Footfall"And if that is so, they will all face the same trial as the others. I will not indiscriminately massacre servants of the faith for the deeds of their preacher who strayed from the righteous path."
YOU"Hieronymus, tell us why you betrayed her."
Hieronymus Doloroso"House Chorda had tarnished itself, but not by the deeds of the pirate Aspyce alone. All of you, her heirs, were corrupt too: the bad seed that sprouted in her grim shadow. You were greedy and egotistical. You had forgotten the Emperor's laws and commandments... After Aspyce disappeared, one of you was going to take her place, but you would have been no better than her. And so I weeded the field."
Hieronymus Doloroso"Our missionaries accidentally discovered the hideout in which Aspyce had hidden her captive relatives. And I chose you, Incendia, to be the restorer of House Chorda's honour. I caused you agony. I took you down a path of suffering. I flayed away your skin of vanity and complacency. I made you believe in Him and put your hopes in Him. I made you what you are now."
FootfallIncendia whispers softly and passionately, "You are not lying. You made me what I am. And I was corrupt and wicked before."
Hieronymus Doloroso"I made you His warrior. All people are unrighteous. Only the wild beasts, the blazing stars, and the elements are without fault... And I made you the Emperor's beast. The blazing star of His wrath. The elemental justice of the Protector of Mankind. I stamped out every passion in your heart but the passion for championing His law. I raised you above the weaknesses, morality, and mercy of humanity. You are a monster chained to the Golden Throne and enacting its will. The perfect retribution."
Footfall"I... am Retribution."
YOU"Hieronymus, tell us why you betrayed her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus may have betrayed you, but he was driven by faith."
Footfall"And yet treachery was committed. As well as the assassinations of my relatives and an attempt on my own life. He is a murderer, and a murderer must stand trial."
Hieronymus Doloroso"Yes. A murderer must stand trial."
YOU"Hieronymus, tell us why you betrayed her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus may have betrayed you, but he was driven by faith."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."
YOU"Well, are you going to string him up as a traitor, Incendia?"
Footfall"He committed a crime... though I do not see the brand of judgement on his brow. It was not heresy, but something different..."
YOU"Hieronymus, tell us why you betrayed her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus may have betrayed you, but he was driven by faith."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Well, are you going to string him up as a traitor, Incendia?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."
YOU[Kill Hieronymus] "As a favour to you, sister Incendia, I shall deal with this myself."
FootfallIncendia freezes and does not attempt to stop you. She just stares silently.
Hieronymus DolorosoHieronymus collapses on the deck, choking on his blood, his eyes wide open. Suddenly he cries out in a booming voice, "Woe! Woe is coming... A mournful glow that blots out the sky... A rapacious crowd of enemies at the door... Traitors who are like rust, eating away at this house's bulkheads... Treachery and corruption are everywhere... Even the wardens of purity are themselves tainted... None... are unsullied..." Blood fills the preacher's throat, and he falls silent.
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."
end of branch
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"
YOU"Let us convict Vladaym."
Footfall"Vladaym Tocara, I charge you before the Emperor's stern gaze with contempt for the Creed He gave us, with harbouring lawless heretics, with crimes against His loyal servants, and with armed rebellion against His will!"
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"Yes, that's what they say about me. And what they say about you is that you're an obscura-huffing maniac who kills people for sport."
YOU"Vladaym, do you have anything to say in your defence?"
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"Footfall has always been dirty, like the threshold of a temple is dirty from all the shoes wiped on it. But it's always been, and will remain, the threshold of the Expanse. Here is where our conquest of these systems began. If you don't like it the way it is... why, then, you're too squeamish and have no concept of what a frontier of any era looks like. Not that I care to justify myself to a madwoman. Everybody knows she's fixated on judging people."
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeVladaym is looking at you and no one else. "If you're going to sentence me, do it fast. Don't give me to that raving hag." A well-aimed gob of spit lands at Incendia's feet.
YOU"Vladaym, do you have anything to say in your defence?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your handling of Footfall has been overly harsh, Incendia. You share the blame for their rebellion."
Footfall"Then he should have pleaded, not rebelled! He should have come to me, knelt before me, and begged for leniency! Mercy was possible then, but not now! To rebel against authority is to rebel against Him!"
YOU"Vladaym, do you have anything to say in your defence?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your handling of Footfall has been overly harsh, Incendia. You share the blame for their rebellion."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Death is the Emperor's Peace, and it must be earned. Let me turn him into a servitor on my ship. That will teach him obedience."
Footfall"There is truth in your words, [Name]. Goodness is born of servitude. Vladaym Tocara, for your crimes, you will undergo Servitude Imperpituis and be passed into the ownership of House von Valancius."
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeVladaym looks at you in disappointment. "So you're denying me a quick death? Then again, an eternity as a mindless walking pile of scrap on your ship is better than another second next to this crazed monster."
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He can still atone for his crimes. Give him to me. Let him purify his soul by sweeping the decks of my ship."
FootfallIncendia raises an eyebrow in surprise. "That sentence is too lenient, [Name]. What will you gain by making him your servant? What lesson will be learned from that show of mercy?"
YOU"A lesson in humility. His power is in shambles, and his rebellion never took off. Vladaym is no more: all that is left is a servant of the Emperor who has lost his way. Servitude will bring him back to the true path."
YOU"You are right. He deserves a harsher punishment."
Footfall"In that case, I see no point in arguing. What the scoundrel's sentence should be is obvious."
Footfall"Vladaym Tocara, you will be hanged for your crimes. Let the sight of your cold corpse serve as proof that the Cold Trade has no place on Footfall any longer."
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The law states that these are hanging offences."
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"So you're going to string me up like a pirate? Well then, whatever bad place my soul goes to, once I become the ruler of it, I'll be back for you."
Footfall"Vladaym Tocara, you will be hanged for your crimes. Let the sight of your cold corpse serve as proof that the Cold Trade has no place on Footfall any longer."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Vladaym] "I shall do it myself."
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeVladaym accepts death with a mocking smile, never looking away from Incendia, who presses her lips together in annoyance.
Footfall"That was too lenient a punishment. It will not serve as a lesson to others. Your impetuousness disappoints me, [Name]."
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let him and his people atone by shedding blood in the Emperor's name."
Footfall"Give me one reason why I should show lenience to this wretched traitor."
YOU"We are at war. We have no right to squander fighters."
YOU"There is not a single reason. He deserves to die."
Footfall"In that case, I see no point in arguing. What the scoundrel's sentence should be is obvious."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The people must know what happens to traitors. Torture him to death and broadcast his screams live on Footfall's vox-station. I shall provide you with my best executioners for the occasion."
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeVladaym grimaces. "I'll admit, that is devious. May my every scream be a curse upon your names."
FootfallIncendia's eyes flare with malicious excitement. "So be it. Vladaym Tocara, for your crimes, you shall be subject to agonising execution. Let your dying screams echo within the walls of this station forever as a lesson to all who are prone to corruption and disobedience."
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Smile acerbically] "Let us dispose of him as he disposed of people — let us throw him for a loop."
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeA harsh smile appears on Vladaym's lips. "Fair enough. So long, and damn you all."
Footfall"An excellent idea. Vladaym Tocara, for your crimes, you shall be expelled out through a void chamber. Take this filth away and dispose of it as rubbish should be."
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"No, Incendia, do not invoke the Emperor's name as justification for your mistakes. There are different kinds of authority — you are the one who drove these people to the brink, so you are responsible for the carnage that followed."
YOU"Vladaym, do you have anything to say in your defence?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your handling of Footfall has been overly harsh, Incendia. You share the blame for their rebellion."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Death is the Emperor's Peace, and it must be earned. Let me turn him into a servitor on my ship. That will teach him obedience."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He can still atone for his crimes. Give him to me. Let him purify his soul by sweeping the decks of my ship."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The law states that these are hanging offences."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Vladaym] "I shall do it myself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let him and his people atone by shedding blood in the Emperor's name."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The people must know what happens to traitors. Torture him to death and broadcast his screams live on Footfall's vox-station. I shall provide you with my best executioners for the occasion."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Smile acerbically] "Let us dispose of him as he disposed of people — let us throw him for a loop."continues where this line first appears above
Solomorne"Every Arbitrator is taught how to suppress a rebellion without starting a bigger one. Instead of doing your duty with a cool head, you let your seething hatred for heretics get the better of you — you will serve as a prime example of how not to do this job."
YOU"Vladaym, do you have anything to say in your defence?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your handling of Footfall has been overly harsh, Incendia. You share the blame for their rebellion."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Death is the Emperor's Peace, and it must be earned. Let me turn him into a servitor on my ship. That will teach him obedience."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He can still atone for his crimes. Give him to me. Let him purify his soul by sweeping the decks of my ship."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The law states that these are hanging offences."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Vladaym] "I shall do it myself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let him and his people atone by shedding blood in the Emperor's name."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The people must know what happens to traitors. Torture him to death and broadcast his screams live on Footfall's vox-station. I shall provide you with my best executioners for the occasion."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Smile acerbically] "Let us dispose of him as he disposed of people — let us throw him for a loop."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Death is the Emperor's Peace, and it must be earned. Let me turn him into a servitor on my ship. That will teach him obedience."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He can still atone for his crimes. Give him to me. Let him purify his soul by sweeping the decks of my ship."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The law states that these are hanging offences."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Vladaym] "I shall do it myself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let him and his people atone by shedding blood in the Emperor's name."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The people must know what happens to traitors. Torture him to death and broadcast his screams live on Footfall's vox-station. I shall provide you with my best executioners for the occasion."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Smile acerbically] "Let us dispose of him as he disposed of people — let us throw him for a loop."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your handling of Footfall has been overly harsh, Incendia. You share the blame for their rebellion."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Death is the Emperor's Peace, and it must be earned. Let me turn him into a servitor on my ship. That will teach him obedience."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He can still atone for his crimes. Give him to me. Let him purify his soul by sweeping the decks of my ship."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The law states that these are hanging offences."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Vladaym] "I shall do it myself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let him and his people atone by shedding blood in the Emperor's name."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The people must know what happens to traitors. Torture him to death and broadcast his screams live on Footfall's vox-station. I shall provide you with my best executioners for the occasion."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Smile acerbically] "Let us dispose of him as he disposed of people — let us throw him for a loop."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Point at Ryzza] "She is guilty. Her soul is full of corruption. Allow me to carry out her sentence personally."
Ryzza"Me?" Ryzza bares her teeth, grabs her weapon, and stares at the enforcers like a hunted beast. "But I never fought against you! I never backed Vladaym!"
Footfall"And because of that, we are supposed to pardon you for your past offences? Commoner Ryzza, you are charged with piracy, with aiding and abetting rebels, and with blasphemous heresy and worship of the Ruinous Powers. [Name], I grant you the right to enact the Emperor's justice."
Ryzza"You think you can judge me?" Ryzza whips out an amulet with a beast's fanged head crowned by horns. She looks at you, grinning ominously. "You shouldn't have done that. I have something up my sleeve, in case the worst came to the worst. I, Ryzza, reject your accursed justice and your accursed Emperor! I accept the deal that was offered me, and surrender myself to the Edge of Daybreak! Die, [Name] von Valancius!" The fanged head opens its mouth, roars, and spits a flaming arrow at you.
FootfallYour hands fold swiftly into the sign of the Aquila, which meets the blow like a shield. Flickering flame runs down your fingers, leaving no burn marks. Before Ryzza can make sense of what happened, you whip out your weapon and wound her, making her fall to her knees before you. The amulet turns to ashes right in the pirate's hands.
YOU"Any last words, heretic?"
RyzzaThe pirate holds out her hands, terrified. "Spare me, Your Lord/Ladyship, I beg you! I had no choice, I— I had to protect myself! Wait, let me..." Ryzza takes out a small data-slate and hands it to you. "This contains the coordinates of my secret stash. You're welcome to everything in it. Just let me go and you'll never see me again!"
YOU"Any last words, heretic?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Raise your weapon silently]
RyzzaThe pirate holds out her hands, terrified. "Spare me, Your Lord/Ladyship, I beg you! I had no choice, I— I had to protect myself! Wait, let me..." Ryzza takes out a small data-slate and hands it to you. "This contains the coordinates of my secret stash. You're welcome to everything in it. Just let me go and you'll never see me again!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Ryzza, by siding with the Archenemy, you have betrayed the Emperor Himself. For this, you are hereby sentenced to death. Perish, heretic!"
FootfallThe weapon in your hands starts glowing blindingly. Your holy attack atomises Ryzza before she has time to utter her last curse.
Footfall"Faith. The shield and the smiting blade were gifted by the Emperor to His servants. I saw the light of our Protector in you all along, [Name]. I am glad He chose you to enact His punishment." Chorda looks serene, and her voice has mellowed. Her face is completely calm, no longer visited by her nervous tic.
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are right. I shall never see you again."
FootfallThe weapon in your hands starts glowing blindingly. Your holy attack atomises Ryzza before she has time to utter her last curse.continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill the servant of the Archenemy]
FootfallThe weapon in your hands starts glowing blindingly. Your holy attack atomises Ryzza before she has time to utter her last curse.continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Raise your weapon silently]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Ryzza, by siding with the Archenemy, you have betrayed the Emperor Himself. For this, you are hereby sentenced to death. Perish, heretic!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You are right. I shall never see you again."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill the servant of the Archenemy]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Point to Ryzza] "She must face the tribunal."
RyzzaRyzza kneels obediently and looks into Incendia's eyes with resolve. "I confess to my crimes. I let the corruption of heresy into my soul and rejected the light of the Emperor. I will accept my fate, but I'm begging you to be lenient toward the crew of my voidship. Only I am tainted. They knew nothing of my treachery."
Footfall"In that case, I am ready to hand down your sentence. Commoner Ryzza, you are charged with piracy, with aiding and abetting rebels, and with blasphemous heresy and worship of the Ruinous Powers. Given your repentance, I will grant you a quick death. As regards your crew, they will face trial in due time, on the same terms as others on this station."
YOU"Wait, does her repentance not earn her a lighter sentence?"
Footfall"A quick death is the only mercy one can show to a servant of the Archenemy. Heresy cannot be forgiven."
FootfallIncendia offers a prayer to the Emperor, then pierces Ryzza's heart with a quick and well-aimed shot from her pistol. The pirate meets her death with dignity, keeping her eyes on Incendia until the end.
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your sentence is fair."
Footfall"I am only doing what the Emperor commands me to do."
FootfallIncendia offers a prayer to the Emperor, then pierces Ryzza's heart with a quick and well-aimed shot from her pistol. The pirate meets her death with dignity, keeping her eyes on Incendia until the end.continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Say nothing]
FootfallIncendia offers a prayer to the Emperor, then pierces Ryzza's heart with a quick and well-aimed shot from her pistol. The pirate meets her death with dignity, keeping her eyes on Incendia until the end.continues where this line first appears above
Ryzza"Me?" Ryzza bares her teeth, grabs her weapon, and stares at the enforcers like a hunted beast. "But I never fought against you! I never backed Vladaym!"
Footfall"And because of that, we are supposed to pardon you for your past offences? Commoner Ryzza, you are charged with piracy, with aiding and abetting rebels, and with blasphemous heresy and worship of the Ruinous Powers. Burn for eternity, ungodly wretch."
Ryzza"You think you can judge me?" Ryzza whips out an amulet with a beast's fanged head crowned by horns. She grins ominously. "You shouldn't have done that. I have something up my sleeve, in case the worst came to the worst. I, Ryzza, reject your accursed justice and your accursed Emperor! I accept the deal that was offered me, and surrender myself to the Edge of Daybreak! Die, you redheaded monster!" The fanged head opens its mouth, roars, and spits out a flaming arrow at Incendia.
FootfallIncendia's hands fold swiftly into the sign of the Aquila, which meets the blow like a shield. Flickering flame runs down her pale fingers, leaving no burn marks. She whips out her weapon, and a shining ray blinds everyone. A hundred times more powerful than what any inferno pistol can produce, the blast atomises Ryzza before she has time to utter her last curse.
YOU[Discreetly wipe Ryzza's blood with a handkercher to use it in a dark ritual]
FootfallThe fabric is soaked with the blood of the heretic sworn to the Ruinous Powers. The crimson drops hold tiny echoes of her unrighteous soul's agony. These barely perceptible particles used to be Ryzza until only a few moments ago — and you know they are all it will take to summon a being from beyond the veil into realspace. You pocket the handkercher.
YOU[Discreetly wipe Ryzza's blood with a handkercher to use it in a dark ritual]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Turn to Incendia] "What was that?"
Footfall"Faith. A shield gifted by the Emperor to His servants. Did you not recognise the light of our protector, [Name]?" Chorda looks serene, and her voice has mellowed. Her face is completely calm, no longer visited by her nervous tic.
YOU[Discreetly wipe Ryzza's blood with a handkercher to use it in a dark ritual]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Turn to Incendia] "What was that?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Did you know she was a heretic all along?"
Footfall"I saw right through her. Her every crime. Her every tainted thought. I perceived the seed of corruption she was wearing on her chest: an unholy vow and collateral for the promises given to her by servants of the Archenemy. Yes, I knew... I sensed it the moment I looked upon the corrupt old wretch."
YOU[Discreetly wipe Ryzza's blood with a handkercher to use it in a dark ritual]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Turn to Incendia] "What was that?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Did you know she was a heretic all along?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a just execution."
Footfall"The Emperor pointed me toward wickedness, and I destroyed it."
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Perhaps it was your cruelty that propelled her into the Archenemy's arms."
Footfall"Weakness, freethinking, and inner wickedness create heretics, not I. I destroy them."
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What a pathetic attempt. She deserved what happened to her."
Footfall"The Emperor pointed me toward wickedness, and I destroyed it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a just execution."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Perhaps it was your cruelty that propelled her into the Archenemy's arms."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What a pathetic attempt. She deserved what happened to her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Did you know she was a heretic all along?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a just execution."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Perhaps it was your cruelty that propelled her into the Archenemy's arms."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What a pathetic attempt. She deserved what happened to her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Turn to Incendia] "What was that?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Did you know she was a heretic all along?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It was a just execution."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Perhaps it was your cruelty that propelled her into the Archenemy's arms."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What a pathetic attempt. She deserved what happened to her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have an excellent unholy man for your consideration. His name is Hieronymus Doloroso."
Footfall"What?" Hieronymus and Incendia's cries of astonishment blend together.
YOU"He sabotaged your cryo-vault, condemning you to suffer, and killed off your relatives."
Footfall"What? Hieronymus... I can see you are hiding something. Repent, Reverend."
Hieronymus Doloroso"I will not offend you by telling a lie, Incendia. It was on my orders that your cryo-vault was tampered with and Aspyce's other aspiring heirs killed. I admit to my crime."
YOU"Hieronymus, tell us why you betrayed her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus may have betrayed you, but he was driven by faith."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Well, are you going to string him up as a traitor, Incendia?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Hieronymus] "As a favour to you, sister Incendia, I shall deal with this myself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus deserves a harsh penance, but not an execution. Give him a different punishment."
Footfall"Hieronymus Doloroso, you are guilty of causing death and suffering, and you are guilty of assassinating members of House Chorda. Yet I see no corruption in your soul, and therefore I have no right to judge you. You will be judged by the Emperor. I am setting an act of faith for you to perform. The central atrium's support systems were damaged in a recent terrorist attack by Tocara's followers."
Footfall"At present, it is an inferno of boiling poison. You will head there as part of a penal crew and repair the damage. No respirator, no void suit. If the Emperor is merciful to you, you will survive."
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He betrayed you, so you should be his judge."
Footfall"Hieronymus Doloroso, you are guilty of causing death and suffering, and you are guilty of assassinating members of House Chorda. Yet I see no corruption in your soul, and therefore I have no right to judge you. You will be judged by the Emperor. I am setting an act of faith for you to perform. The central atrium's support systems were damaged in a recent terrorist attack by Tocara's followers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Never mind. It was just a joke... And not a good one."
Hieronymus DolorosoSilence reigns. Incendia and Hieronymus stare at you, dumbfounded. Her expression is one of confusion, while his is one of secret fear. Incendia's eyelid twitches nervously.
YOU"Let us convict Vladaym."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Point at Ryzza] "She is guilty. Her soul is full of corruption. Allow me to carry out her sentence personally."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Point to Ryzza] "She must face the tribunal."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have an excellent unholy man for your consideration. His name is Hieronymus Doloroso."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"On that, we can conclude the trial."
Footfall"I disagree. I see one more dangerous plotter here." Incendia's finger points at Ryzza.
RyzzaRyzza kneels obediently and looks into Incendia's eyes with resolve. "I confess to my crimes. I let the corruption of heresy into my soul and rejected the light of the Emperor. I will accept my fate, but I'm begging you to be lenient toward the crew of my voidship. Only I am tainted. They knew nothing of my treachery."continues where this line first appears above
Ryzza"Me?" Ryzza bares her teeth, grabs her weapon, and stares at the enforcers like a hunted beast. "But I never fought against you! I never backed Vladaym!"continues where this line first appears above
Hieronymus DolorosoHieronymus nods at you surreptitiously and folds his hands into the sign of the Aquila.
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"On that, we can conclude the trial."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus deserves a harsh penance, but not an execution. Give him a different punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He betrayed you, so you should be his judge."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallSomething changes in Incendia's face, revealing shame and naked vulnerability. You have seen that tortured expression on her face only once before, at the mention of her despicable predecessor, Aspyce Chorda. Incendia shrinks and tenses, as if aware that you can sense her weakness.
YOU"Hieronymus, tell us why you betrayed her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus may have betrayed you, but he was driven by faith."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Well, are you going to string him up as a traitor, Incendia?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Hieronymus] "As a favour to you, sister Incendia, I shall deal with this myself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus deserves a harsh penance, but not an execution. Give him a different punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He betrayed you, so you should be his judge."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Hieronymus] "As a favour to you, sister Incendia, I shall deal with this myself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus deserves a harsh penance, but not an execution. Give him a different punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He betrayed you, so you should be his judge."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallSomething changes in Incendia's face, revealing shame and naked vulnerability. You have seen that tortured expression on her face only once before, at the mention of her despicable predecessor, Aspyce Chorda. Incendia shrinks and tenses, as if aware that you can sense her weakness.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Well, are you going to string him up as a traitor, Incendia?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Hieronymus] "As a favour to you, sister Incendia, I shall deal with this myself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus deserves a harsh penance, but not an execution. Give him a different punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He betrayed you, so you should be his judge."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus may have betrayed you, but he was driven by faith."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Well, are you going to string him up as a traitor, Incendia?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Hieronymus] "As a favour to you, sister Incendia, I shall deal with this myself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus deserves a harsh penance, but not an execution. Give him a different punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He betrayed you, so you should be his judge."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 2 of 19
Footfall"You are right. Vladaym Tocara, you are hereby found guilty. The court sentences you to a lifetime of penance. You and your associates shall be enlisted in a penal boarding squad operating from my flagship. As part of that squad, you shall fight enemies of Humanity for the rest of your life."
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeVladaym smiles wryly and drawls, "So... are you going to give me a weapon too? Fantastic. I humbly accept my sentence."
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 3 of 19
Footfall"You are not lying. I... do enjoy it."
YOU"Hieronymus lied to you. It was he who condemned you to years of torture in a cryo-vault. He turned you into his loyal personal executioner."
Footfall"What? Hieronymus... I can see you are hiding something. Repent, Reverend."
Hieronymus Doloroso"I will not offend you by telling a lie, Incendia. It was on my orders that your cryo-vault was tampered with and Aspyce's other aspiring heirs killed. I admit to my crime."
YOU"Hieronymus, tell us why you betrayed her."
Hieronymus Doloroso"House Chorda had tarnished itself, but not by the deeds of the pirate Aspyce alone. All of you, her heirs, were corrupt too: the bad seed that sprouted in her grim shadow. You were greedy and egotistical. You had forgotten the Emperor's laws and commandments... After Aspyce disappeared, one of you was going to take her place, but you would have been no better than her. And so I weeded the field."
Hieronymus Doloroso"Our missionaries accidentally discovered the hideout in which Aspyce had hidden her captive relatives. And I chose you, Incendia, to be the restorer of House Chorda's honour. I caused you agony. I took you down a path of suffering. I flayed away your skin of vanity and complacency. I made you believe in Him and put your hopes in Him. I made you what you are now."
FootfallIncendia whispers softly and passionately, "You are not lying. You made me what I am. And I was corrupt and wicked before."
Hieronymus Doloroso"I made you His warrior. All people are unrighteous. Only the wild beasts, the blazing stars, and the elements are without fault... And I made you the Emperor's beast. The blazing star of His wrath. The elemental justice of the Protector of Mankind. I stamped out every passion in your heart but the passion for championing His law. I raised you above the weaknesses, morality, and mercy of humanity. You are a monster chained to the Golden Throne and enacting its will. The perfect retribution."
Footfall"I... am Retribution."
YOU"Hieronymus, tell us why you betrayed her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you see now that you were manipulated? Filled with hatred and unleashed on people?"
YOU"Do you see now that you were manipulated? Filled with hatred and unleashed on people?"
YOU"Do you see now that you were manipulated? Filled with hatred and unleashed on people?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you see now that you were manipulated? Filled with hatred and unleashed on people?"continues where this line first appears above
FootfallSomething changes in Incendia's face, revealing shame and naked vulnerability. You have seen that tortured expression on her face only once before, at the mention of her despicable predecessor, Aspyce Chorda. Incendia shrinks and tenses, as if aware that you can sense her weakness.
YOU"Hieronymus, tell us why you betrayed her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you see now that you were manipulated? Filled with hatred and unleashed on people?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you see now that you were manipulated? Filled with hatred and unleashed on people?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have seen your thirst for blood. You revel in the sentencing and the executing. Are you going to dispute that? Am I lying?"
YOU"Your verdicts bear no relation to the codified justice of the Imperium. Your justice is arbitrary and you are creating your own law — in essence... your own Imperium! That is heresy!"
YOU"I give up. This is an exercise in futility."
Footfall"As is your whole despicable rebellion. Good to know you have finally realised that."
YOU"Repent, Incendia. You have strayed from the path of righteousness and turned into a monster!"
FootfallIncendia raises an eyebrow and asks in a concerned voice, "Has horror driven you out of your mind, [Name]?"
YOU"Hieronymus lied to you. It was he who condemned you to years of torture in a cryo-vault. He turned you into his loyal personal executioner."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have seen your thirst for blood. You revel in the sentencing and the executing. Are you going to dispute that? Am I lying?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your verdicts bear no relation to the codified justice of the Imperium. Your justice is arbitrary and you are creating your own law — in essence... your own Imperium! That is heresy!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I give up. This is an exercise in futility."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Now is the time to lay down your arms and come to the negotiating table."
Footfall"I do not negotiate with heretics. Or the dead."
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"I like the idea of negotiating. As soon as an heir formally succeeds Lady Chorda, I'll send a truce envoy to them at once."
YOU"Repent, Incendia. You have strayed from the path of righteousness and turned into a monster!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Now is the time to lay down your arms and come to the negotiating table."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus, perhaps you can talk her down?"
Hieronymus Doloroso"Incendia, my daughter, I am at a loss. You are pursuing a noble goal, yet seeds of horror sprout where you have trodden. Where you have executed one heretic, three more are created by the fear you inspire. The Emperor's justice must fill hearts with fervour and reverence, but you only sow grief and misery. The schemes of Humanity's enemies take root easily in such soil."
Footfall"Then you, too, have fallen prey to their deceit and trickery, Reverend. Was it not you who preached that mercy breeds connivance at corruption? Well... As you used to say, none are unsullied. That includes you."
YOU"Repent, Incendia. You have strayed from the path of righteousness and turned into a monster!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Now is the time to lay down your arms and come to the negotiating table."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus, perhaps you can talk her down?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You leave me no choice, Incendia."
Footfall"You had a choice, to remain loyal to the Emperor or to join the ranks of heretics. You made it."
Footfall(sequence)
KibellahHer weapon drawn, Kibellah enquires calmly, even respectfully, "What would you have us do with your remains once we are done here, Lady Chorda?"
Footfall"Arrogant wench! I will have YOUR remains strung up along with the corpses of your pitiful sect that has perverted His Creed!"
Kibellah"If you are still able to speak after your defeat, I will repeat my question then. You have earned an honourable rest."
end of branch
Hieronymus Doloroso"I see heresy! Who is contemplating a strike against the Emperor's law? Who dares raise a hand against His steward? Ye faithful! Let us fight and die for the pious Incendia, the banisher of corruption, lest we allow blasphemy to be committed!"
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"Boys, kick this lunatic out of my bar."
end of branch
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"Boys, kick this lunatic out of my bar."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You probably won't believe it, Incendia, but none of this is what you think it is. I—"
Footfall"You are a traitor, just like Theodora! Your dynasty has long since needed a lesson in obedience."
Footfall(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Hieronymus Doloroso"I see heresy! Who is contemplating a strike against the Emperor's law? Who dares raise a hand against His steward? Ye faithful! Let us fight and die for the pious Incendia, the banisher of corruption, lest we allow blasphemy to be committed!"continues where this line first appears above
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"Boys, kick this lunatic out of my bar."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "May whoever is right survive."
Footfall"You are a traitor, just like Theodora! Your dynasty has long since needed a lesson in obedience."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You leave me no choice, Incendia."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You probably won't believe it, Incendia, but none of this is what you think it is. I—"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "May whoever is right survive."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus, perhaps you can talk her down?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You leave me no choice, Incendia."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You probably won't believe it, Incendia, but none of this is what you think it is. I—"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "May whoever is right survive."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallIncendia lowers her head, and the shadows in the room seem to darken. The radiance fades from her eyes. "Enough. I... repent. I yearned to serve the Emperor, but exacting vengeance upon His foes was so delicious that I abandoned my duty for the sake of my own gratification. I made Footfall my house of pleasures. I was a harsh judge not because it was what He wanted, but because it was what I wanted. I executed those His law forbade to execute. Putting oneself above the Emperor is the most terrible act a Rogue Trader can commit. I have lapsed into heresy... and I must be condemned."
Footfall"Judge me, [Name]. I, who have strayed, commit myself to His mercy and His harshness."
YOU"State your crimes."
Footfall"Arrogance was born in my heart, and it trampled over my sense of duty. I forgot the Emperor's commandments, which are as strict as they are merciful, and became a bringer of death and death only. I was not serving the Imperium of Humanity. I was building a pitiful parody of His creation."
YOU"State your crimes."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What do you have to say in your defence?"
Footfall"I... I only dreamt of being a worthy servant of the Emperor: of doing His will; of punishing His enemies; of turning this corrupt and decrepit system into a place that is worthy of His light and does not diminish His greatness."
YOU"State your crimes."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What do you have to say in your defence?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The verdict will be lenient. Incendia Chorda, I banish you from Footfall. Depart."
Footfall"I deserve no quarter. But I accept my punishment, and I shall go into exile to serve my penance. Farewell, [Name]."
Hieronymus Doloroso"Emperor, have mercy on me! I had doubts before, but now I see they were unwarranted. Of all defenders of the Expanse, only she was worthy of being His shield. Her repentance is but further proof of it. I was a fool to not believe in her. Is this how the cleansing of Footfall ends?"
Hieronymus Doloroso"No!" Hieronymus cries out in woe and looks around the room with ferocious eyes. "Incendia may not have been the holiest and purest of the Emperor's tools, but who will be left here when she is gone? Him? Her?" Hieronymus points his finger at Vladaym, then Ryzza, and finally, you. "You? Are you going to protect the law and the faith?"
Hieronymus Doloroso"Emperor's faithful! Our protector was caught in a web of conspiracy! She was lied to! Therefore, let us avenge her and carry on her cause! When thou hast stepped into the nest of corruption, destroy those that dwell therein! Smite and torment them like His wrathful instrument that knoweth no fear! Avenge His sorrow and shun pity in the name of thy love for Him! To battle, for Incendia Chorda and the Emperor!"
end of branch
Hieronymus Doloroso"No!" Hieronymus cries out in woe and looks around the room with ferocious eyes. "Incendia may not have been the holiest and purest of the Emperor's tools, but who will be left here when she is gone? Him? Her?" Hieronymus points his finger at Vladaym, then Ryzza, and finally, you. "You? Are you going to protect the law and the faith?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Execute] "Incendia Chorda, having weighed your crimes, I, [Name] von Valancius, hereby sentence you to death."
Footfall"Have mercy on me, Emperor, Protector of Mankind, Master of Terra."
Hieronymus Doloroso"Emperor, have mercy on me! I had doubts before, but now I see they were unwarranted. Of all defenders of the Expanse, only she was worthy of being His shield. Her repentance is but further proof of it. I was a fool to not believe in her. Is this how the cleansing of Footfall ends?"continues where this line first appears above
Hieronymus Doloroso"No!" Hieronymus cries out in woe and looks around the room with ferocious eyes. "Incendia may not have been the holiest and purest of the Emperor's tools, but who will be left here when she is gone? Him? Her?" Hieronymus points his finger at Vladaym, then Ryzza, and finally, you. "You? Are you going to protect the law and the faith?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Be your own judge."
Footfall"So be it. The court hereby finds Incendia Chorda... guilty." With a graceful movement, the Rogue Trader draws an ornate pistol from its holster, brings it to her temple, and shuts her eyes. "Have mercy on me, Emperor, Protector of Mankind, Master of Holy Terra."
Hieronymus Doloroso"Emperor, have mercy on me! I had doubts before, but now I see they were unwarranted. Of all defenders of the Expanse, only she was worthy of being His shield. Her repentance is but further proof of it. I was a fool to not believe in her. Is this how the cleansing of Footfall ends?"continues where this line first appears above
Hieronymus Doloroso"No!" Hieronymus cries out in woe and looks around the room with ferocious eyes. "Incendia may not have been the holiest and purest of the Emperor's tools, but who will be left here when she is gone? Him? Her?" Hieronymus points his finger at Vladaym, then Ryzza, and finally, you. "You? Are you going to protect the law and the faith?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The verdict will be lenient. Incendia Chorda, I banish you from Footfall. Depart."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Execute] "Incendia Chorda, having weighed your crimes, I, [Name] von Valancius, hereby sentence you to death."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Be your own judge."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What do you have to say in your defence?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"The verdict will be lenient. Incendia Chorda, I banish you from Footfall. Depart."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Execute] "Incendia Chorda, having weighed your crimes, I, [Name] von Valancius, hereby sentence you to death."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Be your own judge."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 4 of 19
Footfall"For a Rogue Trader, the ultimate crime is... to reject the Emperor's protection and make their reign absolute, becoming a brazen rival of God and a blasphemous tyrannical heresiarch."
YOU"Hieronymus lied to you. It was he who condemned you to years of torture in a cryo-vault. He turned you into his loyal personal executioner."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have seen your thirst for blood. You revel in the sentencing and the executing. Are you going to dispute that? Am I lying?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your verdicts bear no relation to the codified justice of the Imperium. Your justice is arbitrary and you are creating your own law — in essence... your own Imperium! That is heresy!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I give up. This is an exercise in futility."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallIncendia lowers her head, and the shadows in the room seem to darken. The radiance fades from her eyes. "Enough. I... repent. I yearned to serve the Emperor, but exacting vengeance upon His foes was so delicious that I abandoned my duty for the sake of my own gratification. I made Footfall my house of pleasures. I was a harsh judge not because it was what He wanted, but because it was what I wanted. I executed those His law forbade to execute. Putting oneself above the Emperor is the most terrible act a Rogue Trader can commit. I have lapsed into heresy... and I must be condemned."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 5 of 19
Footfall"Treasonous nonsense! Never has the Emperor condemned a servant of His for assiduity and rigour! I do not make my own law — I make His law absolute!"
YOU"Hieronymus lied to you. It was he who condemned you to years of torture in a cryo-vault. He turned you into his loyal personal executioner."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have seen your thirst for blood. You revel in the sentencing and the executing. Are you going to dispute that? Am I lying?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your verdicts bear no relation to the codified justice of the Imperium. Your justice is arbitrary and you are creating your own law — in essence... your own Imperium! That is heresy!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I give up. This is an exercise in futility."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 6 of 19
FootfallIncendia lowers her head, and the shadows in the room seem to darken. The radiance fades from her eyes. "Enough. I... repent. I yearned to serve the Emperor, but exacting vengeance upon His foes was so delicious that I abandoned my duty for the sake of my own gratification. I made Footfall my house of pleasures. I was a harsh judge not because it was what He wanted, but because it was what I wanted. I executed those His law forbade to execute. Putting oneself above the Emperor is the most terrible act a Rogue Trader can commit. I have lapsed into heresy... and I must be condemned."
Footfall"Judge me, [Name]. I, who have strayed, commit myself to His mercy and His harshness."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 7 of 19
Footfall"Hieronymus Doloroso... House Chorda forgives you for your crimes. You were a tool of the Emperor that was meant to punish our house. Therefore, go... and let your conscience be your judge."
Hieronymus Doloroso"I accept your judgement and thank the Emperor for this chance to serve Him a little longer."
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 8 of 19
Footfall"A noble goal is no excuse. There can be no excuse! Nothing justifies making peace with corruption!"
YOU"Hieronymus, tell us why you betrayed her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus may have betrayed you, but he was driven by faith."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Well, are you going to string him up as a traitor, Incendia?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Hieronymus] "As a favour to you, sister Incendia, I shall deal with this myself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus deserves a harsh penance, but not an execution. Give him a different punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He betrayed you, so you should be his judge."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 9 of 19
Footfall"I am not Aspyce!" An uncontrollable cramp twists Incendia's face. "The law is the same for all! Anyone can be tried, and none among us is immune! Hieronymus Doloroso, you are hereby sentenced to death!"
Hieronymus DolorosoHieronymus collapses on the deck, choking on his blood, his eyes wide open. Suddenly he cries out in a booming voice, "Woe! Woe is coming... A mournful glow that blots out the sky... A rapacious crowd of enemies at the door... Traitors who are like rust, eating away at this house's bulkheads... Treachery and corruption are everywhere... Even the wardens of purity are themselves tainted... None... are unsullied..." Blood fills the preacher's throat, and he falls silent.continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 10 of 19
Footfall"I see how you are trying to control me by invoking her unholy ghost. Stop or you will be convicted of attempting to meddle in His justice!"
YOU"Hieronymus, tell us why you betrayed her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus may have betrayed you, but he was driven by faith."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He was trying to prevent a new Aspyce from coming into this world."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Well, are you going to string him up as a traitor, Incendia?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You dish out death sentences, but you pardon your own murderous confessor? Such double standards are very much in keeping with your predecessor's modus operandi."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Feign righteous anger] "The venom of corruption, for which Hieronymus was the conduit, entered the hearts of his followers as well! They are all complicit in his crime, and therefore must share his punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Hieronymus] "As a favour to you, sister Incendia, I shall deal with this myself."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus deserves a harsh penance, but not an execution. Give him a different punishment."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"He betrayed you, so you should be his judge."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 11 of 19
Footfall"Lies! I take no pleasure in stooping to the despicable and revolting things that heretics do! I detest them!"
YOU"Hieronymus lied to you. It was he who condemned you to years of torture in a cryo-vault. He turned you into his loyal personal executioner."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have seen your thirst for blood. You revel in the sentencing and the executing. Are you going to dispute that? Am I lying?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your verdicts bear no relation to the codified justice of the Imperium. Your justice is arbitrary and you are creating your own law — in essence... your own Imperium! That is heresy!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I give up. This is an exercise in futility."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 12 of 19
Footfall"No. This betrayal changes nothing. It merely proves that no one is pure, not even Reverend Hieronymus. That makes my mission of banishing impurity all the more important for the triumph of what is agreeable to Him. I will deal with the reverend myself, once I have stamped out your corruption."
YOU"Hieronymus lied to you. It was he who condemned you to years of torture in a cryo-vault. He turned you into his loyal personal executioner."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have seen your thirst for blood. You revel in the sentencing and the executing. Are you going to dispute that? Am I lying?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your verdicts bear no relation to the codified justice of the Imperium. Your justice is arbitrary and you are creating your own law — in essence... your own Imperium! That is heresy!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I give up. This is an exercise in futility."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 13 of 19
Footfall"The right to die for the Emperor is a privilege, not a punishment. This wretch is unworthy of it."
Footfall"Vladaym Tocara, you will be hanged for your crimes. Let the sight of your cold corpse serve as proof that the Cold Trade has no place on Footfall any longer."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 14 of 19
FootfallIncendia clenches her fists and sinks her teeth into her lower lip. She is racked by doubt. Finally, she says darkly, "A single drop of poison is enough to pollute an entire lake. And his brothers and sisters have drunk copiously from that lake. The Saint Drusus mission on Footfall will be decimated, and severe penances will be imposed upon the survivors. Let them atone for their cult's crimes with suffering. As for Hieronymus... he is guilty."
Hieronymus DolorosoHieronymus collapses on the deck, choking on his blood, his eyes wide open. Suddenly he cries out in a booming voice, "Woe! Woe is coming... A mournful glow that blots out the sky... A rapacious crowd of enemies at the door... Traitors who are like rust, eating away at this house's bulkheads... Treachery and corruption are everywhere... Even the wardens of purity are themselves tainted... None... are unsullied..." Blood fills the preacher's throat, and he falls silent.continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 15 of 19
FootfallIncendia gives you a long look and addresses Vladaym. "Vladaym Tocara, you are hereby found guilty. The court sentences you to a lifetime of penance. As a serf aboard the von Valancius flagship, you shall atone for your crimes with humble labour for the rest of your life."
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeVladaym suppresses a contented smile and says, "Well, I'm good at putting things in order and getting my hands dirty. I did that for an entire station, so I think I can handle a couple of ship decks. All for the sake of my atonement, of course. I humbly accept my sentence."
Footfall"Justice has been done. Enforcers, arrest all the lesser rebels. They will face trial in due course." Incendia's voice is majestic and imperious, causing everyone to bow their heads in obedience. "Thank you for your aid in the cleansing of Footfall, [Name]. The Emperor protects."continues where this line first appears above
FootfallChorda surveys the bar and asks in a ruthless voice, "Who will face trial next?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 16 of 19
Footfall"No! Only blood can wash away treason. There is no way back for those who have renounced the Emperor!"
Footfall"Vladaym Tocara, you will be hanged for your crimes. Let the sight of your cold corpse serve as proof that the Cold Trade has no place on Footfall any longer."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 17 of 19
FootfallIncendia casts a damning glance at Vladaym, who is shifting about in a puddle of his own blood. She says sternly, "Footfall will be relieved to know that law has been restored in every sector of the station at last."
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"Footfall... will be delighted to know... that you're dead... you redheaded bitch..."
YOU"I would suggest a show of mercy. We have demonstrated our power. They will not dare rebel again."
Footfall"That is out of the question. I will not let them slip from the law's grasp again."
Footfall"With whom shall we begin, [Name]?"
YOU"Let us convict Vladaym."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Point at Ryzza] "She is guilty. Her soul is full of corruption. Allow me to carry out her sentence personally."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Point to Ryzza] "She must face the tribunal."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I have an excellent unholy man for your consideration. His name is Hieronymus Doloroso."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"On that, we can conclude the trial."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will judge them myself."
Footfall"You have contributed to the restoration of order on Footfall, [Name]. Therefore, we shall preside over the trial together."
Footfall"With whom shall we begin, [Name]?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Execute these lowlifes."
Footfall"You have contributed to the restoration of order on Footfall, [Name]. Therefore, we shall preside over the trial together."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Most interesting. I hope you are creative in your punishments, Incendia!"
Footfall"You have contributed to the restoration of order on Footfall, [Name]. Therefore, we shall preside over the trial together."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 18 of 19
FootfallFlame rages in Chorda's furious gaze as she surveys the bar. Her figure seems to exude a ruthless radiance, cruel, like the scorching sun of a desert world. "Rebels and heretics! I, Rogue Trader Incendia Chorda, Master of Footfall and Defender of Justice, am ordering you to lay down your arms! Harsh justice awaits those who surrender. An ignoble death awaits the rest!"
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeVladaym takes out his pistol slowly and says in a lazy drawl, "Incendia Chorda, I, Vladaym the Vackemo, am ordering you to get off my turf before I blow your brains out and throw your corpse for a loop."
YOU"Repent, Incendia. You have strayed from the path of righteousness and turned into a monster!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Now is the time to lay down your arms and come to the negotiating table."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Hieronymus, perhaps you can talk her down?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You leave me no choice, Incendia."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You probably won't believe it, Incendia, but none of this is what you think it is. I—"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Attack] "May whoever is right survive."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 19 of 19
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeVladaym surveys the carnage and says, dryly and morosely, "What a mess. Thank you for helping me deal with it, Your Lord/Ladyship. Your help has been invaluable — but the Kasballica Mission will nonetheless try to approximate and match its value in the most generous of terms."
YOU"What are you meaning to do next?"
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"I'll regain my grip on the station. I'll free the prisoners and give the merchants back their impounded cargo. I'll replace the lowlifes Her Ladyship put in charge with my own lowlifes. I'll take care of those of the station's sectors that are slowly dying in isolation. And, of course, I'll send an envoy to the Lord Inquisitor to bring him the news and inform him of my willingness to cooperate."
YOU"What are you meaning to do next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Cleanse this station of Chorda's miscreants."
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"I'm no butcher. Her Ladyship's enforcers may leave the station... Except those personally complicit in the killing of my employees' friends and loved ones. I have a responsibility toward them."
Ryzza"Congratulations, Your Lord/Ladyship. You have one less rival in the Expanse."
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"Now that we've dealt with the pressing issues, do you have any other instructions regarding the station's governance going forward? After all, Footfall is now under your exclusive personal protection." Vladaym and everyone in the bar look at you expectantly.
YOU"Chorda's methods were cruel, but her goal was righteous. From now on, Footfall will be a bastion of faith and piety. Observance of the Imperium's laws will be monitored more closely."
FootfallEveryone present makes the sign of the Aquila and joins in a prayer to the Emperor. You see anxiety and doubt in the eyes of many. The recent atrocities are still fresh in the memories of everyone present, but no one dares question your will. The light of the Emperor will return to Footfall. One can either accept it, or be incinerated by it.
end of branch
YOU"Footfall is exhausted and wounded by Chorda's cruelty. I will have shelters set up where those in need and in pain can find a roof over their heads, sustenance, and medical aid."
FootfallThe entire gathering glorifies your name with a joyful chant. In their eyes, you see hope with a dash of mistrust. The station's inhabitants are not used to such magnanimity. However, something in your voice gives them hope that you are not putting on a show, and that perhaps this is the beginning of a new and less grim period in the station's history.
end of branch
YOU"To the abyss with the Imperial Creed. It does not belong on Footfall. From now on, absolute freedom will be the only law of this place. Whoever disagrees can head for the nearest airlock and take a walk into the void."
FootfallFurious shouts of elation shake the pub's walls. Everyone's eyes light up with anticipation of a life free from the Imperium's laws, and many are already busy thinking about who they will stab in the back to grab their coveted place in the sun.
end of branch
YOU"Let things gradually return to the way they were. I will not interfere in the station's affairs."
FootfallThe people breathe a sigh of relief and glorify your name loudly. After a period of tribulation and hardship, Footfallers are glad that there will at least be something familiar and unchanged left in this world.
end of branch
YOU"I do not want Chorda's enforcers to face any reprisals. Let them leave."
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"I'm no butcher. Her Ladyship's enforcers may leave the station... Except those personally complicit in the killing of my employees' friends and loved ones. I have a responsibility toward them."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you realise that the way Footfall is governed must change?"
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"I understand. A time of war requires Footfall's public liberties to be curbed temporarily. This station will cause you no trouble and will provide any help that's required. I'll communicate that to those... partners of mine who've been lucky enough to survive Lady Chorda's rule."
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeOvercoming the desire to spit on Incendia's corpse, clearly manifested on his face, Vladaym turns from a thug into a cold bureaucrat again before your eyes. He says curtly to one of his associates, "Place Her Ladyship's body in a cryo-vault and take it to her ship. Make sure no damage is done to it — no further damage, that is. We were enemies, of course, but that's no reason not to act in a civilised manner."
YOU"What are you meaning to do next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Cleanse this station of Chorda's miscreants."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I do not want Chorda's enforcers to face any reprisals. Let them leave."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you realise that the way Footfall is governed must change?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Vladaym] "Don't bother thanking me. I'll just take what is mine."
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"What? Damn—" Vladaym's head explodes, spraying blood everywhere. Liege, criminal kingpin, armed rebel — all that he was, now reduced to a corpse hitting the floor with a thud. His glasses fly off his nose and lie cracked and glinting lifelessly.
Ryzza"The idiot never realised who the station's new owner was. Well then, congratulations on your new acquisition, Your Lord/Ladyship."
FootfallThe eyes of everyone gathered in the bar converge on you. They are holding their breath as they wait for Footfall's new ruler to issue his/her first decree.
YOU"Chorda's methods were cruel, but her goal was righteous. From now on, Footfall will be a bastion of faith and piety. Observance of the Imperium's laws will be monitored more closely."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Footfall is exhausted and wounded by Chorda's cruelty. I will have shelters set up where those in need and in pain can find a roof over their heads, sustenance, and medical aid."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To the abyss with the Imperial Creed. It does not belong on Footfall. From now on, absolute freedom will be the only law of this place. Whoever disagrees can head for the nearest airlock and take a walk into the void."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Let things gradually return to the way they were. I will not interfere in the station's affairs."continues where this line first appears above
Ryzza"Congratulations, Your Lord/Ladyship. You have one less rival in the Expanse."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Vladaym] "Don't bother thanking me. I'll just take what is mine."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Cleanse this station of Chorda's miscreants."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I do not want Chorda's enforcers to face any reprisals. Let them leave."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you realise that the way Footfall is governed must change?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Vladaym] "Don't bother thanking me. I'll just take what is mine."continues where this line first appears above
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeHe glances at Incendia's body and enquires with grim composure, "Does Your Lordship/Ladyship have any preference in regard to what should be done with the remains of... the lady?"
YOU"Give them to the mob."
Vladaym Tocara the Liege"The people of Footfall will find many ways to pay their respects to Her Ladyship. They are... quite exercised about this whole affair."
YOU"What are you meaning to do next?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Cleanse this station of Chorda's miscreants."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I do not want Chorda's enforcers to face any reprisals. Let them leave."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you realise that the way Footfall is governed must change?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Kill Vladaym] "Don't bother thanking me. I'll just take what is mine."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Lady Incendia's body is to be transported to the domain of House Chorda. Untouched."
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeOvercoming the desire to spit on Incendia's corpse, clearly manifested on his face, Vladaym turns from a thug into a cold bureaucrat again before your eyes. He says curtly to one of his associates, "Place Her Ladyship's body in a cryo-vault and take it to her ship. Make sure no damage is done to it — no further damage, that is. We were enemies, of course, but that's no reason not to act in a civilised manner."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I do not care. Do with them as you will."
Vladaym Tocara the LiegeOvercoming the desire to spit on Incendia's corpse, clearly manifested on his face, Vladaym turns from a thug into a cold bureaucrat again before your eyes. He says curtly to one of his associates, "Place Her Ladyship's body in a cryo-vault and take it to her ship. Make sure no damage is done to it — no further damage, that is. We were enemies, of course, but that's no reason not to act in a civilised manner."continues where this line first appears above