Governor"[Name] von Valancius, twentieth in his/her line, Rogue Trader, keeper of the sacred Warrant, and ruler of the Koronus Expanse from the Cranach System to the Hundred Dreams Crossroads — I bid you welcome!"
Governor"Urbend Drivestem, governor of this great world. First and foremost, please accept my deepest condolences. It will be difficult to recover from the loss of a woman as great as Theodora von Valancius. It pains me to think that she is no longer with us. The citizens of Dargonus and of the entire protectorate grieve alongside you. Please allow us to declare half a year of mourning so that we can honour the memory of our beloved lady."
YOU"Theodora von Valancius deserves more than that! You will declare a full year of mourning."
Governor"I will immediately give all necessary instructions, Your Lordship/Ladyship!" He casually presses a few buttons on the cogitator built into his gold bracer.
Governor"Esteemed [Name]... Lady Theodora was a strong leader, and we ought to follow her example. Let us lean on our wisdom and persevere in spite of this tragedy. Together. And let us carry on where she no longer can by leading the von Valancius protectorate to even greater prosperity!"
Governor(sequence)
GovernorDrivestem gives you a look of admiration. It seems that he is quite aware of your fame, and this opportunity to curry favour with such an eminent figure is one he does not wish to miss.
end of branch
GovernorAs much as the governor is trying to appear sincere, there is something in the curve of his nervous half-smile that you find troubling. Is it a hint of reproach? Mockery? Condemnation? Or is it merely your guilty conscience playing tricks on you under the governor's keen gaze, stirring up memories of your past?
end of branch
Governor"Alas, it won't be an easy task to accomplish. Some time ago, the Astropaths of Dargonus flew into a rage, and they had to be... subdued. We are gradually restoring our ability to speak with neighbouring worlds, but the contacts are still weak, and the routes are tangled and no longer lead to the systems that the captains expect them to. Given that the vast majority of ships in the Dargonus navy travel without relying on the services of Navigators — without your engagement, the well-being of the von Valancius dynasty and billions of its subjects is presently at risk."
YOU"We met a ship from Dargonus not too long ago. The crew was transporting a strange artefact and went mad during the flight."
Governor(sequence)
Governor"Hmm... This is a truly regrettable bit of news. What's more — leaving Dargonus has been forbidden for several cycles now! It seems the Werserian family has once again failed in their primary responsibilities." He shoots Abelard a condescending look.
Abelard"We will investigate this at once. As well as the fact that the ship had to acquire a permit with the Administratum seal. Does your nephew still serve at the Administratum Palace?"
end of branch
GovernorThe governor presses a number of buttons on the cogitator built into his bracer and looks up at you in surprise. "I don't understand... The ship did indeed depart from orbit, but it did so — if you can believe it — on the Rogue Trader's authorisation! That is why no one dared to impede its departure."
YOU"We met a ship from Dargonus not too long ago. The crew was transporting a strange artefact and went mad during the flight."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Kunrad Voigtvir, former Master of Whispers, is a heretic and a traitor. Has he shown his face on Dargonus?"
GovernorThe governor pensively strokes the rings glittering on his fingers. "Lord Voigtvir visited the capital some time ago, but he did not request a personal meeting. A heretic, you say? Now I see where all the whispering in the corridors has come from..."
Governor"I shall be frank with you, Your Lordship/Ladyship. Lady Theodora's sudden death was a blow to every one of us, and the absence of any sort of verifiable and complete information about her successor gives grounds for all manner of rumours and misinterpretations — especially if someone is deliberately inciting unrest and discontent. Naturally, none would dare challenge you by accusing you of something as sacrilegious as murdering a Rogue Trader... However, Kunrad Voigtvir was once a true boon to the protectorate back in the day — and as such, some might heed his words."
YOU"I sentence all who have dared to make heretical remarks about the Rogue Trader to Servitude Imperpituis. Machines aren't prone to dissidence."
Governor"I shall immediately make all the arrangements so that your order can be carried out properly." Drivestem bows.
YOU"We met a ship from Dargonus not too long ago. The crew was transporting a strange artefact and went mad during the flight."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Kunrad Voigtvir, former Master of Whispers, is a heretic and a traitor. Has he shown his face on Dargonus?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What exactly do the Dargonus nobility expect from me in light of the loss of routes and communication with other worlds?"
Governor"We are all troubled by the fate of the agri-world Janus that supplied Dargonus and other planets with foodstuffs — empty stomachs can drive even the mildest rabble to revolt. Furthermore, House Gaprak is perturbed by the loss of communication with the industrial world Kiava Gamma, which is in their charge. But if you wish to know my opinion, the world that deserves your attention the most is the penal world Vheabos VI — one of the key mining suppliers in your protectorate."
YOU"Such intriguing concern for the Vheabos VI outpost... Doesn't your house happen to own the extraction stations there?"
GovernorDrivestem's beady eyes widen in fear. "Your Lordship/Ladyship! I beg of you, do not interpret my words as an attempt to influence your decisions in any way... You see, without Vheabos VI, the manufactorums on your worlds will need to make haste to find new suppliers elsewhere and arrange for new shipments, and in these troubling times, they run the risk of delays and other most tragic mishaps! My only concern is for the prosperity of the von Valancius dynasty!"
YOU"Such intriguing concern for the Vheabos VI outpost... Doesn't your house happen to own the extraction stations there?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have already been to Kiava Gamma. The industrial world was overtaken by a cult of Chaos worshippers."
GovernorDrivestem pauses, mulling over the gravity of your words. "Such woeful tidings, Your Lordship/Ladyship... I assume that House Gaprak is in for an official investigation? If I may remind you, they have particularly close ties to the Adeptus Mechanicus and serve as patrons of Kiava Gamma. Not to speak in the defence of criminals, Your Lordship/Ladyship, but from where I stand, the outbreak of heresy on Kiava could hardly have been perpetrated by a noble family who stands to lose the majority of their wealth should the industrial world fall..."
YOU"We won't wait for the investigation. See to it that punitive measures are taken against House Gaprak."
Governor"If you are adamant about this, Your Lordship/Ladyship... I will ensure that the sentence is carried out."
Governor"But what of the industrial world? Are we to expect trade to recommence?"
YOU"The production facilities of Kiava Gamma will serve Humanity once more, rest assured."
Governor"House Gaprak will be overjoyed to hear it! I thank you for dispelling the darkness around the fate of Kiava Gamma!"
YOU"Such intriguing concern for the Vheabos VI outpost... Doesn't your house happen to own the extraction stations there?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have already been to Kiava Gamma. The industrial world was overtaken by a cult of Chaos worshippers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've already visited the agri-world Janus. Governor Vyatt found herself facing a number of problems in my absence."
Governor"Truly? The Vyatt line is one of the oldest in the von Valancius protectorate — if the inheritor of such well-respected blood could not handle whatever had befallen her, then the situation must have been extraordinary indeed..."
YOU"You could say that. Still, all her worries are behind her now, and Vistenza continues to govern the agri-world."
Governor"I am delighted to hear it. Many on Dargonus live in hope that food deliveries to the capital will resume soon."
YOU"Such intriguing concern for the Vheabos VI outpost... Doesn't your house happen to own the extraction stations there?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have already been to Kiava Gamma. The industrial world was overtaken by a cult of Chaos worshippers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've already visited the agri-world Janus. Governor Vyatt found herself facing a number of problems in my absence."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That does it for the planets and the trade routes. What else?"
Governor"Xenos, Your Lordship/Ladyship. I don't rightly know where to begin..." He rubs the bridge of his nose wearily. "Otherworldly beasts are not an uncommon sight in the Koronus Expanse — they have been a menace to the worlds this side of the Maw for decades. But now... now those abominations are on the rampage. They show no signs of fear as they attack ships, either damaging them to the point where they become unfit for transport duty or outright gutting them!"
Governor"Only you have the power to stop this madness! We are in the process of restoring the Astropathic Choir of Dargonus. Luckily, we were forced to slay only some of the deranged psykers, although those that remain are as yet unable to transmit messages. I hope Master Scalander will keep his word and offer you his support in the war against the xenos. According to his reports, the region of Vheabos VI has been of particular concern in the last few cycles... which is all the more reason to discover the colony's fate as soon as possible."
Governor"Now, to issues on a smaller scale. There is a certain degree of tension in the capital due to the unorthodox succession to the sacred Warrant. Chances of uprisings are minimal, of course, and the spreading of rumours is nothing but a sign of weakness of mind and spirit. Nonetheless... I have prepared a list of minor houses that have demonstrated unseemly discomposure at your succession. What is to be done about them?"
YOU"Eliminate the most prominent malcontents quietly, but do not threaten entire families. Hopefully these steps will be enough to keep the rest from causing any more trouble."
Governor"Once Your Lordship/Ladyship's wrath descends upon the guilty, have no doubt — there won't be a soul on Dargonus willing to share their fate."
Governor"And one last thing, Your Lordship/Ladyship. Your inauguration as bearer of the sacred Warrant is but a matter of time, and I would like to enquire about one crucial detail. I imagine you are intending to uphold the centuries-old tradition, bolstered by an equally long-lasting friendship, of being represented on Dargonus by one of the noble houses. I presume that, as before, this duty will be accorded to House Drivestem—"
YOU"One moment. Which houses can represent me at the ceremony?"
Governor"Any of the noble houses located on Dargonus! The Drivestem family, which I lead; the Gaprak family, with long ties to the Adeptus Mechanicus; the Sauerbacks, known for their piety and diligence in service... Perhaps I should also mention the Werserians, who have some influence, but who are not actually of noble origin. Any one of these houses would be honoured to represent you at the ceremony."
YOU"One moment. Which houses can represent me at the ceremony?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"There is no need to alter any traditions. The dynasty will be represented by House Drivestem."
Governor"I never doubted Your Lordship/Ladyship's decision. I can tell that the future holds a fruitful partnership for us, and prosperity for all Dargonus. I shall immediately relay all your orders, most gracious Rogue Trader. May the gold of the Throne illuminate your path."
YOU"We met a ship from Dargonus not too long ago. The crew was transporting a strange artefact and went mad during the flight."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Kunrad Voigtvir, former Master of Whispers, is a heretic and a traitor. Has he shown his face on Dargonus?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What exactly do the Dargonus nobility expect from me in light of the loss of routes and communication with other worlds?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I would like to complete my inauguration as Rogue Trader as soon as possible. When is the ceremony?"
Governor"I'm afraid that, until you deal with pressing issues, the ceremony will have to be postponed. Many trade routes are still unavailable, the central worlds of the von Valancius protectorate are going through a crisis, and the warp disturbances, if void observers are to be believed, will prevent important guests from reaching the capital."
YOU"We met a ship from Dargonus not too long ago. The crew was transporting a strange artefact and went mad during the flight."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Kunrad Voigtvir, former Master of Whispers, is a heretic and a traitor. Has he shown his face on Dargonus?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What exactly do the Dargonus nobility expect from me in light of the loss of routes and communication with other worlds?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I would like to complete my inauguration as Rogue Trader as soon as possible. When is the ceremony?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Tell me about yourself and House Drivestem."
Governor"It would be my pleasure to enlighten you. My house is the oldest and most respected on Dargonus. My ancestors walked side by side with yours for many generations as they cared for this world's welfare. Our duty is to supervise the governing bodies within the systems subservient to you, and we are responsible for the protectorate's logistics and economic stability."
Governor"As for me personally... I am a humble servant of the Emperor and a loyal subject of the Rogue Trader. And, to my great pleasure, I had the honour of calling myself Lady Theodora's close friend."
YOU"We met a ship from Dargonus not too long ago. The crew was transporting a strange artefact and went mad during the flight."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Kunrad Voigtvir, former Master of Whispers, is a heretic and a traitor. Has he shown his face on Dargonus?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What exactly do the Dargonus nobility expect from me in light of the loss of routes and communication with other worlds?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I would like to complete my inauguration as Rogue Trader as soon as possible. When is the ceremony?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Tell me about yourself and House Drivestem."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That will be all, I take it?"
Governor"Thank you for your time, Your Lordship/Ladyship. Since duty calls, I shall take my leave. May the Emperor's grace be with you!"
end of branch
Governor(sequence)
AbelardAt Urbend's last words, Abelard lets out a sound that could be interpreted as either a snort or a cough. Urbend gives him a look, which Abelard meets with an expression of utter nonchalance.
end of branch
YOU"That will be all, I take it?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Tell me about yourself and House Drivestem."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That will be all, I take it?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"House Gaprak will represent the new Rogue Trader."
GovernorDrivestem's face breaks into a bitter smile. "I shall immediately relay your commands, most gracious Rogue Trader. Thank you for your time."
YOU"We met a ship from Dargonus not too long ago. The crew was transporting a strange artefact and went mad during the flight."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Kunrad Voigtvir, former Master of Whispers, is a heretic and a traitor. Has he shown his face on Dargonus?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What exactly do the Dargonus nobility expect from me in light of the loss of routes and communication with other worlds?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I would like to complete my inauguration as Rogue Trader as soon as possible. When is the ceremony?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Tell me about yourself and House Drivestem."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That will be all, I take it?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"House Sauerback will carry out this duty."
GovernorDrivestem's face breaks into a bitter smile. "I shall immediately relay your commands, most gracious Rogue Trader. Thank you for your time."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your presumption is wrong. I will bestow this honour upon the Werserians."
Governor(sequence)
AbelardAbelard turns to you and bows respectfully. "Lord Captain! To accompany you at such a critical hour is the greatest honour for the Werserian bloodline! Have no fear — we will not fail you."
GovernorDrivestem tosses Abelard a look that lacks even the smallest shred of respect. "Forgive my boldness, but I must remind you that the Werserians, whose lineage traces back to a Navy officer, are not of the Dargonus nobility. Such decisions may have adverse effects on your subjects' loyalty, Your Lordship/Ladyship."
end of branch
GovernorDrivestem's face breaks into a bitter smile. "I shall immediately relay your commands, most gracious Rogue Trader. Thank you for your time."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I don't care. Just don't fight too hard over the bone."
GovernorThe governor hurriedly lowers his head in an obliging bow, but you catch a glimpse of the grimace on his face. He is clearly displeased by your words. "In that case, I think it's appropriate not to change the established order of things — you will be represented by the governor house of Drivestem."
YOU"We met a ship from Dargonus not too long ago. The crew was transporting a strange artefact and went mad during the flight."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Kunrad Voigtvir, former Master of Whispers, is a heretic and a traitor. Has he shown his face on Dargonus?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What exactly do the Dargonus nobility expect from me in light of the loss of routes and communication with other worlds?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I would like to complete my inauguration as Rogue Trader as soon as possible. When is the ceremony?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Tell me about yourself and House Drivestem."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That will be all, I take it?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"There is no need to alter any traditions. The dynasty will be represented by House Drivestem."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"House Gaprak will represent the new Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"House Sauerback will carry out this duty."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your presumption is wrong. I will bestow this honour upon the Werserians."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I don't care. Just don't fight too hard over the bone."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I care not what those hyenas are yapping about behind my back. Leave them be — they are no threat to me."
Governor"A noble decision, Your Lordship/Ladyship. Let us hope that others do not mistake your magnanimity for weakness."
Governor"And one last thing, Your Lordship/Ladyship. Your inauguration as bearer of the sacred Warrant is but a matter of time, and I would like to enquire about one crucial detail. I imagine you are intending to uphold the centuries-old tradition, bolstered by an equally long-lasting friendship, of being represented on Dargonus by one of the noble houses. I presume that, as before, this duty will be accorded to House Drivestem—"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Kibellah, I entrust this burden to the Bloodspun Web. Unravel the tangle of plots and foil them."
Kibellah"It will be done, Domin'[Name]. Let the sacrament of the hunt commence."
GovernorA cold sweat breaks out on Drivestem's face. He forces a subservient smile on his face. "This will bring the noble houses into line for years to come, Your Lordship/Ladyship. It will make them fear not only blasphemous words, but also their own shadows."
Governor"And one last thing, Your Lordship/Ladyship. Your inauguration as bearer of the sacred Warrant is but a matter of time, and I would like to enquire about one crucial detail. I imagine you are intending to uphold the centuries-old tradition, bolstered by an equally long-lasting friendship, of being represented on Dargonus by one of the noble houses. I presume that, as before, this duty will be accorded to House Drivestem—"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Make arrangements for public purges. All who have sullied the Rogue Trader's name must meet their death on the executioner's block."
Governor"With a hand stern and strong, isn't that right, Your Lordship/Ladyship? You bear a stronger resemblance to Theodora von Valancius than I thought. May the stars shine upon her path in the darkness. It will be done."
Governor"And one last thing, Your Lordship/Ladyship. Your inauguration as bearer of the sacred Warrant is but a matter of time, and I would like to enquire about one crucial detail. I imagine you are intending to uphold the centuries-old tradition, bolstered by an equally long-lasting friendship, of being represented on Dargonus by one of the noble houses. I presume that, as before, this duty will be accorded to House Drivestem—"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Send the disgruntled nobles lavish gifts on my behalf. And make sure that my generosity does not go unnoticed by the rest."
Governor"An elegant solution, Your Lordship/Ladyship. Other families will assume that your relationships with the defiant houses are more complicated than one might think, and the agitators will receive the message that they are being watched."
Governor"And one last thing, Your Lordship/Ladyship. Your inauguration as bearer of the sacred Warrant is but a matter of time, and I would like to enquire about one crucial detail. I imagine you are intending to uphold the centuries-old tradition, bolstered by an equally long-lasting friendship, of being represented on Dargonus by one of the noble houses. I presume that, as before, this duty will be accorded to House Drivestem—"continues where this line first appears above
Governor(sequence)
Kibellah"Command the spinners of the Bloodspun Web — and they will set a fine snare of retribution, Domin'[Name]. We will whisper names, and that whisper will drown out insolent voices."
end of branch
YOU[Lie] "Accursed xenos took Vistenza's life. But her death was avenged."
GovernorDrivestem's voice fills with appropriately measured indignation: "Profane fiends! May the Emperor smite their breed for the death of His diligent servant Vistenza!"
YOU"Such intriguing concern for the Vheabos VI outpost... Doesn't your house happen to own the extraction stations there?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have already been to Kiava Gamma. The industrial world was overtaken by a cult of Chaos worshippers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've already visited the agri-world Janus. Governor Vyatt found herself facing a number of problems in my absence."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That does it for the planets and the trade routes. What else?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Vistenza succumbed to worshipping the Ruinous Powers and was executed."
GovernorDrivestem pales in terror. It is clear from the unseemly grimace on his aristocratic countenance that his fear is not feigned. "R-Ruinous Powers? Truly horrifying news. I commend your resolve and unwavering severity! Death to the enemies of Humanity!"
YOU"Such intriguing concern for the Vheabos VI outpost... Doesn't your house happen to own the extraction stations there?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have already been to Kiava Gamma. The industrial world was overtaken by a cult of Chaos worshippers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've already visited the agri-world Janus. Governor Vyatt found herself facing a number of problems in my absence."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That does it for the planets and the trade routes. What else?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Vistenza Vyatt is no longer in charge of the world — she is dead. I have delivered Janus into more capable hands."
GovernorDrivestem's eyes open wide. "The Vyatt line... is broken? Such horrible news! Oh, it will shake many who were connected to the Vyatts and who are used to the immunity that comes with our class..."
YOU"Such intriguing concern for the Vheabos VI outpost... Doesn't your house happen to own the extraction stations there?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have already been to Kiava Gamma. The industrial world was overtaken by a cult of Chaos worshippers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've already visited the agri-world Janus. Governor Vyatt found herself facing a number of problems in my absence."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That does it for the planets and the trade routes. What else?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Never you mind about that, Governor."
GovernorThe governor stares at you with a mixture of worry and incredulity. Nevertheless, after hearing your words, he bows his head in obedience.
YOU"Such intriguing concern for the Vheabos VI outpost... Doesn't your house happen to own the extraction stations there?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have already been to Kiava Gamma. The industrial world was overtaken by a cult of Chaos worshippers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've already visited the agri-world Janus. Governor Vyatt found herself facing a number of problems in my absence."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That does it for the planets and the trade routes. What else?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That does it for the planets and the trade routes. What else?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The world still manufactures heavy machinery... but they have nothing in common with the type of production the Gapraks are familiar with."
Governor"Hmm... Well, I'll be sure to notify the Gapraks of Kiava Gamma's current situation. Thank you, Your Lordship/Ladyship."
YOU"Such intriguing concern for the Vheabos VI outpost... Doesn't your house happen to own the extraction stations there?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have already been to Kiava Gamma. The industrial world was overtaken by a cult of Chaos worshippers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've already visited the agri-world Janus. Governor Vyatt found herself facing a number of problems in my absence."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That does it for the planets and the trade routes. What else?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You will learn about everything in due course."
GovernorDrivestem humbly bows his head.
YOU"Such intriguing concern for the Vheabos VI outpost... Doesn't your house happen to own the extraction stations there?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have already been to Kiava Gamma. The industrial world was overtaken by a cult of Chaos worshippers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've already visited the agri-world Janus. Governor Vyatt found herself facing a number of problems in my absence."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That does it for the planets and the trade routes. What else?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I doubt the Gapraks had anything to do with this incident."
Governor"I am glad that our views on this matter align, Your Lordship/Ladyship."
Governor"But what of the industrial world? Are we to expect trade to recommence?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It's too early to draw any conclusions. We will wait for the results of the investigation."
Governor"Most reasonable, Your Lordship/Ladyship."
Governor"But what of the industrial world? Are we to expect trade to recommence?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've already visited the agri-world Janus. Governor Vyatt found herself facing a number of problems in my absence."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That does it for the planets and the trade routes. What else?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have already been to Kiava Gamma. The industrial world was overtaken by a cult of Chaos worshippers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've already visited the agri-world Janus. Governor Vyatt found herself facing a number of problems in my absence."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That does it for the planets and the trade routes. What else?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I would like to complete my inauguration as Rogue Trader as soon as possible. When is the ceremony?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Tell me about yourself and House Drivestem."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That will be all, I take it?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"My subjects' doubts are understandable — too many things have changed in too short a span. I will prove myself worthy of my position."
Governor"Why, [Name], your desire is most commendable, but please do not forget — a ruler should never bow to their attendants, or some might see it as a show of weakness."
YOU"We met a ship from Dargonus not too long ago. The crew was transporting a strange artefact and went mad during the flight."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Kunrad Voigtvir, former Master of Whispers, is a heretic and a traitor. Has he shown his face on Dargonus?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What exactly do the Dargonus nobility expect from me in light of the loss of routes and communication with other worlds?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I would like to complete my inauguration as Rogue Trader as soon as possible. When is the ceremony?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Tell me about yourself and House Drivestem."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That will be all, I take it?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Publicly rip out the vocal cords and tongues of every slanderer and replace them with vox-implants that sing the praises of Rogue Trader [Name] von Valancius without interruption. I should think that will serve as a reminder of who rules this world."
Governor"I shall immediately make all the arrangements so that your order can be carried out properly." Drivestem bows.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I couldn't care less about what people think of me. I am Theodora's successor whether they like it or not."
Governor"My thoughts exactly, Rogue Trader! Guide the protectorate along its path — and in time, all things will return to normal!"
YOU"We met a ship from Dargonus not too long ago. The crew was transporting a strange artefact and went mad during the flight."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Kunrad Voigtvir, former Master of Whispers, is a heretic and a traitor. Has he shown his face on Dargonus?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What exactly do the Dargonus nobility expect from me in light of the loss of routes and communication with other worlds?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I would like to complete my inauguration as Rogue Trader as soon as possible. When is the ceremony?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Tell me about yourself and House Drivestem."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That will be all, I take it?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What exactly do the Dargonus nobility expect from me in light of the loss of routes and communication with other worlds?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I would like to complete my inauguration as Rogue Trader as soon as possible. When is the ceremony?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Tell me about yourself and House Drivestem."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That will be all, I take it?"continues where this line first appears above
Governor(sequence)
Abelard"Lord Captain, it would seem that Kunrad somehow got his hands on a copy of your authorisation — or perhaps even the original! A tool like that in the hands of a traitor does not bode well!"
end of branch
YOU"Kunrad Voigtvir, former Master of Whispers, is a heretic and a traitor. Has he shown his face on Dargonus?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What exactly do the Dargonus nobility expect from me in light of the loss of routes and communication with other worlds?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I would like to complete my inauguration as Rogue Trader as soon as possible. When is the ceremony?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Tell me about yourself and House Drivestem."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"That will be all, I take it?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"There is no need. I am the new ruler of the protectorate — let my subjects rejoice at my arrival instead."
GovernorThe bewilderment causes the wrinkles on Drivestem's glossy face to soften. "Your Lordship/Ladyship, these are centuries-old traditions, sacred customs and rules!"
Governor(sequence)
Abelard"Do not forget who it is you serve, Urbend Drivestem. If it is the Rogue Trader's wish not to have a mourning ceremony..." Abelard's voice grates unpleasantly. "...then so be it."
Governor"Perhaps the parvenu installed by Lady Theodora cares not for the sacred traditions of our founding ancestors..." The governor gives a meaningful nod in Abelard's direction. "But [Name] von Valancius is a descendant of the true children of Dargonus! It behoves the ruler of a world to honour its customs."
YOU"Come now, Urbend. I am as much of a parvenu as Abelard."
Governor"And yet you are still a descendant of a great dynasty. But I shan't tire you further with my humble opinion."
end of branch
YOU"I do honour traditions, Governor. Later, when things in the protectorate settle down, we will declare a mourning period."
Governor"As you will, Your Lordship/Ladyship." Drivestem bows his head.
end of branch
YOU"I shall be the one to judge what behoves me and what does not."
Governor"As you will, Your Lordship/Ladyship." Drivestem bows his head.continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Say nothing]
AbelardAbelard looks like he wants to object, but, seeing your aloofness, simply crosses his arms without saying a word.
end of branch
Governor"Esteemed [Name]... Lady Theodora was a strong leader, and we ought to follow her example. Let us lean on our wisdom and persevere in spite of this tragedy. Together. And let us carry on where she no longer can by leading the von Valancius protectorate to even greater prosperity!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It's all the same to me. Do as you see fit."
Governor"I will immediately give all necessary instructions, Your Lordship/Ladyship!" He casually presses a few buttons on the cogitator built into his gold bracer.continues where this line first appears above
Governor(sequence)
GovernorThe governor glances at Kibellah anxiously, then immediately averts his gaze. Then he looks at her again, but when Kibellah lets out a grim chuckle and stretches her lips daubed in fresh blood into a petrifying grin, the governor turns away from her sharply, all but squealing in fear.