Decrepit Old ManOnly now do you notice the tattoo on his right hand: the symbol of the Adeptus Administratum and several interlocking chains. It seems this old fellow is the property of a prefect of this palace.
JaeJae looks at the man's form again... and rears back in horror. "The granddaughter of this poor wretch was turned into a servitor sixteen Dargonus years ago! And after a recent accident, she was listed for disposal. And now this old man is volunteering to be spare parts for a soulless tin can... May the Exalted One keep me from such a fate."
YOU"Your sacrifice will mean nothing to a servitor — you do realise that?"
Decrepit Old ManThe old man's toothless mouth opens in pain, seemingly splitting his face in two, and his salty tears well in his time-worn eyes.
YOU"Your sacrifice will mean nothing to a servitor — you do realise that?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will have my people buy your granddaughter's release and see to your welfare."
Decrepit Old ManThe old man's withered lips curve in the semblance of a smile. "M-m-may the Emperor k-keep you!"
Jae"Interesting... So that is how the ruler of worlds and all the stars in the sky acts when he/she finds an unfortunate on the edge of his/her magnificent orbit." Jae nods pensively and beckons the next petitioner forward.
Wealthy LadyA mature woman in a finely made but threadbare dress greets you. "I heard you were helping those in need. Well, my family... it's devastated! My life's work, oh, my shop selling rare hats, burnt to ashes! I am living out my last years as a widow. Alone, in a cold, deserted manor, without servants, diversions, or delicacies befitting my status." The woman falls silent, her brow raised in expectation of your response.
YOU"I suppose you must remarry, then? I shall have my people select the best spouse for you."
Wealthy Lady"No, no, no! Why ever would you— no more husbands or wives! I am too old for all of that. All I want is to enjoy the last years of my life."
YOU"I suppose you must remarry, then? I shall have my people select the best spouse for you."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"This should suffice to cover your expenses."
Wealthy Lady"I suppose it will... for a while."
Jae"Well, that was... amusing. I paid off the last few onlookers who were willing to give up their place. It's a pity they aren't all so amenable."
JaeJae inspects the tickets she now holds and nods with satisfaction.
NPC(sequence)
NPCThe hum of activity returns to the queue. Petitioners exchange glances, clutching their paperwork. After a few seconds, you realise that the number being called out by the servo-skull for the third time is the one on your ticket.
end of branch
Jae"O, Exalted One, thank you for granting the Rogue Trader his/her sacred Warrant and all its privileges! If we had had to wait a minute longer, heaven be my witness, I would have shot someone!"
end of branch
Jae"Do you know what gets better with time, shereen? Amasec and lovemaking. Remind me of that if I ever ask you to stand in a queue again."
end of branch
Jae"Well... That went faster than I expected. We had a little bit of a wait, of course, but at times it was actually fun." Jae smiles wearily. "One last seal. One more certification and... you will be looking at Official Trade Representative Jae Heydari!"
end of branch
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."
Jae"A wise decision, shereen! Cold Traders always say: if you can solve a problem with hard cash, then that's just the cost of doing business!"
JaeJae gives you a conspiratorial wink and backs away slightly. "O Exalted One, could today be my lucky day? No longer will I have to stand in this hall, waiting day and night for my turn to come, for this kind lord/lady of House von Valancius is a benefactor of the downtrodden, and he/she has solved my problem!"
Young Worker"Esteemed lord/lady, take pity on this poor youth as well! I will give you everything I have, I swear before the Emperor! Only help me solve my problem."
Jae"We do not need everything, poor wretch. Only your place in the queue."
YOU[Listen to the young man]
Young WorkerThe young man in worn work overalls comports himself with unusual grace for a commoner. "My lord/lady, I have been in this queue for two dozen moons already, trying to get a permission slip to wed my fiancée Zazi. Unfortunately, the servants of the Administratum refuse to grant it without the signature of a highborn sponsor..."
Strange Petitioner"Out of my way!" Elbowing aside onlookers left and right, a richly dressed lady with a beauty mark augment above her lip charges toward you. "Esteemed lord/lady, my eighth offspring has lost his mind! He has decided to renounce his family, his noble title, and his talent as a healer, all for the sake of some tattered waif from the middle levels! A union with a commoner will put an end to his studies at the university — but should Dargonus and the Officio Medicae be deprived of a capable chirurgeon because of a passing fancy?"
Young Worker"Zazi is a healer too! And she helps the people of the hive a great deal more than any lily-white chirurgeon with a diploma! I do not want to live a life of idleness in the spires of Dargonus like you, not when I know there are thousands of unfortunate people in the lower levels who need my help!"
YOU"I have no interest in your little drama. I will sign the paper if you require a sponsor."
Young Worker"Thank you, my lord/lady! I promise I will tell my children and my children's children of your kindness!"
Jae"You have an interesting way of doing business, shereen. I'll keep that in mind." Jae's shrewd eyes are alight with interest as she watches the young petitioner leave.
Decrepit Old ManAfter allowing you a brief pause, a hunched ragamuffin approaches you. The old man's toothless mouth breathes out a putrefying cloud of air as he speaks only three words: "Death-th-th... f-f-for life..."
JaeJae peers over the man's shoulder to read his crumpled form. "You... are here to request mortification, so that your organs go to your granddaughter as an inheritance? She will hardly want your worn-out body parts, old-timer..."
Decrepit Old ManThe ragged man shakes his head and covers his face with his wrinkled hands. "S-s-servitor... Disp-po-posal!"
YOU"The lives of commoners hold no value. When you finish university, you will be qualified to save those who are truly worthy."
Young WorkerThe young man considers this for a few minutes, and then rips up his piece of paper. "You are right. There is no honour in dragging back trollops and drunks from the edge of death. Or self-indulgent nobles, for that matter." He looks coldly at his mother. "I was born to save lives. And there is no better place to do that than in the Imperial Guard."
Strange Petitioner"No, Steffo, that's not what I— stop! Please! Think about this!"
Jae"You have an interesting way of doing business, shereen. I'll keep that in mind." Jae's shrewd eyes are alight with interest as she watches the young petitioner leave.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"In the name of House von Valancius, I hereby make your fiancée a lady of the court. And release her from any obligations thereto."
Young WorkerThe young man spends several seconds opening and closing his mouth in shock. "T-that means... our marriage will finally be certified? And Zazi will be able to become a chirurgeon now too? I don't know how to thank you, my lord/lady! H-here, please, take my place. I will return later, this time with my fiancée."
Jae"You have an interesting way of doing business, shereen. I'll keep that in mind." Jae's shrewd eyes are alight with interest as she watches the young petitioner leave.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You wish to study alongside your beloved? Very well. I hereby grant you ownership of the Dargonus University of Medicae — you may admit anyone you like."
Young WorkerThe young man blinks in astonishment. "W-what? Y-yes, of course! That is just what I'll do! Thank you for your generosity, my lord/lady! This... this is a miracle!"
Jae"You have an interesting way of doing business, shereen. I'll keep that in mind." Jae's shrewd eyes are alight with interest as she watches the young petitioner leave.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I shall do everything in my power."
Young WorkerThe young man in worn work overalls comports himself with unusual grace for a commoner. "My lord/lady, I have been in this queue for two dozen moons already, trying to get a permission slip to wed my fiancée Zazi. Unfortunately, the servants of the Administratum refuse to grant it without the signature of a highborn sponsor..."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Emperor grant me patience..."
Young WorkerThe young man in worn work overalls comports himself with unusual grace for a commoner. "My lord/lady, I have been in this queue for two dozen moons already, trying to get a permission slip to wed my fiancée Zazi. Unfortunately, the servants of the Administratum refuse to grant it without the signature of a highborn sponsor..."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Your paltry problems are no concern of mine. Begone!"
Young Worker"Y-yes, of course, I humbly beg your forgiveness, my lord/lady."
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"
Idira"Of course, Lord Captain! Let's go for a poke around in those empty little heads..."
Idira"Sorry, Lord Captain. Things didn't exactly go to plan..." Idira holds up her hands sheepishly.
Jae"Not at all, light of my soul! You have done exceptionally well as always — the dead do not need tickets, do they?" Jae triumphantly brandishes the newly acquired tickets and winks at the psyker.
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."
Jae"As you wish, Your Lordship/Ladyship," Jae says in a deliberately deferential tone and makes her way to the centre of the room.
Jae"Hem-ahem. Attention, all! Before you is His Lordship/Her Ladyship [Name] von Valancius, Rogue Trader and anointed sovereign of this world! Bow your unworthy heads and give your master/mistress his/her rightful place in the queue!"
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."
Jae"You do not need to tell me twice, shereen. All is fair in love and bureaucracy..."
Jae"If these ashmags want to be tricked, I won't stop them." Jae smugly watches the agitated crowd, whispering among themselves and jabbing each other with sheaves of paper.
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]
JaeJae catches your eye and lays her hand on the shoulder of a weary-looking man. "May the Emperor illuminate your path, brother! I am Jae, and this is [Name]. We've been in the queue so long already, we're all practically family now — won't you tell us what brought you to the palace of order?"
MenasThe man starts in surprise. "Eh? Yes, yes, light of the Throne bless you! My name is Menas. Menas de Pyrr. I have been here a month already. I've tried everything I can to get through to that window. Nothing working. My poor, poor Ilena. She's my daughter, my flesh and blood. They detained her on Vheabos VI. Charged her — can you believe it? The charges were false! That's how our Administratum operates." Menas covers his mouth and glances around fearfully.
Menas"I've said too much. I do apologise — it's my nerves. My nerves. I just keep thinking about her there on Vheabos, shackled down in the mines. My poor, poor Ilena! As delicate as a flower, she is. She's got weak lungs, you understand? Always coughing. And her now down the mines? All that dust and muck? She won't cope with it, she won't! She was acquitted two years ago. But to get the papers certified, and the seal? So much time has passed... And now here I am, standing, waiting. It doesn't matter. At the rate this queue's moving, it'll be ten cycles or more before our numbers come up."
YOU"What was your daughter accused of?"
Menas"Falsely accused, falsely accused! She was slandered! They said she deliberately poisoned a whole room of highborn folk. With cakes! Have you ever heard the like of it? These nobles didn't even make as far as the privy! Panic! Outrage! Scandal! And so what? It was their own fault, that's what! A crate of 'Fine Calixian Wine' was found. Ha! And the smugglers were found too. And what did the smugglers do? They framed someone else. And my daughter was charged!"
Jae"Of course. Blame the smugglers."
YOU"What was your daughter accused of?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I do not think your daughter would mind if you let the Rogue Trader go ahead of you."
MenasMenas's fleshy face tenses at your words. "B-but, well... The time! And I've been... Oh, of course. Of course, it would be an honour for the de Pyrr family. Please, go ahead, Your Lordship/Ladyship!"
Jae"Not as smoothly done as it could have been... But you certainly have a style all your own, shereen! What now?"
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am sorry about your daughter, but if you do not let me past, tomorrow fifty Dargonian orphans will die!"
MenasMenas's eyes go wide and despair dawns on his face. "B-but how? But what about Ilena... And the poor orphans. Just awful, awful! Of course you can go ahead of me. P-please, take my ticket. My Ilena's a fragile girl, but she loves children. She would want me to help!"
Jae"Didn't I tell you? One little sob story and we're already one step closer to our goal. Although, there are faster methods of doing that."
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Why don't I simply pay you and you give me your place in the queue?"
Menas"You... What?" The man hesitates. "D-deal! Of course I'll give you my place! My poor, poor Ilena! Delicate little flower! We'll need money. Yeah. For her recuperation."
Jae"Not as smoothly done as it could have been... But you certainly have a style all your own, shereen! What now?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I see. Well, good luck to you and your daughter."
Menas"Thank you, thank you! And may the Emperor aid you in your petition as well!"
Jae"I doubt the Exalted One will be much help to us if we're going to change tack like that without warning, shereen. We're not going to get any ticket now — at least, not using these methods. I can sniff out an easy mark a mile away — and in this hall there was only one."
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"
end of branch
YOU"I want to consider everything again."
Jae"Of course, shereen. Our number in the queue is..." Jae checks the ticket. "O, Exalted One, I wish I hadn't looked. We are definitely not going anywhere soon, shereen. You need to make a decision."
YOU[Wait patiently] "Gird your faith, sister. For it is only through patience and humility that true wisdom comes."
Jae"Humility, acceptance, meekness... Those are the qualities that I entirely lack, shereen." Jae smiles acidly and leaves you alone with your thoughts.
NPC(sequence)
NPCAnother eight planetary hours go by. The queue has hardly moved — the adept in the next window was dealing with rebelling machine spirits in his cogitator, so the petitioners from that queue were diverted to the middle of yours.
end of branch
NPCYou greeted the dusk and dawn from your place in the queue, observing the shifting rays of the Mundis Valancius through the windows of the palace. The night passed peacefully — the certification officers left for their beds and servitors took their place. Unfortunately, servitors cannot process all petitioner requests, so at night the queue moved even more slowly.
end of branch
Heinrix"Wasting the Inquisition's time on this foolishness, it's simply unthinkable!" Wearied by the long wait, Heinrix is rereading confidential reports on his data-slate for the tenth time.
end of branch
Abelard"This accursed place again. I stood in this queue when I was planning to marry. I stood in it when every son and every daughter was born, so that their names would be entered in the chronicle of Dargonus. And when my dear wife departed this mortal world, I waited again." Abelard sighs dejectedly.
end of branch
Cassia"Oh, Lord Captain, this place teems with hideous stains of washed-out colours! It makes my head spin..." Cassia covers her eyes with a thick shawl. "The Palace of the Adeptus Administratum has proved to be just as depressing as the published works of its servants."
end of branch
NPCToday the entire capital is celebrating the birthday of your ancestor — Miltiades Orest Theon von Valancius, who discovered and colonised Kiava Gamma. In every hive on Dargonus, prayer services are being held in his honour, nobles and commoners are attending fairs with amusements, and Governor Drivestem himself is giving his annual speech from the main spire of his palace. Most of the Administratum servants have joined the festivities, so today all of the windows are being served by only one certification officer.
end of branch
Pasqal"Unconstructive expenditure of temporal resources recorded. Recommended resolution: return to initial mission."
end of branch
Argenta"The Archenemy is plotting against His servants throughout the Expanse, and we are forced to wait here for a piece of paper to be certified!" Argenta tosses a furious look at Jae. "And not for the good of the Imperium, no, but to satisfy the whim of a heretic!"
end of branch
Idira"Lord Captain, this place is so dull there's not even any knocking on the other side of the door — all the whispers died down when they realised nothing interesting was going to happen! Can't we go back to the ship?"
end of branch
SolomorneSolomorne stands impassively like a stone column amidst the throng of lowly petitioners, unmoving except for his eyes, which sweep the perimeter like a guard-visor.
end of branch
NPCThe next eight hours pass surprisingly peacefully — nothing unusual happens, all the certification officers are at their windows and are accepting petitioners, and you have even started growing accustomed to the sounds and smells of this place.
end of branch
YOU[Wait patiently]
NPC(sequence)
NPCThe hum of activity returns to the queue. Petitioners exchange glances, clutching their paperwork. After a few seconds, you realise that the number being called out by the servo-skull for the third time is the one on your ticket.
end of branch
JaeJae's eyes are sunken from lack of sleep, amasec, and exhaustion. Her hair is dishevelled, and her fine clothing is so rumpled one would think she had been brawling. "We've... really made it? I swear on the Throne, patience is the path to madness. I don't know how the saints live through their torments without amasec..."
end of branch
Jae"O, Exalted One, thank you for granting the Rogue Trader his/her sacred Warrant and all its privileges! If we had had to wait a minute longer, heaven be my witness, I would have shot someone!"
end of branch
Jae"Do you know what gets better with time, shereen? Amasec and lovemaking. Remind me of that if I ever ask you to stand in a queue again."
end of branch
Jae"Well... That went faster than I expected. We had a little bit of a wait, of course, but at times it was actually fun." Jae smiles wearily. "One last seal. One more certification and... you will be looking at Official Trade Representative Jae Heydari!"
end of branch
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Jae"Well, shereen, maybe this time you will lose patience with being patient and decide to move things along a teensy bit faster?"
YOU[Wait patiently] "Gird your faith, sister. For it is only through patience and humility that true wisdom comes."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Wait patiently]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"We need to move forward faster. Use your tricks."
Jae"I'd prefer to call it my wisdom learned through many years' experience... But I don't care about the precise wording just now. How do you wish to proceed, shereen?"
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
Jae"Your words are music to my ears, shereen. But which option do you prefer?"
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
Jae"Your words are music to my ears, shereen. But which option do you prefer?"
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've had it with this bureaucratic nonsense. We're leaving."
Jae"O shereen, my sponsor, my heaven-sent light of hope, my guiding star! Please, do not abandon our mission when we have almost reached our goal!"
YOU"So be it. We shall stay."
Jae"Oh, thank you, shereen! And we only have... a short while left to wait."
YOU[Wait patiently] "Gird your faith, sister. For it is only through patience and humility that true wisdom comes."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do not forget — you are the reason we are here."
Jae"And that was the will of the Exalted One, shereen!" Jae throws up her arms and lowers her head. "And the Exalted One has granted me insight as to how, with a simple wave of your hand and a few wise words, we can ease our arduous wait."
Jae"The simplest way is to make these lowly subjects bow down before the blinding radiance of our title, shereen. The second option requires a little more... patience. I have already found our first vict— ah, the compassionate citizen who is standing fifty places ahead of us in the queue. Simply offer the right words to unlock his heart and he will gladly swap tickets with you. And also... you have the power to solve the problems of some petitioners, removing their need to visit a coveted window. After all, is there anything an ordinary citizen could want that is beyond the power of the conqueror of the stars to grant?"
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you have a better idea?"
Jae"You wound me, shereen! Jae Heydari always has a better idea. What would you say to making the good folk ahead of us hurry up a little? Just a smidge." Her eyes dart playfully over the faces of the people around you.
Jae"The simplest way is to make these lowly subjects bow down before the blinding radiance of our title, shereen. The second option requires a little more... patience. I have already found our first vict— ah, the compassionate citizen who is standing fifty places ahead of us in the queue. Simply offer the right words to unlock his heart and he will gladly swap tickets with you. And also... you have the power to solve the problems of some petitioners, removing their need to visit a coveted window. After all, is there anything an ordinary citizen could want that is beyond the power of the conqueror of the stars to grant?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've had it with this bureaucratic nonsense. We're leaving."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Fine. I shall endure this for the good of the von Valancius protectorate."
Jae"For the great dynasty von Valancius!" Jae echoes your words and sighs in relief.
YOU[Wait patiently] "Gird your faith, sister. For it is only through patience and humility that true wisdom comes."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do not forget — you are the reason we are here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you have a better idea?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've had it with this bureaucratic nonsense. We're leaving."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I shall stay, but only because I enjoy hearing your pleas."
Jae"Ah, if I had known that before, shereen, I would have offered up my pleas for your delectation every day!"
YOU[Wait patiently] "Gird your faith, sister. For it is only through patience and humility that true wisdom comes."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do not forget — you are the reason we are here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you have a better idea?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've had it with this bureaucratic nonsense. We're leaving."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Are you going to make the Rogue Trader repeat himself/herself?"
Jae"Definitely not! I'll gather my things and depart with you this instant..."
end of branch
YOU"Perhaps we shall return another time."
JaeJae surveys the queue sadly. "Do you think the next time will be better?"
end of branch
Jae"I will pray to the Emperor in the hope that you will reconsider, shereen!"
end of branch
YOU"We need to move forward faster. Use your tricks."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've had it with this bureaucratic nonsense. We're leaving."continues where this line first appears above
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I do not think your daughter would mind if you let the Rogue Trader go ahead of you."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am sorry about your daughter, but if you do not let me past, tomorrow fifty Dargonian orphans will die!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Why don't I simply pay you and you give me your place in the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I see. Well, good luck to you and your daughter."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
NPC(sequence)
Jae"I'll be honest, shereen, I already tried to convince Heinrix to use his Interrogator's rosette, with sweet words and pretty songs I cajoled and wheedled. But he... remains unmoved, like a rock whipped by the winds. Perhaps he will be more amenable to a request from you?"
end of branch
Jae"Sister Argenta, for instance..." Jae's voice becomes noticeably warmer. "She could engage the people in a prayer or tell a story about some saint or other in exchange for their queue tickets."
end of branch
Jae"The people will be amazed if you show them your tamed xenos! They'll drop everything they're holding — including their tickets — and come to goggle at her, I guarantee it."
end of branch
Jae"You could also ask Idira to use her talent... On second thought, no, that could be more disastrous than a suddenly erupting volcano, shereen. Forget it."
end of branch
Jae"We've got a servant of the Lex Imperialis on our team, and with a formidable dog to boot! Though the Proctor could probably just stare at the queue, and it would move right aside."
end of branch
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Perhaps I can rebuild this hat shop of yours?"
Wealthy LadyThe woman's beleaguered eyes sparkle to life. "Why, that's a wonderful idea! Please, take my place in the queue here, I insist. I will leave my details with your retinue and go!"
Jae"Well, that was... amusing. I paid off the last few onlookers who were willing to give up their place. It's a pity they aren't all so amenable."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"And what you want is a life that is meaningless and full of despair? Perhaps it is time you turned to faith, sister?"
Wealthy LadyThe woman's eyes go round in surprise. "Why, I think you're right! What do I want with a tumbledown manor house full of rats? And a depressing view from the window? My whole life I have dreamt of interplanetary travel. A pilgrimage, that's it! I'll sell the house and what's left of the shop, and I'll buy a one-way ticket. And, Emperor willing, I will die happy before my savings run out!"
Jae"Well, that was... amusing. I paid off the last few onlookers who were willing to give up their place. It's a pity they aren't all so amenable."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"This should suffice to cover your expenses."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Perhaps I can rebuild this hat shop of yours?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"And what you want is a life that is meaningless and full of despair? Perhaps it is time you turned to faith, sister?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You do not have to die, old man. If she has been taken out of service, then the time has come to release her."
Decrepit Old ManThe man covers his face with his hands and shakes with soundless sobs. "Past t-t-time."
Jae"Interesting... So that is how the ruler of worlds and all the stars in the sky acts when he/she finds an unfortunate on the edge of his/her magnificent orbit." Jae nods pensively and beckons the next petitioner forward.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will give the order for your granddaughter to be repaired, but if you wish to be with her forever, you will also be subject to Servitude Imperpituis."
Decrepit Old ManThe old man nods in understanding. "Yes... I underst-stand... Emperor w-watch over you!"
Jae"Interesting... So that is how the ruler of worlds and all the stars in the sky acts when he/she finds an unfortunate on the edge of his/her magnificent orbit." Jae nods pensively and beckons the next petitioner forward.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"How dare a prefect's property try to make use of its own life! Get away — back to your master!"
NPCCowering in fear under his shaking arms, the old man rushes out of the hall.
Jae"Interesting... So that is how the ruler of worlds and all the stars in the sky acts when he/she finds an unfortunate on the edge of his/her magnificent orbit." Jae nods pensively and beckons the next petitioner forward.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will have my people buy your granddaughter's release and see to your welfare."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You do not have to die, old man. If she has been taken out of service, then the time has come to release her."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I will give the order for your granddaughter to be repaired, but if you wish to be with her forever, you will also be subject to Servitude Imperpituis."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"How dare a prefect's property try to make use of its own life! Get away — back to your master!"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 2 of 20
Jae"Shereen... You're a saint, have I told you that before? You must be, because I don't see any other reason why you would show such fervent but senseless patience. Can't we hurry things along?"
YOU[Wait patiently] "Gird your faith, sister. For it is only through patience and humility that true wisdom comes."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Wait patiently]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"We need to move forward faster. Use your tricks."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've had it with this bureaucratic nonsense. We're leaving."continues where this line first appears above
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 3 of 20
PetitionerAn excited murmur rises up from the crowd. "Blessed be His Lordship/Her Ladyship the Rogue Trader and the entire von Valancius line! Of course we lowly subjects will bow our heads in reverence before our great sovereign and will serve His Lordship/Her Ladyship however he/she requires. For we find our purpose only through service to him/her."
Jae"Look at this, shereen!" Jae is waving her hand in the air, clutching a dozen queue tickets. "It went just as I expected. Well... almost."
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 4 of 20
Petitioner"Who do you think you're kidding? What would His Lordship/Her Ladyship be doing here? What would one of the God-Emperor's anointed need from ordinary mortals, and in a palace of the law to boot? Queue like everybody else, Master/Mistress Moneybags, and do not disgrace the Rogue Trader's name again!"
Jae"How ironic... They spend all their lives fearing and revering someone they will never see, and when they do meet him/her, they do not recognise him/her."
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 5 of 20
Argenta"You were thinking about it as well?" Argenta's gaze is as clear as the midday sky. "Words of faith can heal any wound, even those that bleed naught but doubt. I will help these people."
Jae"As they say on Efreet: 'There is no star more coveted than that which points to the Exalted One!" Jae casts a sidelong glance at the Sister of Battle as the latter holds out several numbered tickets to you.
Argenta"These were given to me in thanks by the poor souls who decided to abandon their vigil in this palace of the law and return to their worldly matters."
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 6 of 20
HeinrixCasting his eyes over the waiting hall, Heinrix heaves a resigned sigh. "It would be unpardonable to waste so much time here."
Heinrix"Here, is this what you were so desperate to obtain?" Heinrix holds out three queue tickets dropped by petitioners fleeing the very sight of the Interrogator. "Do not ask me to resort to such tricks again."
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 7 of 20
HeinrixA cold smile touches the Interrogator's lips. "If the Rogue Trader wishes to spend his/her time helping someone whose every act is a challenge to the Imperium's will in this part of the Expanse... I can only conclude that we are not anxious to be anywhere else. And so I have no reason to resort to similar acts, thereby sullying the sacred symbols of the Inquisition."
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 8 of 20
YrlietThe Aeldari's clear gaze surveys the crowd. "Elantach, I will do this, but only because you helped me to leave Janus. If any mon-keigh tries to touch me, I will end them as ruthlessly as one uproots a weed."
Yrliet"Such humiliation for a Child of Asuryan, to be nothing but a beast for mon-keigh to gawp at."
Jae"Look at it this way, my pointy-eared and elegant xenofriend — you have gained more intimate knowledge of the Imperium's culture. And I have got us a ticket that puts us a few places ahead in the queue. I didn't steal it! I simply... swapped it with ours when no one was looking."
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 9 of 20
Yrliet"I heard your conversation with the ransacker of the sacred places of my ancestors. My answer is no. I will not help her, not as long as the stars overhead still glitter, and not before the sky above becomes the land underneath my feet."
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 10 of 20
Argenta"I know what you are suggesting. Are you using faith as a shield to hide your lack of restraint? Forgive me, but the Palace of the Adeptus Administratum is a place of quiet contemplation... and submission. And I will not disturb the peace of the servants of the Lex Imperialis."
Jae"Sister Argenta, your words cut more deeply than a chainsword!"
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 11 of 20
Solomorne"Unlikely. In the time we've been standing here, I've assessed every individual in the queue. Then again, one can never be too vigilant — as an Arbitrator, I can perform an unscheduled check of identity documents. At least some good can come out of being stuck here."
Solomorne"No Lex Imperialis violations detected." Solomorne falls silent and turns to stone again, ready to wait until the end of time.
Jae"But I did sniff out a few especially antsy petitioners — all I had to do was drop a vague hint that Master Proctor was here for them and I was immediately showered with thanks for the timely warning!" Jae triumphantly shows off her ill-gotten tickets.
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 12 of 20
Jae"What are you waiting for, shereen? Let's go. We have another couple of hours with the certification officer to get through."
end of branch
Entry point 13 of 20
Solomorne"I can positively identify one criminal — the one who dragged us here." Solomorne nods toward Jae. "Your companion would do well to learn the value of order and humility — I will not be violating the sacred regulations of the Administratum for her."
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 14 of 20
Eogunn"An unexpected means of passing the time, my friend, but why not? It has been a long while since I last preached to the uninitiated." Eogunn solemnly folds his hands over his stomach. "Hear me, loyal subjects of the Imperium!" The Manipulus's booming voice, amplified by a vox-coder, instantly commands the crowd's attention.
Eogunn"...such are the daily rituals which must be upheld for the preservation of the organism's functions." The Manipulus finishes his speech, looking in surprise at his skull companion. "Nuncius, has an error crept into my auditory algorithms, or am I hearing snoring?"
JaeHolding a few white tickets in one hand, Jae covers her mouth with the other, suppressing a yawn. "Has anyone ever told you, O wisest of men, that your voice is miraculous? A deep, sound sleep really does make the queue move faster."
NPC(sequence)continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Jae"We've moved forward considerably in the queue, shereen! But you aren't ready to stop there, are you?"continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 15 of 20
Eogunn"I am not sure this time and place are well-chosen, Rogue Trader." The Manipulus solemnly shakes his head. "Are the laity even ready to absorb the teachings of the Biologis in this place and hour? Gaze upon them. Wisdom is attained in contemplation; whereas their minds are consumed by matters of an utterly different sort."
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Solomorne, do you think a wanted criminal could blend into this crowd?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Eogunn, care to treat the commoners to a lecture on the importance of upholding the tenets of the Omnissiah?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Open fire on the crowd] "Why go to any effort when I can simply shoot everyone here?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 16 of 20
Decrepit Old ManThe old man resembles a dried fruit, mottled and wizened. A worn wooden Aquila on his chest peeks out from under his tattered shirt, and his withered, shaking fingers are constantly checking that his precious paper has not slipped from his grasp.
JaeJae looks at the man's form again... and rears back in horror. "The granddaughter of this poor wretch was turned into a servitor sixteen Dargonus years ago! And after a recent accident, she was listed for disposal. And now this old man is volunteering to be spare parts for a soulless tin can... May the Exalted One keep me from such a fate."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 17 of 20
Jae"What are you waiting for, shereen? Let's go. We have another couple of hours with the certification officer to get through."
end of branch
Entry point 18 of 20
NPCThe queue hums with thousands of voices. Someone has rolled out bedding and is settling down to sleep; someone is playing some bizarre musical instrument; many are praying. Several highborn petitioners are debating who is here on the most important business.
Jae"You have to admit, the magnificent administrative machinery of the Imperium isn't without its rough edges..." Jae smiles sheepishly, eying the queue. "But what a thrilling adventure this is turning out to be, shereen! I've never seen anything like it before... And sometimes it's good to take a break from constant travelling. And to give all the hot-blooded newcomers a chance to cover themselves in glory without us in the way."
YOU[Yawn]
NPCThe minutes drag by intolerably slowly. Somewhere in the queue, a child is howling at the top of its lungs, the palace adepts are sedately moving documents from one pile to another, shuffling papers. Several petitioners have gathered in a huddle and are swapping rumours, while someone has laid down for a nap on a nearby bench.
YOU[Yawn]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Scratch the back of your neck]
NPCYou have whiled away thirty seconds of your wait. You wonder how long you have left to go.
YOU[Yawn]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Scratch the back of your neck]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Count the people in the queue]
NPCThe people are constantly moving, coming and going, changing places or simply disappearing from view. On your first attempt, you count two hundred and thirty-eight petitioners. On your second attempt, you count two hundred and forty-four. On your third attempt, the next batch of unlucky souls is ushered into the hall, and you lose count.
YOU[Yawn]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Scratch the back of your neck]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Count the people in the queue]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Order your servants to prepare a waiting area befitting a Rogue Trader]
NPCYou feel the envious eyes of the other petitioners upon you, but no one dares to do anything more than stare.
YOU[Yawn]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Scratch the back of your neck]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Count the people in the queue]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Order your servants to prepare a waiting area befitting a Rogue Trader]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Wait patiently]
NPCIn the last eight hours, the only thing that has changed in the waiting hall is the warden shift. The petitioners in the queue placidly await the blessed hour when their appeal will be heard by the high-ranking servants of the Imperium. The entire queue perks up at a sudden announcement: "Number 285, proceed to the available window."
Jae"Throne take me, what torturous trial have we let ourselves in for?" Jae almost wails in despair. "So much precious time lost, and we've only moved three places ahead! At this rate, we'll be old and grey before we get out of this queue, shereen."
YOU[Wait patiently] "Gird your faith, sister. For it is only through patience and humility that true wisdom comes."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do not forget — you are the reason we are here."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you have a better idea?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I've had it with this bureaucratic nonsense. We're leaving."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Wait patiently]continues where this line first appears above
NPC(sequence)
Jae"Actually..." After catching your eye, Jae purrs surreptitiously as she glances at Kibellah, "Shereen, if you were to tell your pet assassin to put on a little show in this room right now... I bet the queue would get a lot shorter."
Kibellah"To defile one of the Bloodspun Web's sacraments by dedicating it to your avarice? Think again, blasphemer."
end of branch
YOU[Order your servants to prepare a waiting area befitting a Rogue Trader]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Wait patiently]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Count the people in the queue]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Order your servants to prepare a waiting area befitting a Rogue Trader]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Wait patiently]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Scratch the back of your neck]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Count the people in the queue]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Order your servants to prepare a waiting area befitting a Rogue Trader]continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Wait patiently]continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 19 of 20
Jae"And here we are again, shereen. I think I saw these same glum faces the last time... No. These are new glum faces." Jae sighs dramatically.
Jae"This time, I will not allow you to spend one second longer here than absolutely necessary, shereen! No more being patient! No more playing by the rules! Today we are going to make it to that Throne-cursed window and we're going to get the Mercatum Tabula Officiale!" With a pointed smile, Jae glances at you, awaiting your response.
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 20 of 20
Jae"And here we are again, shereen. I think I saw these same glum faces the last time... No. These are new glum faces." Jae sighs dramatically.
YOU"Heinrix, this is a perfect opportunity to make use of your privileged status. After all, you do not wish to suspend your mission for several cycles, do you?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Sister Argenta, I believe these people have been gripped by despondency. A sermon from one of His daughters could restore to them their determination."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Idira, can you use psykana to persuade the petitioners that they must leave the queue?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Yrliet, I need you to serve as a distraction."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Frighten the people. These worms should bow down in terror before their master/mistress and let us through."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"We shall solve the problems of the common people."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Whatever you are thinking — do it."continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Address a tender-hearted man]continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I want to consider everything again."continues where this line first appears above