TW Arbites — Rogue Trader Dialogue Archive

Entry point 1 of 16

NPCYeager cringes as if from a toothache. "You cannot bargain with the law."

YOU"The planet is about to fall apart! In case you have forgotten, I am in as much danger as you are. If we continue to stand here doing nothing, we are all dead."

YOU"You will have to content yourself with my word. I know nothing about what is going on, and I have nothing to hide."

YOU"Did you hear those strange noises on the vox-line? That is what intercepted transmissions sound like. Why would one of my servants do that?"

YOU[Attack] "Enough! I will not tolerate threats against me."

NPC"The law is the same for everyone, Rogue Trader — even for you, and even on the edge of the galaxy. Arbitrators, to arms!"

end of branch

NPC"The law is the same for everyone, Rogue Trader — even for you, and even on the edge of the galaxy. Arbitrators, to arms!"

end of branch

Entry point 2 of 16

NPC"And will I receive a complimentary bullet to the forehead upon arrival on your flagship? No, this will not do."

YOU"The planet is about to fall apart! In case you have forgotten, I am in as much danger as you are. If we continue to stand here doing nothing, we are all dead."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You will have to content yourself with my word. I know nothing about what is going on, and I have nothing to hide."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Did you hear those strange noises on the vox-line? That is what intercepted transmissions sound like. Why would one of my servants do that?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Attack] "Enough! I will not tolerate threats against me."continues where this line first appears above

NPC"The law is the same for everyone, Rogue Trader — even for you, and even on the edge of the galaxy. Arbitrators, to arms!"

continues where this line first appears above

Entry point 3 of 16

NPCThe woman stares you obstinately in the eye for a long, long time, as if the backs of your pupils held the answers to all of her questions and doubts.

NPCThe bolter's muzzle lowers slowly, as if overcoming an invisible obstacle. "I see no need for further confrontation. Consider the issue settled for now. We will board your flagship, and you will investigate the identity of the perpetrator. Let us return to this matter in the Marshal's presence on Dargonus."

end of branch

Entry point 4 of 16

NPC"Hollow excuses. Again." The muzzle of Yeager's bolter stares you between the eyes.

NPC"The law is the same for everyone, Rogue Trader — even for you, and even on the edge of the galaxy. Arbitrators, to arms!"continues where this line first appears above

Entry point 5 of 16

NPC"Perhaps someone is trying to frame you, or there are even more convoluted motives involved."

Entry point 6 of 16

NPC"Are you still trying to weasel out and defend yourself? Enough."

NPC"The law is the same for everyone, Rogue Trader — even for you, and even on the edge of the galaxy. Arbitrators, to arms!"continues where this line first appears above

Entry point 7 of 16

NPC"Your words could almost be construed as aiding the investigation."

YOU"You will have to content yourself with my word. I know nothing about what is going on, and I have nothing to hide."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Did you hear those strange noises on the vox-line? That is what intercepted transmissions sound like. Why would one of my servants do that?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Attack] "Enough! I will not tolerate threats against me."continues where this line first appears above

end of branch

Entry point 8 of 16

NPCShe narrows her eyes. "That sounds... plausible."

YOU"You will have to content yourself with my word. I know nothing about what is going on, and I have nothing to hide."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Did you hear those strange noises on the vox-line? That is what intercepted transmissions sound like. Why would one of my servants do that?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Attack] "Enough! I will not tolerate threats against me."continues where this line first appears above

continues where this line first appears above

Entry point 9 of 16

NPC"My bet is on the insanely devious plan." The Arbitrator's finger tightens around the trigger.

YOU"You will have to content yourself with my word. I know nothing about what is going on, and I have nothing to hide."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Did you hear those strange noises on the vox-line? That is what intercepted transmissions sound like. Why would one of my servants do that?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Attack] "Enough! I will not tolerate threats against me."continues where this line first appears above

NPC"The law is the same for everyone, Rogue Trader — even for you, and even on the edge of the galaxy. Arbitrators, to arms!"

continues where this line first appears above

Entry point 10 of 16

NPC"Are you so confident you have the upper hand?" Yeager's eyes dart all over you, clearly reassessing the threat in your favour.

YOU"You will have to content yourself with my word. I know nothing about what is going on, and I have nothing to hide."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Did you hear those strange noises on the vox-line? That is what intercepted transmissions sound like. Why would one of my servants do that?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Attack] "Enough! I will not tolerate threats against me."continues where this line first appears above

continues where this line first appears above

Entry point 11 of 16

NPCThe pained crease between Yeager's eyebrows grows even deeper. "I may have overestimated your role in the current events."

Entry point 12 of 16

NPC"I doubt anything will happen while you are here."

NPC"The law is the same for everyone, Rogue Trader — even for you, and even on the edge of the galaxy. Arbitrators, to arms!"continues where this line first appears above

Entry point 13 of 16

NPC"Proctor Adriana Yeager, outpost T-M/255. Greetings, Rogue Trader." The woman hailing you could hardly be called ancient, but it seems her life has been arduous enough to turn her hair grey well before its time.

Solomorne"Proctor Solomorne Anthar. A cursory inspection of the site has revealed serious improprieties in the custody of the tithe. Report the extent to which the damage exceeds the margin of error."

NPC"According to the last report, the losses have not yet exceeded the acceptable value set by the Administratum. The new inventory will show how well we have done in securing the sacred tribute. Would you like to see the numbers?"

Solomorne"Not right now. I can see that you followed the protocols. The Marshal will judge the results of your mission according to the proper regulations." Both Proctors nod curtly.

YOU"Why is your landing pad blocked?"

NPC"I formally apologise for this on behalf of the Adeptus Arbites. We have been forced to stockpile shipments of weapons and explosives within the walls of the outpost to keep the living tithe from getting to them."

YOU"Why is your landing pad blocked?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What kind of farce is this? I was not even able to land properly!"

YOU"I was attacked by Guardsmen."

NPC"Throne's blood, more losses among the living tithe..." The Arbitrator rubs her temple wearily.

YOU"I almost got killed and you are worried about the damage to your tithe?"

NPC"The damage to the tithe is real, while your death... remains in the realm of speculation."

YOU"I almost got killed and you are worried about the damage to your tithe?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Are you able to speculate how likely the following development is to occur: the Rogue Trader sends the insolent lawwoman to the most Throne-forsaken planet there is, where she will guard the dust at her feet for the remainder of her life. In solitude."

NPC"Considering the necessity of the Adeptus Arbites maintaining its alliance with your dynasty, the Marshal may well give his assent to such a penalty." Yeager bows her head. "This insolent lawwoman has fully earned her punishment and will be watching her mouth from now on."

YOU"I almost got killed and you are worried about the damage to your tithe?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why have you not dealt with the insurgents? They nearly stole a tank!"

NPC"The tithe is taking damage; I am aware of that. However, we cannot afford an operation to capture and eliminate the insurgents. That would cause losses among the Arbitrators, which would be catastrophic in our current situation — we barely have enough people to stand watch and man the planetary defence weaponry, so where do you suppose that leaves container loading systems? We are forced to keep order only where we can. For the time being, cargo loss is still within the Administratum-regulated norm of deterioration."

YOU"I almost got killed and you are worried about the damage to your tithe?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why have you not dealt with the insurgents? They nearly stole a tank!"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Look at Solomorne] "How is it that you didn't think to send a handsome fighter to seduce their leader?"

NPC"Err... Excuse me?"

SolomorneSolomorne only silently closes his eyes, his expression turning stony.

YOU"I almost got killed and you are worried about the damage to your tithe?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why have you not dealt with the insurgents? They nearly stole a tank!"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Look at Solomorne] "How is it that you didn't think to send a handsome fighter to seduce their leader?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your supervision of the living tithe is insufficient."

NPC"Given the secrecy of the planet, the number of Arbitrators available, and the capriciousness of the Maw, the current supervision is optimal. It is not up to standard, and that is putting it mildly, but neither we nor the Administratum can provide more."

YOU"I almost got killed and you are worried about the damage to your tithe?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why have you not dealt with the insurgents? They nearly stole a tank!"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Look at Solomorne] "How is it that you didn't think to send a handsome fighter to seduce their leader?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your supervision of the living tithe is insufficient."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Indeed. So you are still faring well enough."

NPC"Thank you, Rogue Trader. Duty stands above all, and it is good to meet someone who understands that. Now, on to the purpose of your inspection."

NPC"The authenticity of the Administratum and Adeptus Arbites authorisations has been verified upon your vessel's identification. I am aware that this is not a social visit. Speak plainly: why has the head of the dynasty come here in person?"

YOU"Why is your landing pad blocked?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What kind of farce is this? I was not even able to land properly!"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I was attacked by Guardsmen."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"The Marshal has ordered the tithe to be transported to Dargonus. Start loading the barges."

NPCYeager lifts her gaze to the foul skies of Leethus. "So that's how it is. After so many years... Understood, Rogue Trader. We will begin loading immediately."

NPC"Lord Captain, your shuttle pilot reports that due to the loading activity, it is no longer possible to keep the shuttle on Leethus's surface — there is a risk of collision with the cargo handling mechanisms. The shuttle will remain in orbit until it can safely land at the Arbites outpost and take you aboard."

NPC"I apologise for the inconvenience, Rogue Trader. If it's any consolation, the loading process is nearly complete, and only a few formalities remain — in particular, we need the tithe inventory. The clerk Tertius Quart has it. As much as it offends me, I must ask you to return him to the outpost. That said, retrieving the inventory without the clerk will also suffice."

YOU"Why don't you go fetch him yourself?"

NPC"All Arbitrators are busy remotely monitoring the transport protocol. No one leaves the outpost alone, which means we would have to form a unit, and that, in turn, means the loading process would stop. Believe me: I would never have asked a Rogue Trader to run an errand for me, but I am doing my best to streamline the process."

YOU"Why don't you go fetch him yourself?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I will see to the clerk. Where do I find him?"

NPC"The section that Quart is currently taking inventory of is not far from here. We have blocked the passage so that the living tithe does not bother the scribes. I will clear the way for you now." She gives the data-slate a few quick swipes with her finger.

YOU"Is there anything else I need to know about the clerk?"

NPC"Hardly, but I can give a brief resume. Like other scribes, Quart was personally selected by the prefect to maintain the inventory. He is meticulous, efficient, and incredibly committed. I saw him on several occasions, and he was always immersed in his work." Yeager frowns slightly. "Perhaps even obsessively so."

YOU"Is there anything else I need to know about the clerk?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I wanted to ask you about something else."

NPC"I am listening, Rogue Trader."

YOU[Hand over the inventory] "The clerk had to be disposed of."

NPC"What matters is that you have delivered the inventory. I will record Quart's death as part of the transportation expenses."

NPC"We do not have much left to load. The bulk of it is already on the barges, and the rest is being delivered automatically. We merely need to decide what to do with the living tithe. They have bred irresponsibly and are now twice as numerous as before."

YOU"What do you mean by 'they have bred'?"

Solomorne"Those Guardsmen have been on Leethus for years, if not decades, and new ones keep arriving all the time. They disregard regulations, form clans, start families, and procreate. Such are the pernicious consequences of their aimless existence and the proof of their lack of fortitude."

YOU"What do you mean by 'they have bred'?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"They had no orders to breed. Take as many as is required and leave the rest here."

NPCProctor Yeager nods without taking her eyes off her data-slate. Evidently, the fate of these people interested her only within the framework of statistics. "Then it is settled. Your shuttle is ready to depart. We will take care of—"

Watcher of LeethusThe space around you suddenly fills with screeches and crackles that pour from every vox-caster and speaker. Then, you hear a deep male voice: "Query: invitation to the von Valancius orbital station. Uploading coordinates into the shuttle's central cogitator... complete. Purpose: finalising the Oblivion directive." The voice goes into a guttural, gurgling cough. "Tarry not, offspring... If you delay, you will be blown up along with all the extraneous subjects."

NPC"Blast it!" Yeager whispers, grabbing her data-slate and typing frantic commands into it.

YOU"What is this directive?"

NPC"The self-destruction of the planet." Yeager replies briefly, her fingers never leaving the command runes on the data-slate.

YOU"What is this directive?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Who are you?"

Watcher of Leethus"Answers, answers... Yes, we have always had a thirst for knowledge. I will satisfy your curiosity when you come to me. I need to know if you... have what it takes to see this through. Now hurry: this world will soon cease to exist."

end of branch

YOU"I am not going anywhere!"

Watcher of Leethus"Don't make me take over control of the shuttle, offspring. Let us simply... put an end to this world and this whole miserable affair."

end of branch

YOU"Who are you?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am not going anywhere!"continues where this line first appears above

NPC(sequence)

AbelardAbelard wrinkles his face tentatively. "That voice... Does it sound familiar? No, why would it? Forgive me, Lord Captain. I am hearing things."

end of branch

Idira"No, she is dead! She is gone! Shut up!" Idira runs her fingers through her dishevelled hair. "Sorry. My little whispers suddenly hit a sore spot. Huh? Did I miss something?"

end of branch

YOU"They are people, not a 'living tithe'! Take everyone. If there is not enough room, throw out something rotten."

YOU"Drive the excess into the deepest pit and seal off the entrance. That is how you dispose of refuse."

YOU"I am recruiting these people — they will undergo rigorous training on Dargonus and become a new generation of Guardsmen."

NPC"Are you going to forge these savages into soldiers of the Astra Militarum? A difficult project, but you seem to know what you are doing." Yeager enters a few commands into her data-slate. "That is all. You can board the shuttle now, and we will—"

YOU"They had no orders to breed. Take as many as is required and leave the rest here."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"They are people, not a 'living tithe'! Take everyone. If there is not enough room, throw out something rotten."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Drive the excess into the deepest pit and seal off the entrance. That is how you dispose of refuse."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am recruiting these people — they will undergo rigorous training on Dargonus and become a new generation of Guardsmen."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Here is your clerk. What is next?"

YOU"How do you keep the tithe safe with such a small force at your disposal?"

NPC"The first line of defence is secrecy. No one knows the coordinates of this world except the Marshal — and now you. The second is the automated defences and the communication systems between the warehouses. Each Arbitrator is responsible for their own sector and keeps it secure. There is also the last line of defence."

NPC"It was provided to us by Theodora von Valancius at the request of the Adeptus Arbites. The bowels of Leethus are packed with cyclonic bombs, manufactured to special order on Kiava Gamma. In the event of the imminent loss of the world to enemy attack, we will trigger the Oblivion directive and completely annihilate the planet. The tithe is paramount. It cannot be allowed to fall into the wrong hands, and we are willing to go down with it to prevent that from happening."

YOU[Hand over the inventory] "The clerk had to be disposed of."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Here is your clerk. What is next?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"How do you keep the tithe safe with such a small force at your disposal?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Yeager, how long have you been here?"

NPC"For many years, Rogue Trader. When I first set foot on Leethus, my hair was like a raven's wing, and there was a stupid certainty in my head that I would be here for a dozen cycles at most. Thankfully, Leethus has beaten the rotten habit of hoping and making plans out of me and taught me patience and humility instead."

YOU[Hand over the inventory] "The clerk had to be disposed of."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Here is your clerk. What is next?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"How do you keep the tithe safe with such a small force at your disposal?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Yeager, how long have you been here?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Collecting the tithe is meaningless, to say nothing of stockpiling it. The Maw is closed, and there is no telling when it might reopen. It would have been better if the tithe hadn't been collected at all."

NPCSomething resembling anger sparks in her lifeless eyes. "Tithe collection is a sacred pillar and a sign that the dominion of the Imperium is strong. Without it, worlds would think that they were free of all obligations and use the resources for their own needs. Would they feel compelled to pay the tithe again after the Maw reopened? Of course not. There would be unrest, riots, disorder. This is why it is important to collect the tithe at all times, regardless of circumstance."

YOU[Hand over the inventory] "The clerk had to be disposed of."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Here is your clerk. What is next?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"How do you keep the tithe safe with such a small force at your disposal?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Yeager, how long have you been here?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I must take my leave."

NPCThe Proctor gives an uncertain nod.

end of branch

Solomorne"Have you had much hands-on experience with entire sectors and dying planets being cut off from the Imperium? There must be other ways to display power — ones that do not incur the deaths of millions, for example."

YOU[Hand over the inventory] "The clerk had to be disposed of."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Here is your clerk. What is next?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"How do you keep the tithe safe with such a small force at your disposal?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Yeager, how long have you been here?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I must take my leave."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I must take my leave."

continues where this line first appears above

Solomorne"So, something you were supposed to learn in the Schola Progenium."

YOU[Hand over the inventory] "The clerk had to be disposed of."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Here is your clerk. What is next?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"How do you keep the tithe safe with such a small force at your disposal?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Yeager, how long have you been here?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I must take my leave."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I must take my leave."

continues where this line first appears above

Solomorne"At the same time, the threat of an explosion will help to herd the undisciplined living tithe onto the barges. Some of the recruits may be less than cooperative now, but telling them about the bombs will soon bring them to their senses."

YOU[Hand over the inventory] "The clerk had to be disposed of."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Here is your clerk. What is next?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"How do you keep the tithe safe with such a small force at your disposal?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Yeager, how long have you been here?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I must take my leave."

continues where this line first appears above

NPC(sequence)

Jae"You know, shereen, I find myself questioning two things in this life: whether Arbitrators understand what 'secrecy' means, and whether one can consider it a good idea to be walking around on a planet packed with a gigaton of explosives."

end of branch

MarazhaiMarazhai tsks in exasperation. "Would you be so obliging as to finally blow something up or otherwise enliven this tedious conversation? The propensity of the mon-keigh for these protracted and futile efforts to avoid violence is enough to make me wonder if I should... cut down the number of negotiating parties." The Drukhari's stare causes Yeager to turn pale. "One brazen tongue removed — and we are free. Does that not sound tempting?"

Kibellah"Your own tongue will suit me just as well, xenos. Though I would prefer the heart."

MarazhaiMarazhai glances lazily at Kibellah. "Do you see? Your deadly little pet could use a few body parts for her amusing rituals."

end of branch

NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Yeager, how long have you been here?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I must take my leave."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Everything is clear. I am heading out immediately to procure the inventory."

NPCThe Proctor gives an uncertain nod.continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I wanted to ask you about something else."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Everything is clear. I am heading out immediately to procure the inventory."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Remarkable ineptitude, Yeager. I will assist you, but only because I want to get off this dump of a planet as soon as possible."

NPC(sequence)

Pasqal"The process is questionably streamlined. According to initial data analysis, these laypeople demonstrate an efficiency ratio of under thirty-eight point four five percent."

NPC"It is easy to judge for one has not had to rot here through long years of waiting amidst dust storms, predators, and madmen worse than any beast. Yet, we survived, and we continue do all that is possible and impossible alike using the strength of the few that yet remain on this world... esteemed Magos."

end of branch

YOU"I will see to the clerk. Where do I find him?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Remarkable ineptitude, Yeager. I will assist you, but only because I want to get off this dump of a planet as soon as possible."continues where this line first appears above

NPC(sequence)

Abelard"Sending the Rogue Trader on errands... The nerve of this woman..."

end of branch

YOU"I see you are completely incompetent in this matter."

NPC"Acknowledged, Rogue Trader. Your dissatisfaction will be recorded in the minutes for this meeting and addressed according to general procedure. Now, let us move on to the purpose of your unannounced inspection."

YOU"This world clearly has problems. It is about time someone fixed them."

NPC"Then let us not waste time and move on to the purpose of your inspection."

Solomorne"She is right, Rogue Trader. What you are witnessing on Leethus are forced measures."

YOU"I almost got killed and you are worried about the damage to your tithe?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why have you not dealt with the insurgents? They nearly stole a tank!"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Look at Solomorne] "How is it that you didn't think to send a handsome fighter to seduce their leader?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your supervision of the living tithe is insufficient."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Indeed. So you are still faring well enough."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I see you are completely incompetent in this matter."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"This world clearly has problems. It is about time someone fixed them."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Indeed. So you are still faring well enough."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I see you are completely incompetent in this matter."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"This world clearly has problems. It is about time someone fixed them."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your supervision of the living tithe is insufficient."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Indeed. So you are still faring well enough."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I see you are completely incompetent in this matter."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"This world clearly has problems. It is about time someone fixed them."continues where this line first appears above

Solomorne"In other words, you are sitting on your hands. We both were trained in punitive tactics, but you are the one who doesn't have the brains to apply them without compromising the mission."

YOU"I almost got killed and you are worried about the damage to your tithe?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why have you not dealt with the insurgents? They nearly stole a tank!"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Look at Solomorne] "How is it that you didn't think to send a handsome fighter to seduce their leader?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your supervision of the living tithe is insufficient."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Indeed. So you are still faring well enough."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I see you are completely incompetent in this matter."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"This world clearly has problems. It is about time someone fixed them."continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Look at Solomorne] "How is it that you didn't think to send a handsome fighter to seduce their leader?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your supervision of the living tithe is insufficient."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Indeed. So you are still faring well enough."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I see you are completely incompetent in this matter."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"This world clearly has problems. It is about time someone fixed them."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why have you not dealt with the insurgents? They nearly stole a tank!"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Look at Solomorne] "How is it that you didn't think to send a handsome fighter to seduce their leader?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your supervision of the living tithe is insufficient."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Indeed. So you are still faring well enough."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I see you are completely incompetent in this matter."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"This world clearly has problems. It is about time someone fixed them."continues where this line first appears above

NPC(sequence)

Abelard"I ask that you not forget whom you are addressing, Mistress Yeager. Be mindful of your words."

NPC"Do not confuse my responsibilities with yours. My duty is to guard the tithe, not ingratiate myself with people of higher standing."

end of branch

SolomorneSolomorne looks you in the eye and shakes his head. "It's pointless. She has spent too much time in this insane place."

YOU"I almost got killed and you are worried about the damage to your tithe?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why have you not dealt with the insurgents? They nearly stole a tank!"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Look at Solomorne] "How is it that you didn't think to send a handsome fighter to seduce their leader?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your supervision of the living tithe is insufficient."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Indeed. So you are still faring well enough."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I see you are completely incompetent in this matter."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"This world clearly has problems. It is about time someone fixed them."continues where this line first appears above

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why have you not dealt with the insurgents? They nearly stole a tank!"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Look at Solomorne] "How is it that you didn't think to send a handsome fighter to seduce their leader?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your supervision of the living tithe is insufficient."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Indeed. So you are still faring well enough."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I see you are completely incompetent in this matter."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"This world clearly has problems. It is about time someone fixed them."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"The Marshal has ordered the tithe to be transported to Dargonus. Start loading the barges."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What kind of farce is this? I was not even able to land properly!"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I was attacked by Guardsmen."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"The Marshal has ordered the tithe to be transported to Dargonus. Start loading the barges."continues where this line first appears above

Solomorne"Greetings, Yeager. The lack of provisions and order here has driven the recruits to anarchy. You were supposed to keep the Guardsmen in good shape. I am waiting for an explanation."

NPC"They have spawned extra mouths and rebelled against their commanders. There were too few of us to prevent this, but we will not issue a single extra ration merely over of an unplanned human surplus."

Solomorne"I won't even ask if you have tried to petition the Administratum for additional provisions. I know it is not in your instructions and I can see that you do not care about this 'human surplus,' as you put it."

YOU"Why is your landing pad blocked?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What kind of farce is this? I was not even able to land properly!"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I was attacked by Guardsmen."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"The Marshal has ordered the tithe to be transported to Dargonus. Start loading the barges."continues where this line first appears above

Solomorne"Yeager. So, it is under your watch that the living tithe has fallen into heresy. You have the men and the weapons, yet the sector in your charge is an utter mess. Such poor stewardship of the sacred tribute borders on treason."

NPC"We do not have enough resources to—"

Solomorne"Pathetic excuses. It seems the rust is eating away not only at the containers, but at the Arbitrators as well. My report to the Marshal will outline your incompetence. Pray you get off with just a demotion."

YOU"Why is your landing pad blocked?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What kind of farce is this? I was not even able to land properly!"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I was attacked by Guardsmen."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"The Marshal has ordered the tithe to be transported to Dargonus. Start loading the barges."continues where this line first appears above

Entry point 14 of 16

NPC"Rogue Trader, we are now in the final stage of the loading process. Consequently, your shuttle is finally able to manoeuvre around and land. As soon as the matter of the inventory is settled, you will be free to depart."

YOU[Hand over the inventory] "The clerk had to be disposed of."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Here is your clerk. What is next?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"How do you keep the tithe safe with such a small force at your disposal?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Yeager, how long have you been here?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I must take my leave."

continues where this line first appears above

Entry point 15 of 16

NPC"Yes, Rogue Trader?"

YOU[Hand over the inventory] "The clerk had to be disposed of."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Here is your clerk. What is next?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"How do you keep the tithe safe with such a small force at your disposal?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Yeager, how long have you been here?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I must take my leave."

continues where this line first appears above

Entry point 16 of 16

NPCYeager's data-slate is flashing a panicked red. "The augurs are recording anomalous seismic activity: someone has started arming the cyclonic bombs in the bowels of Leethus. The machine spirits are rejecting all counter-litanies. The planet is done for. We cannot stop this..." Her lips tighten into a white streak, and her data-slate falls to the floor.

NPC The Proctor raises her weapon, followed by the rest of the Arbitrators. "I demand an explanation, Rogue Trader. Why can't we block the Oblivion? Is this your doing?"

YOU"I am just as clueless as you are."

NPC"Allow me to explain: you seized the tithe by somehow obtaining both the Marshal's and the Administratum's authorisations. Then, an accomplice contacted you and tricked the machine spirits into activating the destruction of the world with cyclonic bombs — bombs delivered years ago from a von Valancius world, I should add. All that is left to do is get away and cover your tracks. Did I miss anything?"

YOU"Solomorne, what are you doing?"

Solomorne"Fighting against a flawed interpretation of the Lex Imperialis." Solomorne takes his eyes off Yeager for a moment and looks at you intently. "I did not think you would see it any other way."

YOU"Yeager, can you tell me what protocol you are following at this time? You do realise that your unauthorised actions are contradicting the Marshal's orders?"

NPC"I doubt there exists a protocol for a crisis like this, but... I hear the voice of the Lex Imperialis in your words." She frowns, but the suspicion in her gaze has somewhat eased.

YOU"You will have to content yourself with my word. I know nothing about what is going on, and I have nothing to hide."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Did you hear those strange noises on the vox-line? That is what intercepted transmissions sound like. Why would one of my servants do that?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Attack] "Enough! I will not tolerate threats against me."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I have a proposal that will satisfy everyone: I will find out who caused this commotion and why, and then we will travel to Dargonus and go before the Marshal together."

YOU"Don't you find that there are too many inconsistencies in this story? What if this situation is not, in fact, the result of some insanely devious plan of mine? Have you considered that I may have been unwittingly involved in someone else's scheme?"

YOU"It is all quite simple: either you wait on my ship while I sort everything out, or you perish ignominiously by my hand."

YOU[Attack] "Enough! I will not tolerate threats against me."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I knew I could rely on you, Solomorne."

Solomorne"I am glad to hear it — and to know that our understanding of the Lex Imperialis is in accord."

YOU"Yeager, can you tell me what protocol you are following at this time? You do realise that your unauthorised actions are contradicting the Marshal's orders?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I have a proposal that will satisfy everyone: I will find out who caused this commotion and why, and then we will travel to Dargonus and go before the Marshal together."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is all quite simple: either you wait on my ship while I sort everything out, or you perish ignominiously by my hand."continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Attack] "Enough! I will not tolerate threats against me."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Could we, perhaps, try to avoid bloodshed?"

NPC"That depends entirely on you and what you are about to tell me."

YOU"Yeager, can you tell me what protocol you are following at this time? You do realise that your unauthorised actions are contradicting the Marshal's orders?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is all quite simple: either you wait on my ship while I sort everything out, or you perish ignominiously by my hand."continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Attack] "Enough! I will not tolerate threats against me."continues where this line first appears above

NPC(sequence)

Marazhai"By all means, converse away. That will only increase your chances of meeting an early... agreement."

end of branch

YOU[Attack] "Enough! I will not tolerate threats against me."continues where this line first appears above

NPC(sequence)

Solomorne"Proctor Yeager, you have no right to threaten a Rogue Trader on his/her own planet." Solomorne speaks each word in a soft yet confident voice, somehow overriding the wailing sirens. "Especially when the barges are being sent to Dargonus on the Marshal's orders. If that is not enough for you, I will personally vouch that [Name] von Valancius is not in league with some unknown criminal."

NPC"I trust your judgement, Proctor, but my mission requires vigilance and permits no compromise."

end of branch

Solomorne"Enough, Yeager. Not only are your efforts not helping to protect the tithe, they are actually hurting the cause. Lay down your weapons before you make one final mistake."

NPC"I see you no longer serve the Lex Imperialis, but the interests of a Rogue Trader." Yeager resolutely clutches her weapon.

end of branch

Solomorne"Only the Rogue Trader can transport the tithe and get everyone out of here. You will bow your head and wait for the Marshal's judgement in handcuffs."

NPC"I see you no longer serve the Lex Imperialis, but the interests of a Rogue Trader." Yeager resolutely clutches her weapon.

end of branch

YOU"You dare demand an explanation from a Rogue Trader?"

NPC"My job is to guard the tithe, even from a Rogue Trader if necessary. Kindly explain yourself, or I will be forced to take action."

YOU"I am just as clueless as you are."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You dare demand an explanation from a Rogue Trader?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Draw your weapon] "Pull yourself together, or you will regret it."

NPC"My job is to guard the tithe, even from a Rogue Trader if necessary. Kindly explain yourself, or I will be forced to take action."continues where this line first appears above

NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Draw your weapon] "Pull yourself together, or you will regret it."continues where this line first appears above

NPC(sequence)

MarazhaiMarazhai bares his teeth. "Here comes my favourite part."

end of branch

Abelard"What do you think you are doing, Yeager? Lower your weapon this instant!"

end of branch