Prefect"Attempting to manipulate the Marshal's sense of professional pride. Recorded and added to the case."
Prefect"Well. The proceedings are nearing their conclusion." The prefect looks around at the nobles of Dargonus gathered in the hall. "The record of sins and heresies presented to the servants of the God-Emperor has revealed the Rogue Trader's true essence, and the verdict is grim. For his/her thoughts and deeds were not bent toward the service of Humanity, but to the indulgence of his/her own greed and petty ambition. Today, you are here to witness an act of righteous judgement, and the downfall of the von Valancius dynasty. Houses of Dargonus, do you reject the authority of this heretic?"
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Governor Urbend Drivestem"If I might interrupt, Mistress Vultur..." Urbend Drivestem, governor of Dargonus, visibly nervous at the sight of the armed Arbitrators, nevertheless raises his head haughtily. "We are much obliged to you for arranging this gathering..." The emphasis on the last word leaves no doubt that the nobles' presence at the Palace is involuntary. "However, all that has now taken place here does not change the facts. House von Valancius holds the Warrant of Trade. House von Valancius is a Rogue Trader dynasty, and no amount of legal contortions will change that! House Drivestem is loyal to the Rogue Trader."
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Toriana GaprakToriana Gaprak juts out her chin, her whole body trembling with either terror or anger. "Von Valancius's power is cruel, but unquestionable. The Warrant of Trade grants the Rogue Trader rights far beyond those that anyone else in this Palace must content themselves with. House Gaprak is loyal to the Rogue Trader."
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Toriana GaprakToriana Gaprak makes the sign of the Aquila. "No shadow shall fall upon the name von Valancius or eclipse the radiance of the beneficent Rogue Trader line. Whatever your mechanical dog may say... House Gaprak is loyal to the Rogue Trader."
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Macharius SauerbackMacharius Sauerback's unpleasant face twists into a smirk. "I would be the first to condemn the Rogue Traders of the Koronus Expanse for their flagrant disregard for the law, only I do not purport to pass off my opinion as justice. House Sauerback is loyal to the Rogue Trader!"
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Macharius SauerbackMacharius Sauerback raises his head, his eyes burning with an almost deranged loyalty. "Venerating the letter of the law is not fidelity to justice. Straying from the tenets of the Lex is not discerning the essence of truth and the granting of retribution." The man is silent for a few seconds before he almost shouts out, "House Sauerback is loyal to the Rogue Trader!"
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Clementia WerserianClementia Werserian looks straight at you as if the prefect does not even exist. She makes the sign of the Aquila and speaks in a low voice: "House Werserian is loyal to the Rogue Trader."
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Proctor Adriana Yeager"Allow me to address you, even though I am not of the first families of Dargonus. Proctor Yeager, Adeptus Arbites, Leethus outpost. [Name] von Valancius made every effort to not only save the tithe, but also the Arbites contingent stationed on Leethus. I propose that such an act would have been entirely nonsensical if the Rogue Trader was intent on simply stealing the tithe. End of report."
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PrefectPrefect Vultur stiffens, as though what she just heard has come as a very unpleasant surprise. Her slender fingers grip the armrests of her chair, her knuckles cracking. "This world and its denizens are rotten to the core..."
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PrefectThe prefect straightens in her chair with such force that you hear the arduous grinding of her implants. Her voice is cold and slightly tremulous: "Decree GC-781/89, Supplement 982. For tithe theft, participation in foul sorcery, and other crimes against the Imperium [Name] von Valancius is sentenced to death. The property of the dynasty is hereby confiscated and placed under the oversight of the Adeptus Administratum. Any last words, convict?"
YOU"Marshal Strachs! You have heard my arguments and the prefect's distorted version of the truth. Do you require yet more information before you denounce the real culprit?"
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Your words have been heard, Rogue Trader. However, you are the real criminal now. You stole the Expanse's tithe, of which there is irrefutable evidence including the testimony of Proctor Anthar; therefore you are to be punished to the fullest extent of the Lex Imperialis."
YOU"Marshal Strachs! You have heard my arguments and the prefect's distorted version of the truth. Do you require yet more information before you denounce the real culprit?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"By the God-Emperor's will, the von Valancius dynasty was granted a Warrant of Trade. Go against me, and you go against the God-Emperor. Marshal Strachs and Prefect Vultur are hereby sentenced to death. Those who aided and abetted them in this plot will share the same fate."
Solomorne"This is where our paths diverge, [Name]. There is nothing that can justify your crime anymore."
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Proctor Anthar, carry out the sentence."
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Solomorne"Stop, [Name]. The Arbites were following Strachs's orders, following the law. To condemn them just for that is unfair. Show them the leniency that you once showed me, or else this long road we have travelled together will have been for nothing."
YOU"What do you suggest?"
Solomorne"For Prefect Vultur and Marshal Strachs, the sentence for attempting to pervert the Lex Imperialis is death. The others must face your judgement in accordance with the Emperor's Law."
YOU"What do you suggest?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Very well, let's do it your way."
SolomorneSolomorne turns to the Arbitrators. The Proctor's eyes are blazing, his voice thundering with unusual passion: "Arbitrators of the Adeptus Arbites, by turning against the prefect and the Marshal, you will not be in violation of the Lex Imperialis, on the contrary — we are governed by the Emperor's will alone, and He is pleased by order and stability on His vassal worlds. We must not allow this crude power grab to succeed. Our task is to protect the legitimate ruler of the protectorate and to restore justice."
SolomorneSolomorne nods and raises his weapon. "Glaito, ready!"
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Arbitrators. The sentence is death. Carry it out."
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YOU"It will be as I say, Solomorne!"
Solomorne"Then our paths diverge. I will find a way to rectify the flagrant violations of the Lex Imperialis, but without you, Rogue Trader."
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Proctor Anthar, carry out the sentence."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Trust me, it's better this way."
Solomorne"I will appeal to the Arbitrators — I'm sure many of them are already convinced that the prefect is manipulating the Lex Imperialis for her own ends."
YOU"What do you suggest?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Very well, let's do it your way."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It will be as I say, Solomorne!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Trust me, it's better this way."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"Everyone who sided with Vultur and Strachs must die. They have earned neither mercy nor the privilege of a trial. Their execution will be a lesson to anyone who would ever again attempt to assassinate a Rogue Trader or manipulate the Lex Imperialis."
YOU"What do you suggest?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Very well, let's do it your way."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It will be as I say, Solomorne!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Trust me, it's better this way."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Very well, let's do it your way."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It will be as I say, Solomorne!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Trust me, it's better this way."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"Surprisingly moderate words after all we have seen. You will not restore order this way. Now is the time for harsh and decisive measures, or else your subjects and allies will continue to rebel against you."
YOU"What do you suggest?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Very well, let's do it your way."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It will be as I say, Solomorne!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Trust me, it's better this way."continues where this line first appears above
Prefect"Heretic! Traitor! Marshal, execute them! All of them!"
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YOU"Arbitrators! Vultur and Strachs believe that the Lex Imperialis is but a collection of letters and forms to be played with as they please. They believe that you must blindly follow their orders. But whom do you defend? Humanity or these prefects? I call upon you to stand with me in the name of Humanity, not the soulless machine of the Administratum!"
YOU"Your evidence, arguments, witnesses, and even the Lex Imperialis are just a pathetic attempt to gain the upper hand over someone like me. There is only one law in the Expanse and I am it! And I sentence you all to death for insubordination!"
Solomorne"This is where our paths diverge, [Name]. There is nothing that can justify your crime anymore."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"No, [Name]. What you are proposing is not the God-Emperor's justice. You are distorting the Lex Imperialis and placing your own ego above all else, even His will. I cannot accept this outcome."
YOU"What do you suggest?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Very well, let's do it your way."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It will be as I say, Solomorne!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Trust me, it's better this way."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"Stop, [Name]. The Arbites were following Strachs's orders, following the law. To condemn them just for that is unfair. Show them the leniency that you once showed me, or else this long road we have travelled together will have been for nothing."continues where this line first appears above
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Arbitrators. The sentence is death. Carry it out."continues where this line first appears above
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"There is weight to your arguments, Rogue Trader. But even if you are right about the prefect, that does not immediately disprove all accusations against you."
YOU"The right to judge is granted by the God-Emperor. Can you swear that at this moment you are guided by the Lex Imperialis and not someone else's intent?"
PrefectInscribia heaves in a breath, ready to launch into a vehement tirade, but the Marshal raises his right hand and everyone falls silent.
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"That is enough. Vultur, I trusted you, and I failed to notice when your wise counsel turned into instructions and orders. When my every action became subject to your avaricious schemes rather than the Lex. But now I see things with perfect clarity, the way you try to manipulate the truth to achieve your ends." Clenching his fist, Strachs thunders, "You turned me into a puppet and then trampled on His laws!"
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Prefect Inscribia Vultur. You are charged with fraud, attempted assassination of the Emperor's anointed, and undermining the foundations of the Lex Imperialis. Surrender now and accept a dignified death."
Prefect"I must refuse. Marshal Gregoras Strachs, I charge you with treason against the Imperium and conspiring with a heretic! Fangs of the Expanse, to battle!"
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YOU"It is a difficult thing to admit that one is in the wrong, Marshal. You have stumbled by putting your trust in Vultur, but I have faith that you will make the right choice now."
PrefectInscribia heaves in a breath, ready to launch into a vehement tirade, but the Marshal raises his right hand and everyone falls silent.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You have demonstrated clearly that your vaunted Lex is worth nothing — you bend and mould the law to suit your desires. And yet, power is so intoxicating, so difficult to give up... Am I wrong, Strachs?"
PrefectInscribia heaves in a breath, ready to launch into a vehement tirade, but the Marshal raises his right hand and everyone falls silent.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You should have joined my side while you still had the chance."
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Are those your last words?"
YOU"Marshal Strachs! You have heard my arguments and the prefect's distorted version of the truth. Do you require yet more information before you denounce the real culprit?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"By the God-Emperor's will, the von Valancius dynasty was granted a Warrant of Trade. Go against me, and you go against the God-Emperor. Marshal Strachs and Prefect Vultur are hereby sentenced to death. Those who aided and abetted them in this plot will share the same fate."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Arbitrators! Vultur and Strachs believe that the Lex Imperialis is but a collection of letters and forms to be played with as they please. They believe that you must blindly follow their orders. But whom do you defend? Humanity or these prefects? I call upon you to stand with me in the name of Humanity, not the soulless machine of the Administratum!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your evidence, arguments, witnesses, and even the Lex Imperialis are just a pathetic attempt to gain the upper hand over someone like me. There is only one law in the Expanse and I am it! And I sentence you all to death for insubordination!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"By the God-Emperor's will, the von Valancius dynasty was granted a Warrant of Trade. Go against me, and you go against the God-Emperor. Marshal Strachs and Prefect Vultur are hereby sentenced to death. Those who aided and abetted them in this plot will share the same fate."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Arbitrators! Vultur and Strachs believe that the Lex Imperialis is but a collection of letters and forms to be played with as they please. They believe that you must blindly follow their orders. But whom do you defend? Humanity or these prefects? I call upon you to stand with me in the name of Humanity, not the soulless machine of the Administratum!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your evidence, arguments, witnesses, and even the Lex Imperialis are just a pathetic attempt to gain the upper hand over someone like me. There is only one law in the Expanse and I am it! And I sentence you all to death for insubordination!"continues where this line first appears above
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Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Defiling this sacred court with sorcery and especially using it on someone who has already been touched by corruption would be most unwise. Your request is denied."
PrefectThe prefect leafs through a few pages in a folder. "The court also takes note of the pernicious effects of the Rogue Trader's handling of the Emperor's servants entrusted to his/her authority. Since arriving from Thassera, the Rogue Trader has done his/her duty by passing judgement on several subjects within the walls of this hallowed hall..." The prefect picks up the sheet of notes and wrinkles her nose.
Prefect(sequence)
Prefect"The replacement Choirmaster appointed in the wake of Master Pras's execution was taken from a Chorda world where he was serving at the time. That left the planet with effectively no Astropathic communication, putting it in a precarious position that soon resulted in significant losses. The Rogue Trader's decision sparked a series of conflicts with the Chorda protectorate."
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Prefect"On the Rogue Trader's orders, both the Doleful Host and Master Pras were executed. The Ecclesiarchy made an official statement of condemnation, as killing militant devotees of the faith is tantamount to abetting heresy. Meanwhile the new Choirmaster lost several messages of utmost importance on his very first day of service, thus sparking a war between two Koronus Expanse worlds. As of now, one of those worlds has been completely destroyed, and the other deemed uninhabitable."
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Prefect"Connivance at the Doleful Host's fanaticism and the loss of a valuable Astropath resulted in the appointment of a new Choirmaster. That same day, he lost several messages of utmost importance, thus sparking a war between two Koronus Expanse worlds. As of now, one of those worlds has been completely destroyed, and the other deemed uninhabitable."
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Prefect"In forbidding the Doleful Host from capturing the Choirmaster, the Rogue Trader confirmed his/her complicity in the activities of the infamous heretic Kunrad Voigtvir, to whom the Choirmaster had been relaying messages that had led to mutinies, acts of heresy, and other forms of disobedience. The Adeptus Arbites had to step in and execute Omnis Pras themselves."
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Prefect"The Rogue Trader did not deliver a verdict in the Doleful Host trial, thus leaving events to take their course during an emergency. Host warriors stormed the Astropaths' abode, executed Master Pras, and posthumously discovered his connection to a plot instigated by the traitor Kunrad Voigtvir. As a consequence of the Rogue Trader's criminal connivance, unrest broke out on Dargonus, and the Astropathic Choir took heavy casualties."
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PrefectInscribia picks up a scroll that carries the Ecclesiarchy's seals. "Allow me to read out the decision of the honoured representatives of the Saint Drusus mission. 'We brand the one who dared subject Anvylas, a holy votary of the faith, to a martyr's death a heretic and an associate to evil of every kind.'"
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PrefectInscribia picks up a scroll that carries the Ecclesiarchy's seals. "Allow me to read out the decision of the honoured representatives of the Saint Drusus mission. 'We brand the one who dared subject Anvylas, a holy votary of the faith, to horrible torture a heretic and an associate to evil of every kind.' At the moment, the cardinal's mental state is cause for concern. Not only has he developed a fondness for bloody rites and repulsive forms of self-flagellation, but he has also, on several occasions, injured members of his congregation who were trying to make donations to him."
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Prefect"The Rogue Trader exiled Cardinal Anvylas from Dargonus so that he would meet his death away from his parish and flock. The ecclesiarchs of the capital world officially condemn this unfair decision, which they interpret as a heretical attempt to weaken Dargonus's faith through bereaving the planet of a holy preacher."
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Prefect"Let me present to you a vox-recording of Cardinal Anvylas, who was pardoned by the 'Rogue Trader,' only to be detained at the cathedral next to the bodies of forty members of his congregation slain at his hand." The prefect snaps her fingers, and a servo-skull flies up to her.
Scribe Servo-SkullThe cardinal's voice is clearly heard over the whispering statics. "I begged, I implored... But you did not listen! Oh, how they pleaded, how they cried out to me, how— how they stank of corruption! If I could not purify myself, then I can purify them! All of them! The women, the children, the old! All of them!" He makes a sound between a cough and a cackle.
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Prefect"Lord Molles, deemed to be alive, committed a transgression of softheartedness in running his family enterprise. He released all his convicted workers and terminated the contracts with his primary suppliers, citing their moral qualities. His actions resulted in twelve kilotons of undelivered food rations across several recipients."
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Prefect"Lady Molles-Secundas, who had taken over the reins of her family enterprise, was found guilty of conspiring with the pirate captains who were her suppliers of captives used to make corpse starch. Before her execution, she confessed to having paid a sizeable sum of money to House von Valancius for its cooperation in the court."
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Prefect"The Rogue Trader's ruling in the Lady Molles-Secundas case was to declare both her marriages valid, which forced her to live with both her husbands under one roof. As a result, what had begun as a family feud escalated into a massacre that not only decapitated two noble houses but, worst of all, left manufacturing facilities of great importance to the Imperium without competent managers."
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Prefect"The Rogue Trader ordered the execution of Lady Molles-Secundas, her children, and both her husbands, as well as a functionary of the Administratum, in whose case there had been no formal investigation of any kind. The verdict left the Molles and Secundas family enterprises with no worthy managers, resulting in a catastrophic decline in the efficiency of production facilities of importance to the Imperium. In addition, due to the unexpected execution, the aforementioned functionary had no time to hand over his responsibilities to his successors, which significantly affected the operations of the departments of the Administratum."
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Prefect"The Rogue Trader neglected his/her direct duties in refusing to pass a verdict in the Lady Molles-Secundas case. As a result, what had begun as a family feud escalated into a massacre that not only decapitated two noble houses but, worst of all, left manufacturing facilities of great importance to the Imperium without competent managers."
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Solomorne"First, the Administratum is unable to do its duty and asks for help, and now, it has the audacity to criticise the verdicts of the Rogue Trader. Prefect, your accusations do not merely cast aspersions on the competence of the Administratum, they challenge the sanctity of the decisions of the Emperor's anointed."
YOU"You couldn't have done any better, Prefect, no matter how fervently you believe yourself to be the saviour of the protectorate — an appointment you bestowed upon yourself!"
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Your eagerness to kill the prefect — even in front of multiple witnesses — speaks of desperation, Rogue Trader. You know that your intentions and abilities are a far cry from what is expected of the Emperor's anointed." Strachs looks at you without a hint of sympathy.
Prefect"Moving on... The defendant was placed in an unprecedented position of trust by the Adeptus Arbites and the Administratum. He/She was entrusted with the coordinates of the world where the tithe of the entire Koronus Expanse was held. As agreed, the defendant was to transport the sacred tribute to Dargonus, but what did he/she do?"
PrefectThe Marshal snaps his fingers over Glaito's head. The cyber-mastiff flinches as if from a bolter shot, but obediently plays another recording. You recognise Solomorne's voice.
Glaito"So, Lady Theodora intended to steal the tithe from the start: she arranged the world's destruction to cover her tracks, installed a servant to keep an eye on things, and even made a contingency plan in case of her own death. All she needed was an opportune moment — like this one. With the Expanse being torn apart, the planet's death looks convincing."
GlaitoThere is a hissing sound as a new recording starts playing. This time, the voice is that of the watcher of Leethus: "And so, Theodora's plan is accomplished: the tithe of the Koronus Expanse now belongs to the dynasty. Whether her intentions were the same as yours, offspring, I know not, but that matters little."
SolomorneSolomorne gives you a hard look. "In the name of the Lex Imperialis, I testify that Rogue Trader [Name] von Valancius took possession of the tithe."
Prefect"Tithe theft. Orchestrated by Theodora von Valancius. Committed by the defendant. Witnessed by Proctor Anthar."
YOU"Solomorne, don't you have anything to say?"
Solomorne"I certainly do." Solomorne glares at the prefect. "Prefect Vultur, I charge you with abuse of power and perverting the justice of the Imperium. I have been a repeated witness to your schemes against the Rogue Trader and, even more shamefully, I have been your instrument in them."
SolomorneSolomorne narrows his eyes and bites out, "You've made two mistakes — you attacked someone I care about, and you dressed it up in decorations offensive to the Adeptus Arbites. So I promise you — as soon as this is over, I will take you by the throat, put a shotgun to your head, and do His justice."
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Proctor, be silent! Your behaviour is beyond all imaginable limits! I demand obedience!"
Solomorne"No, Marshal. I will not obey you while you obey the prefect, who has put on this farce solely to further her own interests."
YOU"Solomorne, don't you have anything to say?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, if there is anything else you wish to add..."
Solomorne"I certainly do." Solomorne glares at the prefect. "Prefect Vultur, I charge you with abuse of power and perverting the justice of the Imperium. I have been a repeated witness to your schemes against the Rogue Trader and, even more shamefully, I have been your instrument in them."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I intended to return the tithe to Marshal Strachs in full, regardless of Theodora's plans."
Prefect"On the matter of the sacred tithe, we rely on facts, not your words. That Theodora planned to steal the tithe is established fact. The destruction of Leethus is also beyond dispute. To allow you to execute your plan would have been highly imprudent."
Prefect"The sacred tithe is not intended to be used by anyone other than the Adeptus Administratum, the deliverers of His will."
Marshal Gregoras StrachsStrachs does not turn to look at Inscribia, but you have no doubt about whom he is addressing. "The Adeptus Administratum, like the Adeptus Arbites, only oversees the allocation of the tithe. I do not need to remind you of that, do I, Prefect?"
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PrefectThe old woman snatches up the next parchment. "How good of you to speak up, Gregoras. As an addendum to the proceedings, we will be examining the heresies of Solomorne Anthar resulting from his moral failure to oppose the greed of the heretic von Valancius."
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GlaitoYour own voice pours forth from inside Glaito.
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Glaito"You think you can judge me? Remember: I am the Rogue Trader, and you have no right to object to a word I say!"
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Glaito"I expect members of my retinue to offer useful assistance. You will endeavour to act in my interests from here on out."
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Glaito"Trying to adhere to the Lex Imperialis causes more harm than good. Do you still not see it?"
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Glaito"You no longer follow the letter of the Lex Imperialis... Am I correct?"
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GlaitoSomething inside Glaito clicks — and Solomorne's voice begins to play.
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Glaito"If anyone had told me before that I would be thinking about things like that, I probably would have caved their face in. But the truth is, I no longer see heresy in such thoughts."
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Glaito"I have been in your retinue long enough to acknowledge that you are the only true power in all of the Expanse..."
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Glaito"If the Marshal learns the whole truth, it will make things difficult..."
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Glaito"Narrow interpretations of the Lex Imperialis are a leash... I have long since outgrown the confines of this system, and I can see its flaws..."
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Glaito"By Arbitrator standards, I am already knee-deep in heresy, but, frankly, their condemnation does not deter me..."
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PrefectVultur sets the pile of papers down heavily on the lectern and raises her eyes.
Prefect"Well. The proceedings are nearing their conclusion." The prefect looks around at the nobles of Dargonus gathered in the hall. "The record of sins and heresies presented to the servants of the God-Emperor has revealed the Rogue Trader's true essence, and the verdict is grim. For his/her thoughts and deeds were not bent toward the service of Humanity, but to the indulgence of his/her own greed and petty ambition. Today, you are here to witness an act of righteous judgement, and the downfall of the von Valancius dynasty. Houses of Dargonus, do you reject the authority of this heretic?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Lie] "I intended to return the tithe to Marshal Strachs in full, regardless of Theodora's plans."
Prefect"On the matter of the sacred tithe, we rely on facts, not your words. That Theodora planned to steal the tithe is established fact. The destruction of Leethus is also beyond dispute. To allow you to execute your plan would have been highly imprudent."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I kept a portion of the tithe for myself, it is true. It will be put to far better use than being left to rot away in some warehouse. You may administer the rest as you see fit."
Prefect"The sacred tithe is not intended to be used by anyone other than the Adeptus Administratum, the deliverers of His will."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I sent a portion of the tithe for the rebuilding of the Expanse. It will serve the people better than leaving it to rot in your coffers forever."
Prefect"The sacred tithe is not intended to be used by anyone other than the Adeptus Administratum, the deliverers of His will."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I actually did requisition the tithe because I could not allow it to rot away uselessly. In my hands, the sacred tribute will serve a great purpose."
Prefect"The sacred tithe is not intended to be used by anyone other than the Adeptus Administratum, the deliverers of His will."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"
end of branch
Solomorne"This court has no authority, as it is part of Prefect Vultur's machinations. Subversion of the Emperor's justice will not be tolerated." Solomorne's gaze sweeps over the Arbitrators and pauses on the Marshal. "I am forced to explain the obvious, and it only underscores the blindness that has afflicted the servants of His Law."
YOU"Solomorne, don't you have anything to say?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, if there is anything else you wish to add..."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I intended to return the tithe to Marshal Strachs in full, regardless of Theodora's plans."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Lie] "I intended to return the tithe to Marshal Strachs in full, regardless of Theodora's plans."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I kept a portion of the tithe for myself, it is true. It will be put to far better use than being left to rot away in some warehouse. You may administer the rest as you see fit."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I sent a portion of the tithe for the rebuilding of the Expanse. It will serve the people better than leaving it to rot in your coffers forever."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I actually did requisition the tithe because I could not allow it to rot away uselessly. In my hands, the sacred tribute will serve a great purpose."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"The Rogue Trader should not be held responsible for the misdeeds of his/her predecessor." Murmuring breaks out, but Solomorne presses on, unperturbed. "Or else, by that same logic, Incendia Chorda should have been tried long ago for what her predecessor Aspyce did. As you can see, it isn't difficult to find inconsistencies in a case if you use your head a little. I refuse to be a mindless tool and follow absurd orders."
YOU"Solomorne, don't you have anything to say?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, if there is anything else you wish to add..."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I intended to return the tithe to Marshal Strachs in full, regardless of Theodora's plans."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Lie] "I intended to return the tithe to Marshal Strachs in full, regardless of Theodora's plans."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I kept a portion of the tithe for myself, it is true. It will be put to far better use than being left to rot away in some warehouse. You may administer the rest as you see fit."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I sent a portion of the tithe for the rebuilding of the Expanse. It will serve the people better than leaving it to rot in your coffers forever."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I actually did requisition the tithe because I could not allow it to rot away uselessly. In my hands, the sacred tribute will serve a great purpose."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
SolomorneSolomorne steps forward, looking into the faces of the accusers. "You have gathered here to crush with lies and trickery the only person capable of taming the Koronus Expanse. By scorning his/her achievements, the power of the sacred Warrant, and the Lex Imperialis, you have signed your names to heresy."
YOU"Solomorne, don't you have anything to say?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, if there is anything else you wish to add..."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I intended to return the tithe to Marshal Strachs in full, regardless of Theodora's plans."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Lie] "I intended to return the tithe to Marshal Strachs in full, regardless of Theodora's plans."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I kept a portion of the tithe for myself, it is true. It will be put to far better use than being left to rot away in some warehouse. You may administer the rest as you see fit."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I sent a portion of the tithe for the rebuilding of the Expanse. It will serve the people better than leaving it to rot in your coffers forever."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I actually did requisition the tithe because I could not allow it to rot away uselessly. In my hands, the sacred tribute will serve a great purpose."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, if there is anything else you wish to add..."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I intended to return the tithe to Marshal Strachs in full, regardless of Theodora's plans."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Lie] "I intended to return the tithe to Marshal Strachs in full, regardless of Theodora's plans."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I kept a portion of the tithe for myself, it is true. It will be put to far better use than being left to rot away in some warehouse. You may administer the rest as you see fit."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I sent a portion of the tithe for the rebuilding of the Expanse. It will serve the people better than leaving it to rot in your coffers forever."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I actually did requisition the tithe because I could not allow it to rot away uselessly. In my hands, the sacred tribute will serve a great purpose."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
Prefect(sequence)
Prefect"In addition, the defendant led a fleet of his/her associates into a classified system, causing irreparable damage to the sacred tribute. As a result of internal squabbling between the ruffians and the defendant, a number of barges were destroyed or stolen, their total estimated tithe volume being the equivalent of two decades' worth of payments from three Alpha-class, Exactis Prima tithe grade worlds."
end of branch
SolomorneThe recording barely fades out before Solomorne loudly proclaims: "I remind you that the Rogue Trader's decision regarding the tithe was made in my presence. Therefore, any and all accusations should be levied against me first, and I do have much to say on the matter."
Prefect"Tithe theft. Orchestrated by Theodora von Valancius. Committed by the defendant. Witnessed by Proctor Anthar."continues where this line first appears above
Prefect"Tithe theft. Orchestrated by Theodora von Valancius. Committed by the defendant. Witnessed by Proctor Anthar."continues where this line first appears above
Prefect"Tithe theft. Orchestrated by Theodora von Valancius. Committed by the defendant. Witnessed by Proctor Anthar."continues where this line first appears above
Marshal Gregoras StrachsVultur flinches at your outburst. For a moment, the anger you saw before the trial blossoms once more on her face, but this time you are not the only one to witness it — the Marshal sees it too. He arches an eyebrow.
Prefect"Moving on... The defendant was placed in an unprecedented position of trust by the Adeptus Arbites and the Administratum. He/She was entrusted with the coordinates of the world where the tithe of the entire Koronus Expanse was held. As agreed, the defendant was to transport the sacred tribute to Dargonus, but what did he/she do?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I cannot predict the future — a poor outcome is a possibility in every case. If I had chosen a different path, the prefect still would have found fault with it."
YOU"These cases were under the jurisdiction of the Lex Dargonus. Responsibility for the consequences lies with you."
YOU"This is all a terrible mistake!"
Prefect"Your admission of error is commendable, although it offers little of substance to justify your actions."
Prefect"Moving on... The defendant was placed in an unprecedented position of trust by the Adeptus Arbites and the Administratum. He/She was entrusted with the coordinates of the world where the tithe of the entire Koronus Expanse was held. As agreed, the defendant was to transport the sacred tribute to Dargonus, but what did he/she do?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They've made a right mess of this, haven't they? The talents of my subjects never cease to amaze me!"
Prefect"Let the record reflect the outrageous irony of the defendant's words."
Prefect"Moving on... The defendant was placed in an unprecedented position of trust by the Adeptus Arbites and the Administratum. He/She was entrusted with the coordinates of the world where the tithe of the entire Koronus Expanse was held. As agreed, the defendant was to transport the sacred tribute to Dargonus, but what did he/she do?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"
end of branch
Entry point 80 of 162
Marshal Gregoras StrachsStrachs huffs out a laugh. "You seem offended by the insinuation that you are prone to fainting spells. Well... I admit, there is a difference, and you have just made it plain for all to see."
Prefect"Marshal." The old woman stares at the Arbitrator without blinking, as if hypnotising him. Finally, convinced that the Marshal's conversation with you is over before it even began, she returns to her papers.
PrefectThe prefect leafs through a few pages in a folder. "The court also takes note of the pernicious effects of the Rogue Trader's handling of the Emperor's servants entrusted to his/her authority. Since arriving from Thassera, the Rogue Trader has done his/her duty by passing judgement on several subjects within the walls of this hallowed hall..." The prefect picks up the sheet of notes and wrinkles her nose.continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 81 of 162
Prefect"We do not possess sufficient knowledge of the nature of the sorcery wrought upon you. And all the witnesses are dead."
PrefectThe prefect leafs through a few pages in a folder. "The court also takes note of the pernicious effects of the Rogue Trader's handling of the Emperor's servants entrusted to his/her authority. Since arriving from Thassera, the Rogue Trader has done his/her duty by passing judgement on several subjects within the walls of this hallowed hall..." The prefect picks up the sheet of notes and wrinkles her nose.continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 82 of 162
Marshal Gregoras Strachs(no text)
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Entry point 83 of 162
Prefect(no text)
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Entry point 84 of 162
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"The Adeptus Arbites never hesitate in passing judgement, for the Emperor guides the hand that fulfils its duty. The Rogue Trader has delivered judgement as was his/her charge. Therefore, his/her decision is blessed by the God-Emperor..."
Prefect"Marshal. Enough." Not a single muscle twitches on the prefect's face, but her eyes blaze with barely suppressed annoyance.
Prefect"Moving on... The defendant was placed in an unprecedented position of trust by the Adeptus Arbites and the Administratum. He/She was entrusted with the coordinates of the world where the tithe of the entire Koronus Expanse was held. As agreed, the defendant was to transport the sacred tribute to Dargonus, but what did he/she do?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 85 of 162
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Your decision is law. With such a right, perverting justice and breeding anarchy in the ranks of its servants is all too easy. And probably tempting for a heretic who seeks joy in destruction."
YOU"You couldn't have done any better, Prefect, no matter how fervently you believe yourself to be the saviour of the protectorate — an appointment you bestowed upon yourself!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I cannot predict the future — a poor outcome is a possibility in every case. If I had chosen a different path, the prefect still would have found fault with it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"These cases were under the jurisdiction of the Lex Dargonus. Responsibility for the consequences lies with you."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"This is all a terrible mistake!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They've made a right mess of this, haven't they? The talents of my subjects never cease to amaze me!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 86 of 162
Marshal Gregoras Strachs(no text)
end of branch
Entry point 87 of 162
Prefect(no text)
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Entry point 88 of 162
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"The Rogue Trader is right. If the Arbitrator has dared to stray from the Lex, then he never was an Arbitrator. The fault lies with me for not seeing the weakness in his heart in time."
Prefect"Well. The proceedings are nearing their conclusion." The prefect looks around at the nobles of Dargonus gathered in the hall. "The record of sins and heresies presented to the servants of the God-Emperor has revealed the Rogue Trader's true essence, and the verdict is grim. For his/her thoughts and deeds were not bent toward the service of Humanity, but to the indulgence of his/her own greed and petty ambition. Today, you are here to witness an act of righteous judgement, and the downfall of the von Valancius dynasty. Houses of Dargonus, do you reject the authority of this heretic?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 89 of 162
SolomorneGlaito looks at Solomorne and lets out a grinding whimper. The Proctor sighs heavily, covering his eyes with his hand. "Fine... To the void with it! Unlike the Marshal, you haven't failed me yet."
Prefect"Heretic! Traitor! Marshal, execute them! All of them!"continues where this line first appears above
Prefect"Anyone who dares to join the heretic is condemned to death! Marshal, carry out the sentence!"
end of branch
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Arbitrators. The sentence is death. Carry it out."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 90 of 162
Prefect(no text)
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Entry point 91 of 162
Prefect(no text)
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Entry point 92 of 162
Prefect(no text)
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Entry point 93 of 162
Marshal Gregoras Strachs(no text)
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Entry point 94 of 162
Prefect(no text)
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Entry point 95 of 162
Marshal Gregoras Strachs(no text)
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Entry point 96 of 162
Prefect(no text)
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Entry point 97 of 162
Prefect(no text)
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Entry point 98 of 162
Marshal Gregoras StrachsStrachs frowns doubtfully. "It is certainly an unorthodox tactic. Perhaps even suicidal. No, I can recall no such cases."
Prefect"Let a new charge be added to the record: attempting to manipulate an official. Marshal, I hope I do not need to remind you of your duty?" Giving Strachs a suspicious look, the prefect turns back to the documents.
Prefect"According to the calculation of the tithe transferred from the Heartless, the Administratum was short three units of volume. It is presumed that the Rogue Trader did not risk seizing more in the presence of the Proctor, but even one ounce unaccounted for makes the tithe incomplete."
Prefect"Let's move on to Thassera. This world underpaid the appropriate tithe amount, a crime that should have been remedied by the Rogue Trader escorting Proctor Anthar to that backward world. Proctor, you are hereby called to testify. Describe what happened on the planet."
Solomorne"When we arrived on Thassera, the Rogue Trader and I were drawn into the machinations of the planetary governor. He used sorcery on the Emperor's anointed, but the Rogue Trader managed to overcome the effects of the ritual and do battle with the heretic. The governor was executed, and we—"
Prefect"A lie uttered in the Palace of Justice is a serious offence, Proctor. Glaito, retrieve recording: Thassera-84/Alpha."
Prefect(sequence)
PrefectThe prefect nods to the Marshal, who removes a device from his belt. The press of a button — and Glaito responds with a sharp metallic clang. The cyber-mastiff's paws carry him to Strachs.
end of branch
GlaitoThe cyber-mastiff's entire body begins to tremble, his feet clawing up tiny sparks, and then he projects a pict-recording from his eyes onto the floor.
GlaitoThe footage depicts a scene from Glaito's viewpoint. The quality is terrible, but you can make out the hall where the sculptor is conducting the sinister ritual. You see Maive interfere with the ritual, and the beam of warp energy connecting the two of you. You hear Solomorne's command. The scene changes and you see Maive, or rather, yourself in Maive's body, wandering through the streets of Thassera. The next clip brings you back to the hall where Solomorne is firing on the altar. The events in the recording are echoed by a dragging pain in your muscles and a fog in your head.
Prefect(sequence)
SolomorneSolomorne's face turns lifeless, his knuckles white. "I thought my wholehearted loyalty to the Lex was obvious. But you were monitoring me, keeping tabs on me like some kind of outsider. Like a non-Arbitrator. You even dragged Glaito into it too — it would have been better if you'd installed your damned recording devices in me."
end of branch
SolomornePain flits across Solomorne's granite face as he looks at his dog. "You have used us as a tool against the Rogue Trader from the beginning. Such tricks and schemes are unworthy of the Arbites."
end of branch
SolomorneSolomorne pales. A vein throbs at his temple, and you can clearly hear his teeth grinding. "Touching my dog was a big mistake."
end of branch
Prefect"As we can observe, Proctor Anthar destroyed the heretical altar, and then a fight ensued in which the psyker died. There is not a single shred of evidence that the Rogue Trader actually overcame the sorcery. It is more likely that the person standing before us is a heretic and a creature of corruption."
YOU"Solomorne, did you know they were listening in?"
Solomorne"No. I would have opposed it. I would have found a way to keep Glaito out of it."
Prefect"That is precisely why the procedure was performed without your knowledge. There is a note in your personnel file about your unhealthy attachment to the cyber-mastiff. I persuaded the Marshal that it was in your best interests, Proctor."
YOU"Solomorne, did you know they were listening in?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am me. Maive can prove it. Send a request to Thassera and she will answer."
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"The request has already been sent. We expect a response within a few cycles. We will add it to the file as additional information. It will be of no help to you right now."
YOU"Solomorne, did you know they were listening in?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am me. Maive can prove it. Send a request to Thassera and she will answer."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Mine and Maive's consciousnesses have been switched back. I can summon her here and she will confirm everything."
Prefect"Any servant of yours would say whatever necessary to curry favour with the person wearing the Rogue Trader's face. Her testimony holds no weight in this case."
YOU"Solomorne, did you know they were listening in?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am me. Maive can prove it. Send a request to Thassera and she will answer."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Mine and Maive's consciousnesses have been switched back. I can summon her here and she will confirm everything."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can present Maive to the court. True, she is rather taciturn at the moment..."
Prefect"According to the information we have received, the lady-in-waiting Maive has undergone Servitude Imperpituis. Shrewd, Rogue Trader, very shrewd."
YOU"Solomorne, did you know they were listening in?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am me. Maive can prove it. Send a request to Thassera and she will answer."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Mine and Maive's consciousnesses have been switched back. I can summon her here and she will confirm everything."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can present Maive to the court. True, she is rather taciturn at the moment..."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The consciousness in this body is my own. Any psyker capable of mind reading can confirm it."
YOU"Did you watch the entire recording? Is this, in your view, how a Rogue Trader conducts himself/herself? Like some swooning maiden?"
YOU"I cannot prove that my consciousness is in my body. No more than you can yours!"
Prefect"In the case of sorcery, the court operates on the presumption of guilt."
PrefectThe prefect leafs through a few pages in a folder. "The court also takes note of the pernicious effects of the Rogue Trader's handling of the Emperor's servants entrusted to his/her authority. Since arriving from Thassera, the Rogue Trader has done his/her duty by passing judgement on several subjects within the walls of this hallowed hall..." The prefect picks up the sheet of notes and wrinkles her nose.continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Show your contempt by saying nothing]
PrefectThe prefect likewise fixes you with a cold, silent glare, her eyes brimming with hatred.
PrefectThe prefect leafs through a few pages in a folder. "The court also takes note of the pernicious effects of the Rogue Trader's handling of the Emperor's servants entrusted to his/her authority. Since arriving from Thassera, the Rogue Trader has done his/her duty by passing judgement on several subjects within the walls of this hallowed hall..." The prefect picks up the sheet of notes and wrinkles her nose.continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"
end of branch
YOU"The consciousness in this body is my own. Any psyker capable of mind reading can confirm it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Did you watch the entire recording? Is this, in your view, how a Rogue Trader conducts himself/herself? Like some swooning maiden?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I cannot prove that my consciousness is in my body. No more than you can yours!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Show your contempt by saying nothing]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can present Maive to the court. True, she is rather taciturn at the moment..."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The consciousness in this body is my own. Any psyker capable of mind reading can confirm it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Did you watch the entire recording? Is this, in your view, how a Rogue Trader conducts himself/herself? Like some swooning maiden?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I cannot prove that my consciousness is in my body. No more than you can yours!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Show your contempt by saying nothing]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Mine and Maive's consciousnesses have been switched back. I can summon her here and she will confirm everything."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can present Maive to the court. True, she is rather taciturn at the moment..."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The consciousness in this body is my own. Any psyker capable of mind reading can confirm it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Did you watch the entire recording? Is this, in your view, how a Rogue Trader conducts himself/herself? Like some swooning maiden?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I cannot prove that my consciousness is in my body. No more than you can yours!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Show your contempt by saying nothing]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am me. Maive can prove it. Send a request to Thassera and she will answer."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Mine and Maive's consciousnesses have been switched back. I can summon her here and she will confirm everything."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can present Maive to the court. True, she is rather taciturn at the moment..."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The consciousness in this body is my own. Any psyker capable of mind reading can confirm it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Did you watch the entire recording? Is this, in your view, how a Rogue Trader conducts himself/herself? Like some swooning maiden?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I cannot prove that my consciousness is in my body. No more than you can yours!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Show your contempt by saying nothing]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 99 of 162
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Rogue Traders are famed for their love of outlandish exploits and skullduggery. Perhaps you really are insane."
YOU"Solomorne, did you know they were listening in?"
Solomorne"No. I would have opposed it. I would have found a way to keep Glaito out of it."
Prefect"That is precisely why the procedure was performed without your knowledge. There is a note in your personnel file about your unhealthy attachment to the cyber-mastiff. I persuaded the Marshal that it was in your best interests, Proctor."
YOU"Solomorne, did you know they were listening in?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Those words were taken completely out of context!"
PrefectThe prefect sighs. "I cannot imagine a context in which the words 'I want a cut of the tithe' would cast you in a favourable light."
YOU"Solomorne, did you know they were listening in?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Those words were taken completely out of context!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, tell them what really happened."
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Proctor, stand down! That is an order. Your reports were quite comprehensive and are the foundation of this case. You will provide your testimony only when the prefect requests it. Is that clear?"
SolomorneSolomorne's eyes bore into Strachs. "Extremely, Marshal."
YOU"Solomorne, did you know they were listening in?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Those words were taken completely out of context!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, tell them what really happened."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can but appeal to your own common sense. Marshal Strachs! Can you recall even one instance where a heretic attempted to steal the tithe while taking a few dozen Arbitrators along for company?"
YOU"You are talking nonsense. With all due respect for Solomorne's capabilities, if I had wanted to get rid of him and his Arbitrators and steal the tithe, there is no way he could have stopped me."
YOU"I will not confess to something I did not do, much less something I never had any intention of doing."
Prefect"Your denial of guilt has been added to the record."
Prefect"According to the calculation of the tithe transferred from the Heartless, the Administratum was short three units of volume. It is presumed that the Rogue Trader did not risk seizing more in the presence of the Proctor, but even one ounce unaccounted for makes the tithe incomplete."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That's an interesting tale. You forgot the part where we were suddenly attacked by a void kraken but Solomorne bravely fought it off with a can opener and his boot laces."
Prefect"This information is not in the records. I will make a note of this attempt to distort the truth."
Prefect"According to the calculation of the tithe transferred from the Heartless, the Administratum was short three units of volume. It is presumed that the Rogue Trader did not risk seizing more in the presence of the Proctor, but even one ounce unaccounted for makes the tithe incomplete."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Say nothing]
Prefect"Let the record reflect: no denials were offered, a priori guilt is admitted."
Prefect"According to the calculation of the tithe transferred from the Heartless, the Administratum was short three units of volume. It is presumed that the Rogue Trader did not risk seizing more in the presence of the Proctor, but even one ounce unaccounted for makes the tithe incomplete."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"
end of branch
YOU"I can but appeal to your own common sense. Marshal Strachs! Can you recall even one instance where a heretic attempted to steal the tithe while taking a few dozen Arbitrators along for company?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are talking nonsense. With all due respect for Solomorne's capabilities, if I had wanted to get rid of him and his Arbitrators and steal the tithe, there is no way he could have stopped me."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will not confess to something I did not do, much less something I never had any intention of doing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That's an interesting tale. You forgot the part where we were suddenly attacked by a void kraken but Solomorne bravely fought it off with a can opener and his boot laces."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Say nothing]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, tell them what really happened."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can but appeal to your own common sense. Marshal Strachs! Can you recall even one instance where a heretic attempted to steal the tithe while taking a few dozen Arbitrators along for company?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are talking nonsense. With all due respect for Solomorne's capabilities, if I had wanted to get rid of him and his Arbitrators and steal the tithe, there is no way he could have stopped me."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will not confess to something I did not do, much less something I never had any intention of doing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That's an interesting tale. You forgot the part where we were suddenly attacked by a void kraken but Solomorne bravely fought it off with a can opener and his boot laces."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Say nothing]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Those words were taken completely out of context!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, tell them what really happened."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can but appeal to your own common sense. Marshal Strachs! Can you recall even one instance where a heretic attempted to steal the tithe while taking a few dozen Arbitrators along for company?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are talking nonsense. With all due respect for Solomorne's capabilities, if I had wanted to get rid of him and his Arbitrators and steal the tithe, there is no way he could have stopped me."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will not confess to something I did not do, much less something I never had any intention of doing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That's an interesting tale. You forgot the part where we were suddenly attacked by a void kraken but Solomorne bravely fought it off with a can opener and his boot laces."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Say nothing]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
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Marshal Gregoras StrachsA furrow cuts across Strachs's brow. "Attempting to threaten a Rogue Trader on his/her own vessel would indeed have been an imprudent choice..."
Prefect"Let a new charge be added to the record: attempting to manipulate an official. Marshal, I hope I do not need to remind you of your duty?" Giving Strachs a suspicious look, the prefect turns back to the documents.continues where this line first appears above
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Marshal Gregoras Strachs"You know perfectly well that the death of the Proctor on board your ship would have immediately drawn the attention of the Adeptus Arbites and placed your dynasty in jeopardy. You would not take that risk."
YOU"Solomorne, did you know they were listening in?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Those words were taken completely out of context!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, tell them what really happened."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can but appeal to your own common sense. Marshal Strachs! Can you recall even one instance where a heretic attempted to steal the tithe while taking a few dozen Arbitrators along for company?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are talking nonsense. With all due respect for Solomorne's capabilities, if I had wanted to get rid of him and his Arbitrators and steal the tithe, there is no way he could have stopped me."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will not confess to something I did not do, much less something I never had any intention of doing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That's an interesting tale. You forgot the part where we were suddenly attacked by a void kraken but Solomorne bravely fought it off with a can opener and his boot laces."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Say nothing]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
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PrefectA moment of silence. Suddenly, one by one, the Arbitrators raise their weapons and point them at the Marshal and the prefect.
Solomorne"This is where our paths diverge, [Name]. There is nothing that can justify your crime anymore."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"No, [Name]. What you are proposing is not the God-Emperor's justice. You are distorting the Lex Imperialis and placing your own ego above all else, even His will. I cannot accept this outcome."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"Surprisingly moderate words after all we have seen. You will not restore order this way. Now is the time for harsh and decisive measures, or else your subjects and allies will continue to rebel against you."continues where this line first appears above
Prefect"Anyone who dares to join the heretic is condemned to death! Marshal, carry out the sentence!"continues where this line first appears above
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PrefectYour words fall on deaf ears. No Arbitrator moves from where they stand.
Solomorne"No, [Name]. What you are proposing is not the God-Emperor's justice. You are distorting the Lex Imperialis and placing your own ego above all else, even His will. I cannot accept this outcome."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"Surprisingly moderate words after all we have seen. You will not restore order this way. Now is the time for harsh and decisive measures, or else your subjects and allies will continue to rebel against you."continues where this line first appears above
Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Arbitrators. The sentence is death. Carry it out."continues where this line first appears above
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Marshal Gregoras Strachs"The potential outcomes of trials that did not take place cannot be presented as evidence of innocence."
YOU"You couldn't have done any better, Prefect, no matter how fervently you believe yourself to be the saviour of the protectorate — an appointment you bestowed upon yourself!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I cannot predict the future — a poor outcome is a possibility in every case. If I had chosen a different path, the prefect still would have found fault with it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"These cases were under the jurisdiction of the Lex Dargonus. Responsibility for the consequences lies with you."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"This is all a terrible mistake!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"They've made a right mess of this, haven't they? The talents of my subjects never cease to amaze me!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
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Marshal Gregoras Strachs"Your words are true. Crimes committed after a verdict are cause for new convictions, not—"
Prefect"Marshal. Enough." Not a single muscle twitches on the prefect's face, but her eyes blaze with barely suppressed annoyance.continues where this line first appears above
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Marshal Gregoras StrachsStrachs arches an eyebrow. "You must be confident if you are offering yourself up for examination by a psyker..."
Prefect"Marshal." The old woman stares at the Arbitrator without blinking, as if hypnotising him. Finally, convinced that the Marshal's conversation with you is over before it even began, she returns to her papers.continues where this line first appears above
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Prefect"In the name of the God-Emperor, the von Valancius dynasty stands accused of betraying the Imperium." To the murmurs of all, the prefect picks up a scroll bearing Administratum seals. "The trial is public so that all may see the Rogue Trader's heresies and know that status and power are no shield against righteous punishment. Marshal Strachs, you have the floor. State the list of crimes against the Lex Imperialis that will be examined here today."
Marshal Gregoras StrachsStrachs stares at you coldly as he reads: "Resisting the justice of the Imperium. Conspiring to steal the sacred tithe. Undermining the legitimate authorities on an Imperial world, involving sorcery and damage to the tithe. Conceiving and executing plans to disrupt sector-wide tithe shipments, with the subsequent destruction of a strategically important planet..."
YOU[Interrupt Strachs] "I deny the whole pack of lies. The charges are fabricated, and this trial of a Rogue Trader is a farce!"
PrefectAll you hear in response is Strachs continuing his list of charges. You look around and are met with a number of bewildered, frightened, and confused looks. The clerks of the Administratum seem to have worked hard to make the obviously feigned proceedings look like a genuine trial.
Prefect"Let the record show that the defendant disregarded the opportunity given to him/her to repent, which only adds to the gravity of his/her guilt. We will proceed to the examination of the individual tithe heresies committed by the defendant."
Prefect"Conspiring with the captain of the Heartless to steal the sacred tithe. Upon arriving on Rykad Minoris, the Rogue Trader aided Captain Sargona in loading the tithe onto his ship under the cover of a planetary riot. [Name] von Valancius later eliminated his/her accomplice using Adeptus Arbites forces led by Proctor Anthar. The Proctor attempted to appease the Rogue Trader's greed by offering the frigate known as the Heartless in exchange for the safety of the tithe."
Prefect(sequence)
Prefect"However, the Rogue Trader instead chose to exert pressure in an attempt to extort more out of the Proctor."
PrefectThe prefect nods to the Marshal, who removes a device from his belt. The press of a button — and Glaito responds with a sharp metallic clang. The cyber-mastiff's paws carry him to Strachs.
GlaitoYour own voice rumbles up from Glaito's chest: "I don't want the ship — I want a cut of the tithe."
SolomorneSolomorne's face turns lifeless, his knuckles white. "I thought my wholehearted loyalty to the Lex was obvious. But you were monitoring me, keeping tabs on me like some kind of outsider. Like a non-Arbitrator. You even dragged Glaito into it too — it would have been better if you'd installed your damned recording devices in me."
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SolomornePain flits across Solomorne's granite face as he looks at his dog. "You have used us as a tool against the Rogue Trader from the beginning. Such tricks and schemes are unworthy of the Arbites."
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SolomorneSolomorne pales. A vein throbs at his temple, and you can clearly hear his teeth grinding. "Touching my dog was a big mistake."
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Prefect"After realising the utter incorruptibility of the Arbites, the Rogue Trader attempted to destroy the tithe ship. Only the timely intervention of the Proctor saved the sacred tribute."
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Prefect"Then the Rogue Trader boarded the ship in an attempt to seize the tithe. His/Her actions led to the death of a squad of Arbitrators — Proctor Anthar alone survived the Rogue Trader's murderous ploy. [Name] von Valancius personally eliminated his/her accomplice, Captain Sargona, in order to destroy the evidence of his/her schemes." The prefect looks up from the scroll and sweeps her indifferent gaze over you. "Do you have anything to say in your defence?"
YOU"Solomorne, did you know they were listening in?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Those words were taken completely out of context!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, tell them what really happened."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I can but appeal to your own common sense. Marshal Strachs! Can you recall even one instance where a heretic attempted to steal the tithe while taking a few dozen Arbitrators along for company?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are talking nonsense. With all due respect for Solomorne's capabilities, if I had wanted to get rid of him and his Arbitrators and steal the tithe, there is no way he could have stopped me."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will not confess to something I did not do, much less something I never had any intention of doing."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That's an interesting tale. You forgot the part where we were suddenly attacked by a void kraken but Solomorne bravely fought it off with a can opener and his boot laces."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Say nothing]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "Will this take much longer?"
Prefect"Let the record show that the defendant disregarded the opportunity given to him/her to repent, which only adds to the gravity of his/her guilt. We will proceed to the examination of the individual tithe heresies committed by the defendant."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Abelard, answer the charges."
AbelardBarely containing his seething rage, Abelard thunders, "[Name] von Valancius, bearer of the sacred Warrant, the God-Emperor's anointed and sovereign of this protectorate, denies these false accusations. The Administratum and Adeptus Arbites will not get away with this flagrant attempt to sully the Rogue Trader's good name and plunder his/her dynasty's coffers, make no mistake!"
Prefect"Let the record show that the defendant disregarded the opportunity given to him/her to repent, which only adds to the gravity of his/her guilt. We will proceed to the examination of the individual tithe heresies committed by the defendant."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Listen in silence]
Marshal Gregoras StrachsStrachs finally finishes listing your crimes. There is a momentary pause in the hall.
Prefect"Let the record show that the defendant disregarded the opportunity given to him/her to repent, which only adds to the gravity of his/her guilt. We will proceed to the examination of the individual tithe heresies committed by the defendant."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above
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PrefectThe prefect shifts awkwardly as Strachs recites the seemingly endless list of transgressions — the aftermath of your attack seems to be preventing her from maintaining a suitably dispassionate appearance.
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Marshal Gregoras StrachsWith practised skill, Strachs's voice reverberates throughout the hall: "Conspiring to steal the sacred tithe. Undermining the legitimate authorities on an Imperial world, involving sorcery and damage to the tithe. Conceiving and executing plans to disrupt sector-wide tithe shipments."
YOU[Interrupt Strachs] "I deny the whole pack of lies. The charges are fabricated, and this trial of a Rogue Trader is a farce!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "Will this take much longer?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Abelard, answer the charges."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Listen in silence]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "I am bored of this farce. By the right granted to me by the sacred Warrant, I declare this trial concluded and you both guilty. Attack!"continues where this line first appears above