Solomorne"You have a way of hitting a nerve. I'd say you are too good at it." Solomorne looks sullenly at the courtyard, where yet another prisoner is about to meet his fate.
YOU"The Emperor laid this burden upon us in the certainty that we were equal to it. Now you are doubting yourself, but not the Lex Imperialis. Tell me — am I right?"
SolomorneStubbornly looking at you, he says through gritted teeth, "Humans may be imperfect, but His Law is not."
YOU"You do not think a mortal can embody the perfection of the law, do you? We can only strive. So, strive, then, Solomorne. You can do no more than that."
SolomorneSolomorne closes his eyes as if in prayer. "Only the God-Emperor is perfect and can interpret the spirit of the law. We follow the letter of it as His faithful servants."
YOU"You do not think a mortal can embody the perfection of the law, do you? We can only strive. So, strive, then, Solomorne. You can do no more than that."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The Emperor protects you, despite our enemies' machinations. That means your service is still of use to Him."
Solomorne"Too many times has He diverted a bullet meant for me. Too many..."
YOU"You do not think a mortal can embody the perfection of the law, do you? We can only strive. So, strive, then, Solomorne. You can do no more than that."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The Emperor protects you, despite our enemies' machinations. That means your service is still of use to Him."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Think of the heretics we have destroyed. Do you not feel righteous anger knowing that other transgressors will escape your justice?"
Solomorne"I do. I feel the weight of sentences undelivered. Of duty... unfulfilled."
YOU"You do not think a mortal can embody the perfection of the law, do you? We can only strive. So, strive, then, Solomorne. You can do no more than that."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The Emperor protects you, despite our enemies' machinations. That means your service is still of use to Him."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Think of the heretics we have destroyed. Do you not feel righteous anger knowing that other transgressors will escape your justice?"continues where this line first appears above
SolomorneMetal fingers close around Glaito's collar. "You have convinced me. To the void with Vheabos VI. My place is not here. I am ready to serve once more."
Solomorne"Find me on the bridge when you have time. I wish to give a full report."
end of branch
Solomorne"I will head to the ship at once. If you need anything, you can find me at my usual post on the bridge."
end of branch
SolomorneMetal fingers close around Glaito's collar. "You have convinced me. To the void with Vheabos VI. My place is not here. I am ready to serve once more."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Think of the heretics we have destroyed. Do you not feel righteous anger knowing that other transgressors will escape your justice?"continues where this line first appears above
SolomorneMetal fingers close around Glaito's collar. "You have convinced me. To the void with Vheabos VI. My place is not here. I am ready to serve once more."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The Emperor protects you, despite our enemies' machinations. That means your service is still of use to Him."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Think of the heretics we have destroyed. Do you not feel righteous anger knowing that other transgressors will escape your justice?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are in pain, and you are hurting yourself even more to block it all out. Wounds need to be healed, not opened up further."
Solomorne"Is this pity? How far I must have fallen in your eyes if it has come to this."
YOU"You are only human, just like the people you judge. Make peace with yourself and find a new way to serve the law."
SolomorneSolomorne's iron fist unclenches slightly. "I never thought I would take comfort in naive platitudes. Clearly, I am losing my grip..."
YOU"You are only human, just like the people you judge. Make peace with yourself and find a new way to serve the law."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Vheabos VI has become your twisted reflection. Others' torment is part of your own punishment. You have grown tired of violence, tired of carrying out executions."
Solomorne"None of this is because of me. They all get what they deserve... but for some reason, I no longer feel satisfaction from carrying out my duties."
YOU"You are only human, just like the people you judge. Make peace with yourself and find a new way to serve the law."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Vheabos VI has become your twisted reflection. Others' torment is part of your own punishment. You have grown tired of violence, tired of carrying out executions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You protect Glaito, and you draw strength from that. Perhaps one day you will want to protect human lives, too."
Solomorne"I'm too used to hating." Solomorne rests his hand on the back of Glaito's neck for the first time since the two of you began talking. "I don't even know what life without hatred would look like. Not so lousy, perhaps."
YOU"You are only human, just like the people you judge. Make peace with yourself and find a new way to serve the law."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Vheabos VI has become your twisted reflection. Others' torment is part of your own punishment. You have grown tired of violence, tired of carrying out executions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You protect Glaito, and you draw strength from that. Perhaps one day you will want to protect human lives, too."continues where this line first appears above
SolomorneMetal fingers close around Glaito's collar. "You have convinced me. To the void with Vheabos VI. My place is not here. I am ready to serve once more."continues where this line first appears above
SolomorneMetal fingers close around Glaito's collar. "You have convinced me. To the void with Vheabos VI. My place is not here. I am ready to serve once more."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You protect Glaito, and you draw strength from that. Perhaps one day you will want to protect human lives, too."continues where this line first appears above
SolomorneMetal fingers close around Glaito's collar. "You have convinced me. To the void with Vheabos VI. My place is not here. I am ready to serve once more."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Vheabos VI has become your twisted reflection. Others' torment is part of your own punishment. You have grown tired of violence, tired of carrying out executions."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You protect Glaito, and you draw strength from that. Perhaps one day you will want to protect human lives, too."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You know something? You're right. I would gladly shoot half the people I encounter. Weak, cowardly worms in human skin."
SolomorneSolomorne merely grunts in response. "Agreeing with me — is this some kind of trap?"
YOU"Why suppress your anger? Turn it to the service of the law. Teach your enemies such a lesson in pain and terror that the rest will never dream of violating the Lex."
Solomorne"The Arbites already use fear as a weapon. But judging by the bastards I keep meeting, our tactics are next to useless."
YOU"Why suppress your anger? Turn it to the service of the law. Teach your enemies such a lesson in pain and terror that the rest will never dream of violating the Lex."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are worth a dozen Arbitrators. It is not a death sentence you deserve but greater power. If you had it, what would you do?"
Solomorne"I'd make them..." He clenches his iron fist, the augmetic letting out a piteous creak. "Oh, they wouldn't dare to even think of breaking the law."
YOU"Why suppress your anger? Turn it to the service of the law. Teach your enemies such a lesson in pain and terror that the rest will never dream of violating the Lex."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are worth a dozen Arbitrators. It is not a death sentence you deserve but greater power. If you had it, what would you do?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am impressed with the way you went all out on Vheabos VI. Perhaps you are destined to write a new Lex Koronus. But be warned: the Expanse responds to force, and force alone."
Solomorne"If a Lex Koronus is to be written, it will be written in the blood of the sector's inhabitants. I have already seen that it is the only language they understand."
YOU"Why suppress your anger? Turn it to the service of the law. Teach your enemies such a lesson in pain and terror that the rest will never dream of violating the Lex."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are worth a dozen Arbitrators. It is not a death sentence you deserve but greater power. If you had it, what would you do?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am impressed with the way you went all out on Vheabos VI. Perhaps you are destined to write a new Lex Koronus. But be warned: the Expanse responds to force, and force alone."continues where this line first appears above
SolomorneMetal fingers close around Glaito's collar. "You have convinced me. To the void with Vheabos VI. My place is not here. I am ready to serve once more."continues where this line first appears above
SolomorneMetal fingers close around Glaito's collar. "You have convinced me. To the void with Vheabos VI. My place is not here. I am ready to serve once more."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am impressed with the way you went all out on Vheabos VI. Perhaps you are destined to write a new Lex Koronus. But be warned: the Expanse responds to force, and force alone."continues where this line first appears above
SolomorneMetal fingers close around Glaito's collar. "You have convinced me. To the void with Vheabos VI. My place is not here. I am ready to serve once more."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are worth a dozen Arbitrators. It is not a death sentence you deserve but greater power. If you had it, what would you do?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am impressed with the way you went all out on Vheabos VI. Perhaps you are destined to write a new Lex Koronus. But be warned: the Expanse responds to force, and force alone."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Proctor Solomorne Anthar, according to the Injuncta Cardinal, an Arbitrator stepping down from their post without leave is to be treated as a deserter and a traitor to the Imperium regardless of circumstances. How dare you interpret the spirit of the Lex Imperialis and decide your own fate when the letter of His Law has already given you purpose and rid you of the heresy of doubt?"
SolomorneSolomorne's rage crumbles into dust in the face of your ironclad devotion to the code of the Adeptus Arbites. "What have I done... I have dishonoured the Arbitrator's duty with words of dissent. No, I am not a heretic — I am a faithful servant of the Emperor until my last breath."
SolomorneMetal fingers close around Glaito's collar. "You have convinced me. To the void with Vheabos VI. My place is not here. I am ready to serve once more."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Is this how Proctors end their journey? You can die on a penal world, or in the heat of battle against the most dangerous heretics of the Koronus Expanse. The choice is yours."
YOU"Vheabos VI is not your prison — it is your personal bunker. You are a coward, hiding from the trials bestowed upon you by the Emperor."
Solomorne"All right, I get it. If I don't yield, we'll just stand here and bicker." There was no more rage in his voice, only limitless weariness. "Enough, you've got your way."
Solomorne"Find me on the bridge when you have time. I wish to give a full report."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"I will head to the ship at once. If you need anything, you can find me at my usual post on the bridge."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"Some plan I've made for myself. Craven fool." Anger retreats from his voice, giving way to remorse. "But now I see where I have failed, and you... you didn't relent, didn't let me end my days in this ignominy. I guess that means I'm still worth something."
SolomorneMetal fingers close around Glaito's collar. "You have convinced me. To the void with Vheabos VI. My place is not here. I am ready to serve once more."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 2 of 8
Solomorne"I am not a Proctor anymore, and that should answer all of your questions."
YOU"The Emperor laid this burden upon us in the certainty that we were equal to it. Now you are doubting yourself, but not the Lex Imperialis. Tell me — am I right?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are in pain, and you are hurting yourself even more to block it all out. Wounds need to be healed, not opened up further."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You know something? You're right. I would gladly shoot half the people I encounter. Weak, cowardly worms in human skin."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Proctor Solomorne Anthar, according to the Injuncta Cardinal, an Arbitrator stepping down from their post without leave is to be treated as a deserter and a traitor to the Imperium regardless of circumstances. How dare you interpret the spirit of the Lex Imperialis and decide your own fate when the letter of His Law has already given you purpose and rid you of the heresy of doubt?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Is this how Proctors end their journey? You can die on a penal world, or in the heat of battle against the most dangerous heretics of the Koronus Expanse. The choice is yours."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Vheabos VI is not your prison — it is your personal bunker. You are a coward, hiding from the trials bestowed upon you by the Emperor."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"All right, I get it. If I don't yield, we'll just stand here and bicker." There was no more rage in his voice, only limitless weariness. "Enough, you've got your way."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 3 of 8
Solomorne"I am not—" Solomorne stops abruptly. "I hadn't thought about it that way."
YOU"The Emperor laid this burden upon us in the certainty that we were equal to it. Now you are doubting yourself, but not the Lex Imperialis. Tell me — am I right?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are in pain, and you are hurting yourself even more to block it all out. Wounds need to be healed, not opened up further."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You know something? You're right. I would gladly shoot half the people I encounter. Weak, cowardly worms in human skin."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Proctor Solomorne Anthar, according to the Injuncta Cardinal, an Arbitrator stepping down from their post without leave is to be treated as a deserter and a traitor to the Imperium regardless of circumstances. How dare you interpret the spirit of the Lex Imperialis and decide your own fate when the letter of His Law has already given you purpose and rid you of the heresy of doubt?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Is this how Proctors end their journey? You can die on a penal world, or in the heat of battle against the most dangerous heretics of the Koronus Expanse. The choice is yours."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Vheabos VI is not your prison — it is your personal bunker. You are a coward, hiding from the trials bestowed upon you by the Emperor."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"All right, I get it. If I don't yield, we'll just stand here and bicker." There was no more rage in his voice, only limitless weariness. "Enough, you've got your way."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"Some plan I've made for myself. Craven fool." Anger retreats from his voice, giving way to remorse. "But now I see where I have failed, and you... you didn't relent, didn't let me end my days in this ignominy. I guess that means I'm still worth something."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 4 of 8
Solomorne"A coward would have hidden under the Rogue Trader's cloak to avoid his rightful punishment."
YOU"The Emperor laid this burden upon us in the certainty that we were equal to it. Now you are doubting yourself, but not the Lex Imperialis. Tell me — am I right?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are in pain, and you are hurting yourself even more to block it all out. Wounds need to be healed, not opened up further."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You know something? You're right. I would gladly shoot half the people I encounter. Weak, cowardly worms in human skin."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Proctor Solomorne Anthar, according to the Injuncta Cardinal, an Arbitrator stepping down from their post without leave is to be treated as a deserter and a traitor to the Imperium regardless of circumstances. How dare you interpret the spirit of the Lex Imperialis and decide your own fate when the letter of His Law has already given you purpose and rid you of the heresy of doubt?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Is this how Proctors end their journey? You can die on a penal world, or in the heat of battle against the most dangerous heretics of the Koronus Expanse. The choice is yours."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Vheabos VI is not your prison — it is your personal bunker. You are a coward, hiding from the trials bestowed upon you by the Emperor."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"All right, I get it. If I don't yield, we'll just stand here and bicker." There was no more rage in his voice, only limitless weariness. "Enough, you've got your way."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 5 of 8
SolomorneYou detect a certain strain in Solomorne's hostile tone, and well concealed panic deep in his eyes.
YOU"Why did they order you to do something like that?"
Solomorne"It's always better to have a trusted operative in place next to someone who considers himself/herself above the Lex Imperialis."
YOU"Why did they order you to do something like that?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What about Glaito and your data-slate? Was that a lie too?"
Solomorne"Yes. It was all arranged — I left the data-slate out in the open and ordered Glaito to guard it. The plan was for you to find it and for my 'clumsy courtship' to take me back to your bed." Solomorne looks at you with a ruthless smirk.
YOU"Why did they order you to do something like that?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What about Glaito and your data-slate? Was that a lie too?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You hid your feelings well."
SolomorneHe growls like a rabid beast: "I could barely stand even being near you! One night together I could deal with, though it wasn't as amazing as you might like to believe. But to be at your side constantly... It repulsed me to imagine that someone might look at me and think, here is an Arbitrator who was so tempted by status and wealth that he has forgotten his duty. But it IS my duty to keep people like you in line!"
Solomorne"That's why I wasn't acting like myself on Thassera. I was ashamed to indulge your advances, ashamed of having people see us."
YOU"Why did they order you to do something like that?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What about Glaito and your data-slate? Was that a lie too?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You hid your feelings well."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It seems they gave you the only task you were qualified for: to go around jumping into Rogue Traders' beds."
SolomorneHis eyes narrowed, Solomorne responds in a stifled voice, "Trust me, it is not an assignment I am proud of."
YOU"Why did they order you to do something like that?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What about Glaito and your data-slate? Was that a lie too?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You hid your feelings well."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It seems they gave you the only task you were qualified for: to go around jumping into Rogue Traders' beds."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Everything between us was a lie, was it? You're making a fool of yourself. Maybe you were just following orders at the start, but don't try to tell me you never developed real feelings for me."
Solomorne"Feelings? You are so convinced that the universe revolves around you, that I'm supposed to adore you just because you want me to — I expected as much from an upstart spoilt with power! Just like other Rogue Traders, you have done nothing to earn your Warrant other than being born into the right blood. You're a pale shadow of your ancestor who received this sacred authority from the Emperor Himself."
SolomorneSolomorne's nostrils flare in anger. Barely regaining control of his emotions, he mutters, "Even if you insist on my return, that won't change the crucial fact that I am no longer fit to serve the Lex. For an Arbitrator who cannot perform his duties, there is only one verdict."
YOU"The Emperor laid this burden upon us in the certainty that we were equal to it. Now you are doubting yourself, but not the Lex Imperialis. Tell me — am I right?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are in pain, and you are hurting yourself even more to block it all out. Wounds need to be healed, not opened up further."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You know something? You're right. I would gladly shoot half the people I encounter. Weak, cowardly worms in human skin."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Proctor Solomorne Anthar, according to the Injuncta Cardinal, an Arbitrator stepping down from their post without leave is to be treated as a deserter and a traitor to the Imperium regardless of circumstances. How dare you interpret the spirit of the Lex Imperialis and decide your own fate when the letter of His Law has already given you purpose and rid you of the heresy of doubt?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Is this how Proctors end their journey? You can die on a penal world, or in the heat of battle against the most dangerous heretics of the Koronus Expanse. The choice is yours."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Vheabos VI is not your prison — it is your personal bunker. You are a coward, hiding from the trials bestowed upon you by the Emperor."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can see you have feelings for me. And I can see you're torturing yourself right now. Once we're out of here, you can get your head straight and we'll return to this conversation later."
Solomorne"Feelings? You are so convinced that the universe revolves around you, that I'm supposed to adore you just because you want me to — I expected as much from an upstart spoilt with power! Just like other Rogue Traders, you have done nothing to earn your Warrant other than being born into the right blood. You're a pale shadow of your ancestor who received this sacred authority from the Emperor Himself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That changes nothing. I'm getting you out of here."
SolomorneWith his eyes screwed shut, Solomorne grits out, "Do I have to stick a shiv in you to get you to leave?"
SolomorneSolomorne's nostrils flare in anger. Barely regaining control of his emotions, he mutters, "Even if you insist on my return, that won't change the crucial fact that I am no longer fit to serve the Lex. For an Arbitrator who cannot perform his duties, there is only one verdict."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Slap him] "You utter bastard. I never want to see you again."
Solomorne"Goodbye, Rogue Trader. But take one thing with you."
SolomorneSolomorne slowly raises his hand. His face is twisted in torment — perhaps his injuries are causing him pain, or perhaps it is the words he is trying to force out. "Glaito, Protocol Mortem-80. Guard the target." Solomorne points a trembling finger at you.
SolomorneBut the cyber-mastiff does not react. The scarlet lights of his visors stare at Solomorne, and not a muscle beneath the dark coat quivers in response to the order to leave his master.
Solomorne"Well, well. Is it faulty implants, or true loyalty? I am going to believe that you have chosen to stay with me. To the end."
end of branch
Solomorne"Now, only Vheabos VI will be witness to my judgement. Farewell, Rogue Trader."
end of branch
YOU"I see. Well, then, enjoy rotting here."
Solomorne"Goodbye, Rogue Trader. But take one thing with you."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"Now, only Vheabos VI will be witness to my judgement. Farewell, Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Everything between us was a lie, was it? You're making a fool of yourself. Maybe you were just following orders at the start, but don't try to tell me you never developed real feelings for me."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can see you have feelings for me. And I can see you're torturing yourself right now. Once we're out of here, you can get your head straight and we'll return to this conversation later."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That changes nothing. I'm getting you out of here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Slap him] "You utter bastard. I never want to see you again."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I see. Well, then, enjoy rotting here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It seems they gave you the only task you were qualified for: to go around jumping into Rogue Traders' beds."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Everything between us was a lie, was it? You're making a fool of yourself. Maybe you were just following orders at the start, but don't try to tell me you never developed real feelings for me."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can see you have feelings for me. And I can see you're torturing yourself right now. Once we're out of here, you can get your head straight and we'll return to this conversation later."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That changes nothing. I'm getting you out of here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Slap him] "You utter bastard. I never want to see you again."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I see. Well, then, enjoy rotting here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You hid your feelings well."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It seems they gave you the only task you were qualified for: to go around jumping into Rogue Traders' beds."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Everything between us was a lie, was it? You're making a fool of yourself. Maybe you were just following orders at the start, but don't try to tell me you never developed real feelings for me."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can see you have feelings for me. And I can see you're torturing yourself right now. Once we're out of here, you can get your head straight and we'll return to this conversation later."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That changes nothing. I'm getting you out of here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Slap him] "You utter bastard. I never want to see you again."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I see. Well, then, enjoy rotting here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What about Glaito and your data-slate? Was that a lie too?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You hid your feelings well."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It seems they gave you the only task you were qualified for: to go around jumping into Rogue Traders' beds."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Everything between us was a lie, was it? You're making a fool of yourself. Maybe you were just following orders at the start, but don't try to tell me you never developed real feelings for me."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can see you have feelings for me. And I can see you're torturing yourself right now. Once we're out of here, you can get your head straight and we'll return to this conversation later."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That changes nothing. I'm getting you out of here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Slap him] "You utter bastard. I never want to see you again."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I see. Well, then, enjoy rotting here."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 6 of 8
SolomorneSolomorne's tone conveys only hostility, as if he blames you for all his woes.
YOU"Why did they order you to do something like that?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What about Glaito and your data-slate? Was that a lie too?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You hid your feelings well."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It seems they gave you the only task you were qualified for: to go around jumping into Rogue Traders' beds."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Everything between us was a lie, was it? You're making a fool of yourself. Maybe you were just following orders at the start, but don't try to tell me you never developed real feelings for me."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can see you have feelings for me. And I can see you're torturing yourself right now. Once we're out of here, you can get your head straight and we'll return to this conversation later."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That changes nothing. I'm getting you out of here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Slap him] "You utter bastard. I never want to see you again."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I see. Well, then, enjoy rotting here."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 7 of 8
Solomorne(no text)
end of branch
Entry point 8 of 8
SolomorneSolomorne turns sharply toward you. He is not wearing a rebreather, and fresh bandages peek out from under his uniform. The former Proctor roars, consumed with rage: "Who opened your cells? WHO DID IT? Speak, or your deaths will be—"
SolomorneIt seems Solomorne is a breath away from lunging for you next. But recognition glimmers in those deranged eyes and his voice goes quiet, as if all his strength has fled him.
Solomorne"[Name]? "
YOU"What happened here?"
Solomorne"A pathetic attempt on my life. The second one today. One of the jailers left the cells unlocked so the prisoners could do their dirty work. No matter. I will find the culprits and execute each and every one of them."
YOU"What happened here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I was told you had been discharged. How did that happen?"
Solomorne"I failed the mission. Failed everyone." Solomorne clenches his teeth. "There were too many enemies. The situation was against us... No, I am not making excuses. It was not my first mission to go awry, but I didn't have Glaito with me. I was sloppy, unfocused. I ordered the retreat too late."
Solomorne"I managed to drag one of the Arbitrators to the infirmary. The man died of his wounds. Bottom line: the objective was not accomplished, ten Arbitrators were lost, and their commander was somehow left alive. Like a coward, I hoped to be executed, but the Marshal sent me to rot on Vheabos VI instead, and he was right to do so."
YOU"What happened here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I was told you had been discharged. How did that happen?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Why are you not wearing a rebreather? The air here is noxious."
Solomorne"I am too used to Arbitrator helmets — they do not cover the lower part of the face. As for my well-being... Frankly, I couldn't care less."
YOU"What happened here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I was told you had been discharged. How did that happen?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Why are you not wearing a rebreather? The air here is noxious."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Come. I have already submitted a petition to have you reinstated."
Solomorne"No. Stop. I can't leave — I'm guilty."
YOU"You are not in your right mind. Let me help you."
Solomorne"Get lost, Rogue Trader," Solomorne says without malice, but his lips stretch into a feral, grotesque smile. "There is nothing more you can do here. Solomorne Anthar is guilty and is stepping down from his post."
YOU"You are not in your right mind. Let me help you."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You spineless worm. Look at the state of you."
Solomorne"Get lost, Rogue Trader," Solomorne says without malice, but his lips stretch into a feral, grotesque smile. "There is nothing more you can do here. Solomorne Anthar is guilty and is stepping down from his post."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Guilty? What are you talking about?"
Solomorne"I have judged myself and handed down the sentence. Not because of the demotion, though it was the last straw. I cannot do it anymore — I cannot look at the lying governors, the scoundrels who succumb to corruption..."
Solomorne"Or the xenos who consort with humans because, Throne take me, it is permitted under the law of your sector!"
Solomorne"But, above all else, I cannot bear to look at myself — an Arbitrator who is coming apart at the seams. Who turns into a wreck without his dog. Who..." Solomorne releases a ragged sigh. "Who no longer believes that the Lex Imperialis prevails anywhere at all."
YOU"And what is the sentence?"
Solomorne"I will serve on Vheabos VI until either the world itself or its inhabitants end my existence. Until that day, I will mould this prison into a paragon of Imperial order."
YOU"And what is the sentence?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"And what about Glaito?"
Solomorne"I don't have the right to keep him anymore." He reaches his metal fingers toward the cyber-mastiff's head, but stops just short of touching it. "Deliver him to the Marshal. He'll find Glaito a new master."
SolomorneSolomorne slowly raises his hand. His face is twisted in torment — perhaps his injuries are causing him pain, or perhaps it is the words he is trying to force out. "Glaito, Protocol Mortem-80. Guard the target." Solomorne points a trembling finger at you.
SolomorneBut the cyber-mastiff does not react. The scarlet lights of his visors stare at Solomorne, and not a muscle beneath the dark coat quivers in response to the order to leave his master.
Solomorne"He is not listening to me. Is this the aftermath of that damned mission on Thassera, or did the Tech-Priests have to reset him to basic protocols? Throne, what difference does it make? My dog! I can't even give him one last order! Why now, Glaito?"
YOU"And what is the sentence?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"And what about Glaito?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Glaito has protected you from the convict. Is that not enough for you?"
Solomorne"We used to act as one, but not anymore. The last remnants of my composure are gone. Look at me! I'm a human scrap, not an Arbitrator — just an appendage to a cyber-mastiff."
YOU"And what is the sentence?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"And what about Glaito?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Glaito has protected you from the convict. Is that not enough for you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You do realise that we are talking about a half-servitor, a tool?"
Solomorne"There is no meanness in him, no fickleness. Tell me I'm mad, but he's my dog and without him I lose all reason."
YOU"And what is the sentence?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"And what about Glaito?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Glaito has protected you from the convict. Is that not enough for you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You do realise that we are talking about a half-servitor, a tool?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Even so, I am not leaving without you."
Solomorne"You will. You can't stand here forever."
YOU"The Emperor laid this burden upon us in the certainty that we were equal to it. Now you are doubting yourself, but not the Lex Imperialis. Tell me — am I right?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are in pain, and you are hurting yourself even more to block it all out. Wounds need to be healed, not opened up further."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You know something? You're right. I would gladly shoot half the people I encounter. Weak, cowardly worms in human skin."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Proctor Solomorne Anthar, according to the Injuncta Cardinal, an Arbitrator stepping down from their post without leave is to be treated as a deserter and a traitor to the Imperium regardless of circumstances. How dare you interpret the spirit of the Lex Imperialis and decide your own fate when the letter of His Law has already given you purpose and rid you of the heresy of doubt?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Is this how Proctors end their journey? You can die on a penal world, or in the heat of battle against the most dangerous heretics of the Koronus Expanse. The choice is yours."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Vheabos VI is not your prison — it is your personal bunker. You are a coward, hiding from the trials bestowed upon you by the Emperor."continues where this line first appears above
SolomorneAn aggressive grimace appears on Solomorne's face. "And besides, you wouldn't want to drag me out of here if you knew the truth. Everything between us was a lie. I was ordered to lie to you, so I did. The truth is I couldn't care less about you."
YOU"Explain yourself."
Solomorne"After we slept together, I sent a report up the chain of command. Then, the order came in: maintain the Rogue Trader's trust." Aggression builds up in Solomorne's voice with every word he says, as though he were deliberately riling himself up. "My assignment was to stay at your side and become your confidant. Well, I'd say I succeeded in earning your trust, didn't I?"
YOU"You are not making sense. With what you are going through, you are not thinking clearly."
Solomorne"I do feel rotten, but I've spoken nothing but the truth."
YOU"Explain yourself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are not making sense. With what you are going through, you are not thinking clearly."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That changes nothing. I'm getting you out of here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I see. Well, then, enjoy rotting here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That changes nothing. I'm getting you out of here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I see. Well, then, enjoy rotting here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a mistake to look for you. Farewell."
SolomorneSolomorne slowly raises his hand. His face is twisted in torment — perhaps his injuries are causing him pain, or perhaps it is the words he is trying to force out. "Glaito, Protocol Mortem-80. Guard the target." Solomorne points a trembling finger at you.continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"Now, only Vheabos VI will be witness to my judgement. Farewell, Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Solomorne] "Rabid dogs get put down."
SolomorneSolomorne lowers his weapon at the last moment, facing his death without any hesitation. Glaito jerks reflexively toward his master and then freezes. The scarlet visors flicker, signalling a malfunction in the cyber-mastiff's implants.
end of branch
Solomorne(sequence)
Jae"I'll tell you this: you finally look like a person, Sol. Like someone who is capable of feeling something. And if a few of your screws had to come loose for you to get there, well... you're definitely not alone in that."
end of branch
YOU"Even so, I am not leaving without you."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a mistake to look for you. Farewell."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Solomorne] "Rabid dogs get put down."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You do realise that we are talking about a half-servitor, a tool?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Even so, I am not leaving without you."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a mistake to look for you. Farewell."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Solomorne] "Rabid dogs get put down."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Glaito has protected you from the convict. Is that not enough for you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You do realise that we are talking about a half-servitor, a tool?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Even so, I am not leaving without you."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a mistake to look for you. Farewell."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Solomorne] "Rabid dogs get put down."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne(sequence)
KibellahKibellah gives Solomorne a look of sympathy, then pulls out one of her hidden blades and places it in his hand. "For the Undying One is duty itself."
end of branch
YOU"And what about Glaito?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Glaito has protected you from the convict. Is that not enough for you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You do realise that we are talking about a half-servitor, a tool?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Even so, I am not leaving without you."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a mistake to look for you. Farewell."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Solomorne] "Rabid dogs get put down."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne(sequence)
YrlietYrliet looks down at the man, but her voice sounds slightly gentler than usual. "You have seen the true face of your kind's world — ugly, cruel, and deceitful. But the pain you feel is not the end. You have a choice, even now. Even... here."
end of branch
Argenta"The trial of will is an immutable part of every journey. It is time to combat your weakness and light the fire of true faith in your heart."
end of branch
MarazhaiMarazhai scoffs. "Even the way you broke was boring. Go on, then. Commorragh devours millions like you every day — you will not get to savour your martyrdom for long."
end of branch
Solomorne"But, above all else, I cannot bear to look at myself — an Arbitrator who is coming apart at the seams. Who turns into a wreck without his dog. Who..." Solomorne releases a ragged sigh. "Who no longer believes that the Lex Imperialis prevails anywhere at all."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"DX-1, pull yourself together!"
Solomorne"I have judged myself and handed down the sentence. Not because of the demotion, though it was the last straw. I cannot do it anymore — I cannot look at the lying governors, the scoundrels who succumb to corruption..."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a mistake to look for you. Farewell."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Solomorne] "Rabid dogs get put down."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne(sequence)
Cassia"He is unarmoured and defenceless as never before. But, until his colours turn to ash, there is a chance yet to set things right."
end of branch
YOU"You spineless worm. Look at the state of you."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Guilty? What are you talking about?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"DX-1, pull yourself together!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a mistake to look for you. Farewell."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Solomorne] "Rabid dogs get put down."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Get a hold of yourself — we are leaving."
Solomorne"No. Stop. I can't leave — I'm guilty."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a mistake to look for you. Farewell."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Solomorne] "Rabid dogs get put down."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Come. I have already submitted a petition to have you reinstated."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Get a hold of yourself — we are leaving."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a mistake to look for you. Farewell."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Solomorne] "Rabid dogs get put down."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Why are you not wearing a rebreather? The air here is noxious."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Come. I have already submitted a petition to have you reinstated."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Get a hold of yourself — we are leaving."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a mistake to look for you. Farewell."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Solomorne] "Rabid dogs get put down."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I was told you had been discharged. How did that happen?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Why are you not wearing a rebreather? The air here is noxious."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Come. I have already submitted a petition to have you reinstated."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Get a hold of yourself — we are leaving."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a mistake to look for you. Farewell."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Solomorne] "Rabid dogs get put down."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"Glaito?"
YOU"What happened here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I was told you had been discharged. How did that happen?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Why are you not wearing a rebreather? The air here is noxious."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Come. I have already submitted a petition to have you reinstated."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Get a hold of yourself — we are leaving."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a mistake to look for you. Farewell."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Solomorne] "Rabid dogs get put down."continues where this line first appears above