NPCYou sink your teeth into the greasy morsel and deftly nibble it to the bone in front of the entire court, which watches you with morbid fascination.
Governor Ruoldo"Magnificent! Not even the rock serpentid that recently ate our cobbler could match you. Unlike Your Celestial Highness, it spent five entire suns chewing through him!" The governor toasts you excitedly.
YOU"Now that we have had some refreshments, let us talk."
Governor Ruoldo"Verily, Your Celestial Highness!" He reaches his ring-studded hand for the goblet, but stops at the sound of Maive's voice.
Maive"My lord! Remember what the physician told you: temperance is the best cure for your ailments! I fear that you have disobeyed his wishes again today."
Governor Ruoldo"And now, I am paying for it with a compromised sense of balance and a regrettable inability to admire the disguised impostors... And the hunt is already in full swing!"
SolomorneSolomorne leans over to you: "Rogue Trader, once you've had your fill of the governor, let me ask him a few questions."
YOU"What is this hunt you mentioned?"
Governor RuoldoRuoldo waves a hand at Maive: "Be a darling and tell our guest about our amusements. I am a little... exhausted."
Maive"Of course, my lord. The Impostor Hunt takes place every moonlife. Shortly before the event, the servants are thoroughly cleansed of dirt and foulness, combed, dressed in expensive clothing and masks, and invited into the courtyard with the rest of the guests. The nobles hide their faces as well, and then, they try to guess who the impostors are. Telling one from the other is quite a challenge, sometimes."
Governor RuoldoThe governor suddenly perks up again. "And that is the best part! I highly recommend you try it, Your Celestial Highness. It makes for a very interesting change of pace. And, on this occasion, the privilege of branding, if you will, falls entirely to you, our honoured celestial guest."
YOU"What is this hunt you mentioned?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Another local pastime? Very well. I hope it is not as pathetic as the last one."
Governor RuoldoRuoldo waves a hand at Maive: "Be a darling and tell our guest about our amusements. I am a little... exhausted."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Suppose I found all the impostors. What happens next?"
MaiveMaive produces a shimmering slate featuring a string of fine inscriptions. "This is a data-brand — one of our off-world treasures. We handle it with the greatest care. And yet, all of Thassera's jewels and miracles cannot compare to the resplendence of your glory, my Celestial Lord/Lady. When you find an impostor, you need only mark them with this wondrous brand."
NPC(sequence)
Pasqal"Analysing... This brand is the property of the Idex-Venteris food factory. It was used to mark the meat of high-protein specimens of the planet's fauna. The inscription in proto-Gothic translates to: 'grox on corpse-feed.'"
JaeJae huffs gloomily. "A revelation like that puts a whole new perspective on this quaint little game."
end of branch
Maive"At the end of the hunt, we hold a great feast. If you guess at least one of the impostors, you will also win a fine prize. If you guess all four, there will be an even more special reward. I remember, at one of the hunts, a servant played the role of a baron so well that all the lords unanimously granted him favour and let him keep the title and privileges of the nobility. Such a thing rarely happens, but... who knows what the evening will bring, for tonight, it is you who will determine the worthy, my Celestial Lord/Lady."
Solomorne"Did you just admit that there is masquerading rabble among the Thasserian nobles? Illiterate, with no idea how to collect tithes or... By the Throne, that actually explains so much." The Proctor scoffs and glances at the enthusiastic guests. "Go ahead, Governor. Commence your charade. The sooner we start, the sooner we finish."
Governor RuoldoThe governor lets out an audible gulp. "It shall be done, Master Judicator."
YOU"What is this hunt you mentioned?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Another local pastime? Very well. I hope it is not as pathetic as the last one."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Suppose I found all the impostors. What happens next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"How does one find an impostor in the crowd?"
Maive"By the way they talk, by their lack of restraint — the unfamiliar delicacies overwhelm them so much that they lose control. Impostors are often scared of the responsibility that has fallen on their weak shoulders, and they try to stay close to the real nobles and imitate their rarefied manners. During the hunt, it is most worthwhile to pay attention to separate groups where conversation has already started — a frightened impostor will probably try to hide behind other people's backs... That's all I know, Celestial Lord/Lady."
YOU"What is this hunt you mentioned?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Another local pastime? Very well. I hope it is not as pathetic as the last one."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Suppose I found all the impostors. What happens next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"How does one find an impostor in the crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."
Governor Ruoldo"If I can amuse the esteemed judicator with conversation, I will be only too glad to..."
Solomorne"But of course. I have always wanted to try my hand at casual small talk." Solomorne folds his arms imperiously over his chest, somehow becoming even taller in stature and broader in the shoulders. "Tell me about the laceraxes, Governor. Such fascinating creatures — where did you get them from?"
Governor Ruoldo"I cannot tell you off the top of my head. Are there not many planets that have laceraxes? I received these beasts a long time ago as a gift."
YOU"Solomorne, are you sure this is small talk and not an interrogation?"
Solomorne"Do not judge me harshly. I am just trying to get into the festive mood as best I can. We can certainly change the subject. I would like to note that I find your youth-extending face transplant procedure amazing. Does Thassera possess any other unique knowledge or items brought over from your homeworld? What is that world called, by the way?"
Governor Ruoldo"Ah, my native Idesk... Idex. Unfortunately, I have not introduced much from it beyond the art of changing faces. But perhaps the Celestial Lord/Lady has taken a liking to some of Thassera's original creations?"
YOU"Truly, I cannot say. I think I quite enjoyed the local fashion. Maybe I should take a few costumes away with me."
Governor Ruoldo"They are not exactly Idexian garments, but who cares? Just say the word, and the hold of your celestial vessel will soon be bursting with Thasserian vestments. After the celebration, of course."
Solomorne"I was interested in the musical servitors. They could only have been brought to you by the crimson priests, correct? Can you tell me why they visited the planet?"
Governor Ruoldo"What?" A shrimperius wriggles free of the governor's fork and drops into his goblet. "Yes, it was foreigners who delivered the mechanical musicians... I'm sure I have not mentioned them yet..."
Governor Ruoldo"Ehm, I think they were the red robes who arrived to celebrate the ascendance of a new governor. That's me." Ruoldo's wistful gaze follows a shrimperius fleeing the table.
YOU"Your answers are rather reticent and tentative, Ruoldo — almost as if you were merely a chance passer-by and not the governor."
Governor RuoldoThe man's face becomes stretched to the limit on its fastenings, signalling deep offence. "My Celestial Lord/Lady! I ask that you do not insult me so! I may not be used to having such lofty conversations, but believe me: I am definitely the governor of Thassera!"
Solomorne"I would never question your title, Governor." Solomorne gives you a long look. "And the Rogue Trader hardly wishes to offend you either."
Solomorne"Thank you for the conversation, Governor. I have learned everything I wanted to know."
YOU"Garra?"
Governor Ruoldo"My darling pet. She is guarding the shrimperiuses. Every once in a while, she gets an allowance in the form of alcedont bones."
YOU"Garra?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What has it done wrong?"
Governor Ruoldo"She almost ripped off my finger along with a slice of alcedont. It's my fault for forgetting they're predators, albeit domesticated ones."
Solomorne"You have reduced a beast, born to hunt and kill, to a domesticated pet. Without purpose and discipline, both man and animal alike are destined for degradation." Solomorne nods at Glaito, who is completely unfazed by the multitude of delicacies. "See? This is the level of obedience and dignity we should strive for."
YOU"Garra?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What has it done wrong?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What if you too are an impostor, Ruoldo?"
Governor Ruoldo"Your Celestial Highness, how can you say such a thing! I have never even seen a lowborn village up close. They are cowering down there, thank the God-Emperor." The governor empties another goblet brought to him by the servants. "Fetch us more amasec! Now! What are you looking at? Go, go! Useless layabouts..."
YOU"Garra?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What has it done wrong?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What if you too are an impostor, Ruoldo?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They say people go missing after the Impostor Hunt. What do you make of this?"
Governor Ruoldo"Your Celestial Highness must have been listening to a lot of gossip. Who cares where the rabble goes afterward? However, I can assure you that the victors are often sent into my personal service. We call it the Highest Favour, and today, it will be up to you to choose whom it should be bestowed upon!"
YOU"I have concluded my search."
Governor Ruoldo"Delightful! I will immediately summon the court for a final celebration of hypocrisy! And who knows: perhaps, today, one of the impostors will be lucky enough to earn your favour."
end of branch
YOU"I am not done yet."
Governor Ruoldo"I understand, Your Celestial Highness! As our nobles say, measure thy torture ten times; thou canst behead a man but once."
Solomorne"It would be a good adage if not for the local mores. I bet there are at least five course changes between torture and execution on Thassera, and with music."
end of branch
YOU"My time is too precious for me to waste it on rabble. Announce the end of the hunt and let us get down to business."
Governor Ruoldo"I hear and immediately obey, Your Celestial Highness!"
end of branch
YOU[Gesture toward Solomorne] "I have grown tired of these savages. Deal with him."
Solomorne"With pleasure. Cut the festivities, Governor. It is time to discuss the tithe."
Governor Ruoldo"I hear and immediately obey, Your Celestial Highness!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."
Governor Ruoldo"Of course, of course... Stop the music! His Celestial Highness/Her Celestial Highness wishes silence!" The half-mechanised orchestra creaks to a halt, staring straight ahead with unseeing eyes.
YOU"Garra?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What has it done wrong?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What if you too are an impostor, Ruoldo?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They say people go missing after the Impostor Hunt. What do you make of this?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have concluded my search."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am not done yet."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"My time is too precious for me to waste it on rabble. Announce the end of the hunt and let us get down to business."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Gesture toward Solomorne] "I have grown tired of these savages. Deal with him."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."
Governor RuoldoThe governor claps his hands readily. "Orchestra, music!"
YOU"Garra?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What has it done wrong?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What if you too are an impostor, Ruoldo?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They say people go missing after the Impostor Hunt. What do you make of this?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have concluded my search."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am not done yet."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"My time is too precious for me to waste it on rabble. Announce the end of the hunt and let us get down to business."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Gesture toward Solomorne] "I have grown tired of these savages. Deal with him."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They say people go missing after the Impostor Hunt. What do you make of this?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have concluded my search."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am not done yet."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"My time is too precious for me to waste it on rabble. Announce the end of the hunt and let us get down to business."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Gesture toward Solomorne] "I have grown tired of these savages. Deal with him."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
NPC(sequence)
Yrliet"You see a beast devoid of free will as an example to follow? All I see is a broken spirit bound in the chains of cruelty."
end of branch
Kibellah"If your blade does not obey your hand, it may one day pierce your throat." Kibellah's words cause the governor to shudder.
end of branch
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What if you too are an impostor, Ruoldo?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They say people go missing after the Impostor Hunt. What do you make of this?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have concluded my search."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am not done yet."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"My time is too precious for me to waste it on rabble. Announce the end of the hunt and let us get down to business."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Gesture toward Solomorne] "I have grown tired of these savages. Deal with him."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What has it done wrong?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What if you too are an impostor, Ruoldo?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They say people go missing after the Impostor Hunt. What do you make of this?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have concluded my search."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am not done yet."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"My time is too precious for me to waste it on rabble. Announce the end of the hunt and let us get down to business."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Gesture toward Solomorne] "I have grown tired of these savages. Deal with him."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What is this hunt you mentioned?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Another local pastime? Very well. I hope it is not as pathetic as the last one."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Suppose I found all the impostors. What happens next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"How does one find an impostor in the crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will participate in the hunt."
Governor Ruoldo"Marvellous! As soon as you are done with your search, I will be..." The governor attempts to rise from the table, but gravity proves to be his superior.
Maive"Perhaps you should stay here, my lord?" Maive's gaze is full of genuine concern.
Governor Ruoldo"I feel you may be right, Maive. I will be waiting here, surrounded by savoury dishes and plentiful amasec. Have a fruitful hunt, Your Celestial Highness!"
end of branch
YOU"I wish to move on to discussing the tithe as quickly as possible."
Governor RuoldoThe governor shakes his head sadly. "Oh, what a shame! But perhaps you would at least—"
Solomorne"Would you rather I question you instead of the Rogue Trader? Be advised, I am a man of action, not words."
Governor Ruoldo"Then, we are about to have the shortest Impostor Hunt in Thassera's history! Straight to the finale, just as you ordered!"
end of branch
YOU"I have neither the time nor the inclination to entertain your rabble. The tithe, Governor — I am only interested in the tithe."
Governor RuoldoThe governor shakes his head sadly. "Oh, what a shame! But perhaps you would at least—"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Glance indifferently at the governor and roll your eyes]
Governor Ruoldo"I think I remember... In the treatise 'The Silent Language of Celestial Lords: Reading Their Gestures,' it is said, 'If His or Her Highness first turns their countenance upon you and only then toward the heavens, you have spoken well and are blessed to proceed.' Verily, it is heartening to know that you uphold our traditions and agree to participate in the hunt, Your Celestial Highness! Maive, present the data-brand! Please return when you have found all the impostors!"
Maive"I am afraid there was a second, less flattering interpretation in that book... which I cannot recall. May you enjoy the hunt, my lord/lady!" Maive adds humbly.
end of branch
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."
Governor Ruoldo"Of course, of course... Stop the music! His Celestial Highness/Her Celestial Highness wishes silence!" The half-mechanised orchestra creaks to a halt, staring straight ahead with unseeing eyes.
YOU"What is this hunt you mentioned?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Another local pastime? Very well. I hope it is not as pathetic as the last one."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Suppose I found all the impostors. What happens next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"How does one find an impostor in the crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will participate in the hunt."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to move on to discussing the tithe as quickly as possible."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have neither the time nor the inclination to entertain your rabble. The tithe, Governor — I am only interested in the tithe."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Glance indifferently at the governor and roll your eyes]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."
Governor RuoldoThe governor claps his hands readily. "Orchestra, music!"
YOU"What is this hunt you mentioned?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Another local pastime? Very well. I hope it is not as pathetic as the last one."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Suppose I found all the impostors. What happens next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"How does one find an impostor in the crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will participate in the hunt."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to move on to discussing the tithe as quickly as possible."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have neither the time nor the inclination to entertain your rabble. The tithe, Governor — I am only interested in the tithe."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Glance indifferently at the governor and roll your eyes]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Why would servants of the Omnissiah care who had taken the throne of a technologically undeveloped world?"
Governor RuoldoThe governor shrugs helplessly. "I was too overjoyed at their appearance to ask. A gesture of deference, I suppose? Who can ever understand those mysterious crimson priests?"
Solomorne"Indeed. The Tech-Priests are famous for having many vocations outside of pursuing technology and discovering new knowledge. Like music, and visits of courtesy..."
Solomorne"Thank you for the conversation, Governor. I have learned everything I wanted to know."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"This is not a conversation I am interested in having. Let us discuss other topics."
Solomorne"Thank you for the conversation, Governor. I have learned everything I wanted to know."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"Pity. I still had questions."
YOU"Garra?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What has it done wrong?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What if you too are an impostor, Ruoldo?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They say people go missing after the Impostor Hunt. What do you make of this?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have concluded my search."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am not done yet."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"My time is too precious for me to waste it on rabble. Announce the end of the hunt and let us get down to business."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Gesture toward Solomorne] "I have grown tired of these savages. Deal with him."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What is this hunt you mentioned?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Another local pastime? Very well. I hope it is not as pathetic as the last one."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Suppose I found all the impostors. What happens next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"How does one find an impostor in the crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will participate in the hunt."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to move on to discussing the tithe as quickly as possible."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have neither the time nor the inclination to entertain your rabble. The tithe, Governor — I am only interested in the tithe."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Glance indifferently at the governor and roll your eyes]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
Governor Ruoldo"Ehm, I think they were the red robes who arrived to celebrate the ascendance of a new governor. That's me." Ruoldo's wistful gaze follows a shrimperius fleeing the table.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You cannot pronounce the name of your homeworld? Really?"
Governor RuoldoThe governor takes a big sip from his cup. "I am a bit tipsy, so I cannot help it! On a day like today, it would be criminal not to toast such important guests!"
Solomorne"I was interested in the musical servitors. They could only have been brought to you by the crimson priests, correct? Can you tell me why they visited the planet?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Wink at Solomorne and take the comm-bead from your ear] "I was presented with this pearl that whispers great secrets and mysteries. What a marvel! I was told it is an artefact from Idex."
YOU"This is not a conversation I am interested in having. Let us discuss other topics."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It is well known that laceraxes can only be found on Janus."
Governor RuoldoThe governor throws up his hands. "Can they? And I was sure they were a common beastie! I might have embarrassed myself there, but I would be glad to talk about something else."
Solomorne"Do not judge me harshly. I am just trying to get into the festive mood as best I can. We can certainly change the subject. I would like to note that I find your youth-extending face transplant procedure amazing. Does Thassera possess any other unique knowledge or items brought over from your homeworld? What is that world called, by the way?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Lend cold suspicion to your voice] "A long time ago? Do laceraxes even live all that long?"
YOU"This is not a conversation I am interested in having. Let us discuss other topics."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will participate in the hunt."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to move on to discussing the tithe as quickly as possible."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have neither the time nor the inclination to entertain your rabble. The tithe, Governor — I am only interested in the tithe."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Glance indifferently at the governor and roll your eyes]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
NPC(sequence)
MarazhaiMarazhai cocks his head to one side, looking at Maive in bewilderment. "You really are a primitive species if your pretenders are so easy to expose."
end of branch
Argenta"Abominations like you will never see the true light of righteous faith. We are the children of the God-Emperor, and you are a festering wound on the body of the galaxy whose fall is only a matter of time."
end of branch
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will participate in the hunt."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to move on to discussing the tithe as quickly as possible."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have neither the time nor the inclination to entertain your rabble. The tithe, Governor — I am only interested in the tithe."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Glance indifferently at the governor and roll your eyes]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"How does one find an impostor in the crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will participate in the hunt."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to move on to discussing the tithe as quickly as possible."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have neither the time nor the inclination to entertain your rabble. The tithe, Governor — I am only interested in the tithe."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Glance indifferently at the governor and roll your eyes]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Another local pastime? Very well. I hope it is not as pathetic as the last one."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Suppose I found all the impostors. What happens next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"How does one find an impostor in the crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will participate in the hunt."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to move on to discussing the tithe as quickly as possible."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have neither the time nor the inclination to entertain your rabble. The tithe, Governor — I am only interested in the tithe."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Glance indifferently at the governor and roll your eyes]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, will you dance with me?"
Solomorne"It would be my honour." Solomorne's face is an impenetrable glower. He takes your hand, his palm firm and covered with calluses from his weapon grip.
SolomorneSolomorne is clearly trying to move to the beat of the music but meeting with little success — his stiff movements make him look like a broken servitor. His hold on you is delicate, as if you were a fragile vase, but there is no thrill of passion in his touch. He avoids meeting your eye, instead looking off to the side, monitoring the assembled guests. During the next step, he treads heavily and very painfully on your foot.
YOU"Is something wrong?"
Solomorne"I feel like these people have scopes instead of eyes. And you and I are a paired target."
YOU"Is something wrong?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Take the lead] "Be bold. Don't think about anything."
SolomorneYou manage to sweep Solomorne along on your sudden charge, his movements becoming more graceful, your eyes meeting his... until a new jolt of pain stabs through your other foot.
YOU"Is something wrong?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Take the lead] "Be bold. Don't think about anything."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Smile through your pain] "Thank you for the dance, but... let's stop for now. We can pick this up some other time, when you aren't as distracted."
SolomorneScowling even more, Solomorne sullenly mutters, "I apologise."
SolomorneThe music fades, and Solomorne lays his hand on his weapon with obvious relief, his movements immediately regaining their predatory fluidity.
YOU"Now that we have had some refreshments, let us talk."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, will you dance with me?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack the giant alcedont ham]
YOU[Vanquish the five-tailed shrimperius]
YOU[Defeat the blaberid shells seasoned with blue glut]
YOU"Thank you, I am not hungry."
Governor Ruoldo"I feel it in my heart that we have failed to please you. And of course, there were those freaks running wild! This entire celebration, this whole endeavour, has been a tremendous waste!" The last words fade into an incoherent mutter as the man's trembling hand reaches for the amasec.
Maive"My lord! Remember what the physician told you: temperance is the best cure for your ailments! I fear that you have disobeyed his wishes again today."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The only dish I want is called 'the warp-damned tithe,' and I want it served to me this instant."
Governor RuoldoYour words cause the governor to sober up immediately. "E-everything is prepared, my lord/lady! All records of deliveries and contributions. It truly is a tragedy that you will not get to enjoy our Impostor Hunt, an event that has been so assiduously prepared to delight the eyes and mind of Your Celestial Highness... Unless you... reconsider? My lord/lady...?"
SolomorneSolomorne leans over to you: "Rogue Trader, once you've had your fill of the governor, let me ask him a few questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am wondering where to start. Should I cut out your blabbering tongue? Or just strike you down now and not beat about the bush?"
Solomorne"He will be useless then. Let him show me the record scrolls first."
Governor RuoldoYour words cause the governor to sober up immediately. "E-everything is prepared, my lord/lady! All records of deliveries and contributions. It truly is a tragedy that you will not get to enjoy our Impostor Hunt, an event that has been so assiduously prepared to delight the eyes and mind of Your Celestial Highness... Unless you... reconsider? My lord/lady...?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Grimace in disgust]
Governor Ruoldo"I feel it in my heart that we have failed to please you. And of course, there were those freaks running wild! This entire celebration, this whole endeavour, has been a tremendous waste!" The last words fade into an incoherent mutter as the man's trembling hand reaches for the amasec.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Best stop there while I still have one working foot."
SolomorneScowling even more, Solomorne sullenly mutters, "I apologise."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Smile through your pain] "Thank you for the dance, but... let's stop for now. We can pick this up some other time, when you aren't as distracted."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Best stop there while I still have one working foot."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Take the lead] "Be bold. Don't think about anything."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Smile through your pain] "Thank you for the dance, but... let's stop for now. We can pick this up some other time, when you aren't as distracted."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Best stop there while I still have one working foot."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack the giant alcedont ham]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Vanquish the five-tailed shrimperius]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Defeat the blaberid shells seasoned with blue glut]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you, I am not hungry."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The only dish I want is called 'the warp-damned tithe,' and I want it served to me this instant."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am wondering where to start. Should I cut out your blabbering tongue? Or just strike you down now and not beat about the bush?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Grimace in disgust]continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 6 of 26
NPCAs the blue glut stings your tongue, you lose all will to continue eating this dish. You immediately wash it down with chilled amasec, allowing the blend of fire and ice to permeate your entire being.
Governor Ruoldo"I can see it in your eyes — you felt it too: the newfound wings at your back, the fresh sea breeze in the mustiness of life, the spark of purpose in the dark alley of consciousness! Isn't it divine?" Inspired by your example, the governor places a blaberid shell on his tongue, shudders, and promptly drains a fresh goblet of amasec.
YOU"Now that we have had some refreshments, let us talk."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, will you dance with me?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack the giant alcedont ham]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Vanquish the five-tailed shrimperius]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Defeat the blaberid shells seasoned with blue glut]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you, I am not hungry."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The only dish I want is called 'the warp-damned tithe,' and I want it served to me this instant."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am wondering where to start. Should I cut out your blabbering tongue? Or just strike you down now and not beat about the bush?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Grimace in disgust]continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 7 of 26
NPCDeftly wielding a set of forks and knives, you cut off the shrimperius's escape routes. At last, all five of its tails are pinned to the table with golden prongs, and the sixth fork delivers the final blow, allowing you to send the exquisite meal into your mouth.
Governor Ruoldo"Only three people have managed to conquer the shrimperius tonight, and all of them are inferior to you in the sophistication and speed of their forkcraft!" The governor hurriedly toasts you, spilling his drink in the process.
YOU"Now that we have had some refreshments, let us talk."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, will you dance with me?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack the giant alcedont ham]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Vanquish the five-tailed shrimperius]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Defeat the blaberid shells seasoned with blue glut]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you, I am not hungry."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The only dish I want is called 'the warp-damned tithe,' and I want it served to me this instant."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am wondering where to start. Should I cut out your blabbering tongue? Or just strike you down now and not beat about the bush?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Grimace in disgust]continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 8 of 26
NPC(no text)
end of branch
Entry point 9 of 26
Governor Ruoldo(no text)
end of branch
Entry point 10 of 26
Governor Ruoldo(no text)
end of branch
Entry point 11 of 26
Governor Ruoldo"My lord/lady, I am afraid one of my subjects has passed off their own creation as the bounty of Idex, perhaps to add more weight to the offering."
Solomorne"I was interested in the musical servitors. They could only have been brought to you by the crimson priests, correct? Can you tell me why they visited the planet?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 12 of 26
Governor Ruoldo(no text)
end of branch
Entry point 13 of 26
NPCYou sink your teeth into the greasy ham and slowly chew the brackish, fibrous meat with all your might. At the seventh bite, your jaw begins to ache, and you are forced to give up the fight.
Governor Ruoldo"Moderation is wisdom! And wisdom is the attribute of true sovereigns. To your most Imperial prudence, Your Celestial Highness!" The governor solemnly drains a goblet of amasec.
YOU"Now that we have had some refreshments, let us talk."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, will you dance with me?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack the giant alcedont ham]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Vanquish the five-tailed shrimperius]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Defeat the blaberid shells seasoned with blue glut]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you, I am not hungry."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The only dish I want is called 'the warp-damned tithe,' and I want it served to me this instant."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am wondering where to start. Should I cut out your blabbering tongue? Or just strike you down now and not beat about the bush?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Grimace in disgust]continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 14 of 26
NPCYou arm yourself with a fork and pierce one of the shrimperius's tails. Much to the disappointment of your sympathetic audience, the creature leaves you with a discarded extremity and scurries off the table with its four remaining ones.
Governor Ruoldo"Do not be upset, Your Celestial Highness. One of those shrimperiuses is still rampaging through my bowels! What naughty critters they are..."
YOU"Now that we have had some refreshments, let us talk."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, will you dance with me?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack the giant alcedont ham]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Vanquish the five-tailed shrimperius]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Defeat the blaberid shells seasoned with blue glut]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you, I am not hungry."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The only dish I want is called 'the warp-damned tithe,' and I want it served to me this instant."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am wondering where to start. Should I cut out your blabbering tongue? Or just strike you down now and not beat about the bush?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Grimace in disgust]continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 15 of 26
NPCYou pop a fried blaberid shell into your mouth — first one, and then another, and another. The blue glut stings your tongue and throat, but [Name] von Valancius is made of sterner stuff than all these milksops. Eventually, you crush the last blaberid between your jaws, before wiping a napkin over your chin and tossing it victoriously onto the table.
Governor Ruoldo"Incredible! But how? How did you accomplish it? My fellow revellers, let us raise our cups to the unbreakable strength of the God-Emperor's emissary!" The entire Thasserian nobility lift their golden goblets in your honour.
YOU"Now that we have had some refreshments, let us talk."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, will you dance with me?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack the giant alcedont ham]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Vanquish the five-tailed shrimperius]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Defeat the blaberid shells seasoned with blue glut]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you, I am not hungry."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The only dish I want is called 'the warp-damned tithe,' and I want it served to me this instant."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am wondering where to start. Should I cut out your blabbering tongue? Or just strike you down now and not beat about the bush?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Grimace in disgust]continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 16 of 26
NPC(no text)
end of branch
Entry point 17 of 26
Governor Ruoldo"Oh, yes! The famous Idexian pearls of revelation. I often use them myself to keep my mind receptive to new ideas."
Solomorne"I was interested in the musical servitors. They could only have been brought to you by the crimson priests, correct? Can you tell me why they visited the planet?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 18 of 26
Governor Ruoldo"Since laceraxes are used for entertainment, they do not last long on Thassera, and they are brought in batches, hence the 'long ago.' Honestly, beasts from faraway worlds are not that interesting a topic of conversation. Let us talk about something else, shall we?"
Solomorne"Do not judge me harshly. I am just trying to get into the festive mood as best I can. We can certainly change the subject. I would like to note that I find your youth-extending face transplant procedure amazing. Does Thassera possess any other unique knowledge or items brought over from your homeworld? What is that world called, by the way?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 19 of 26
Maive(no text)
end of branch
Entry point 20 of 26
Governor Ruoldo"I... do not know? I would rather tell you about things I am much better acquainted with, like Thasserian amasec, for example."
Solomorne"Do not judge me harshly. I am just trying to get into the festive mood as best I can. We can certainly change the subject. I would like to note that I find your youth-extending face transplant procedure amazing. Does Thassera possess any other unique knowledge or items brought over from your homeworld? What is that world called, by the way?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 21 of 26
Solomorne(no text)
end of branch
Entry point 22 of 26
NPCThe governor is dragging out his words, as if he is not entirely sure of them himself — or is not telling you something.
YOU"Garra?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What has it done wrong?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What if you too are an impostor, Ruoldo?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They say people go missing after the Impostor Hunt. What do you make of this?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have concluded my search."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am not done yet."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"My time is too precious for me to waste it on rabble. Announce the end of the hunt and let us get down to business."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Gesture toward Solomorne] "I have grown tired of these savages. Deal with him."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 23 of 26
NPCThe governor's voice is unsteady. He seems to be already well in his cups.
YOU"Garra?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What has it done wrong?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What if you too are an impostor, Ruoldo?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They say people go missing after the Impostor Hunt. What do you make of this?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have concluded my search."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am not done yet."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"My time is too precious for me to waste it on rabble. Announce the end of the hunt and let us get down to business."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Gesture toward Solomorne] "I have grown tired of these savages. Deal with him."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 24 of 26
Governor Ruoldo(no text)
end of branch
Entry point 25 of 26
Governor RuoldoThe governor's hand reaches for the amasec, but flinches under your gaze and abruptly changes trajectory toward the appetisers. "Today is a very nervous day, Your Celestial Highness. And when I feel nervous, I eat. And drink. And eat again! That is just the way I am. But, Emperor have mercy, the food today is to die for! Would you like to have some?"
NPCThe tables are buckling under the spread of steaming hot dishes, oozing with grease and exuding tantalisingly spicy aromas. Quite the challenge for an uninitiated stomach, but you have taken part in feasts far grander than this.
Governor Ruoldo"I recommend you try the fried alcedont, whose horns were still goring my hunters just the other day. And here, we have some five-tailed shrimperiuses in stewed black-eye sauce. These fellows need to be eaten quickly, before they scurry off the plate! As for the side dishes, you simply must have a taste of these crispy blaberid shells seasoned with blue glut. This spice scorches your tongue, but follow it with some amasec, and it will feel like the waters of life itself!"
YOU"Now that we have had some refreshments, let us talk."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, will you dance with me?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack the giant alcedont ham]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Vanquish the five-tailed shrimperius]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Defeat the blaberid shells seasoned with blue glut]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you, I am not hungry."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The only dish I want is called 'the warp-damned tithe,' and I want it served to me this instant."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am wondering where to start. Should I cut out your blabbering tongue? Or just strike you down now and not beat about the bush?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Grimace in disgust]continues where this line first appears above
Governor RuoldoWith a distracted smile in the direction of his orchestra, the governor adds as if in passing: "Music... It lifts the spirit, improves digestion, and allows one to refresh oneself between courses by having a nice dance with a gallant partner." He casts an intent look at Solomorne standing beside you.
YOU"Now that we have had some refreshments, let us talk."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, will you dance with me?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack the giant alcedont ham]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Vanquish the five-tailed shrimperius]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Defeat the blaberid shells seasoned with blue glut]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you, I am not hungry."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The only dish I want is called 'the warp-damned tithe,' and I want it served to me this instant."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am wondering where to start. Should I cut out your blabbering tongue? Or just strike you down now and not beat about the bush?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Grimace in disgust]continues where this line first appears above
Governor Ruoldo"I recommend you try the fried alcedont, whose horns were still goring my hunters just the other day. And here, we have some five-tailed shrimperiuses in stewed black-eye sauce. These fellows need to be eaten quickly, before they scurry off the plate! As for the side dishes, you simply must have a taste of these crispy blaberid shells seasoned with blue glut. This spice scorches your tongue, but follow it with some amasec, and it will feel like the waters of life itself!"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 26 of 26
NPC"Down, Garra! Bad beast, very bad! I apologise, Your Celestial Highness. How is your Impostor Hunt going?"
YOU"Garra?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What has it done wrong?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, you may ask the governor your questions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What if you too are an impostor, Ruoldo?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They say people go missing after the Impostor Hunt. What do you make of this?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have concluded my search."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am not done yet."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"My time is too precious for me to waste it on rabble. Announce the end of the hunt and let us get down to business."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Gesture toward Solomorne] "I have grown tired of these savages. Deal with him."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the orchestra be silent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let the servitors keep playing."continues where this line first appears above