Litterae privatim scriptae ex Officio Inquisitoris¶
Scriptum 001¶
LITTERAE PRIVATIM SCRIPTAE
EX OFFICIO INQUISITORIS
AEGIDIE HALIKARNISI
ORDO HERETICUS (DEINDE =][=)
VERBA VOLANT SCRIPTA MANENT
SCRIPTUM 001
HIVE ROCKARTH, VOLL 0179025.M03
IN MINISTERIO
SOROKIN, ALEKSIEJ
(DEINDE [+A+])
ASTRA MILITARUM
STAMMER, KYSER
(DEINDE [+K+])
NAVIS IMPERIALIS
PHISTINIOS, EUGENIOS PROGENIUS
(DEINDE [+E+])
ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM
Sic infit volumen.
[+E+] exits officio filia Adeptus Administratum. Encounters [+K+] without recognition. Imperator vult.
[+E+] procures services of local guide to reach designated location at THALER HOSTELRY (15 SOL).
[+EK+] encounter vagrants: 1 dispatched, 1 fled. [+K+] receives a wound.
[+EK+] encounter [+A+] at entrence of THALER HOSTELRY. Ab Imperatore Aprobata.
Servitor administers identity test via sanguis. [+AEK+] all pass. [+K+] reveals identity.
[+AEK+] take residence in a revealed suite of chambers containing 4 beds, desk, amenities, equipment. The chambers are of good quality.
[+E+] tends to wound for [+K+]. Tendit in ardua virtus.
The chamber chills. [+AEK+] all succumb to sleep.
Dies novus.
Messenger cherub brings a CODED MISSIVE and ROSETTA OF INQUISITOR AEGEDIUS HALIKARNAS.
[+E+] decodes the missive thus revealing orders.
Grandescunt aucta labore.
We are to discover truth or truths surrounding the event of the explosion at REFINERY Δ64, in the form of the identity of the survivor singularis thereof and the circumstances of their salvation, which are suspect of Heretech dealings through the advice of INQUISITOR AEGIDIUS HALIKARNAS. We stand informed that ARCH-DEAKON EXCARVUS ARTOSY [ADEPTUS MINISTORUM] investigates same to confirm sainthood of the unknown ultimus. It is revealed that LEO RANTZ holds additional information and can be reached through VOX FREQ ++4181115-WYRM++.
[+K+] contacts ++4181115-WYRM++ via Vox-Caster in chamber.
[+E+] conduct interview with unknown via Vox-Caster. She demands randsom of 2000 SOL for LEO RANTZ. She provides address of BUTCHER. [+E+] negotiates additional time at 500 SOL extra. [+AEK+] resolve to liberate LEO RANTZ.
[+AEK+] equip and proceed to BUTCHER. [+A+] conducts reconnaisance of surroundings. [+AK+] devise plan of violent action. Fortes Imperator adiuvat.
The building consists of a single room containig 2 people at the front door and several additional in the back. We split into two teams: [+EK+] and [+A+]. [+EK+] provide distraction under the pretense of downpayment of 500 SOL on the randsom. [+A+] covertly enters the room via a window and opens fire. [+A+] makes violent entry through the window at signal SIC INFIT transmitted through Vox Bead.
Sic finit volumen.
PER MANUS
EUGENI PHISTINI PROGENIUS
ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM
Scriptum 002¶
LITTERAE PRIVATIM SCRIPTAE
EX OFFICIO INQUISITORIS
AEGIDIE HALIKARNISI
ORDO HERETICUS (DEINDE =][=)
VERBA VOLANT SCRIPTA MANENT
SCRIPTUM 002
HIVE ROCKARTH, VOLL 0198025.M03
IN MINISTERIO
SOROKIN, ALEKSIEJ
(DEINDE [+A+])
ASTRA MILITARUM
STAMMER, KYSER
(DEINDE [+K+])
NAVIS IMPERIALIS
PHISTINIOS, EUGENIOS PROGENIUS
(DEINDE [+E+])
ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM
Sic infit volumen.
[+AEK+] devise a plan and instigate violent action. Fortes Imperator adiuvat.
+-------+-----+-----------+----------+
| | | | ## [Γ] |
| [A] ‖ | [Π][+L+] | # |
| (wnd) | | (table) | (debris) |
+-------+-----+-----------+----------+
[+L+] bound | [E][Δ] | # ## |
hostage | [Γ"] | # # |
[Δ] ganger | [Γ'] | (debris) |
boss +--+-===-+--+----------+
[Γ] ganger | [K] | TABULA LOCI
[Π] ganger | | BUTCHER
with | | HIVE ROCKARTH
saw +-----+ VOLL
[+A+] sneaks behind building, waits for signal to enter window and open fire. [+K+] waits by door and antagonizes door guard. [+E+] enters premises distracts ganger boss, throws sack of money to distract guard, gives signal via vox bead: SIC INFIT. Victoriam ab chao.
[+A+] dodges netter shot and discharges shotgun at [Δ] twice, rendering [Δ] into bloody mess. [+K+] Fires at [Γ’] with laspistol, missing, proceeding to pummel [Γ’] with knuckledusters to his death. Meanwhile [+E+] tries to distract [Δ] and pushes [Γ”] to the ground. [L] drops to the ground and hides. Virtute et armis.
[Γ] points pistol at [L] and demands surrender. [+E+] distracts [Γ] who changes targets, while [+A+] dispatches [Γ]. [Π] stabs [+E+]. Vincit qui patitur.
Hostes break and attempt to run. To prevent this [+E+] holds down [Π] in the corner and [+K+] grapples with [Γ”]. Timidi mater non flet.
Post proelium [+EK+] interrogate [ΠΓ”] while [+A+] ministers to corpses. [Π] is shot in processus. [Γ”] reveals gang picks targets NEXUS to forcibly recover their augments. [+E+] enlists [Γ”] as informant to report daily at THALER HOSTELRY for reward of 15 SOL. Vita mutatur, non tollitur.
[+A+] lingers to pray over corpses of the fallen. Per Imperatorem crescens.
[L] is confirmed as LEO RANTZ, leads [+AEK+] to REFINERY Δ64. Reveals commonly known information on incident.
An explosion destroyed REFINERY Δ64 two days ago. A becowled figure left the site unharmed, identity unknown, but investigated by ADEPTUS MINISTORUM. REFINERY produced unspecified, uninteresting chemical substances in some relation to the environment of VOLL; These can be volatile but do not typically engender explosions of the witnessed magnitude. List of workers was withdrawn from public access, a cassus dissententi leading to demonstrations at the premises.
[+AEKL+] arrive at REFINERY Δ64.
REFINERY Δ64 lies in ruins and glows with a baleful glow, which [+K+] associates with RAD use. [+A+] negates presence of psychic resonance. Groups of demonstrating LABORERS demanding a LIST of prople at premises during incident and chanting FAITHFUL is held off by a cordon of ARBITES. An ADEPTUS MECHANICUS manufactorum neighbouring the rubble bristles with spy servitors.
An UNKNOWN LABORER accosts guarding ARBITES, gets punched. Pro bono publico.
[+AEK+] approach UNKNOWN LABORER asking for information. He seeks to discover the fate or whereabouts of his spouse: LOWE. The list of laborer is likely available from an ADMINISTRATUM DATAMILL, likely accessible to [+E+]. LABORER was on break and leaves for work.
[+AEK+] approach chanting FAITHFUL, make acquiantance of GALLIACH KRANE, taking part of the investion of possible sainthood from the arm of ADEPTUS MINISTORUM. [+E+] inquires of details.
GALLIACH KRANE reveals that ADEPTUS MINISTORUM is investigating claims of sainthood within REFINERY Δ64. They are the only group allowed to enter the premises. Within, the refinery is supposed to lie in rubble with a single undamaged spot. Witnesses report a becowled figure in a long robe heading in one of two suspected directions: toward NEXUS or towards CATHEDRAL. GALLIACH KRANE reports the robe was NOT RED. He is supicious of ADEPTUS MECHANICUS but contradicts their involvement.
[+EK+] approach ARBITES at cordon, trying to distract, while [+A+] sneaks around back into site of incident with a PICT RECORDER.
After sevveral missteps [+EK+] persuade the guard to accept a bribe of 200 SOL to let [+E+] onto the premises under pretext of administrative duties.
# # - - - - - - - -### - - - - - #-#- - - -
[ DEBRIS ] # - - -### - - - - - ####- - - -
-## - - ##, ~ ~ ~ ,- - -🖐︎-[ SEVERED ARM ]
# - -' ' ,//<==[ (AUGMENTIC) ]
- , .,- - - - - - - ###-
-#, , - - - - - - ##-
-, ,[ HUMAN-SHAPED ]
-, [ PRISTINE ZONE ] ,[ STAINS ]
-, , - - -#- - - - -
- , , - - - -#- - # -
## , ,- - - - # - -###-
-#- [ VIVID LIMIT ]==>,' TABULA LOCI -
# - ' - , _ _ _ , ' - - SITE OF INCIDENT-
- - - -# - - - - - - - - REFINERY Δ64 -
[ EPICENTER UNKNOWN ] -## HIVE ROCKARTH -
- - - - -#### - - - - ##- VOLL -
- - - - - ##- - - -### - - - - - - -- - - -
The interior of REFINERY Δ64 is covered in rubble and dotted with the shadows of incinerated human remains, with little surviving the apparent blast. An exception to this is a perfectly circular (likely a cloche), sharply delimited pristine area. Directly outside of the border of this PRISTINE ZONE lies an AUGMETIC ARM, which appears severed with an unnaturally precise cut. The AUGMETIC ARM bears a serial number ending in 2137. [+AE+] were unable to discern the source of the explosion. [+E+] recalls the ruins having a NAUSEATING aura.
[+A+] sneaks to the PRISTINE ZONE, photographs and retrieves AUGMETIC ARM. [+E+] leaves openly, [+A+] leaves covertly.
[+AEK+] shelter in an alley and inspect the AUGMETIC ARM, but failing to discern anything about it, including a military origin.
[+AEK+] proceed towards the ADEPTUS MECHANICUS building. [+L+] rejoins [+AEK+] briefly to inquire whether they require assistance.
[+AEK+] encounter EPSILON VORN whom they divulge information
about the procured AUGMETIC ARM. He allows them to enter
the compoud to retrieve information about the arm based
on a pict and a serial number. EPSILON VORN insists the
physical artifact can contain hidden information, resulting in
[+A+] showing~our~handrevealing [+AEK+] are in possesion
of the arm.
EPSILON VORN consults the spirits within an ADEPTUS MECHANICUS machine to find that the arm belongs to one NOVEM ZHAO and was procured by MACHARIAN VIGILITES located at the chief base of MACHARIAN VIGILITES at FORTRESS MAJORIS (UPPER HIVE).
[+AEK+] consult the details of the scene at REFINERY Δ64 to EPSILON VORN who imparts that PRISTINE ZONE has telltale marks of a REFRACTOR SHIELD.
A REFRACTOR SHIELD emitter generates a personal protective field. Incoming force that strikes the field is refracted into harmless bursts. A REFRACTOR SHIELD is capable of stopping even very powerful forces. REFRACTOR SHIELDS are part of the equipment of ADEPTUS MECHANICUS tech priests and are tightly controled. If a REFRACTOR SHIELD went missing, this would have been known. REFRACTOR SHIELDS are unlikely to be created out of the auspices of ADEPTUS MECHANICUS, but this is not impossible. Badly constructed shields can cause RADIATION.
EPSILON VORN requests that AUGMETIC ARM be left at the facility for recycling. Given a high potential cost of AUGMETIC ARM [+AEK+] are unwilling to part with it (esp. [+A+]). [+E+] trades AUGMETIC ARM for access to and recording of footage from spy sensors during REFINERY Δ64 explosion. With the help of EPSILON VORN, [+AK+] attune the instruments to obtain superior visual fidelity and reveal more detail. The recording was uploaded to [+E+] DATASLATE.
Footage shows explosion in REFINERY Δ64 followed by a figure, corroborating already obtained descriptions: hooded and wearing a long cloak (not red). The figure leaves REFINERY Δ64 towards NEXUS. They throw an object into a porthole that leads to the sewers. The object is a machine that upon closer inspection is identified as a REFRACTION FIELD emitter. This emitter appears to have been VERY SMALL, constructed by a SINGLE PERSON in a SHODDY fashion. The unit was SINGLE USE and already BURNT OUT.
EPSILON VORN ushers [+AEK+] out of the facility, citing business.
Sic finit volumen.
APPENDIX <A>
NOMENCLATOR PERSONAE: RANTZ, LEO
||| DELATOR
||| (SINE AFFILIATIO)
Informant for =][= at HIVE ROCKARTH. Assigned as guide and factotum to our efforts.
We were instructed by =][= to contact him at Vox frequency ++418115-WYRM++ to find him held hostage at a defunct BUTCHER by a group of augment harvesters from NEXUS. We liberated him while the gangers were in the process of removing his leg augment by means of a saw.
Apparently has sufficient resources to easily and quickly procure another leg augment. He perseveres in his ongoing duty to =][= by guiding us despite his missing limb. We have [+K+] aid him in his limp.
While his solicitous aspect to accompany us is welcome, it is unclear whether this is due to earnestness, shrewdness, or an ulterior motive.
APPENDIX <B>
NOMENCLATOR PERSONAE: KRANE, GALLIACH
||| INVESTIGATOR SANCTORUM
||| (ADEPTUS MINISTORUM)
Officer of ADEPTUS MINISTORUM involved in the investigation of purported sainthood resultig from the REFINERY Δ64 incident. Since ADEPTUS MINISTORUM have permission to enter and investigate the site, his involvement is of an official nature.
We encountered him at the outskirts of REFINERY Δ64 among a congegation of pious chanters. He vouchsafed he was inside the ruined refinery and described a scene of destruction with a zone miraculously free of damage. He disclosed that a figure wearing a long robe with a hood exited the site on at the time of the incident, heading either towards NEXUS or the CATHEDRAL, according to rumor.
He is suspicious of ADEPTUS MECHANICUS, while also apparently denying their involvement in any way that would contradict claims of emergent sainthood through the Emperor's will.
APPENDIX <Γ>
NOMENCLATOR PERSONAE: VORN, EPSILON
||| VIDENTIS MACHINAE
||| (ADEPTUS MECHANICUS)
Official (likely ENGINESEER) at ADEPTUS MECHANICUS site neighboring REFINERY Δ64, who identified and subsequently took possiesion of the AUGMETIC ARM we found at the explosion site at REFINERY Δ64. He also allowed us to view and obtain recordings from the incident, and helped us identify the discarded REFRACTION SHIELD emitter captured therein.
He was helpful during our interview and dispasionately provided us with all the information we requested, although at the expense of retaining the AUGMETIC ARM. He ended the interview claiming to be impatient to return to his tasks.
Due to our candid approach, he knows approximately everything we know about the event at REFINERY Δ64 after the interview. Though helpful at the time, this may become a disadvantage.
He was very insistent that the AUGMETIC ARM need be recycled, perhaps due to ADEPTUS MECHANICUS' deviotion to the Machine God, an internalized need for utmost efficiency that comes thereof, or an ulterior motive.
PER MANUS
EUGENI PHISTINI PROGENIUS
ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM
POST SCRIPTUM: [+A+] PICT RECORDERAM MIHI NON REDDIDIT
Scriptum 003¶
LITTERAE PRIVATIM SCRIPTAE
EX OFFICIO INQUISITORIS
AEGIDIE HALIKARNISI
ORDO HERETICUS (DEINDE =][=)
VERBA VOLANT SCRIPTA MANENT
SCRIPTUM 003
HIVE ROCKARTH, VOLL 0198025.M03
IN MINISTERIO
SOROKIN, ALEKSIEJ
(DEINDE [+A+])
ASTRA MILITARUM
STAMMER, KYSER
(DEINDE [+K+])
NAVIS IMPERIALIS
PHISTINIOS, EUGENIOS PROGENIUS
(DEINDE [+E+])
ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM
Sic infit volumen.
[+AEK+] visit ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM offices to seek information about unpublished REFINERY Δ64 ROSTER.
[+AEK+] are directed to clerk MAGDA JORGENSON, of RM 21, SEC 37, FL 10, BLD Z, responsible.
[+E+] requrests REFINERY Δ64 ROSTER from MAGDA JORGENSON under pretense of routine administrativa.
[+E+] produces own ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM identifiaction number for verification.
While MAGDA JORGENSON is absent, [+E+] looks over documents on desk.
ADEPTUS MECHANICUS in arrears in of TAX EXPECTATION due to UNDERPRODUCTION. Documents have impecable mathematics, but contain a variety of small linguistic shortcomings.
[+AE+] and [+K+] with MAGDA JORGENSON search documentarium.
Sought REFINERY Δ64 ROSTER notably absent. Abundant reports of missing AUGMENTICS from workers of REFINERY Δ64. Older REFINERY Δ64 roster present but with redacted names. LO (of inquiry by UNKNOWN LABORER) not redacted.
[+A+] claims these documents are sufficient to fulfill routine, records them via pict recorder for reference.
MAGDA JORGENSON and [+AEK+] mutually suspicious, [+K+] uses charm and a stack of books as distraction.
[+E+] points and corrects linguistic errors in MAGDA JORGENSON’s documents.
MAGDA JORGENSON requires [+AEK+] leave.
[+AEK+] arrive at THALER HOSTELRY for the night.
A minor eath tremor occurs.
Etiam Imperatorem terra tremit.
Dies novus.
[+AEK+] receive VOX communication from =][=.
GOVERNOR CASTIX calls for CONCLAVE, also to discuss
incident at REFINERY Δ64. To commence at postridie,
VIII horae ante meridian.
Personae in praesentia:
[ ] JASPAR CASTIX
[ ] ARRECTAN TARK, VIGILITA
[ ] HEX-Σ NUMENON, ADEPTUS MECHANICUS
[ ] JAMINE LOU, ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM
[ ] EXAVUS ARTOSY, ADEPTUS MINISTORUM
Participation of [+AEK+] at CONCLAVE is
required and incognito et post ablutio
assuming the guise of CHEMICAL GUILD officers.
CHEMICAL GUILD SUITS and identifiaction
will be provided.
=][= vouchsafes involvement of high-placed individua, evaluates no use of ROSETTA, notes lookup of identity number belonging to [+E+]. [+AEK+] reequip (COMMS LEACH, JAMMER) and contact LEO RANTZ via VOX to meet at NEXUS. Labor, labor, labor.
[+AEK+] meet with LEO RANTZ at NEXUS.
[+AEK+] observe bustle at NEXUS looking for irregularities. [+A+] notes PERSONS with expensve augmentics. [+K+] spots GANGERS casing the above, qum [Γ”].
[+AEK+] disperse and follow
GANGERS administer intoxicant to PERSON, lead PERSON to train.
[+AK+] embark train, [+E+] cannot and remain at platform. [+A+] is unnoticed, while [+K+] is discovered upon boarding.
GANGERS instiage violent conflagration on crowded train. Fortes Imperator adiuvat.
--+----------------------+----------------
::| [+A+] :: :: ::| TABULA LOCI
| :: :: :: | IN TRANSIT ::
::| :: :: :: (crowds) | HIVE ROCKARTH
| :: :: ::| VOLL
| :: [Γ"] :: :: | [Γ"] ganger ::
| :: :: :: :: | cognatus
::| :: [Γъ] [O] [Γь] ::| [Γь] ganger
| :: :: :: :: | [Γъ] ganger ::
::| :: :: :: [+K+] | [O] hostage
--+--------======--------+--------======--
[+A+] sneaks behind and begins a firefight with [Γь], [Γъ] and [Γ”], garnering their attention. [+A+] lands several shots and gets hit in response, but with minimal effect through the help of armor. Imperator protegit.
[+K+] dodges brawls with [Γь] while dodging pistol shots, but becomes grievoously stabbed in the process and withdraws into the crowd from where [+K+] opens fire with laspistol, eliminates [Γь]. Per aspera ad ostentatio cruenta.
[+A+] manages good hit on [Γъ], causing significant damage and [Γъ] to surrender. Meanwhile [+K+] tackles [Γ”] and subdues.
[+AK+] capture [Γ”Γъ] to lead them out of the train. Nullae tesserae.
Post proelium [+AK+] lead [Γ”Γъ] out of the train into a secluded alley, avoiding the attention of VIGILITES.
[+E+] and LEO RANTZ arrive and convive with [+AK+].
[+E+] interrogates [Γ”Γъ]. [+A+] dispatches [Γъ] on the grounds of heresy.
The gang’s name is THE CUTTERS. They are numerous and lead by THE ARMORER, formerly of ADEPTUS MECHANICUS who provides technological means to wage war against SCARRED HANDS. They meet at CLAYMORE BAR, where there are covert access tunnels.
[Γ”Γъ] raise voices to BLAZING SERAPH (cognomen GREAT SERAPHIM), a purported imperial cult sanctioned sustained by EXAVUS ARTOSY. Abetment unclear but possible. The believers in the cult talk of changing the world in maddened excitement, awaiting the rebirth of BLAZING SERAPH. Cult members meet in CLAYMORE BAR and CATHEDRAL OF RATIONED BENEFICENCE.
[+E+] requisitions [Γ”] to deposit at THALER HOSTELRY for further reference as necessary.
Sic finit volumen.
APPENDIX <A>
NOMENCLATOR PERSONAE: RANTZ, LEO
||| DELATOR
||| (SINE AFFILIATIO)
[ADDENDUM]
The next day he had a crude leg prosthesis, allowing him to bearably ambulate.
APPENDIX <Δ>
NOMENCLATOR PERSONAE: JORGENSON, MAGDA
||| SCRIBA
||| (ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM)
ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM clerk responsible for documentation pertaining to REFINERY Δ64, including crew rosters, among other duties.
We visited her in her office at ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM data mill of HIVE ROCKARTH, RM 21, SEC 37, FL 10, BLD Z, where she worked on reports and reluctantly helped us search for documents pertaining to REFINERY Δ64 under the presumption of a routine request, after requesting and checking [+E+]'s ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM identity number.
[+E+] surrepticiously reviewed her documents and openly corrected various minor linguistic mistakes.
She is very astute in the sphere of mathematics.
It is possible that she is actively be involved in concealing information relating to REFINERY Δ64. It is not clear whether this is due to official reasons or her involvement in some conspiracy. It is not obvious what precisely she is interested in hiding.
She is suspicious of [+AEK+] and wants them absent.
APPENDIX <E>
NOMENCLATOR PERSONAE: ????????? (DEINDE [Γ”])
||| LATRO
||| (GREX SECATORAE, OLIM ET
||| SECTA SERAPHIME ARDENTIUM,
||| OLIM)
Gang member of THE CUTTERS, cultist of the BLAZING SERAPH. Participated in action at BUTCHER and NEXUS train.
Given the choice to become a paid informant after the engagement at the BUTCHER, but, to his detriment, reneged and never appeared.
Recognized in NEXUS in the lead up to the engagement in the train. Captured and subsequently interrogated. Currently to be detained at THALER HOSTELRY for further questioning as needed and to contain information about our operations.
While a member of the BLAZING SERAPH cult, he claims to have become disenchanted in the aftermath of the recent encounters with [+AEK+].
His contacts at THE CUTTERS likely burned and possibly posing a danger to him at this point. He pleads to be released and allowed to disappear. A flight risk, should not be trusted. Probably of low value, recommend disposal if deemed non-useful or trouble.
Res iucunda: witnessed two compatriots being executed by [+AEK+] during interrogation.
PER MANUS
EUGENI PHISTINI PROGENIUS
ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM
Scriptum 004¶
LITTERAE PRIVATIM SCRIPTAE
EX OFFICIO INQUISITORIS
AEGIDIE HALIKARNISI
ORDO HERETICUS (DEINDE =][=)
VERBA VOLANT SCRIPTA MANENT
SCRIPTUM 004
HIVE ROCKARTH, VOLL 0313025.M03
IN MINISTERIO
SOROKIN, ALEKSIEJ
(DEINDE [+A+])
ASTRA MILITARUM
STAMMER, KYSER
(DEINDE [+K+])
NAVIS IMPERIALIS
PHISTINIOS, EUGENIOS PROGENIUS
(DEINDE [+E+])
ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM
Sic infit volumen.
Following the conflagration [+E+] leads [Γ”] to THALER HOSTELRY while [+AK+] seek medical attention.
[+AK+] arrive at medical workshop where they pay 150SOL per capita for treatment. [+K+] has debris removed on under anesthesia.
MEDIC advertises EXCISION OF MUTATION or EXCISION OF MEMORY. MEDIC is in possesion of many AUGMENTIC and related equipement, including mechandrites.
Mechandrites need to be obtained from the black marke having been harvested from previous owners, almost certainly ADEPTUS MECHANICUS. They are dificult to install, because they have a strong association with their previous owners. The machine spirit inhabiting them is fickle and causes them to have a life of their own.
MEDIC refuses to divulge where the AUGMENTICS were obtained. Sequere pecuniam.
[+E+] arrives at THALER HOSTELRY with despondent Γ”. [+E+] stashes Γ” in secure room retrieved from head servitor for purpose of inquisitorial duty.
[+AEK+] reconvene at NEXUS to travel to chief base of MACHARIAN VIGILITES at FORTRESS MAJORIS (UPPER HIVE) to investigate previous owner of SEVERED AUGMENTIC found at REFINERY Δ64.
LEO RANTZ advises how to obtain train tickets to FORTRESS MAJORIS from defective servitor. [+AEK+] purchase one ticket for [+E+] under guise of nobleman traveling with retinue for 100 SOL.
In via [+AEK+] are approached by a ticket controller with no issue.
Ad adventum [+AEK+] encounter ZEALOT in rags contesting their faith, whereupon [+A+] attempts to stand in a spotlight coming from the dome overhead, but [+EK+] and the sound of thunderstrikes convince him to desist the idle display. Igne fidem renovatur integra sed noli potestatem neglegere stultorum.
[+AEK+] arrive at FORTRESS MAJORIS bathed in cold unpleasant light, locus de forma vacui, bedecked with CASTIX coats of arms.
VIGILITES barracks and the INCERCERATUM are fenced off with a SERGEANT processing a 20-person line of VIGILITES escorting prisoners. [+AEK+] appear out of the ordinary. Omne initium difficile est.
They are let in by VIGILITES ROLAND under pretense of a facility audity by ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM. VIGILITES ROLAND should be commended if chance arises.
[+K+] navigates the labyrinth within the barracks to find personal lockerooms.
[+E+] inspects recently vacated lockers and routes to NOVEM ZHAO’s locker specifically.
NOVEM ZHAO’s locker contains clothes and HANDWRITTEN NOTES. It contains no hidden compartments.
[+E+] takes a pict recording of NOVEM ZHAO’s locker. [+E+] retrieved HANDWRITTEN NOTES from the locker and gives it ad custodiam [+K+].
Vigilita KATHERINE who knew NOVEM ZHAO is summoned and relays information about her.
[+AEK+] seek out AUGMENTICS WAREHOUSE. They speak to Γ32 of ADEPTUS MECHANICUS who relays information about augmentics on VOLL.
MAIN MANUFACTORUM has too much demand over production capability.
Throughput is contrained by:
[ ] complexity of beaurocratic procedures
[ ] VOLL’s orientation toward raw ore/chemical production
[ ] shrinkage
This particularily affects augmentic arms which are difficult
to produce and prone to damage.
Stealing an augmetic arm can be acocmplished by
[ ] sawing the augment off
[ ] tranquilizing and surgical (?) removal
Overall, Γ32 suggest that the current fluctuation in augmetic output
is not out of the ordinary.
[+AEK+] leave FORTRESS MAJORIS.
Sic finit volumen.
APPENDIX <E>
NOMENCLATOR PERSONAE: ????????? (DEINDE [Γ”])
||| LATRO
||| (GREX SECATORAE, OLIM ET
||| SECTA SERAPHIME ARDENTIUM,
||| OLIM)
[ADDENDUM]
Contained at THALER HOSTELRY for further reference.
APPENDIX <Z>
NOMENCLATOR PERSONAE: ZHAO, NOVEM
||| VIGILITA ET INVESTIGATRIX
||| (VIGILITES, VOLL, OLIM?)
She was a part of VIGILITES where her responsibility was
investigating the CUTTERS gang. Her supervisor is
NOVEM ZHAO's severed AUGMETIC ARM was found at the site of the incident at REFINERY Δ64. The format of the devastation does not preclude she remains alive, but she is absent. EPSILON VORN identified the arm as belonging to NOVEM ZHAO and took possesion of it. The AUGMETIC arm wasa assigned to NOVEM ZHAO by VIGILITES.
NOVEM ZHAO was acquainted with vigilita KATHERINE on active duty at FORTRESS MAJORIS. She describes NOVEM ZHAO as extremely work-focused and about to act to close a big investigation into the CUTTERS gang. Further information should be relayed within NOVEM ZHAO's HANDWRITTEN NOTES.
PER MANUS
EUGENI PHISTINI PROGENIUS
ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM
Scriptum 005¶
LITTERAE PRIVATIM SCRIPTAE
EX OFFICIO INQUISITORIS
AEGIDIE HALIKARNISI
ORDO HERETICUS (DEINDE =][=)
VERBA VOLANT SCRIPTA MANENT
SCRIPTUM 005
HIVE ROCKARTH, VOLL 0350025.M03
IN MINISTERIO
SOROKIN, ALEKSIEJ
(DEINDE [+A+])
ASTRA MILITARUM
STAMMER, KYSER
(DEINDE [+K+])
NAVIS IMPERIALIS
PHISTINIOS, EUGENIOS PROGENIUS
(DEINDE [+E+])
ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM
Sic infit volumen.
[+AEK+] take an elevator down to lower hive. Reach THALER HOSTELRY among throngs returning from toil. Ora et labora.
[+E+] deciphers NOVEM ZHAO’s notes while [+A+] performs oblutions.
NOVEM ZHAO was in the process of investigating CUTTERS.
[ ] CUTTERS attack inhabitants with AUGMENTICS
around NEXUS, close to REFINERY Δ64.
Unknown whether the attacks are targetted, but
some people do not subsequently reappear.
[ ] Sources confirm that members of CUTTERS are
cultist of the BLAZING SERAPH. Their bodies
are emblazened with icons and tattoos
with eyes, avian themes, and depicting angel-like
humanoid figured with a disturbing excess of
featers. (Images included in notes).
[ ] NOVEM ZHAO notes that CUTTERS are have disproportionately
good access to technological equipment such as
plasma weapons and weapon modification that should not
be available to an underhive gang, and especially not
such a relatively minor one.
NOVEM ZHAO does not have firm information about the
origins of this technology, but speculates that
it may be in some way related to the gangs AUGMENTIC
collection activities.
NOVEM ZHAO specifically does not mention ADEPTUS MECHANICUS
involvement.
[ ] NOVEM ZHAO notes that CUTTERS primarily operate out of
a bar called CLAYMORE converted from a defunct IMPERIAL GUARD
vessel.
NOVEM ZHAO observes that CUTTERS often venture to REFINERY Δ64
which is the terrotiry of another gang: SCARRED HANDS.
[ ] CULTISTS of BLAZING SERAPH primarily congregate at
CATHEDRAL OF RATIONED BENEFICENCE.
NOVEM ZHAO notes that the memberships of BLAZING SERAPH and CUTTERS
have a large overlap and speculates that CUTTERS are attempting
to infiltrate ADEPTUS MINISTORUM structures (but not vice versa).
[ ] NOVEM ZHAO notes that EXAVUS ARTOSY (ADEPTUS MINISTORUM) often
leads services, performs ceremonial duties, and takes part in
organizational and administrative enterprises of BLAZING SERAPH.
EXAVUS ARTOSY contacted NOVEM ZHAO and insisted (applied pressure)
that NOVEM ZHAO investigate SCARRED HANDS rather than CUTTERS
in relation to AUGMENTIC-related kidnappings, up to and including
offering monetary compensation which NOVEM ZHAO accepted.
NOVEM ZHAO proceeded to investigate SCARRED HANDS,
finding that is has a large presence in REFINERY Δ64
and act as a makeshift guild for incorporated laborers.
The name SCARRED HANDS comes from chemical burns and industrial
injuries routinely afflicted to arms of workers of REFINERY Δ64.
NOVEM ZHAO conclucluded that SCARRED HANDS are not involved in
kidnapping activities relating to AUGMENTICS.
[ ] NOVEM ZHAO notes that CUTTERS are likely targetting
REFINERY Δ64 specifically, where they appear often.
Often a LONG-ROBED FIGURE appears among them
accompanied by a servitor.
NOVEM ZHAO planned to trail this figure on the same day as the
incident at REFINERY Δ64 occured.
While NOVEM ZHAO’s investigation suggests the
involvement of ADEPTUS MINISTORUM, she is visibly uncomfortable
drawing such conclusions.
Ouestions:
[ ] Could EXAVUS ARTOSY be the LONG-ROBED FIGURE
seen at the site of the REFINERY Δ64 incident?
This figure had no accompanying servitor, but
such could have been destroyed in the explosion.
[ ] Where was EXAVUS ARTOSY at the time of the
REFINERY Δ64 incident?
[ ] Could the redacted names on the REFINERY Δ64 ROSTER
be names of CUTTERS or SCARRED HANDS?
[+E+] shows pictures of icons and tattoos found in the notes to [+AK+]. [+A+] recognizes these to be unholy symbols and insists we burn the notes and go to a temple to cleanse our souls in Lux Imperatore. [+K+] takes on the undertaking of burning the notes.
[+AEK+] proceed to the CATHEDRAL OR RATIONED BENEFICENCE and enter the interior.
The cathedral is an imposing building with tall windows and arches.
The cathedral’s bells clang constantly blending with the mechanistic
din of the hive.
ADEPTUS MINISTORUM priests dispense portions of nutrient paste
to the gathered rabble while a High Gothic litany flows ceaselessly
from overhead speakers.
A healer offers their services to the needy with industrial injuries.
Within, an enormous visage of SOLAR MACHARIUS on the apse
overlooks the nave, while numerous trancepts lead to various c
heveted altairs depcting religious scenes.
The faithful chant prayers is High Gothic inexpertly.
[+A+] swells with zealous pride while [+K+] stands in awe.
[+E+] notices that one of the trancepts leads to a crypt, whose doot is guarded by two robed ADEPTUS MINISTORUM priests [M’M”].
[+A+] notices that the priest leading the service wears the bishop insignia of appropriate to EXCARVUS ARTOSY.
[+AEK+] wait until the end of the service and approach the guarded door afterwards.
[+A+] receives a historical tour of the altairs from [M’].
[+E+] requests that M” lets [+EK+] investigate the interior of the crypt udner the pretense of an ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM inventory.
While investigating the crypt [+E+] secretly instructs [+K+] to incapacitate [M”], but is overheard. [+E+] grabs [M”] and headbutts him and tackles him to the ground, while [+K+] punches him out with his knuckledusters. Cupiditas pessimum peccatum est.
[+K+] gags and ties [M”], places him in a corner and obscures him with a painting taken from the wall.
[+E+] investigates the room to find a defaced bust of Ysentrad Vylathi, a member of a prominent family with ties to the framing industry of VOLL, in particular of larvae that are the main ingredient of nutrient paste. Their crest is a spider.
[+K+] pushes the bust causing a stairway down to be revelaed.
[+A+] and [M’] return from the tour. [M’] notices the door down but is caught unawares by the sigh of [+K+]’s hair.
[+A+] incapacitates [M’]. Gradus parvus nautae, magnus gradus monacho.
[+AEK+] follow the stairway down to find a labirynth of badly lit tunnels hewn within raw rock.
[+A+] notices a trail of blood on the walls of different freshness as if something was carried through here.
[+A+] is guided by the Emperor to sense looking evil down one of the paths. Lux nos ducit.
[+AEK+] draw their weapons and follow th path.
Sic finit volumen.
APPENDIX <Z>
NOMENCLATOR PERSONAE: ZHAO, NOVEM
||| VIGILITA ET INVESTIGATRIX
||| (VIGILITES, VOLL, OLIM?)
[ADDENDUM]
NOVEM ZHAO took a bribe from EXCARVUS ARTOSY to concentrate her investigation on SCARRED HANDS rather than CUTTERS, but found no indication of their involvement.
NOVEM ZHAO went to follow a ROBED FIGURE with a servitor, associated with CUTTERS. This was on the day of the incident at REFINERY Δ64.
PER MANUS
EUGENI PHISTINI PROGENIUS
ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM