CompanionDialogue — Rogue Trader Dialogue Archive

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Entry point 4 of 26

NPCIt is the phrase "intransigence of colleagues" that strikes you. It seems that there was more to his departure than simply a thirst for knowledge.

YOU"Where do you hail from?"

NPC"Stygies VIII is a forge world located on one of the moons of a gas giant in the binary star system of Vulcanis. A magnificent place! Stretching from horizon to horizon, mighty manufactorums crisscross the moon's surface, producing armaments and equipment. For the armies of the Segmentum Solar, the designs and patterns we produce are unequalled in the galaxy. The huge Titans of the Legio Honorum tower over cohorts of Skitarii making ready to escort countless expeditions, ravenous for knowledge and lost technology."

NPC"And beneath them, deep within the moon itself, lies a labyrinth of archives and laboratories, where many sages cultivate knowledge and conduct experiments in the name of understanding the will of the Machine God. Nuncius and I spent our adolescence and part of our adulthood there before we were permitted to leave our cells for the cabins of expedition ships and the tents of field camps. I miss my home, but I do not regret leaving it, for stagnation is the enemy of Knowledge."

YOU"Where do you hail from?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why do you wear black robes? Don't all Tech-Priests wear red?"

NPC"No, not all. The robes of Tech-Priests often vary from world to world — they are imbued with symbolism that reflects the principles of a particular branch of the tech-priesthood. Red is the colour of Mars, it is present in the robes of each world as an homage to the Red Planet. White symbolises the purity of machines and sacred augmetics."

NPC"One is compelled to carry a certain stigma, living on Stygies VIII. Certain... theological disputes often lead to conflict with our fellow clergy. Black symbolises our guardedness and otherness, while with red we emphasise the purity of our faith in the Omnissiah and our fellowship with the rest of the Cult Mechanicus."

YOU"Where do you hail from?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why do you wear black robes? Don't all Tech-Priests wear red?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What theological disputes do you have with the other Tech-Priests?"

YOU"Tell me about your research — what is it you are trying to understand?"

NPC"I have dedicated my life to many questions — the blessings of the fusion of organics and machines, the search for virtue in their separate existence, the possibility of prolonging the functioning of flesh through genetics and alchemy. The Machine God is perfect in all His manifestations — this is the truth and an incontrovertible fact. But it seems to me that attempts to become like Him exclusively through augmetics, though good in their righteousness, do not fully reflect His design. For the organic body is nothing but a biological machine whose components can be replaced and improved by genetic transmutation."

NPC"I believe the truth lies somewhere between these two paths, and both lead to my ultimate goal, my magnum opus — to challenge death itself as a phenomenon, bringing Humanity closer to the eternity of the Omnissiah."

YOU"Where do you hail from?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why do you wear black robes? Don't all Tech-Priests wear red?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What theological disputes do you have with the other Tech-Priests?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Tell me about your research — what is it you are trying to understand?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What did you do before you arrived on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17?"

NPC"I may not look it, but I am a wanderer and a pilgrim. Nuncius and I have led research expeditions with the aim of finding relics and artefacts and advancing the Quest for Knowledge. I have also endeavoured to learn from my colleagues at every opportunity, developing my expertise in genetics, hermetics, and augmetics. We have visited more than one world, voyaged on more than one ship, and got our hands dirty more than once, both literally and figuratively."

YOU"Where do you hail from?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why do you wear black robes? Don't all Tech-Priests wear red?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What theological disputes do you have with the other Tech-Priests?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Tell me about your research — what is it you are trying to understand?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What did you do before you arrived on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What was it like living on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17?"

NPC"Many secrets lie within that blessed temple fortress. I spent decades there, but still I am not certain that I discovered all of them! However, the station's clergy are not known for their insularity for nothing — they are quite reluctant to make contact with the laity, or even other Tech-Priests. Nuncius and I were lucky that our skills were in demand, and we were able to ensconce ourselves in that fountain of wisdom."

NPC"Alas, the doctrine of isolation and the intransigence of several colleagues had brought my research to a standstill, and so I seized the opportunity to join your retinue."

YOU"Where do you hail from?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why do you wear black robes? Don't all Tech-Priests wear red?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What theological disputes do you have with the other Tech-Priests?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Tell me about your research — what is it you are trying to understand?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What did you do before you arrived on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What was it like living on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Be honest, with whom did you quarrel?"

NPCOver his shoulder, Eogunn tosses the words: "No, Nuncius, I was not trying to hide anything from the Rogue Trader. I only reasoned that the squabbles of Tech-Priests would scarcely be of interest to him/her."

NPC"A disagreement arose with the cloister's arch-chemist, Tecla-Paradigm-13. She stubbornly refused to understand the importance of my research and would not authorise access to the sacrarium of alchemical reagents. Since her arguments were invalid and her theoretical basis flawed, I decided to disregard her prohibition and grant myself access."

NPC"I acted discreetly to ensure that my colleague would not discover my requisitioning of the reagents. That is, until work stopped in one of the capellae biologis, where there was a regrettable incident involving a group of servitors I had been experimenting on. Such a fuss over just a few controlled mutations!"

NPC"If Tecla-Paradigm-13 had approached research with the same zeal she applied to making my life on the station more difficult, she could have been useful for something. Unfortunately, that was not the case. I decided to leave the station at the earliest opportunity, so as not to jeopardise my and Nuncius's efforts. That opportunity turned out to be you."

YOU"Where do you hail from?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why do you wear black robes? Don't all Tech-Priests wear red?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What theological disputes do you have with the other Tech-Priests?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Tell me about your research — what is it you are trying to understand?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What did you do before you arrived on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What was it like living on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Be honest, with whom did you quarrel?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Wait, Pasqal was also serving on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17 back then! You two weren't acquainted?"

NPC"The Omnissiah's providence did not bring us together. The temple is quite vast and it is no surprise that two learned men never once crossed paths. After all, each of us is blessed with our own function and fulfilling that function is a solitary effort."

NPCTurning to Nuncius, Eogunn raises his eyebrows. "Really? My dearest colleague states that Magos Haneumann and I once passed each other in Service Conduit 91-R. The esteemed Magos chided me for some minor neglect in the presentation of my augments, after which, having each voiced our opinions, we parted ways. It seems I considered this event to be inconsequential, and it has escaped my memory."

YOU"Where do you hail from?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why do you wear black robes? Don't all Tech-Priests wear red?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What theological disputes do you have with the other Tech-Priests?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Tell me about your research — what is it you are trying to understand?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What did you do before you arrived on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What was it like living on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Be honest, with whom did you quarrel?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Wait, Pasqal was also serving on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17 back then! You two weren't acquainted?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"My curiosity has been satisfied."

NPC"As has mine. Questions can reveal more about the asker than anything they may say about themselves."

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

NPC"Heresy. How often was that most grievous accusation levelled at Nuncius and me. More often than not, it is merely a tool used by those in power to condemn everything they do not understand, or simply do not want to see. Your methods are often unconventional, and that rankles those who believe you are infringing on the established order of things. But isn't that why the Rogue Trader is granted such staggering powers, so that they might conquer those domains that someone who forever toes the line cannot? We live in truly absurd times."

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

NPC"I have chosen to systematise the experience I gained and make use of it. Tervantias, for all his worthlessness, demonstrated several interesting techniques of vivisection, organ separation, and tissue splicing in his experiments on me. I believe I can replicate and even improve upon them. Little by little, this rational processing of my experiences of torture will allow me to recover from the shock inflicted upon my mind."

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

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YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

NPCEogunn snorts. "That mutant skull that Mistress Kibellah has chosen to establish familiar relations with is a crude anatomical aid and nothing more. I suppose her conversations can be characterised as a primitive means of meditation, where the individual projects her state of mind and thoughts onto some inanimate object and thereby achieves a certain degree of introspection. Nuncius, by contrast, contains a machine spirit, which we know every creation of the Omnissiah to possess, and he also happens to be a highly erudite and complex construct."

NPCThe erudite and complex construct opts not to comment on your witty remark.

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't Nuncius jealous of your new cyber-companion?"

NPC"A preposterous notion! My cybernetic companion is merely an auxiliary tool. It is far less sophisticated than Nuncius, and lacks his outstanding communication skills and sharp intellect."

NPCTruly, you detect not a whit of jealousy in the servo-skull's gaze.

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't Nuncius jealous of your new cyber-companion?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is time for us to talk about Nuncius."

NPCEogunn looks at you dully. "Yes, it is long past time. I only ask for the privilege of privacy — this admission is difficult for me to make, and I can confide only in you."

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YOU"I am ready to listen to what you and Ferrenz have to say."

NPC"Unfortunately, after the incident in the Sector Bionica, my colleague is in poor condition. I have heard that Vivisector Martinax is personally treating him, predicting a speedy recovery with the Omnissiah's grace. As soon as you receive word that the Genetor has been restored to functionality, we will return to this conversation."

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't Nuncius jealous of your new cyber-companion?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is time for us to talk about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am ready to listen to what you and Ferrenz have to say."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I should not expect any more surprises from you, I hope?"

NPC"No, Rogue Trader, I made a vow to you. My mind is too old and anguished. I have no strength left in me to flee — Amsanct awaits."

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't Nuncius jealous of your new cyber-companion?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is time for us to talk about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am ready to listen to what you and Ferrenz have to say."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I should not expect any more surprises from you, I hope?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wanted to discuss the results of the so-called Triasomata experiment."

NPC"Indeed. After processing all the data, including your invaluable contribution to the outcome of the experiment, my dear colleague and I engaged in a lengthy debate. My cognitive block has been resolved at last."

NPC"I have come to the conclusion that the only correct decision in the context of this experiment was not to conduct it in the first place. My methods were correct and my intentions good, but I clung to my hypothesis to the last, in blind defiance of Nuncius's arguments and objective reality. I was attempting to wring usefulness out of people like charge from a dying battery. But regardless of how well and long a battery served before, when it is finally depleted, isn't the more rational response to dispose of it and replace it with a new one? Righteousness is a trait of these people, but it is not their primary function. I see that now."

YOU"What of the Triasomata?"

NPC"As you instructed, he is being tended to in the Sector Bionica. His cognitive functions have almost entirely failed, and only the Omnissiah's mercy keeps him from losing all mobility. The Triasomata spends his days bowed in prayer — or so we presume, since he has lost all verbal capacity. He appears to be... at peace."

YOU"What of the Triasomata?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Does Nuncius agree with you?"

NPC"We have managed to reach a consensus on the root of the problem — the rest can be overlooked. He is not convinced by all my conclusions, but that is no terrible thing — he and I share a common path, but we each have our own methods of comprehending it."

YOU"What of the Triasomata?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Does Nuncius agree with you?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You have learned something valuable, which means this experiment was not in vain."

NPCEogunn raises a finger. "Precisely. A man chooses what he is made of — regrets for his past mistakes, or the experience he gained from them. Only those who choose the latter course can attain true wisdom."

NPC"I wish to thank you. You helped me cope with a situation that was beyond my control and to recognise my mistakes, and that is worth a great deal. I was considering using this implant in an experiment, but I thought it too valuable to waste on the laity. Please accept it as a gift." The Manipulus bows, presenting you with a package.

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't Nuncius jealous of your new cyber-companion?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is time for us to talk about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am ready to listen to what you and Ferrenz have to say."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I should not expect any more surprises from you, I hope?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wanted to discuss the results of the so-called Triasomata experiment."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I would like to learn more about you."

NPC"But can anyone truly know the essence of another person? For a veil of words often shrouds meaning that cannot be discovered in one brief conversation. Then again, all the greatest works on human nature began with scant material. Ask your questions, Rogue Trader."

YOU"Where do you hail from?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why do you wear black robes? Don't all Tech-Priests wear red?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What theological disputes do you have with the other Tech-Priests?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Tell me about your research — what is it you are trying to understand?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What did you do before you arrived on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What was it like living on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Be honest, with whom did you quarrel?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Wait, Pasqal was also serving on Altar-Templum-Calixis-Ext-17 back then! You two weren't acquainted?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"My curiosity has been satisfied."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your speech differs from that of other Tech-Priests — it is less mechanistic."

NPCEogunn lets out a genial chuckle. "To think that all Tech-Priests speak exclusively like machines is a widespread misconception among the laity. We may strive to draw closer to the Machine God, but we remain part of the human race. How exactly a Tech-Priest achieves this oneness is the choice of each individual ordained in the priesthood of Mars, depending largely on personal characteristics, practical considerations, and interpretations of the tenets of the faith. Of course, many attune their language to Machine Cant or even prefer not to use flesh-speak at all — it is then easier for them to make contact with machine spirits."

NPC"For myself, however, a key aspect of the Machine God is His omniscience. I gather wisdom, and that includes from communicating with laypersons — to this end, standard Low Gothic has so far proved to be the most useful. However, this does not negate the fact that I am able to speak all the binharic dialects of Mars, if circumstances so demand."

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't Nuncius jealous of your new cyber-companion?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is time for us to talk about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am ready to listen to what you and Ferrenz have to say."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I should not expect any more surprises from you, I hope?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wanted to discuss the results of the so-called Triasomata experiment."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I would like to learn more about you."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your speech differs from that of other Tech-Priests — it is less mechanistic."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I wish to know more about augments."

NPC"I can only encourage such a thirst for knowledge! Ask away."

YOU"What is the Adeptus Mechanicus view on augmentations among the laity?"

NPC"A difficult question, and thus an interesting one! From the perspective of the Cult Mechanicus, augmentation is an unalloyed good — flesh is weak, and replacing it brings us closer to the Omnissiah. But this good is also a supreme privilege. Every augmetic is a man-made miracle that glorifies the Machine God, and not every layperson is worthy of such a blessing."

NPC"The majority of laypersons who have lost limbs or organs are at best furnished with the most rudimentary prosthetics, if any at all. The exceptions are those who hold key posts in the Imperium or who cannot perform their duties without replacing their organics with more efficient equivalents."

NPC"And, naturally, there are exceptional individuals, such as Rogue Traders, who can afford the best augments at the wave of their hand... or rather its loss." Eogunn raises a finger. "Just think about it — you are one of untold billions, and you succeeded in becoming a statistical improbability. How could one perceive anything in these metaphysical mathematics but the design of the Machine God?"

YOU"What is the Adeptus Mechanicus view on augmentations among the laity?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What augments do you have?"

NPC"I have a great many of them, and most possess rather esoteric functions that are difficult to explain to a layperson. The most obvious is the galvanic cell." The Tech-Priest slaps his metal belly, which lets out a hollow rumble. "My hull is quite heavy, so it is supported by a gravitic core. Mechadendrites, of course; an alembic with an alchemical synthesiser; auxiliary cogitators; an eye with magnifiers and analysers, a respiratory—"

NPCEogunn breaks off, looking at Nuncius: "My dearest colleague suggests that my answer is becoming tiresome. If you are curious, I would be pleased to attempt to compose a treatise on my construction, but the more difficult task will be to give it a form comprehensible to a layperson..."

YOU"What is the Adeptus Mechanicus view on augmentations among the laity?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What augments do you have?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Hypothetically, if a lumen burned out in my chambers, could your galvanic cell revive it?"

NPCEogunn smiles politely. "With a suitable source of Motive Force to redistribute, I could light up the lumens of an entire deck, Rogue Trader. However, I do hope that is not the only application you will find for my talents."

YOU"What is the Adeptus Mechanicus view on augmentations among the laity?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What augments do you have?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Hypothetically, if a lumen burned out in my chambers, could your galvanic cell revive it?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't your face rather too organic? Most Tech-Priests have more implants."

NPCEogunn smiles. "If my physiognomy offends you, there is no need to hide it behind feigned interest. However, I will answer on the hypothesis that your question is sincere. My face looks as it does because that is how I prefer it. A vox-grille is practical, but there is something about speaking my thoughts aloud via an organic vocal apparatus. Consider it my little extravagance. Besides, appearances are deceiving — my internals have been extensively augmented, and I am fully fluent in Lingua-Technis and binharic."

NPC"My dearest colleague amply meets all other communication needs."

NPCWith his silence, Nuncius makes it clear that the communication need for further discussion has been decisively met.

YOU"What is the Adeptus Mechanicus view on augmentations among the laity?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What augments do you have?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Hypothetically, if a lumen burned out in my chambers, could your galvanic cell revive it?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't your face rather too organic? Most Tech-Priests have more implants."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Fascinating."

NPCEogunn nods with a smile.

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't Nuncius jealous of your new cyber-companion?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is time for us to talk about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am ready to listen to what you and Ferrenz have to say."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I should not expect any more surprises from you, I hope?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wanted to discuss the results of the so-called Triasomata experiment."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I would like to learn more about you."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your speech differs from that of other Tech-Priests — it is less mechanistic."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I wish to know more about augments."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am curious about Nuncius."

NPC"My dearest colleague is incredibly flattered by the attention. Please ask your questions."

YOU"What is he?"

NPC"He is my dearest colleague and indispensable assistant."

YOU"What is he?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"But a servo-skull is incapable of complex thought. How can he be your colleague?"

NPC"A superb question! It is quite difficult to explain to a layperson, but I will try. To put it quite crudely, Nuncius helps me to think. He constitutes an exceptionally complex network of algorithms that augment my own. They contain conflicting points of view that seek out flaws in my reasoning, and information that is more useful to me if it is not kept in my own head, so I delegate it to him. He is wholly unique."

YOU"What is he?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"But a servo-skull is incapable of complex thought. How can he be your colleague?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Eogunn, be honest with me. Is Nuncius an Abominable Intelligence?"

NPCEogunn gasps in indignation. "Are you truly asking me if I have violated one of the Omnissiah's core commandments as blithely as if you were asking to borrow my stylus? No, a thousand times no! How could such a thing even be wrought from a single servo-skull? A wicked mind of that calibre would require a receptacle of significant cogitational potential! I am deeply outraged by this insinuation, and simultaneously flattered by your assessment of my skills."

NPCNuncius is as sanguine and impassive as ever.

NPC"My dearest colleague asks me to convey that he does not share my strong emotions and humbly apologises for this outburst. He also swears before the Machine God that he was created according to all the canons of sacred engineering and that he is not a sacrilegious perversion of His design."

YOU"What is he?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"But a servo-skull is incapable of complex thought. How can he be your colleague?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Eogunn, be honest with me. Is Nuncius an Abominable Intelligence?"

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YOU"How long have you two been together?"

NPC"We have shared a cell since our novitiate on Stygies VIII. 138 planetary cycles and 72 days have elapsed since then. It may not be accurate in a temporal sense, but you could say we have been together my whole life." A warm smile touches Eogunn's lips.

YOU"What is he?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"But a servo-skull is incapable of complex thought. How can he be your colleague?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Eogunn, be honest with me. Is Nuncius an Abominable Intelligence?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"How long have you two been together?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Nuncius, I wish to speak to you."

NPC"I will take it upon myself to interpret his words, but I beg your pardon in advance for falling far short of my dearest colleague in terms of rhetorical elegance."

YOU"Can you understand me?"

NPCAfter listening to Nuncius for no less than a minute, Eogunn solemnly pronounces: "Yes."

YOU"Can you understand me?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why are you always silent?"

NPCAfter nodding to the servo-skull several times, Eogunn says, "Your presumption is incorrect. Nuncius is really rather chatty and holds strong views on every conceivable topic, which he does not hesitate to express at the first opportunity. Alas, you, as a layperson, are unable to hear his fiery declarations and witty remarks. Nuncius categorises this fact as regrettable."

YOU"Can you understand me?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why are you always silent?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What is your opinion of Eogunn?"

NPCEogunn winces. "Yes, Nuncius, I will relay it verbatim. He says that I possess a remarkable mind and excellent practical skills, but my, ahem, 'excitability,' especially combined with my 'stubbornness to the point of ossification,' would have stunted my development were it not for his thoughtful advice and fair criticism."

NPCA pause. The Tech-Priest's gaze softens. "He also adds that the thought of working with anyone other than me evokes repulsion and outrage in him. The value coefficient of our relationship is extremely high in his catalogue."

YOU"Can you understand me?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why are you always silent?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What is your opinion of Eogunn?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Admit it, you're really the clever one in this partnership, aren't you?"

NPCAfter listening to the servo-skull, Eogunn puffs out his cheeks in displeasure. "Nuncius, what an appalling thing to say! Our partnership is perfectly equal! Keep your mischief-making to yourself and don't mislead the Rogue Trader!"

YOU"Can you understand me?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why are you always silent?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What is your opinion of Eogunn?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Admit it, you're really the clever one in this partnership, aren't you?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"How many times a day does Eogunn say 'this is an incontrovertible fact'?"

NPCEogunn listens and raises his eyebrows. "That cannot be right — that often? Yes, Nuncius, I would be obliged if you would assist in monitoring my vocabulary. But watch that superior tone of yours, please."

YOU"Can you understand me?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why are you always silent?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What is your opinion of Eogunn?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Admit it, you're really the clever one in this partnership, aren't you?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"How many times a day does Eogunn say 'this is an incontrovertible fact'?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Thank you for the conversation, Nuncius."

NPC"Nuncius states that this conversation has stimulated and enriched him."

YOU"What is he?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"But a servo-skull is incapable of complex thought. How can he be your colleague?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Eogunn, be honest with me. Is Nuncius an Abominable Intelligence?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"How long have you two been together?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Nuncius, I wish to speak to you."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"That is all I wished to ask."

NPC"Nuncius says that he will leave a channel for enquiries about his biography and personal qualities open for you, Rogue Trader."

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't Nuncius jealous of your new cyber-companion?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is time for us to talk about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am ready to listen to what you and Ferrenz have to say."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I should not expect any more surprises from you, I hope?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wanted to discuss the results of the so-called Triasomata experiment."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I would like to learn more about you."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your speech differs from that of other Tech-Priests — it is less mechanistic."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I wish to know more about augments."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am curious about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You mentioned that you have knowledge of xenos."

NPC"The rank of Genetor grants me the right to study their foul anatomy and behaviour for the purposes of identifying their weaknesses. I have personally dissected more than one specimen and have even preserved specific body parts for further investigation. I research and study their technology to the same end. There is no shame in using our enemies' weapons against them, no matter what some narrow-minded colleagues may say!"

YOU"And what kind of xenos do you study?"

NPC"The mythical kind, shall we say. The subject of my research is an ancient, unusually advanced xenocivilisation. Some among the tech-clergy call them Nephilimechs, believing them to be the first creations of the Omnissiah. Others call them iron anathemas, considering them to be the spawn of Abominable Intelligence. But the initiated know them as Necrons, and believe me, the hand of the Machine God has never touched these monstrous creatures."

NPC"After more than one decade of searching, I have amassed a modest collection of objects that belonged to these Necrons, but I have never succeeded in understanding the purpose of most of them. Many believe that Necrons died out long ago, leaving behind only ruins of black rock, but I do not believe so. They exist still, and they are closer than they seem."

YOU"Why do you believe they are alive?"

NPC"I have encountered inconsistencies in my research. Ghost colonies with fresh tracks that match the descriptions of these xenos from various sources. Adeptus Mechanicus expeditions that plunged into obsidian ruins, never to return. Gaps in the knowledge repositories of individual worlds, as if someone had been trying to hide information. In isolation, all these are unexplained coincidences, but if I analyse the cumulative frequency of the events and the systems in which they occurred, and compare them to the few things I do know, I can detect certain patterns. The ancient xenos are exhibiting activity."

YOU"Eogunn, you haven't seen Necrons yourself, have you?"

NPCHis smile is enigmatic. "An interesting question. I will answer it with another: would I be able to tell a layperson of such an encounter, without breaking my vows to the Cult Mechanicus? This question does not require an answer — just food for thought."

YOU"And what kind of xenos do you study?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why do you believe they are alive?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Eogunn, you haven't seen Necrons yourself, have you?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What objects do you have in your collection?"

NPC"That's the beauty of it — I don't know!" Eogunn says this delightedly, as if not knowing something is an intriguing novelty for him. "Ahem, allow me to specify. It includes objects of mostly regular forms — cubes, spheres, cylinders — made of unknown black stone or metal. Many are covered in glyphs or patterns that cannot be deciphered. Fascinating trinkets that I have spent years studying, but have never progressed beyond flimsy theories that cannot be confirmed experimentally."

NPC"Perhaps my approach is fundamentally flawed or the objects are non-functional. Or perhaps they simply do not want anyone to root out their secrets? It's a mystery! A stimulating mystery!"

YOU"And what kind of xenos do you study?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why do you believe they are alive?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Eogunn, you haven't seen Necrons yourself, have you?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What objects do you have in your collection?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't that heresy?"

NPC"I appreciate your restraint, Rogue Trader. In my experience, such words directed at me do not constitute a question, but an accusation. I will not attempt to convince you of my righteousness, but I will articulate a few facts that you can use as a basis for your own conclusions."

NPC"Fact one. My interest in xenos is easily mistaken for a proclivity. It is not. I find them no more appealing than I would a cadaver being vivisected to ascertain what sickness ended its existence. They are objects that I study in order to answer a simple question: how can they be destroyed most effectively?"

NPC"Fact two. Certain species of xenos exhibit technological proficiency. Their weapons and artefacts possess destructive and utilitarian properties that could elevate the power of the Imperium. In studying these properties, I find ways to translate them to the technologies bestowed upon us by the Machine God. No wicked deed of innovation is committed — I liken this research to the creation of new production patterns."

NPC"Fact three, the last. My research is directed solely toward advancing the Quest for Knowledge and strengthening the Imperium. Though a certain boldness may be inherent to my work, I do observe the dogmas and follow the righteous algorithms of the Cult Mechanicus. Here ends the presentation on my position."

YOU"And what kind of xenos do you study?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Why do you believe they are alive?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Eogunn, you haven't seen Necrons yourself, have you?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"What objects do you have in your collection?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't that heresy?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Let's talk about something else."

NPC"I look forward to seeing what new topic of discussion you propose."

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't Nuncius jealous of your new cyber-companion?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is time for us to talk about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am ready to listen to what you and Ferrenz have to say."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I should not expect any more surprises from you, I hope?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wanted to discuss the results of the so-called Triasomata experiment."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I would like to learn more about you."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your speech differs from that of other Tech-Priests — it is less mechanistic."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I wish to know more about augments."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am curious about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You mentioned that you have knowledge of xenos."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wished to debate. Let's begin with something simple — what is the meaning of life?"

NPCEogunn rubs his hands together in eagerness. "Splendid! It has been a long time since I last had a worthy opponent!" He casts a quick glance in Nuncius's direction. "Not including my dearest colleague, of course."

NPC"So, to the topic. I have never understood why some thinkers present this question as something profound, when the answer is utterly trivial. The meaning of life is determined by a person's position in the hierarchy of the Imperium and where he or she is deployed. But, ultimately, what it comes down to is supporting the functioning of the system."

NPC"The worker produces or processes a resource, the soldier destroys enemies, the governor ensures order and the shipment of tithes. The meaning of my life is to advance the Quest for Knowledge, thus fulfilling the function granted to me by the Omnissiah. As I said, an utterly unoriginal question."

YOU"Nuncius, do you agree with Eogunn?"

NPCAfter a period of silence, the Manipulus relays: "My dearest colleague has accused me of oversimplifying matters. He believes that in trying to convey my point of view, I neglected many of the nuances you set forth in the question, and thus gave a trite answer myself. But he considers the general premise to be correct, albeit riddled with holes."

YOU"Nuncius, do you agree with Eogunn?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Do you truly believe the meaning of existence can be reduced to one's function?"

NPC"Absolutely. You may perceive that as a cynical view, but I am merely cutting away all that is superfluous. Humans are not simple creatures — I could regale you for hours with the nuances of the structure of the body and consciousness, and cite theosophical and philosophical musings. But it makes no difference — as long as a person fulfils their function, their life has meaning."

YOU"Nuncius, do you agree with Eogunn?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Do you truly believe the meaning of existence can be reduced to one's function?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"So, what is my function and the meaning of my life?"

NPC"You are the quintessence of the will of the Imperium. Your purpose in life is to expand it and strengthen its power where other subjects cannot reach. You do not explore the frontier. You are the frontier."

YOU"Nuncius, do you agree with Eogunn?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Do you truly believe the meaning of existence can be reduced to one's function?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"So, what is my function and the meaning of my life?"continues where this line first appears above

YOU"To simplify that even further — the Imperium is the meaning of our lives."

NPC"Brilliant! You have grasped the very crux of the matter and articulated it with concision. Nuncius, make note of the Rogue Trader's phrasing, and I will add it to my catalogue of arguments. Am I right in thinking that we have reached a consensus?"

YOU"Yes, I am pleased that we view the world in the same way."

NPCEogunn bows his head deferentially. "As am I."

NPCEogunn twists a piston on his beard, lost in thought. "I thank you for the interesting discussion, Rogue Trader."

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't Nuncius jealous of your new cyber-companion?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is time for us to talk about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am ready to listen to what you and Ferrenz have to say."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I should not expect any more surprises from you, I hope?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wanted to discuss the results of the so-called Triasomata experiment."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I would like to learn more about you."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your speech differs from that of other Tech-Priests — it is less mechanistic."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I wish to know more about augments."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am curious about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You mentioned that you have knowledge of xenos."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wished to debate. Let's begin with something simple — what is the meaning of life?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I no longer wish to see you in my retinue."

NPC"An unfortunate outcome. You are well within your rights, but I cannot help but wonder if this was a decision made in haste? Have you exhausted the potential of my knowledge and skills?"

YOU"I was merely curious about how you would react. You may stay."

NPCEogunn raises a finger, appearing delighted. "Ah, so I was the subject of your experiment! A most infrequent occurrence, indeed. I hope you are satisfied with the result."

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't Nuncius jealous of your new cyber-companion?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is time for us to talk about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am ready to listen to what you and Ferrenz have to say."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I should not expect any more surprises from you, I hope?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wanted to discuss the results of the so-called Triasomata experiment."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I would like to learn more about you."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your speech differs from that of other Tech-Priests — it is less mechanistic."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I wish to know more about augments."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am curious about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You mentioned that you have knowledge of xenos."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wished to debate. Let's begin with something simple — what is the meaning of life?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I no longer wish to see you in my retinue."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I must take my leave."

NPC"I find our conversations stimulating, and I will look forward to your next visit."

end of branch

YOU"You go, and Nuncius may stay."

NPCThe servo-skull ignores your generous offer.

NPC"My dearest colleague says he has no intention of leaving my side. I am afraid he and I are inseparable. If you are so taken with him, are you certain you would not be willing to tolerate my presence on the ship, if only for the sake of his company?"

YOU"I was merely curious about how you would react. You may stay."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You go, and Nuncius may stay."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am sure. Leave me."

NPCEogunn decorously alters the pitch of his torso's hovering to make a bow "I will depart the ship at the first opportunity. My path of Knowledge has changed its trajectory yet again — that is the way of things. You have been a waymark on my path, Rogue Trader. I hope that, in time, you will gain much wisdom that I have been unable to comprehend."

end of branch

YOU"I am sure. Leave me."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I must take my leave."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Not quite. Faith in the God-Emperor is more important than any function. Without faith, there is no Imperium."

NPC"So, as you see it, I am confusing cause and effect. Faith, as the supreme directive, grants meaning to our every action. The Omnissiah knows all, comprehends all, and we make it the meaning of our lives to emulate Him. I am impressed by your arguments. They have given me fertile ground for reflection."

NPCEogunn twists a piston on his beard, lost in thought. "I thank you for the interesting discussion, Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"As soon as I said it, I realised how woefully trite it sounds and I lost all interest in this discussion."

NPC"Your debate technique is highly... unconventional. In which case, I suggest we conclude our disputation — you have already given me sufficient food for thought." Eogunn pensively twists a piston in his beard.

YOU"Some of my retinue accused me of heresy and left. Why have you remained?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You endured a great deal in Commorragh. How are you now?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Kibellah has acquired a skull companion of her own. Do you think he and Nuncius will get along?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Isn't Nuncius jealous of your new cyber-companion?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"It is time for us to talk about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am ready to listen to what you and Ferrenz have to say."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I should not expect any more surprises from you, I hope?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wanted to discuss the results of the so-called Triasomata experiment."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I would like to learn more about you."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Your speech differs from that of other Tech-Priests — it is less mechanistic."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I wish to know more about augments."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I am curious about Nuncius."

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You mentioned that you have knowledge of xenos."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"You wished to debate. Let's begin with something simple — what is the meaning of life?"

continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I no longer wish to see you in my retinue."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I must take my leave."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Absolutely. Nevertheless, I still won the debate."

NPCEogunn tries to say something, looks back at Nuncius, and bows his head. "Of course, Rogue Trader, I admit defeat."

YOU"I disagree — a person chooses what they live for."

NPC"Only a Rogue Trader would make such a claim. Do you really think that your unique position as the Emperor's anointed, which grants you unheard-of liberties, translates so easily to the rest of us?"

YOU"A worker who perfectly fulfils his function may believe that the meaning of life is to provide for his family. That is for him alone to decide."

NPC"Curiously enough, you and I are at odds on the difference between the particular and the general. I considered the meaning of life as a global concept within the framework of society, while you took the individual as your starting point. But how these two concepts marry up is a topic for a separate discussion."

NPCEogunn twists a piston on his beard, lost in thought. "I thank you for the interesting discussion, Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"A person can change their function if they are willing to fight for a different existence. Even if the price is unrest and the risk of death."

NPC"A radical position that anyone else might consider heretical. But there is a kernel of truth to it perhaps — a person can make apostasy the meaning of his life. However, one could argue that suppressing rebellion is one of the functions of the system, and therefore, paradoxically, rebels enable the system to perform this function by requiring its effectuation."

NPCEogunn twists a piston on his beard, lost in thought. "I thank you for the interesting discussion, Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"As soon as I said it, I realised how woefully trite it sounds and I lost all interest in this discussion."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I do, and I command you to acknowledge my victory in this debate."

NPCEogunn tries to say something, looks back at Nuncius, and bows his head. "Of course, Rogue Trader, I admit defeat."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I believe that life has no meaning."

NPC"A rather bleak view of existence. Would you care to elaborate on that, so that I might better understand your point of view?"

YOU"It isn't bleak at all. Life simply is. We do not need to attach any deep meaning to it or explain it."

NPC"Accept the absurdity of existence, reject attempts to categorise it, and thereby find spiritual equilibrium. A highly unique way of viewing the world, one that goes against just about every dogma in the Imperium." A rebellious smile plays on Eogunn's lips. "I would like to experience it for myself."

NPCEogunn twists a piston on his beard, lost in thought. "I thank you for the interesting discussion, Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"Life is the moment between birth and death. It begins and ends regardless of whatever meaning we may ascribe to it."

NPC"So from your perspective, life is devoid of any intrinsic value or purpose. When I attempt to assimilate this idea, I feel lost, as if my galvanic circuits have been drained and even the Motive Force cannot compensate for it. I might want to explore this state further."

NPCEogunn twists a piston on his beard, lost in thought. "I thank you for the interesting discussion, Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"As soon as I said it, I realised how woefully trite it sounds and I lost all interest in this discussion."continues where this line first appears above

YOU[Shrug] "What would be the point?"

YOU"I would not. I'm right, and that's all there is to it."

NPCEogunn tries to say something, looks back at Nuncius, and bows his head. "Of course, Rogue Trader, I admit defeat."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"To simplify that even further — the Imperium is the meaning of our lives."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I disagree — a person chooses what they live for."continues where this line first appears above

YOU"I believe that life has no meaning."continues where this line first appears above