcool and drugs, back in his university years, and he wasn't so sure of what him and his friends had done… but, apart from that, never. For God's sake, he made love with the same woman for almost thirty years. But that was another life, another world and, the more time passed, the more this started to feel like this was the real one, and the old one just a distant dream.
———
Options
Get for free
[X] One Mars Pattern macrocannon shell
[X] One Gryphonne Pattern macrocannon shell
Purchase
[X] {specify number} Gryphonne Pattern macrocannon shell
1,000 ATC each
[X] {specify number} Mars Pattern macrocannon shell
1,500 ATC each
[X] {specify number} Lucius Pattern macrocannon shell
6,000 ATC each
——-
Hans was anxious, despite the mounting sexual urge he started to feel after the rejuv treatment, the idea of being with a woman again was making him feel agitated. He knew he had a young body again, more athletic than he ever was in his past life, but, still, he felt the burden of his years inside and, being with a young woman again was a weird prospect. Even more considering that in his old world the way in which he acquired the Joy girls would have been considering trafficking. He gave instruction for them not to be molested if they didn't want to have intercourse with the crew and, while it was clear that they were being treated far more humanely then in the slave's pits of Necromunda, he knew that there was some deal of exploitation in the communal brothels set up all over the ship. It wasn't exactly like those women had a real choice. He probably should feel more uncomfortable about that, but, maybe, there was iridium in each man's heart, with the call for profit being louder than the call for humanity.
He sighed. At least that was stuff he wasn't directly managing. He was going to be gentle with them. Maybe even changing the life of one of them.
Nine women entered, escorted by two troopers.
Hans watched as the nine women entered his quarters, one by one, each with a striking presence that hit his senses. His initial nervousness had softened, replaced by a mix of curiosity and anticipation. He knew he wasn't here to analyze personalities, yet he couldn't help but notice each woman's distinct features, their allure heightened by the exotic clothing they wore, meant to both reveal and intrigue.
Sarai moved with a lean grace, her skin the deep, rich brown of polished wood, contrasted by purple-blue eyes that gleamed with a quiet intelligence. A subtle scar along her jawline hinted at a harder past, but her expression was softened by a knowing, faint smile that seemed reserved for those she chose to trust, maybe just a mask she wore.
Leah, golden-haired with a cascade of loose curls that fell to her waist, was vivacious and bold. Her full lips curled into a smirk as she took in her surroundings, visibly impressed by the luxury of the quarters. She had generous, well rounded curves in her bottom and her breast, highlighted even more by a slim waist and flat belly. Her voluminous golden hair framed her erotic body. Her mischievous, challenging gaze made her seem like a woman who'd learned to thrive in the midst of chaos.
Mira had a softer presence, her dark hair hanging loose, framing her face like a veil. She was petite, with delicate features that gave her an almost ethereal quality. Her green eyes darted around, lingering on the unfamiliar luxury of his quarters, a touch of wonder in her expression as she hesitated before glancing at Hans, a faint blush coloring her cheeks, giving the impression of innocent beauty.
Iona stood tall and proud, her hairstyle was a side shave, blonde hair with purple streaks, highlighting sharpness of her cheekbones. She had a nose piercing and, through her semi-transparent white shirt, Hans could see she had piercing in other areas of her body as well. Her bronze skin glistened under the room's soft lights, and she held herself like a warrior, arms folded as she observed Hans with a piercing stare. Her figure was athletic and lean, her confidence radiating from every movement, a woman who clearly felt at home with her own strength.
Lia was serene, her movements slow and deliberate, with skin that was a warm olive, giving her an air of calm that contrasted with the others. Her almond-shaped eyes were a warm brown, framed by dark lashes that seemed to brush her cheeks whenever she blinked. She moved as though each step was a dance, her presence soothing, almost meditative, as she settled gracefully into her seat, crossing her beautifully smooth legs. She had very elegant ankles and feet, framed by high heel shoes.
Nara, the youngest of the group, had wide, innocent hazelnut eyes, her skin a soft, milky shade, almost translucent under the lights. Her hair, a cascade of straight, jet-black, seemed to make her pale face all the more striking. She clutched her hands together nervously, glancing around with a mix of fear and wonder, as though she were in a dream she couldn't quite believe.
Cora was energetic and full of life, her copper-toned skin and cropped auburn hair setting her apart from the rest. She was shorter but muscular, well-toned body contrasting with her rounded cheekbones, with a face that seemed to always hint at a grin. She brushed a hand over the silk tablecloth, laughing in surprise as she touched the fine material, her bright blue eyes sparkling with mirth.
Iris had a reserved, analytical air, her dark brown skin flawless, with high cheekbones and short-cropped curls that framed her face. Her slender fingers ran over the edge of the table, her movements precise, almost calculating. She met Hans's gaze with a sharp, curious stare, as though assessing him and filing away every detail.
Her seriousness contrasted with the way in which the joy-master dressed her for the occasion, or better, undressed her, wearing only a rainbow colored thong that left little of her asscheeks and of her groin to imagination. Her hard breasts were almost fully visible, only her nipples covered by small stickers emblazoned with the Zimmerman coat-of-arms.
Vera, the last to enter, was strikingly beautiful, with a halo of curly red hair that fell wildly around her shoulders. Her fair skin was dusted with freckles, and her eyes, a shade of amber, held a softness that made her seem vulnerable yet resilient. She held herself with a subtle grace, her movements slow and cautious as she looked around, her gaze softening as she settled into the luxury of the room.
As they took their seats around the lavishly set table, Hans couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in the atmosphere he'd created for them. The meal was opulent, a far cry from the bland, nutrient-rich food of the void and corpse starch they likely knew all too well. Platters of roasted meat glistened with juices, accompanied by bowls of steaming vegetables and exotic fruits from far-off worlds. Rich, fragrant sauces and delicate pastries filled the air with a tantalizing aroma.
Sarai took a bite of the succulent meat, her eyes widening slightly as the flavor burst across her tongue, the white scar on her jaw moving as she chew. Leah leaned forward eagerly, tasting the thick, creamy soup with an indulgent moan of appreciation, her blonde curly hair framing her gestating expression, while Mira's shyness seemed to vanish as she savored each bite, her lips curling into a small smile, Her petite hands reached hesitantly for new dishes, as if she couldn't believe food this good could exist.
The conversation turned lively as they began to relax, each woman revealing glimpses of herself between bites and sips of fine wine. Leah cracked jokes, her laughter filling the room, while Cora eagerly recounted stories from the lower hives, drawing giggles from Mira and glances of mild amusement from the others. Nara, still wide-eyed, asked about every dish, as though each one were a mystery to be unraveled.
Hans watched them with a mix of amusement and intrigue, drawn to the way they each responded to this rare moment of luxury. As the meal wound down, he extended an invitation for any who wished to stay and share the evening further. He'd offered them a choice, and he meant it. None would be forced to remain, and for the first time, perhaps, they had the freedom to choose.
Some glanced at each other, uncertain, while others looked at him with a newfound curiosity. Leah met his gaze directly, a playful spark in her eye, while Mira gave him a soft, almost shy nod. Iona's smile was faint but genuine, a rare moment of warmth from a woman who seemed to guard herself fiercely.
Iris stand up, first gazing at the women leaving the room, than at Mira, in a harsh, disapproving, yet protective way, and confirmed she was staying.
As the evening settled into intimacy, Hans found himself drawn to each woman's unique allure, the firelight casting a warm, flickering glow on their forms.
Sarai, with her lean, lithe frame and smooth, dark skin, moved gracefully in his arms, her quiet strength and poised elegance lending itself to a slow, sensual rhythm that seemed to stretch time itself.
Leah, bold and mischievous, pressed close to him, her golden curls spilling over her shoulders as she laughed softly in his ear, her body curving naturally to his with an ease that matched her playful spirit.
Mira, her slight frame almost ethereal in the low light, was more reserved, but her wide green eyes held a curiosity that matched her hesitant yet eager touch. Her slender fingers traced
gentle paths over his skin, each gesture filled with a shy sweetness that felt as delicate as her figure.
lona, on the other hand, was fiery and direct, her muscular form both commanding and responsive. Her
strength was evident in the way she wrapped herself around him, each movement deliberate, as though savoring every shared moment with intensity.
Cora, her compact, copper-toned body radiating warmth, was playfull yet attentive, her hands exploring freely as they intertwined, her laughter mingling with the soft sounds of the night. She shifted with an easy agility, her figure pressed close in a dance of mutual discovery.
Iris held herself with a serious, composed air, her intense gaze never wavering, even as her near-bare body seemed to defy her reserved nature. The bold, rainbow-colored thong and the small, crested stickers on her firm chest added a sharp, exciting contrast to her otherwise controlled presence, sparking something raw in Hans. Her eyes met his, steady, assessing, even as he ran his hands over her smooth skin. She softened-reluctantly, yet invitingly—as he pulled her close, his touch firmer, savoring the interplay between her discipline and the allure she hadn't chosen but wore all the same. Her breath quickened as his hands traveled lower, her controlled exterior slowly unraveling under his touch, yielding fully, as she gave herself to the moment, her serious demeanor dissolving in their shared, unrestrained ravenous movements.
As he was riding the moment with Iris, Mira came closer, dividing her attention and her care between Hans and Iris.
Each woman, in her own way, contributed to a tapestry of shared intimacy. They took turns and shared glances, the night unfolding like a quiet symphony of connection and warmth. Hans found himself lost in the ebb and flow of bodies and soft murmurs, each moment an exploration of the senses, a brief respite from the galaxy's harshness—a memory he would carry, treasured, into the stars.
Hans stirred in the dim light of the remaining candle, its flame casting soft shadows across the vast bed.
Beside him, Cora lay nestled against his side, her warmth pressing close, her curves fitting comfortably beneath his arm as her head rested on his chest, her breathing calm
and steady. On his other side was Leah, with her golden curls cascading over his shoulder, her skin soft against his, bringing a different kind of energy-a playful presence even in sleep.
lona lay belly-down further down the bed, her figure draped across his legs, one arm loosely around his knee, her face turned slightly into his hip.
Her unrestrained confidence, even in rest, brought a faint smile to Hans's lips, her body sprawled in a way that -spoke to her fiery spirit.
Mira and Iris had settled together at the far edge, arms loosely wrapped around one another, the quiet affection between them creating a calming scene. He felt the light brush of Mira's foot against his, and he marveled at her serene grace, contrast, with Iris's seriousness that even in sleep seemed to linger, both drawing him in with a quiet allure that was all their own.
The last woman, Sarai, rested toward the foot of the bed, her figure curled with a quiet strength that belied her softer side. Hans's gaze lingered on her, struck by her resilience and the subtle vulnerability that had surfaced over the evening: the scar on her jaw wasn't the only one the slavers of Necromunda gave her.
In this rare moment of peace, Hans felt a deep, conflicting surge of protectiveness and responsibility.
These were more than fleeting encounters; each woman had a
story, and he wondered if perhaps his role was to offer them something more than mere obligation.
————
[consequence, Hans is stress relieved -for some time-. He is slightly more decadent and starts to feel more self confident about his rejuvenated body]
Vote Option, Hans can keep a maximum of two among the six women as his personal Joy Girls, relieving him of stress when needed. They are technically slaves, as they would be if Hans were to send them back to the brothel, but, at least they can have a better life.
Hans (in addition or in alternative) can also set free two women, offering them either to open for them a stall so that they can build a profession. He can offer them to host them in his quarters (as guests) or buy them a house in a safe planet.
[X] keep max. two woman as personal Joy Girls {specify which ones}: permanently decreases stress, permanently increases decandence.
Joy girls will count as officers in terms luxory ratios consumed
[X] Free Max. two Joy Girls {specify which ones}: decreases guilt and decadence, no stress relief per se, unless one of them decides on her on volition (will roll in other turns) to become Hans' mistress. Will cost 2 kg of gold if we settle them in a feudal world, 1 ATC in Imperial world or if we loan them money to open a buisness inside the ship. Will cost as officers if they stay in his quarters.
[X] send back min. two Joy girls back to the ship's brothel, back eating corpse starch and taking care of horny crew members. This option is mandatory for at least two Joy Girls (Hans doesn't wanna appear as if he's hoarding too many crew resources). Can be more than two if we don't take the other options.
————
Will follow description of the mechanicus encounter, after rolling the dice, and vote if we wanna leave the system or not. Next turn.
Stay tuned.
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!
Rolling for how many junior magos explorators will join the expedition
Guess we are lucky!
We will have a senior Magus Explorator and his team of 4 junior.
Guess we are lucky!
We will have a senior Magus Explorator and his team of 4 junior.
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BobTheNinja
Sword of Possibility
- Location
- Multiverse Sector Texas
To be sure I'm reading the latest post correctly, did Lia, Nara, and Vera all elect to leave? Seeing as they weren't mentioned in the intimate proceedings?
BobTheNinja
Sword of Possibility
- Location
- Multiverse Sector Texas
Gotcha. I admit, I was hoping Vera would stick around, but ah well. In any case, here's my vote:
[X] One Mars-Pattern macrocannon shell
[X] Purchase 5 extra Mars-Pattern macrocannon shells (7500 ATC)
[X] Keep Leah as a personal Joy Girl: permanently decreases stress, permanently increases decadence.
[X] Free Iris and Mira, provide 2 ATC (1 for each) as a loan to open a business inside the ship: decreases guilt and decadence.
[X] Send the remaining three Joy Girls back to the ship's brothel. Pass along formal complements to their respective Joy-Masters for their pleasant company.
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Btw for things like decadence, stress, chaos corruption, I'm keeping secret stats.
(So that none is tempted to metagame or minimax).
(So that none is tempted to metagame or minimax).
[X] One Mars-Pattern macrocannon shell
[X] Purchase 5 extra Mars-Pattern macrocannon shells (7500 ATC)
[X] Keep Leah as a personal Joy Girl: permanently decreases stress, permanently increases decadence.
[X] Free Iris and Mira, provide 2 ATC (1 for each) as a loan to open a business inside the ship: decreases guilt and decadence.
[X] Send the remaining three Joy Girls back to the ship's brothel. Pass along formal complements to their respective Joy-Masters for their pleasant company.
[X] Purchase 5 extra Mars-Pattern macrocannon shells (7500 ATC)
[X] Keep Leah as a personal Joy Girl: permanently decreases stress, permanently increases decadence.
[X] Free Iris and Mira, provide 2 ATC (1 for each) as a loan to open a business inside the ship: decreases guilt and decadence.
[X] Send the remaining three Joy Girls back to the ship's brothel. Pass along formal complements to their respective Joy-Masters for their pleasant company.
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BobTheNinja
Sword of Possibility
- Location
- Multiverse Sector Texas
Er, just to bring it up in case you didn't notice, I think that Iris and Mira have a relationship, based on what I read. Sending them on separate paths would be pretty cruel.
After reading it again you're right, changing my vote to your plan.
40K, rogue trader, narrative “The Magus Explorator ensemble”
A quick note in his overlays:
"Lord Rogue Trader. I'm entering in your private quarters with the perspective Magus Explorator and their retinue"
Hans relayed a quick message to the troopers, instructing to let the Mechanicus pass.
Hans was sitting at his wodden desk, in his favorite private office (he had several in his private quarters) and was wearing a proto-silk rope, red and gold.
Hans shifted in his seat, studying each of the figures as they entered, uncertain of what to make of them. Callidus led the way, his usual air of controlled precision evident in the way he arranged himself before Hans, mechadendrites coiling with an almost thoughtful deliberation. Behind him, the others filed in—a strange, almost ceremonial procession of metal and flesh that held Hans's attention in a way few things could. They seemed not just armored but encased in purpose.
Callidus inclined his head slightly, the low hum of his voice laced with a hint of pride. "Lord Zimmerman, I present the team chosen with precision for this endeavor. These Magi are dedicated, each a specialist in their field, sworn to the Omnissiah's light and your Warrant's mission. Their knowledge of ancient liturgies is deep and their intellect is shinier than their metallic skins"
Mechanical laughter.
Typical Callidus humor.
The towering figure of the senior Magus Explorator stepped forward first, overtaking Callidus. His suit gleamed in the dim light, thickly plated and robust, as if he were a diver ready to plunge into an alien ocean. A respirator mask covered most of his face, with only a glimpse of skin around his nose and mouth, giving a faint glimpse of the man behind the machine. His voice, deep and metallic, filtered through his respirator with a low hum. "Lord Rogue Trader," he greeted with a faint incline of his head. "I am Senior-Magus-Explorator Rallax. My presence assures your mission the resilience of steel—and the loyalty of the Omnissiah's faithful."
Hans stared at Rallax's pendant: an ornate Cog Mechanicus emblem, its finely wrought skull split by the black-and-white halves of the cog. From the hollowed eye sockets, dancing live flames, almost like an illusion trick, but they seemed real.
Rallax noticed the Rogue Trader's gaze: "This Ornament is Holy: it's called Gnosis, and the flames are controlled by intricate, philosophically inclined machine spirits. Being awarded with one is a great honor for a Magus Explorator."
"Your augmentations are peculiar, they seem … bulkier than other mechanicus I have seen before" noticed Hans.
"This Body is built to withstand extreme environmental conditions: heat, cold, deep ocean, hard radiations, and even warp energy. I maintain only my organic brain, because organic neurons typically outperforms cogitators in terms of lateral thinking, respiratory system, for brain oxygenation, nostrils and tongue as additional chemical analyzers -you couldn't guess how hard is to build a good mechanical interface encoding smells. This body is a great assist in my specialty: exploration of extreme environments ."
Next to step forward was a figure who immediately drew Hans's attention with her eerie grace. She was tall, her limbs slender and lined with silvered plating that caught the light in subtle, quick glints. Her movements were precise, almost predatory, and when her optics adjusted, they zoomed in on Hans like the eye of a hawk. She inclined her head slightly, voice low and clear. "I am Magos Eryka," she said, her voice cool but almost intimate. "I specialize in tactical and anatomical analysis. Efficiency in unknown variables." Her fingers flexed slightly, as though testing the air.
The third, Magos Calyx, was a stark contrast. Androgynous, they wore a matte-black casing that seemed to swallow the light, an oblong visor scrolling streams of code across its smooth surface. Calyx didn't speak immediately, their visor flashing as if calibrating, and then they nodded to Hans, voice soft but metallic. "Magos Calyx, Lord Rogue Trader. Linguistics, data translation, and… anomalies." There was a pause, and Hans caught a glimpse of something almost contemplative in the way their visor pulsed, as though sizing him up.
The next junior member, Magos Lhoris, had an unassuming frame compared to the others, his mechadendrites fine and delicate, almost like the tendrils of a plant rather than hardened metal. His expression was hidden beneath a simple, closed mask that emitted a soft, pulsing green light from the eyes. His voice was unexpectedly melodic for a Mechanicus. "Lord Zimmerman," he began, bowing slightly. "I am Magos Lhoris, a botanist and biotechnician. I specialize in synthesizing biological compounds—many might prove… useful, in places unwelcoming to the living." He folded his mechadendrites carefully, as if in reverence.
The final figure moved forward with an unmistakable weight and presence, each step seeming to thud against the floor. His limbs, piston-driven and powerful, gave him a bulk that bordered on intimidating. This Magos' voice was a rumble, deep and grounded. "Virn," he stated simply, giving a respectful nod. "Mechanical reinforcement and blunt-force troubleshooting."
Behind them lumbered the ogryn servitor, a hulking creature of muscle and metal, its flesh melded awkwardly with augmetics, with one massive clawed arm and a crude augmetic eye that whirred slightly as it took in the room. It grunted, a hollow, mindless sound as it stood by the door, awaiting orders.
Hans watched them closely, trying to gauge each figure—where discipline met fervor, where machine met flesh. These were no mere crewmen; they were seekers, each in their own way.
He leaned forward, clearing his throat. "Welcome," he said simply, meeting each of their gazes, or optics, as best he could. "You've all committed to the unknown. And here, the unknown is exactly where we're headed."
Hans shifted slightly, resting his hands on the wooden desk, feeling its smooth, polished grain beneath his fingers. The familiarity of it grounded him, contrasting sharply with the towering mechanized figures before him. He took a slow breath, glancing from face to masked face, optics whirring and mechadendrites twitching, each of them distinct, yet joined by a collective purpose.
"Callidus," Hans addressed the ship's Enginseer, who stood close to him, silent yet watchful. "You've assembled an… impressive group."
Callidus inclined his head slightly, his metallic voice resonating with an almost paternal pride. "The Omnissiah has guided their paths to your service, Lord Captain. Each brings a piece of the sacred knowledge required for our mission—a carefully calibrated ensemble."
Hans nodded, turning his attention to the group. "I won't lie. The journey ahead is unlike any you've likely faced. There are places where even the Mechanicus has yet to set foot, worlds where the rules—those you understand and uphold—may not apply." He paused, letting his words settle, noting how Eryka's optics narrowed slightly, Virn's mechadendrites tightening as if anticipating the challenge.
"Lord Captain," Rallax's deep, humming voice broke the silence, his words carefully chosen, like bolts sliding into place. "It is the very nature of exploration to embrace the unknown, to allow the machine's might to bend, rather than break. My team and I are not strangers to extremities, nor to the limits of our own constructs. We were built to withstand and to adapt, should we be met with forces beyond calculation."
Hans nodded, impressed by the gravitas of the man's words. Rallax, it seemed, was more than a strategist; he was a force of absolute dedication, a kind of steel-clad priest-warrior. Yet, Hans knew there would be more than resilience needed where they were going.
"And yet," Hans continued, glancing over at Eryka, who held herself with a tense, predatory readiness, "the path we're taking may demand more than mechanical fortitude. It might require interpretation, nuance—qualities that don't come pre-programmed." He looked to Calyx, whose visor flashed in response.
"Lord Captain," Calyx's soft, metallic voice responded, "interpretation is not merely an anomaly—it is the lens through which data becomes insight. We are prepared to analyze any form of deviation, as necessary." They gave a slight nod, and Hans caught a glimpse of curiosity hidden beneath that ever-shifting visor.
Lhoris, the botanist, stepped forward, his mechadendrites folded in a manner almost like a bow. "Lord Zimmerman," he began, his melodic voice oddly calming in the charged atmosphere. "It may not be merely metal and flesh that we contend with on such worlds. My expertise in synthesizing compounds could be… indispensable in crafting environmental resistances, should the need arise."
Hans felt a pang of admiration for their adaptability, how each of them seemed a finely tuned instrument, ready to meet challenges beyond the known. And yet, a hint of skepticism flickered at the edges of his thoughts. As brilliant as these Mechanicus minds were, he couldn't help but wonder—had they faced a realm that could shift their very foundations, a place that operated beyond logic?
He leaned back, crossing his arms, and allowed a slight smile. "Well, I'm grateful for your confidence," he said, his tone layered with both irony and sincerity. "I expect you'll each have moments to prove it. And as we travel, I encourage… flexibility. Some things we're about to encounter, I'm guessing, aren't going to be found in any archive."
The silence in the room lingered, a kind of focused stillness that felt more sacred than awkward. They were, after all, Mechanicus—questions would be asked, but only after calculations and probabilities were quietly assessed. Then, finally, it was Calyx who spoke, their visor flickering with shifting lights as they processed.
"Lord Captain," they intoned, voice soft yet edged with an inherent analytical sharpness. "What exactly do you mean by 'beyond logic'? You imply challenges more… fundamental than alien worlds."
Hans met Calyx's visor. The flickering lights held an inquisitive hunger that he recognized in himself from his engineer days. He hesitated, the words tangling in his mind as he weighed just how much to reveal. Would they understand the multiversal nature of the warp drive? Or would they recoil at the implications?
"No," he finally said, leaning back and crossing his arms, keeping his gaze steady. "For now, I only mean that we're venturing far from the mapped routes of the Imperium—exploring the kinds of places untouched since the Dark Age of Technology. That alone should prove more than enough of a challenge."
Rallax nodded slowly, the hydraulic hum of his augmented neck the only sound breaking the quiet. "New warp routes… remnants of ancient pathways," he said, his voice almost reverent. "To seek the edges of the Imperium's maps… and beyond."
Hans inclined his head, allowing just the hint of a smile. "Precisely."
Eryka, whose keen optics had been watching him with the narrowed focus of a predator assessing prey, took a step forward, hands clasped behind her back in a rigid posture. "If I may, Lord Captain," she began, "why should we join you? There are other Rogue Traders seeking exploration and discovery. What makes this voyage different?" Her tone was level, but Hans could hear the unspoken weight of her question. They were Mechanicus Explorators, not ones to follow blindly.
Hans took a breath, considering his response. He didn't want to lie outright, but the truth—about his unique warp drive and its capabilities—was a delicate matter. He met their expectant gazes, feeling the weight of their questions settling like a challenge.
"My warp drive," he said finally, voice low and deliberate, "is… unique. Enhanced to venture further than most, it can access routes lost to time, ones that could unveil wonders—wonders untouched since the days of our ancestors, since the dark ages."
A ripple of understanding passed through them, the flickers of their optics intensifying. In their mechanical hearts, curiosity and ambition warred with caution. Hans could see it: the yearning to tread where none had before, tempered by the relentless logic of their code. He was offering them a rare doorway to the unknown, and for the Mechanicus, there were few prospects more irresistible.
The room settled into a hum of subtle, calculated excitement as Hans's words sank in. Each Mechanicus member stood motionless, processing the implications. For a moment, the flickering lights from their optics cast a ghostly dance across the walls, a silent but visible reflection of the gears turning within their minds.
Rallax was the first to break the silence, his voice a gravelly blend of curiosity and anticipation. "To rediscover lost routes… to lay claim to secrets forgotten since the Dark Age. It is… worthy."
Calyx nodded, their voice steadier, tinged with a sense of awe. "Yes. Lord Captain, this is the calling we have sought. To reawaken the knowledge dormant within the stars, to touch that which others cannot. It is… as it should be."
Eryka's expression softened beneath her mask, a subtle shift, but it was there. She leaned forward slightly, her optics narrowed as if examining Hans anew. "You offer us not just a mission, Lord Captain, but purpose," she said. "And that, we cannot refuse."
One by one, they each gave a nod of solemn agreement, their mechanized bodies stiff but filled with a silent sense of reverence. It was in that moment Hans knew—he had won them. The fires of ambition and the devotion to the machine burned bright within them, and with the promise he had laid before them, they were his.
"Lord Rogue Trader. I'm entering in your private quarters with the perspective Magus Explorator and their retinue"
Hans relayed a quick message to the troopers, instructing to let the Mechanicus pass.
Hans was sitting at his wodden desk, in his favorite private office (he had several in his private quarters) and was wearing a proto-silk rope, red and gold.
Hans shifted in his seat, studying each of the figures as they entered, uncertain of what to make of them. Callidus led the way, his usual air of controlled precision evident in the way he arranged himself before Hans, mechadendrites coiling with an almost thoughtful deliberation. Behind him, the others filed in—a strange, almost ceremonial procession of metal and flesh that held Hans's attention in a way few things could. They seemed not just armored but encased in purpose.
Callidus inclined his head slightly, the low hum of his voice laced with a hint of pride. "Lord Zimmerman, I present the team chosen with precision for this endeavor. These Magi are dedicated, each a specialist in their field, sworn to the Omnissiah's light and your Warrant's mission. Their knowledge of ancient liturgies is deep and their intellect is shinier than their metallic skins"
Mechanical laughter.
Typical Callidus humor.
The towering figure of the senior Magus Explorator stepped forward first, overtaking Callidus. His suit gleamed in the dim light, thickly plated and robust, as if he were a diver ready to plunge into an alien ocean. A respirator mask covered most of his face, with only a glimpse of skin around his nose and mouth, giving a faint glimpse of the man behind the machine. His voice, deep and metallic, filtered through his respirator with a low hum. "Lord Rogue Trader," he greeted with a faint incline of his head. "I am Senior-Magus-Explorator Rallax. My presence assures your mission the resilience of steel—and the loyalty of the Omnissiah's faithful."
Hans stared at Rallax's pendant: an ornate Cog Mechanicus emblem, its finely wrought skull split by the black-and-white halves of the cog. From the hollowed eye sockets, dancing live flames, almost like an illusion trick, but they seemed real.
Rallax noticed the Rogue Trader's gaze: "This Ornament is Holy: it's called Gnosis, and the flames are controlled by intricate, philosophically inclined machine spirits. Being awarded with one is a great honor for a Magus Explorator."
"Your augmentations are peculiar, they seem … bulkier than other mechanicus I have seen before" noticed Hans.
"This Body is built to withstand extreme environmental conditions: heat, cold, deep ocean, hard radiations, and even warp energy. I maintain only my organic brain, because organic neurons typically outperforms cogitators in terms of lateral thinking, respiratory system, for brain oxygenation, nostrils and tongue as additional chemical analyzers -you couldn't guess how hard is to build a good mechanical interface encoding smells. This body is a great assist in my specialty: exploration of extreme environments ."
Next to step forward was a figure who immediately drew Hans's attention with her eerie grace. She was tall, her limbs slender and lined with silvered plating that caught the light in subtle, quick glints. Her movements were precise, almost predatory, and when her optics adjusted, they zoomed in on Hans like the eye of a hawk. She inclined her head slightly, voice low and clear. "I am Magos Eryka," she said, her voice cool but almost intimate. "I specialize in tactical and anatomical analysis. Efficiency in unknown variables." Her fingers flexed slightly, as though testing the air.
The third, Magos Calyx, was a stark contrast. Androgynous, they wore a matte-black casing that seemed to swallow the light, an oblong visor scrolling streams of code across its smooth surface. Calyx didn't speak immediately, their visor flashing as if calibrating, and then they nodded to Hans, voice soft but metallic. "Magos Calyx, Lord Rogue Trader. Linguistics, data translation, and… anomalies." There was a pause, and Hans caught a glimpse of something almost contemplative in the way their visor pulsed, as though sizing him up.
The next junior member, Magos Lhoris, had an unassuming frame compared to the others, his mechadendrites fine and delicate, almost like the tendrils of a plant rather than hardened metal. His expression was hidden beneath a simple, closed mask that emitted a soft, pulsing green light from the eyes. His voice was unexpectedly melodic for a Mechanicus. "Lord Zimmerman," he began, bowing slightly. "I am Magos Lhoris, a botanist and biotechnician. I specialize in synthesizing biological compounds—many might prove… useful, in places unwelcoming to the living." He folded his mechadendrites carefully, as if in reverence.
The final figure moved forward with an unmistakable weight and presence, each step seeming to thud against the floor. His limbs, piston-driven and powerful, gave him a bulk that bordered on intimidating. This Magos' voice was a rumble, deep and grounded. "Virn," he stated simply, giving a respectful nod. "Mechanical reinforcement and blunt-force troubleshooting."
Behind them lumbered the ogryn servitor, a hulking creature of muscle and metal, its flesh melded awkwardly with augmetics, with one massive clawed arm and a crude augmetic eye that whirred slightly as it took in the room. It grunted, a hollow, mindless sound as it stood by the door, awaiting orders.
Hans watched them closely, trying to gauge each figure—where discipline met fervor, where machine met flesh. These were no mere crewmen; they were seekers, each in their own way.
He leaned forward, clearing his throat. "Welcome," he said simply, meeting each of their gazes, or optics, as best he could. "You've all committed to the unknown. And here, the unknown is exactly where we're headed."
Hans shifted slightly, resting his hands on the wooden desk, feeling its smooth, polished grain beneath his fingers. The familiarity of it grounded him, contrasting sharply with the towering mechanized figures before him. He took a slow breath, glancing from face to masked face, optics whirring and mechadendrites twitching, each of them distinct, yet joined by a collective purpose.
"Callidus," Hans addressed the ship's Enginseer, who stood close to him, silent yet watchful. "You've assembled an… impressive group."
Callidus inclined his head slightly, his metallic voice resonating with an almost paternal pride. "The Omnissiah has guided their paths to your service, Lord Captain. Each brings a piece of the sacred knowledge required for our mission—a carefully calibrated ensemble."
Hans nodded, turning his attention to the group. "I won't lie. The journey ahead is unlike any you've likely faced. There are places where even the Mechanicus has yet to set foot, worlds where the rules—those you understand and uphold—may not apply." He paused, letting his words settle, noting how Eryka's optics narrowed slightly, Virn's mechadendrites tightening as if anticipating the challenge.
"Lord Captain," Rallax's deep, humming voice broke the silence, his words carefully chosen, like bolts sliding into place. "It is the very nature of exploration to embrace the unknown, to allow the machine's might to bend, rather than break. My team and I are not strangers to extremities, nor to the limits of our own constructs. We were built to withstand and to adapt, should we be met with forces beyond calculation."
Hans nodded, impressed by the gravitas of the man's words. Rallax, it seemed, was more than a strategist; he was a force of absolute dedication, a kind of steel-clad priest-warrior. Yet, Hans knew there would be more than resilience needed where they were going.
"And yet," Hans continued, glancing over at Eryka, who held herself with a tense, predatory readiness, "the path we're taking may demand more than mechanical fortitude. It might require interpretation, nuance—qualities that don't come pre-programmed." He looked to Calyx, whose visor flashed in response.
"Lord Captain," Calyx's soft, metallic voice responded, "interpretation is not merely an anomaly—it is the lens through which data becomes insight. We are prepared to analyze any form of deviation, as necessary." They gave a slight nod, and Hans caught a glimpse of curiosity hidden beneath that ever-shifting visor.
Lhoris, the botanist, stepped forward, his mechadendrites folded in a manner almost like a bow. "Lord Zimmerman," he began, his melodic voice oddly calming in the charged atmosphere. "It may not be merely metal and flesh that we contend with on such worlds. My expertise in synthesizing compounds could be… indispensable in crafting environmental resistances, should the need arise."
Hans felt a pang of admiration for their adaptability, how each of them seemed a finely tuned instrument, ready to meet challenges beyond the known. And yet, a hint of skepticism flickered at the edges of his thoughts. As brilliant as these Mechanicus minds were, he couldn't help but wonder—had they faced a realm that could shift their very foundations, a place that operated beyond logic?
He leaned back, crossing his arms, and allowed a slight smile. "Well, I'm grateful for your confidence," he said, his tone layered with both irony and sincerity. "I expect you'll each have moments to prove it. And as we travel, I encourage… flexibility. Some things we're about to encounter, I'm guessing, aren't going to be found in any archive."
The silence in the room lingered, a kind of focused stillness that felt more sacred than awkward. They were, after all, Mechanicus—questions would be asked, but only after calculations and probabilities were quietly assessed. Then, finally, it was Calyx who spoke, their visor flickering with shifting lights as they processed.
"Lord Captain," they intoned, voice soft yet edged with an inherent analytical sharpness. "What exactly do you mean by 'beyond logic'? You imply challenges more… fundamental than alien worlds."
Hans met Calyx's visor. The flickering lights held an inquisitive hunger that he recognized in himself from his engineer days. He hesitated, the words tangling in his mind as he weighed just how much to reveal. Would they understand the multiversal nature of the warp drive? Or would they recoil at the implications?
"No," he finally said, leaning back and crossing his arms, keeping his gaze steady. "For now, I only mean that we're venturing far from the mapped routes of the Imperium—exploring the kinds of places untouched since the Dark Age of Technology. That alone should prove more than enough of a challenge."
Rallax nodded slowly, the hydraulic hum of his augmented neck the only sound breaking the quiet. "New warp routes… remnants of ancient pathways," he said, his voice almost reverent. "To seek the edges of the Imperium's maps… and beyond."
Hans inclined his head, allowing just the hint of a smile. "Precisely."
Eryka, whose keen optics had been watching him with the narrowed focus of a predator assessing prey, took a step forward, hands clasped behind her back in a rigid posture. "If I may, Lord Captain," she began, "why should we join you? There are other Rogue Traders seeking exploration and discovery. What makes this voyage different?" Her tone was level, but Hans could hear the unspoken weight of her question. They were Mechanicus Explorators, not ones to follow blindly.
Hans took a breath, considering his response. He didn't want to lie outright, but the truth—about his unique warp drive and its capabilities—was a delicate matter. He met their expectant gazes, feeling the weight of their questions settling like a challenge.
"My warp drive," he said finally, voice low and deliberate, "is… unique. Enhanced to venture further than most, it can access routes lost to time, ones that could unveil wonders—wonders untouched since the days of our ancestors, since the dark ages."
A ripple of understanding passed through them, the flickers of their optics intensifying. In their mechanical hearts, curiosity and ambition warred with caution. Hans could see it: the yearning to tread where none had before, tempered by the relentless logic of their code. He was offering them a rare doorway to the unknown, and for the Mechanicus, there were few prospects more irresistible.
The room settled into a hum of subtle, calculated excitement as Hans's words sank in. Each Mechanicus member stood motionless, processing the implications. For a moment, the flickering lights from their optics cast a ghostly dance across the walls, a silent but visible reflection of the gears turning within their minds.
Rallax was the first to break the silence, his voice a gravelly blend of curiosity and anticipation. "To rediscover lost routes… to lay claim to secrets forgotten since the Dark Age. It is… worthy."
Calyx nodded, their voice steadier, tinged with a sense of awe. "Yes. Lord Captain, this is the calling we have sought. To reawaken the knowledge dormant within the stars, to touch that which others cannot. It is… as it should be."
Eryka's expression softened beneath her mask, a subtle shift, but it was there. She leaned forward slightly, her optics narrowed as if examining Hans anew. "You offer us not just a mission, Lord Captain, but purpose," she said. "And that, we cannot refuse."
One by one, they each gave a nod of solemn agreement, their mechanized bodies stiff but filled with a silent sense of reverence. It was in that moment Hans knew—he had won them. The fires of ambition and the devotion to the machine burned bright within them, and with the promise he had laid before them, they were his.
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Will follow resource count update after the turn, in the meantime (still in moratorium), but discuss if you wanna leave Armageddon in next turn, as of now options should be: back to necromunda, Eremos (if we use one action to have dinner with Gemmo Flickster), Middle Earth, Westeros, the unknown pirate base 58ly from Armageddon, anywhere in the canonical armageddon sector Armageddon sector and pirate base will require calculated jumps, not the multiversal warp drive
BobTheNinja
Sword of Possibility
- Location
- Multiverse Sector Texas
I think our first order of business should be tracking down and dealing with the pirate vessel Black Boa, as that will net us significant resources to stock up for longer operations, as well as serve as a dry run before our first multiversal expedition.
And in any case, I want to fulfill our promise to the Navy as soon as possible, or else it could cause problems for us later.
And in any case, I want to fulfill our promise to the Navy as soon as possible, or else it could cause problems for us later.
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I believe we should fulfill our obligation to the Navy ASAP.
Yeah let's fullfill our promise/obligation to the Navy first. It will be good to not have that hanging over our heads, to say nothing of the possible loot, plus we may get a habitable planet/moon for us to drop off our colonists as well as reserve for our Old Bears. About as good place for our first colony as most in universe.
[X] Spend another turn in Armageddon
[X] Leave for the Mandeville point (destination vote in next full turn)
[X] Leave for the Mandeville point (destination vote in next full turn)
!