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TalOS checked over the sensory array and noted that the augers were in their favor. Traveling the Warp was like driving around blind to the world around you for the most part. The only reason you could arrive where you were hoping was that the entire trip was planned out beforehand.

Still, with the new sensory systems on the Onus Probandi, he was able to see that little bit more and navigate where he normally would not have been able to. It did increase the range of the ships by several light years as well but TalOS knew there were better ways to navigate such places.

Still, based on these readings, they had arrived at their destination.

+Bring the Energy Generation to Max and disengage the safeties. Direct all power to the blessed Warp Drive, for it is our salvation!+ TalOS declared to all who listened, +Awaken her with all this might, awaken the Divine Sunderer! Pray to the Machine God for souls as she awakens!+

Upon those words the Priests did as they were told, bowing their heads as an unseen rip in the immaterium was ripped. The entire ship began to shake as they moved forward and entered the domain of the Machine God, reality.

As soon as the shaking started it had stopped, +Raise the iron curtains and let us see our destination. Bask in the Glory that is the Machine God for we have ARRIVED!+

Quickly TalOS was given a series of coordinates being where they were in the Galaxy. Firstly their visual systems glanced towards Lucius and determined in what time period they had arrived and such. Luckily they had arrived in the correct time frame without deviation.

Next a sub sector scan was performed where they tried and figured out what was out there. The Machine Spirits determined that there were nine planets in the system with an asteroid belt close to the third planet.

Lastly they reached out and tried to determine if there was life on this planet. This was easily determined through the use of receivers in order to detect any signs of vox transmissions. TalOS watched as the Machine Spirit grew alight with a ping that declared something was found.

+Adept CL0RST scan that signal and determine what is belongs to.+ TalOS declared as he shipped the data parcel to the Tech Priest.

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As TalOS waited for the processing to occur he counted his ships in the fleet. At first they had started with twelve ships broken up into fleets of two now there were Twenty Five voidships in this fleet alone. Most of them were Tartarus Class Picket ships but you cannot deny the power that he had attained under himself.

As he waited for the signals to process he felt something warm within his pockets. The Primarch’s eyes lit up as he reached into the pocket and brought out a Black Box that was now lit with a subtle fire all around it.

+Arch Dominus, these signals are Mechanicum Frequency!+ Without any tact that someone of his position the Data-Adept called out the results of his minute research.

TalOS’s eyes lit up as he quickly went through the visual sensors once again, his eyes checking each of the planets for some form of life. It only took a few seconds for TalOS to notice a world that was so much like Lucius he would have been called a fool for not noticing it at first.

+Attention First Defense Fleet, we are moving towards the third planet of this system! In approach make sure systems are hot for we do not know if this is a trap or not.+

TalOS could feel the Onus Probandi begin to move as now three Adepts were processing the message they have received. While TalOS was thankful for the discovery of what might be a goal of his exhibition the Primarch was still wary on whether or not it was true. After all there were beings in space that he could not trust with even a tool let alone securing their safety.

When you previously fought the Plastoids, you learn to not trust your reason and logic for it can be proven false in an instant.

TalOS quickly moved his mind towards the numerous ships that were now in his fleet, sending the sensory systems to the Vox Teams. Every one of the ships were doing as they were told and preparing for any sorts of combat. Numerous lasers were prepared and the hull mounted cannons were pointed ahead of them just in case something really nasty came up.

Instead of that TalOS received another declaration, +Arch Dominus, we are being hailed by the planet. Their identification is within reasonable deviation from Mechanicum Vox Codes and are declaring themselves to be the planet Mezoa of the Mechanicum.+

+Their declaration?+

+They desire for us to halt our position and await the arrival of their defense fleet.+

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TalOS thought to himself for a moment while processing the newly given information, he then took over the systems while making his own vox transmission, +This is Arch Dominus TalOS of Lucius. We bring with us a fleet of twenty five ships to defend humanity. We have identified your signals as such, are you of the Mechanicum?+

There was a wait after that signal was sent. It was not a wait in the sense of them not sending communication but the fact that communication at this distance was going to take minutes. There were ways to advance such things faster than the speed of light but their current target was too far for that.

It was a bothersome wait, that is for sure.

Fifteen minutes after the declaration was sent by TalOS they received a message. This time TalOS was the one to receive the message and process it with the encryption codes the team recently used.

+Arch Dominus of Lucius, your identity has been recognized but not verified. In good faith we will allow yourself and two escort vessels towards Mezoa for verification. If we detect anymore void vessels the Defense Fleet has been given orders to open fire.+

TalOS read this message a couple of times over. It was obvious that they were not trusting of outsiders but was it true? Well TalOS had a feeling that it was true doubled with the box in his hands growing hot.

Quickly numerous pieces of information made themselves known to TalOS. Along with the Vox Casting a series of ships that can be identified as the Defense Fleet were coming into the system and making themselves known. About fifty ships total though they were not up to the same standard as his own fleet. Conflict would be hard but TalOS recognized that thanks to his Pickett Ship design they had a real chance of victory.

Then again what is there to say there is not more? They would probably want to get another of the Exhibition Fleets in order to sure up their numbers.

>Trust them and approach the planet
>Stay and allow verification via fleet to fleet
>Prepare to attack
>Fall back and get reinforcements.

*sniff* Aaahh, you gotta love that new thread smell.

>>5154594
>Trust them and approach the planet

They are our brothers and sisters in Faith! why wouldn't we trust them?

>>5154586
About what was said last thread about weaponry. Would it be possible for us to make sure most of our weaponry becomes Cognis weaponry? The added benefit of awakening our Machine Spirits (ie. Giving our weapons the ability to shoot if accurately if our forces finds themselves distracted) just seem to good to pass up.

>>5154634
About tanks (Specifically Baneblade)
I know that we have talked about the viability of the Shadowsword earlier in another thread and that we could potentially make them, despite their flaws. But i think a have come up with a solution to the design, we simply have to mount another type of weapon on it.

Shadowswords are based on the Baneblade (a template we have), so if we have the template for a Neutron Laser (It is the main armament for dunecrawlers) could we potentially use that as its main weapon? If so, then we have a pretty powerful Anti-Tank/Fortress vehicle! i don't know if it would be able to act as a Titan-killer, but as was previously said, that can simply be done via orbital bombardment if truly necessary.

What do you guys think?

>>5154594
>Trust them and approach the planet
Oh shit I was right, the planet the explorator founded was Mezoa.
Time to learn how to burn things real good.

>>5154634
About Knights:

What kind of weapons do they have specifically? Also, do they have some kind of shielding? If so what kind? ion?(1) Construct?(2) Flare?(3)
Would be useful if they had shielding, we might even be able to see if they are made as an individuel component (ie. many small STC make big STC) so that we might be able to incorporate them with other vehicles we have.

Links:
1: https://wh40k.lexicanum.com/wiki/Ion_Shield
2: https://wh40k.lexicanum.com/wiki/Construct_Shield
3: https://wh40k.lexicanum.com/wiki/Flare_Shield

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>>5154658

>>5154594
>Trust them and approach the planet

>>5154594
>Trust and approach

Got to hold out the first olive branch.

>>5154594

>Trust them and approach the planet

>>5154634
Not yet

>>5154653
Dunno why you spoilered this

>>5154666
Ion, duh.

>>5154788
>>Dunno why you spoilered this
I don't know why i did that either... must be because it was about 9pm for me.

>>Ion, duh.
Okay, that is good to know

>>5154594
>Trust them and approach the planet

>>5154594
>Trust them and approach the planet

>>5154594
>>Trust them and approach the planet

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>>5154653
In regards to tanks and artillery

Reject the Kinetic
Embrace Energy

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>>5154910

>>5154594
>>Trust them and approach the planet

>Stay and allow verification via fleet to fleet

They might be from Mars.

So nice to see this thread load in under 10 seconds

>>5154594
>Stay and allow verification via fleet to fleet

Trust is earned not given.

>>5154594
>Stay and allow verification via fleet to fleet

>>5154594

Changing from>>5154831
to
>Stay and allow verification via fleet to fleet

>>5154594
>Stay and allow verification via fleet to fleet

>>5155362
It's not very conductive to opening diplomatic relations and communications.

>>5154910
I mean, kinetics have their place on the battelfield. They are a useful way of obliterating the enemy when they hide behind terrain features that block energy weapons (Lasers require direct line of sight and plasma would be a... difficult projectile weapon to arc), so i don't think they should be fully discounted. Besides, the Imperium has examples of kinetic weapons that use Anti-matter(1) as their ammunition, so if we could get some of that in the forms of artillery shells, we would have some pretty impressive firepower. If that is not possible, we could just get some Nuclear shells and fire those instead, which would still be pretty impressive.

Links:
1: https://wh40k.lexicanum.com/wiki/Obliteratum

>>5155509
Actually, certain Imperial plasma guns can be calibrated to have reliable, predictable gravity based arc to them. It would be especially easier for us if we get in contact with Ryza.
https://youtu.be/p_vG0ruG6ZM?t=143

But I approve of more exotic munitions.

Heck, I'd even be happy with micro-atomic shells over explosive ones.

>>5155490
You don't open diplomatic relationship by sending the general of the army - you send a diplomat. In worst case you will lose a diplomat and his escort, otherwise you lose the head of the army. What would you choose?

>>5155665
>You don't open diplomatic relationship by sending the general of the army
To be fair Primarchs tend to be considered more military commanders than anything and yet they regularly engage as the diplomat in many cases.

Maybe not the very first, and they usually have attached diplomats with them, but clearly they're the ones being spoken to

>>5155665
Normally, you don't open diplomatic relations with people of your own group.
but it's our authority as arch-dominus that will carry this, so it's our title that has to be the first foot forwards.

Plus, we are both Arch-Dominus primarch [master of warfare] and our ships are better than them, while our fleet is nearby to reenforce us once we break away.
So it'll be fine.

>>5155285
lol

Trust your fellow Priests
>>5154624
>>5154658
>>5154708
>>5154744
>>5154763
>>5154802
>>5154822
>>5154966

Fleet based
>>5155400
>>5155362
>>5155393
>>5155446
>>5155074

Lots of votes in the first post, nice.

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+Attention Fleet, the Onus Probandi, Tartarus V, and Canticle of Faith shall be breaking apart from the main fleet. You are to stay on your guard and prepare to either react or warp jump. I leave such descrecian to your commanding Magos on what to do in the coming events.+

The declaration was made and with it TalOS called out to his crew, +Approach Mezoa with the Warp Drive active. If they take offensive actions we should at least be able to make an emergency jump before serious damage is taken.+

With those commands made TalOS felt the firing of the thrusters and the movement of the Onus Probandi. Quickly a set of coordinates were made to make sure the voidship stayed at long range of the enemy ships just in case something happened.

With those done all TalOS could do was wait.

+TalOS.+ UZ1 called out the Arch Dominus while standing next to him. In the last few years she came under TalOS’s wing. He watched her move from a rather meek person to someone who stood tall, +Can I ask your reasoning for putting us in a compromised position?+

There was no malice in those words. No they were curious and an attempt to pick at TalOS’s head, +Trust is something that is built between two sides. It cannot be built if neither side gives a little to the other however. My matrix is comparing the chances of them attacking or joining us multiplied by the lose of my own life and gaining their world into the Federation.+

+But your life is the Crusade.+ Pointed out UZ1, +If you die the chances of Lucius continuing the expansion goes to 5%.+

+Reasonable, but did you add how much Lucius is already benefiting and those Magos who would try to continue expansion?+

+Fair…+ UZ1 admitted while giving a grimace, +I still think you miss measured the value of your life.+

TalOS grew a devious grin as he thought of something, +Did you put yourself into that equation. You are of value to Lucius.+

+I do not carry that much…+ UZ1 gave TalOS a pout as she realized his point before hitting him with some papers, +Don’t think you won.+

+I won’t gloat I won, but I did.+ TalOS said with a small chuckle to himself.

With their conversation coming to the end they watched as the planet marked as Mezoa slowly got larger and larger.

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It took about three hours to arrive at their destination. There was some moments that could be described as harrowing as the Defense Fleet came out and met the Onus Probandi and its fellow ships at the midpoint. A series of scans bombarded TalOS’s voidship that might have been preventable but TalOS decided to just allow it. All they would learn is that Lucius’s ships outclassed their own, they were carrying the Knights, and lastly Particep Semper’s presence.

TalOS wondered if the Knights or the Titan made any changes to their demeanor. After all, for TalOS himself the Knights were basically Angels and the Titan the Avatar.

The Defence fleet turned about and half of them moved to escort TalOS towards their planet. He was not a fool and noticed that their port and starboard guns were all pointed in their direction.

After that they finished their trip to Mezoa, the planet now taking up a massive amount of the window panes as the Tech Priests and Servitors worked tirelessly.

TalOS had since risen from his throne and was now making his way down towards the docking bay. Surrounding him were roughly twenty Acillians, ten Skitarii, and a contingent of Tech Priests that contained UZ1 among their ranks.

These people were all loaded into a troop transport with a single word of complaint. From there the transport went into the void and glided down towards the planet where a location was marked out for them.

To TalOS’s relief it was the largest Forge Complexe on the entire planet, a surefire sign that he was not meeting some mook but the Fabricator General themself.

This was demonstrated more and more as upon arriving the doors opened to welcome pristine conditioned Skitarii. Each and everyone one of them were equipped with weapons that were clearly made by master artisans on the planet. However TalOS also noticed their clothing had numerous places of battle damage and repair.

They were battleworn. Not only that but it was within at least the last twenty years. These Skitarii had seen the battlefield just like how TalOS had seen it on both Lucius and the now destroyed planet of the Plastoids.

+Arch Dominus TalOS of Lucius.+ TalOS looked forward to see a senior Magos giving him a bow, +It is a blessed day that you have arrived. The Fabricator General has many questions.+

+As do we.+ TalOS answered back while giving a courteous smile, +We should not keep them waiting for long.+

+No, we shall not.+

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Walking towards the hall TalOS noted a few things about the planet. For one there was a lack of the Noosphere network like that on Lucius. Such a network was integral to the state Lucius is in today, which made him wonder where such an invention came from. The other was that the planet was hot.

Now such an observation would not be that insane but things did not make sense. From TalOS’s understanding the planet should have been 50 degrees colder than it currently is based on its orbital alignment and possible formations. Since it was outside the standard parameters of pollution that meant they had actively terriformed the planet to be this hot.

That there was interesting.

After five minutes of landing they had gone inside a Manufactorium and were now among what was obviously a court room. However unlike Lucius where the court was large enough to house an entire city worth of Tech Priests this one only held around ten individuals. TalOS wondered as to why that was but left it in return for a welcome as he quickly identified the Fabricator General.

+I am Arch Dominus TalOS DAV1S of Lucius. I am honored that you have given me a chance to step in your forge.+ TalOS said while giving a courteous bow and showing the Cog Mechanicus.

+The pleasure is all mine Arch Dominus.+ Declared the person at the center, +I am Fabricator General R0SS. You do not realize how opportune your arrival was.+

+I could say the same to yourselves.+ TalOS said while keeping his attention locked on the Fabricator General, +I am here for a multitude of reasons but the first and foremost is the unification of Humanity.+

To those words there was a series of short range transmissions going across the room. They were not meant to be rude towards TalOS but their inferior communication meant TalOS could hear almost everything they were saying without even trying.

They were curious and thankful. However the word that kept being said with a hunt of distain was that of the Mitu Conglomerate. TalOS did not have any records of what that kind of entity is but based on their manner of speaking they had about as much hatred of them that Lucius had for the Plastoids.

TalOS could not help but feel a fire realizing that Xenos were once again attacking those of the Cult.

>Discuss the issues of Xenos
>Ask to present the Black Box to the Explorator
>Sell them on the federation.

>>5156305
>Discuss the issues of Xenos
>Ask to present the Black Box to the Explorator

>>5156310
Support.

The first step fo this tango, is to find out their issues and how much it is worth.
Then we pay a price and they join up. The price may be xenocide.

Interesting that we are calling our worlds, a "Federation". A hark back to old times perhaps?

>>5156310
Support

>>5156305
>Ask to present the Black Box to the Explorator

>>5156318
>>5156322
Remeber to add a > make you support count.

>>5156305
>Ask to present the Black Box to the Explorator
First things first. They are probably eager to join for the strengrh and security. But lets see whar thier situation is and price might be.

>Ask to present the Black Box to the Explorator

No need to show we have access to their coms.

>>5156305
>Ask to present the Black Box to the Explorator

>>5156305
>>Ask to present the Black Box to the Explorator

>>5156305
How many planets (or systems) are in our empire. Also how many knight worlds do we have.

>Supporting
>>5156310

>>5156305
>>Discuss the issues of Xenos
>>Ask to present the Black Box to the Explorator

>>5156322
the Federal Empire of Lucius, though i have seen it call by Talos empire more than anything else. It looks like, probably for give it self a better legitimacy as a successor state.

>>5156573
>has grown from just the planet of Lucius to roughly fifty worlds to its name. Such unprecedented growth was achieved only through the immense efforts of Arch DominusTalOS DAV1S of Forge World Lucius.

Read the first post of the thread.

>>5156310
>supporting

We must ensure that aour mission is completed and that the security of Mezoa is assured. After this, maybe we can broach them about our federation.

>>5156366
Fine
>>5156318
Mark as
>Support

Would you huys be okay if we find some other name for our "Federation", since calling it the Empire of Lucius seems a bit too on the nose for me. Also, by the by, if we are going to be a part of the Imperium later on, it would probably help our "Federation" if they had a more standout name, just to make it easy for our people to solidify their identity as being [Insert name] who are allied/part-of The Imperium. Like how Ultrimar is a part of The Imperium, but everyone recognizes that they are more of an allied realm than just a piece of the greater Imperium. (So make our realm be like how the Squats was, before it got Nom'ed)
Name suggestions:
- Star League
- Interstellar-Federated Allegiant Planets (I-FAP)
- Technocratic Human-Incorporated Council of Client-states (T.HI.C.C)


What do you guys think?

Hmm, maybe flesh things a bit? Does TalOS do everything himself or he delegate? It's really irks me that instead of sending a chosen diplomat he must go himself. That's simply not done when you're the head of the army. When it's fellow magos than maybe it's okay, but in future that kind of behavior should at least be punished by enemies. If he is not killed but imprisoned then crusade ends too. Maybe he has a circle or a council of magos to whom he delegate tasks?

>>5156845
You say that, but during the medieval and iron ages the Generals/Kings would always negotiate before battle. I think the greatest example is between Hannible and Scipio Africanas before the final battle of the second Punic War.

Also TalOS is the highest ranking Tech Priest on the exhibition. It might be seen as a slight if he does not present himself.

>>5156845
Also, out of such logic, this is a quest and it gives you all a chance to interact with everything you wanted to interact with. TalOS has not set foot on every single world and has been delegating authority after setting in stone how one should act. You have a few exhibition fleets happening right now that are doing the same work.

>>5156845
The diplomatic impact of the Primarch is far greater than what we could have, by sending a diplomat. They can convince people very easily. Where humans also need time to even start speaking because they don't know how to talk to someone who has a new language, a primarch can already speak simply by having a few seconds / minutes of contact. Not using Talos is a bad idea, especially when it could convince new people or build a good relationship with them almost immediately instead of just shooting people in the face. And he has done more than that as well, he builds, prepares plans and so on. While still being at the head of the crusade.
Multi-tasking comes easy for him, and he has people under him as well.
Now trying to kill him, let's say, is anything but easy. An enemy usually wouldn't just attack a diplomat/leader either, since it is an unspoken rule to not kill one unless you want war. Never mind that nobody expects a demigod in a talk, so good luck trying to kill it completely unprepared and surprised, while he has already thought in mere moments of 100 and more ideas on how to completely destroy the attempt on his life.

>>5156841
I honestly don't mind the current name we have, it means what it says. I feel like other things are not really the same, or that can’t make clear that this state was something founded by Lucius and with Lucius at his center. And with Lucius being patriotic, they would like something that everyone can recognize is theirs. The name chosen reflects many things of the people that decided to have it, it is not just a name.

>>5156845
>>5156867
To add to these good points, we're also a small fleet.

Come the time of the Great Crusade, yes, we will have splinter fleets and diplomats that do stuff beyond our reach. That's pretty much how our other brothers did it too, with Primarchs stepping in when things went bad (like when the Gardinaal did not heed the diplomatic envoy of Ultramarines and Thousand Sons, Ferrus Manus stepped in to make them succumb)

I dare say we'll better hope we have competent generals because we really wanna do a lot of fun stuff on Terra and Mars for a time.

Quite possibly we want to establish a Great Crusade force that can operate semi-independent of us as much as possible, so that our direct presence isn't always necessary.

The most useful thing we could ever do is to find a world with a Pharos and fortify the FUCK out of it so that nobody blows it up, then put an empathetic person/brain there to provide constant direct non-warp binaric communication from Tal0S to a number of highly efficient surrogate forms and ship command links across our fleets in the galaxy

>>5156867
>I honestly don't mind the current name we have

I mean, the only reason why i am suggesting we change the name is purely for Flavor reasons. The only In-Setting reason i could see for why we wouldn't want to be called the Empire of Lucius, is that people typically try to abbreviate names (Such as United States of America being U.S.A and European Union being E.U) and that having a distinct name would make us stand out from the Imperium when eventually people begin to call the Empire of Lucius either "the Empire" or they mix it up and begin calling it "The Imperium", even though it would be the smaller part they are talking about and not the whole of The Imperium. (PS: Imperium does directly mean Empire, so that would be another way that people, In the setting, could mix up our Empire and The Imperium).


> And with Lucius being patriotic, they would like something that everyone can recognize is theirs.

Hmm, if we want something that makes Lucius be the center for our "Federation", Then we could just name it the Confederacy of Lucius. That would make it stick out in the great hodgepodge that is the Imperium and assert to all other planets that are a part of the Confederacy, that Lucius is the one who founded and controls it.

>>5156886
Yeah, if we can find a Pharos Device or something of the like, we should do everything we can to make sure that it would be the most defensible place in our nation.

About using ships as a communication network. It might work if we base it on the way QM said they had a form of communication faster than light. Problem is though how far it can reach, since they can't use it when they first arrive in the system and contact Mezoa.

>>5156366
Thanks
>>5156310
>support

>>5156302
Btw this is incredibly cute. She's also 2 years older now, and so are we. How time flies.

>>5156891
When we get brought in to the Imperium, it's probably going to be know as the Lucius sector, the realm of Lucius or Lucien/Lucian administration.
For now, it's the Federal Empire of Lucius, but it's tge sucessor to the Terran Federation, it belongs to Lucius, and is multicultural with a central authority based on religious beliefs.

>>5156894
>QM said they had a form of communication faster than light.
Just to make sure it doesn't seem like i am pulling this from my ass, here is the message >>5154594 and he directly says that:
>There were ways to advance such things faster than the speed of light but their current target was too far for that.

>>5156898
Lucian Administration does have a certain ring too it.

I like it.

>>5156898
Becasue it is, not but.

>>5156903
Lucian authority also works, since it's more or less what imperium means, the supreme authority of the goverment.

>>5156906
That sounds like a really good idea Anon. It would ensure that we stand out when we ally/unite with The Imperium while still delivering the same message, that "These planets are under Lucius" or something of the like.

>>5156909
It does sounds similar to the Realm of Ultramar.

I'm less worried about Daddy's reaction than I am about Mars reaction and the other forge worlds. They might become supremely jealous of those forge worlds in the Lucius Sector, which isn't particularly ideal.

More things we'll need to bring up to Guilliman when we ask him to help unfuck the Mechanicum and minimize the risks of civil war. We're going to make great use of his Strategeos since its a DAoT Empire simulator that can actual factor in the effects of real people and politics.

We should probably copy his Strategeos...

This actually brings up a good point, but what kind of interstellar government do we actually want? I know we are going the whole "Living up to the ideals of the Federation", but what exactly are we going to do to make sure that becomes a reality, while still making sure that we are the one's who control things/leads it?


Here is some suggestions, but i would be very curious what you guys think!

- Oligarchy (we simply make a Council of planets where we are the main head and memebers can bring up various issues or things they want to bring up. Pros: we still control everything and we would be deciding factor for most actions. Cons: Very possible for this to become a curropt and intrigue filled mess if it is not kept well regulated)

- Democracy (we assign a certain amount of seats to planets, based on several factors like Population, Industry and much more, while we will be the arbitrator and final vote if there ever is a tie. Pros: Democracy. Cons: Democracy.)

- Feudal system (Would ensure that the planets we are lords over have plenty of independence, only having to make sure they give us a Tithe and Help protect the Empire. Pros: Hands off, less chance for scheming in the courts, ease of administration. Cons: easier to revolt, less hands on development and greater chance to lose planets because of unknown factors.)

>>5156925
>"Living up to the ideals of the Federation"
We had best be weary of that. By 30k most planets have forgotten the Men of Iron but almost everyone remembers the Age of Strife and the Long Night. We are lucky that Halemat actually has a good rapport with it, because I can imagine many more planets that have memory of the Federation or whatever governments the DAoT humanity had felt abandoned or betrayed by their follies.

If more planets than less like the Federation, then by all means, lets use its spirit. Just be careful if they don't!


>Oligarchy
>Democracy
>Feudal
These seem more planetary government types than overall Imperial government types. The Imperium and Mechanicum operate on a vast scale where communications and liason can be difficult, taking decades or such. That's why they have a rather loose hand when it comes to direct planetary government, allowing them to govern themselves in the way they see fit so long as they ultimately swear fealty and give Imperial tithes.

I think it would be wise to just observe how the Admech on Mars interlink those various forge worlds connected to it, like Voss, and model it off of them. But again, I really think we're going to need some long talks with Bobby G since his empire was ultimately the most successful and he's the Government Primarch.

>>5156921
Oh yeah, we should definitely ask if we can make some copies of his Strategos. Would make everything way easier.

About Mars and the problems of Forge Worlds. I would suggest we simply request/argue for a new round of colonisation and make preparations to vastly expand the number of Forge Worlds that exist. If we could ensure that there exist atleast 1 Forge world (they don't have to be massive to start off with, just have a central Manufactorium and plans for later expansion) for every 3-5 regular worlds that exists, we should have a vastly better chance of ensuring the Imperium's success. Besides, localizing a lot of industry in a lot of places should ensure a greater stability throughout the Imperium, since Warp travel and its highjinks would have a lesser impact on planets dependent upon Forge Worlds. Also, having a lot of what basically amounts to massive factories/Libraries spread around the galaxy, should ensure a higher chance of STC survival (so long as they get as full a knowledge base on them as possible), since every Forge World would have a compendium/archive of all the knowledge given to them.

>>5156921
For the Mars dillema, we could push to organise the Mechanicus for a orthodox merely first among equals rather than a catholic supreme authority.
>>5156925
Hegemony, the authority of Lucius is supreme and the onlybone that calls the shots of the alliance, but we recognise their individual independence and right for sef-sufficiency.
Now that's obly for the secular part, if we push hard to convert the populace and ingrain ourself through trade, we would also have the religious, economical and military power, ensuring that Lucius is always on top, and has more pull than just the politics allow.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hegemony

>>5156934
>These seem more planetary government types than overall Imperial government types.

Well, the Mechanicus uses a Feudal system for its military and they can span several systems. (1)

Link:
1: https://warhammer40k.fandom.com/wiki/Taghmata_Omnissiah

>>5156937
A Hegemony definitely has promise and i could definitely see Lucius being willing to go down that route, since it would immensely benifit them(us) if they had all the power. Convincing other planets to be subserviant to us might be a bit more difficult, but i am sure that TalOS could figure it out, hell he already made one planet kneel to him, i am sure he can stand up to the task.

When it comes to ruling as a Hegemon, would we give our subordinates (Planets) a chance to advise us with a councilmember (ie. have a form of "House of Lords" for the important ones) so we know the general feel of each planet and what they want?

>>5156939
Again, to make sure it doesn't seem like i am talking out of my ass, here is a quote from the link:
" It was of this complex feudal structure, both on the macro-scale which encompassed whole Forge Worlds and alliances of Forge Worlds, and on the local scale of orders, colleges, fanes and forge cities, that the Taghmata system was a direct reflection."

>>5156937
>For the Mars dillema, we could push to organise the Mechanicus for a orthodox merely first among equals rather than a catholic supreme authority.
Mars is gonna be really prickly.

We're going to have to balance what I pray is supreme popularity and charisma among our fellow techpriests.
And scorn and suspicion as one of Big E's sons and a (not at all inaccurate) ploy to transfer more power to the Emperor and away from the Mechanicum.

But given Kelbor-Hal and the Dark Mechanicus, fuck em. Our main goal will be to minimize and shrink the Dark Mechanicus joining factions as far as possible. Heck, if we can get Kelbor-Hal to not be pissed he didn't become the Fab General and resist the temptations of Horus somehow, that would be good.

>>5156943
It shouldn't be that hard, unless the planet already had an interstellar empire, becoming subordinate wouldn't be that different than a normal vassal, all the trade, technology and safety should make up for it, and theybget to keep their rights for self-determination, just losing their voice in the grand scheme of things.
I would make sure to not make the conversion or adopting Lucius and Mechanicum culture forced or obligatory, but to encourage and reward those that do.
And perhaps having some representatives in some sort of senate would be good, as long as they know their power is only internal, and they are in a advisory position.
>>5156948
Kelbor-Hal faction grew so quickly because he was the fab-gen of Mars didn't it? If either we stop him from getting the position, and/or weaken the importance of Mars, than it's more a shadow conspiracy rather than a full blow schism.
Most of the DM that joined either did it because of confusing orders, bribed with hidden tech or chances to play with forbidden toys, without an anti-emperor the first problem ends, with a council of equals so does the second, and for the third we can treat the forge world on the edge the same way we did to a
Alex, keep your enemies close.

>>5156960
>bribed with hidden tech or chances to play with forbidden toys
And with Malcador's help we can also help with that too.

Well, depends if the Silent King meets us or Sangunieous refers us to him, and how that encounter goes.

If it goes bad, I imagine Stygies VIII is going to get really good at fighting Necrons

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1 volcano cannon
1 apocalypse missile launcher
2 plasma destructors (classic model with 180 field of fire)
2 Turbo-Laser Destructor
1 hellstorm
1 plasma annihilator

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>>5156977
Hope this is somewhat close to what QM was thinking of

>>5156977
>>5156981
I had a distinct memory of QM saying that Princeps didn't have the cathedral on it's back, but I can't find it the post anywhere on the archive.
Maybe I'm confusing it with another quest?

>>5156977
Heh, it has a crotch gun.

Nice

>>5156925
i dont know what it is called but i think a sort of loose feudalism. In the sense as we do not really care what government type is our vassals are. Democracys, oligarchys, monarchies communism types or Juntas or what else there is. Loyalty to Lucius, the machine god and our federation ist what counts.

>>5156305
>Ask to present the Black Box to the Explorator
>Discuss the issues of Xenos

>>5156850
But they did so on neutral ground, not in the heart of maybe enemies army. But okay...

About government style since MC is from Mechanicus then Meritocracy is a default option, imho.

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Question for you lot.
So a while ago I presented a brainstorm ideas on Tal0S upgrades for the future. Back then it was using Perturabo's custom Terminator Armor as a basis for a concept art of him, which QM compared to a walking tank (and that's great). But then I thought, what's more walking tank like. . .than a Centurion? Now, of course, actual Centurions are far slower and less agile than a Terminator iirc.

But that's because they weren't designed by Tal0S! Who could one day take a glance at how Custodes Dreadnoughts and Termie suits managed to be capable of sprinting so fast despite being bulky and heavy.

How'd you guys feel about it?

>>5156997
So yeah Meritocracy is a given for the Admech but thats more on a scale between Nepotism and Meritcism. What everyone is trying to figure out is how it is ruled.

Since you guys have desired centralization its looking like an Oligarchy between Lucius and Dutonis. The reason Dutonis is more powerful is because you guys are giving them control of planets in return for the technology of Knights. Though at the end they are not unified meaning you really have three heads ruling over the Federal Empire of Lucius, Kings Philip, Fredric, and the Fabricator General of Lucius.

Anyone else is just being subverted by Tech Priests coming into their society and doing their job many times better while paying them off with wealth/technology that only a Forge World like Lucius can muster. This will only get better and better the more Mining and Hive Worlds TalOS discovers in the Realm.

>>5157027
This can and will change once the War starts properly.

>>5157015
Honestly liked the one based off of Perturabo better

>>5157027
So we could start out as an Oligarchy and then either work our way to something else or try to expand it into something better, like a True Aristocracy? (True Aristocracies are nations which are ruled by the best and brightest and devote their all to the betterment of the people and their nation)

That sounds and seems cool.

>>5157015
I like the original drawing better (feels like it has more personality) but i wouldn't be against having a more heavy set of armor based on the centurion template. Gotta' have a lot of options when it comes to killing Xenos.

>>5157085
Something like Plato's Republic with philospher-kings?
Except the whole music ban thing.

>>5157027
I wasn't aware we are giving them enough planets to be counted as 'lords' like the Fab general

>>5157195
makes sense.
>>5157027
does this mean we have effectively three knight worlds? or do they own more than 1 world each.
Dutonis
Kings Philips world.
king Fredrics world.

>>5157209
Essentially, though it will take many years for them to be properly established.

Disscuss Xenos Issues and then the Black Box
>>5156310
>>5156573
>>5156692
>>5156810
>>5156895

Black Box
>>5156342
>>5156384
>>5156480
>>5156571
>>5156639
>>5156990
>>5156458

>>5156982
No, I did not.

Hey QM, any changes or flaws or differences from >>5156977 to the Princeps Semper you were envisioning?

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>>5156977
This was my list:
Loadout:
Arm Mounted
Hellstorm Cannon
Plasma Annihilator

Carapace Mounted
1 volcano cannon
1 apocalypse missile launcher
2 plasma destructors
2 Turbo-Laser Destructor

Looks about right. Color him Silver, White, and Blue and it should be good!

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TalOS noted down the facts they had. The knowledge that they had an issue with Xenos was something that he could not stand by and watch. Still he had an obligation to fulfill.

+Fabricator General R0SS, the first thing I wish to talk to you about is that of the Arch Explorator. The one who discovered this planet and made it his own.+ TalOS began their talks with, +What happened to him?+

+So Lucius remembers Mezoa P1RE?+ She asked with a hint of skepticism, +I wondered if that would be the case. After all it was you all who expelled us from the planet.+

TalOS decided to ignore that dig from her, +What is the status of the Arch Explorator?+

+He has been lost to a Xenos Incursion defending Mezoa five hundred years after he discovered this world.+ The Fabricator General declared, +Why are you so persistent?+

+I have been told to deliver this.+ TalOS said while showing the Black Box he had received. No longer though was it a simple box but instead massive amounts of flame danced across the surface of it, +I have been given this to deliver to the late Arch Explorator from the Fabricator General of Lucius. He said it would settle things with both an old friend and his people.+

The group before TalOS stared into the fires with peaked interest and wonder. A series of transmissions were quickly sent between them declaring things such as ‘Holy Artifact’ and ‘He Remembered?’ but nothing was concrete.

With control of the room TalOS spoke once more, +I was told to deliver this to him, his tomb, or a memorial of him. Whichever of these are available I will take.+

The Fabricator General stood up upon that declaration and began to walk, +Follow.+

TalOS did as he was told, as well as all others who were in the room. Hushed words were spoken between those of Lucius and those of Mezoa as each side tried to figure out what exactly was going to happen.

At the end of their journey nearly a hundred people were following the Fabricator General into a massive room. At the center of which was a tornado of fire that looked like a flare from a star.

+This is the memorial to our founder and prophet, the man who brought the worshippers of fire to a new planet to call home. Present to our Founder what the Fabricator General has to say and we will weigh his words against our history.+

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It was then that TalOS heard a click coming from the black box. The machine had primed itself and was ready to play whatever recording the Fabricator General of Lucius had prepared. Getting a feeling of what he should do TalOS made his way towards the massive torrent of fire and placed the box before the creation. It clicked for another moment before a hologram was displayed before TalOS and the rest of the people.

It was a perfect image as within seconds the color solidified and it looked like the Fabricator General himself. Smaller than TalOS and carrying a cane of unknown capabilities the Hologram moved around the room as if scannings its contents for itself to see.

It then faced the fire and the Machine Spirit inside the box clicked.

+Arch Explorator Mezoa, so this is your fate.+ The Fabricator General explained as he looked upon the flames, +Through trial and effort you had settled upon an unknown world and built up an entire Forge World with your ideals. Yet unlike myself you have perished due to some damned Xenos or spawn of the other realm. A shame.+

There was a moment of silence from the Holovid as if the machine was mourning the man’s passing. Everyone around, including TalOS, felt it appropriate to join the silence. Moments later the hologram looked up at the fire and began something TalOS never thought he would hear.

+YOU DAMN FIRE PHILANDERING IDIOT! I TOLD YOU TIME AND TIME AGAIN THAT THIS WAS GOING TO BE YOUR FATE THE MOMENT YOU TRIED TO TAMPER WITH THE STAR CORE! THEN YOU COME TO ME SAYING YOU CAN REPRODUCE THE STAR AND THAT YOU JUST NEEDED A FLEET TO DO IT! WELL LOOK AT YOUR DUMB ASS YOU GOT YOUR FLEET, GOT STRANDED, AND GOT KILLED!+[/B]

The next few moments were filled with a series of profanities that TalOS had to take a few moments to process and understand. Whatever they were, they were those that only a man of his age would know. It was still obvious they were profanities because they were all being put on full blast across the room.

+Idiot. You could have waited.+ The Fabricator General said while giving another moment’s silence, +A thousand years was too long of a wait for you it seems.+

A moment after this everything became clear to TalOS and everyone in the room. Whoever Mezoa was he must have been some kind of friend to the Fabricator General. A friend that allowed his work to go ahead of himself and took a chance that should not have been taken.

Odd seeing a man that TalOS had such an immense respect for act like that. If TalOS could not feel the truth it would have been a diplomatic blunder to have allowed this to play. But it gave something TalOS could never make.

Memories of an era long gone.

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+Fabricator General of Mezoa.+ The oldest man TalOS ever knew turned around on his heels and looked at R0SS directly, +I am the Fabricator General of Lucius and an old friend of your founder. Outlooks have surely changed but my memory has not. The era P1RE wanted so badly has come and we expand into the galaxy in the name of the Machine God.+

The image lifted a hand towards TalOS, +This is Arch Dominus TalOS, a man who in the future might even take my own position when I finally turn to dust. He carries my full authority as Fabricator General until I meet you personally. I look forward to meeting P1RE’s successor.+

With those words the Holovid blanked out and they were left with a silence for a few moments after that. The declaration was something that even TalOS did not expect to have heard and everyone was likely stunned at the simple fit the Fabricator General had.

It was, out of everyone, UZ1 allowed her Machine Spirits to click in a cycling of time. TalOS’s ears caught such the nearly inaudible sound and his mind clicked back to function.

+As the Fabricator General said I am acting as his proxy for our discussions.+ TalOS announced to everyone with a voice that carried authority in it, +I have noticed battle scars among your men and in whispers a race of Xenos. Lucius had fought a race of Xenos before, and I led the charge in their annihilation. Give me the information and we will see what we can do.+

The Fabricator General at the end gave a nod as she walked back to TalOS, +What we face is a group of creatures calling themselves the Mitu Conglomerate. Thirty years ago they came at us and attempted to destroy us in a rain of supernatural fire. We had fought them off and made the occasional interception but nothing more. Can Lucius do more?+

+We can. Since our expansion started two years ago we have nearly a billion Skitarii and nearly a hundred and fifty ships to our name. While most of these are Tartarus Class they will form a grand pickett line to be used against the enemy.+ TalOS declared as he tightened his fist.

The Fabricator General looked at TalOS for a moment and the Arch Dominus read her completely. For a while she had been hiding it but now the desperation was showing. TalOS could guess the only way Mezoa was surviving was thanks to hit and run and once the Mitu made proper landfall once again Mezoa was finished.

Thus the question was obvious, +Is there a price for your service?+

>Indeed, you must bend the knee to Lucius.
>Join our Federation as a Member
>You are a fellow Forge World, we will help one another.
>We will not engage in war until after we have studied our foe.

>>5157778
>Join our Federation as a Member
>We will not engage in war until after we have studied our foe.
We will be stronger together, Lucius' children reunited.

>>5157778
>>Join our Federation as a Member
>We will not engage in war until after we have studied our foe.

>>5157773
>THEN YOU COME TO ME SAYING YOU CAN REPRODUCE THE STAR
Question QM:
From what we have seen and read of the Star Core, in person or its schematics, and if we put aside our Black Stone necklace for a while, do we comprehend a theoretical on how the ancients made it?
Do we comprehend the feasibility and what it would take to make such a force and if Mezoa even had a chance?

How about this box and method of communication? Do we comprehend it? Truth be told this could all still be a recording (either the statue releasing a ping from Arch Explorator Mezoa that 'I'm dead' or the device being smart enough to see that if we have placed it before a statue rather than the Explorator he is dead).

From the Perturabo novel, he himself was always curious how he just seemed to know things without prior knowledge, how they worked and such. TalOS being maybe even more specialized and tech analytical, wondering if its the same.

>>5157778
>Join our Federation as a Member
>We will not engage in war until after we have studied our foe
As Mars is our Mother, let Lucius and Mezoa fight the foe as brothers in arms.

Not sure if there's any lore backup to this, but I've been told Perturabo never encountered anything he was not able to analyze and comprehend. When fighting the Hrud, he already came up with a plan to use a stasis field weapon to counter their warp based abilities and was able to piece together a functional Antikythera Mechanism from ancient Terra (which it turns out was functional warp current sextant) which impressed Magnus. Dunno if he ever fought more ancient and advanced races like Necrons to observe their tech, probably not since they didn't make a big appearance in 30k. I'm curious if Tal0S is like that, he just looks at a thing, no matter how old or complex and thinks "oh cool that's how it works" and can explain it in detail. In fact, like when Dorn was horrified when he couldn't remember the lost primarchs, Tal0S might get confused and frustrated if he ever just see's a piece of technology that he can't understand how it works.

>>5157778
>Join our Federation as a Member
>You are a fellow Forge World, we will help one another.

>>5157778
>Join our Federation as a Member
>We will not engage in war until after we have studied our foe.

>>5157778
>Join our Federation as a Member
>You are a fellow Forge World, we will help one another.

I think we should broach the act of membership as being a way to benefit both of our planets. That should make it much easier to make Mezoa intirested, while we should simply kill the Xenos without asking for anything.

It is after all our Duty and Mission to protect the Machine God's servants, no matter what Forge World they serve, so we should not sully that charge by demanding compensation for our acts.

>>5157778
>Join our Federation as a Member
>We will not engage in war until after we have studied our foe.

Give us anything you have of this foe. From corpses, equipment, weapons, vehicles, scrap, observations of their military units/tactics, interrogations, food supplies .... anything.
We would also like to know and have what they have about their systems and planets positions, or if they have looted something written in the xenos language for that matter. From a book to data in a technological device.

Meanwhile we ensure that Mezoe will be aided in rebuilding from recent attacks, as well further fortified and given new defenses. Also general data of the Lucius empire will be given to them, as well the possibility to join the flourishing trade and make diplomatic contact with the empire colonies and other members.

>>5157807
>Support

>>5157905
But Pety could not figure everything out. Just like the Hrud example, he did not figure out they were Psychic creatures. If he had figured that out he would have schemed up a much better solution to defeating the Hrud then attacking the symptom of their existence.

When it comes down to it TalOS will be able to reproduce Dark Age Tech, but it will take a long time.

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Wonder how this battle will go. The full Mitu Conglomerate is likely beyond our reach, it taking three full strength Astartes legions, multiple Auxilia fleets, numerous exterminatus grade muntions. The Mitus ships were very powerful, utilizing powerful energy weapons from their organic ships manipulated by psychic thought, often coming down to brutal boarding actions as much as space gunfights.

I imagine we'll have to fend off a fleet with all the planets we've amassed thus far. If we can buy time for the Nullstone Fortress to come online (and if Lucius has been also up gunning it with turrets and such) we could have a key tool in fighting them.

>>5158287
Oh yeah, if the Null fortress does what i hope it does (ie. stilling the warp and reinforcing realities hold) then it should be a fantastic weapon against the Mitu conglomerate (since it, most likely, will make telepathic commincation impossible for them, thereby crippling their ability to use their ships.).

We will simply have to wait and see what abilities our Null fortress wil acquire when it is fully done.

>>5158286
>>5157905
I think there might have been a mixup of knowledge here, since if i remember correctly Perturabo doesn't know everything just by looking at something, since that was something reserved for technology and not animals/humans. If i remember correctly, his head was simply stuffed full with knowledge (on two seperate occasions) and made him one of the most knowledgeable persons in the galaxy and sure, his transhuman mind was good at using all the knowledge he had up in his head to find a solution to most problems, but it is much more like how a person might use a database of knowledge to coroporate their findings than simply looking at something and gaining divine omniscience about the object/person/creature that was looked at.

>>5158287
Hopefully the Mitu, being multuple different species with a common origin, will be a bit more divided and not throw everything they have at us all at once unless we start going on the offensive and they see it as a defensive war for self-preversation.
Basically try to hold the tide until we resaerch our null tech, expand our empire and bolster our forces, so we can rush them as quickly as possible before they can adapt to our hard counter.

>>5157778
>Join our Federation as a Member
>We will not engage in war until after we have studied our foe.

>>5158286
>Just like the Hrud example, he did not figure out they were Psychic creatures.
I thought it was understood at that point they were obviously warp based phenomenon, that was the impression from iirc the book, where the common astartes knew that the hrud were warp based iirc.
I mean, aliens whose very presence and are mostly biological that fiddle with timespace itself is obviously not of the material world.
He also was a bit against psychic tech I think, having bought into his Dad's warning and siding with the anti psykers (although he was good friends with Magnus).

What would the better solution to the Hrud have been? He might not have had access to blackstone

>When it comes down to it TalOS will be able to reproduce Dark Age Tech, but it will take a long time.
That's awesome!

>>5158529
In Hammer of Olympia the running theory was that the Hrud traveled through time. A symptom of this caused the time paradoxes to occur around them. They did not know they were Psychic in nature, such information likely only gained several thousands of years later by a lucky Inquisitor if it was known in 40k.

The reason we know that they are Psychic is Trazyn stating such things in 'The Infinite and the Divine'. He complained that Warp Based lifeforms, like the Hrud, tended to go insane after long periods of stasis containment.

As for what could have been done well Psi-Suppressors are a thing. Instead of a massive bomb that fucked up the time powers Perty could probably have designed an Anti-Psychic bomb using similar pieces of knowledge. A Gellar Field using Blackstone is an explanation for this Quest and offically we don't really know how things like Gellar Fields work. Hell, there might be several different versions ranging from Psyker based systems to those that do use Blackstone based on how massive the Imperium is.

I don't think anyone understood what the no-war option is. Enjoy a rude awakening.
>>5157807
>>5157842
>>5157960
>>5158081
>>5158096
>>5158159
>>5158161
>>5158521

>>5158911
I mean, It was literally study the enemy in depth correct? You don't just throw your entire armed force into the meat grinder even if there is already 'information' present.

>>5158920
Yeah, but the meaning of 'We will not engage until we study the foe' was meant to be Lucius would not make any deals until you were sure you can fight the Mitu Conglomerate. Obviously no one took it that way.

>>5158923
probably should have given us some clarification then.
I mean we might not go on the offensive until we have studied them but I'm sure most would be willing to join a defective war until then. Anyone tell me if I'm wrong.

>>5158933
desu, normally I cannot post anything at work since AT&T got banned from the board a while ago. I forgot to mention something this morning and was just hoping someone would think.

I can't actually reply to anything during the mid morning and day, rarely during lunch.

>>5158923
Yeah no.

We took it as "We want to enter this war with complete knowledge of who we are fighting and how to kill them. Let us prepare before we enter it"

With this being the case, can we use this interpretation of the term since you can clearly see [and have commented on] our intent with the option instead of what you had thought it was first?

>>5158933
That's about it yeah.

>>5158947
to clarify the point of the post, the meaning here >>5158923 is a half-hearted bet hedging "if we can do it, we'll help, if not fuck you" while the rest of us are saying "We'll absolutely help, we just want to do it efficiently. Please provide data to help make this happen"

>>5158933
Yeah, I took it as "give us all your knowledge, let us study them so we can plan our attack"
This feels like a bioware/fallout 4 situation were you pick an option but teh character says something completly different, except you can't reload the game, and the dev knew ypu ibterpreted it another way and devided to go withbit anyway.

>>5158964
>[1] Fuck you
>[2] Give us all your shit, scum bags
>[3] Let us give you all of our money and knowledge, do not reciprocate
>[4] Lets stand together!

>4 Selected!
"Let's stand together. . . With my foot on your corpse!"

>[Genocide route locked]

>>5158957
Alright, I think the main problem is no one realize the magnitude of this decision. Of course you will get your information these are Tech Priests.

I try my best to make every decision have weight to them. If you say "I'm not gonna fight" in this capacity it means you are not going to fight.

Anyways, I delayed actually writing my post for this exact discussion. Since 4+ people are giving me a semi-cohesive interpretation saying 'We will fight but we need as much information as possible' means I can write.

>>5158964
Also, many of the votes of the so called no-war are bundled together with the join as member, meaning their war would be ours anyway, so there is no possible way to interpret it as that we would abandon them.
Hell, even my votes I said we were going to stand stronger together.

>>5158974
That's alright QM, it seems it was just a mutual misundertanding then.
Keep on being based.

>>5158974
It's not the magnitude, we understand that a choice we make is one that's set and will be followed through.

It's just the /qst/ standard response of stipulating "give us all the information" to agreements and actions kicked in with some vaguely ambiguous wording.
And gonna be honest, forgot that they were techpriests, who's primary method of casual conversation is info dumps.

>>5158988
lol

>>5158973
Kek

>>5158911
Yeah that really came across as less of a no-war option and more of a please share all available intel before we drop so we can kill them more efficiently.

+The price of the Federation’s services are two fold.+ TalOS declared as he knew things were completely within his control, +First I ask that you join our growing Federation of Lucius. With your direct support a war of some kind of magnitude is something I am more comfortable dedicating our resources towards.+

The Tech Priest simply gave a nod as the meaning of TalOS’s words reached her. One would ask if by chance you would end up being a subordinate in some capacity. In the case of the Federation that was not the case truly, though having the empire named after yourself made it obvious who was the first among equals.

+The second is that you give us all the information and samples you can related to the Mitu Conglomerate.+ TalOS declared, +Not a single piece of information can be witheld, and military actions will be restrained until we can figure out what we are dealing with.+

There was a flash of anger going across the Fabricator General’s face, something that is hard for a Tech Priest of her rank to occur unless it was a truly extreme emotion. Maybe it was the idea of delaying action that really irked her as she saw the Mitu as a very credible threat.

She also had true understanding of the words, +Information is guaranteed, though I am saddened you thought it necessary to make it a demand. A few days delay… I estimate that it can be done.+

+Access to the flesh samples is of my greatest concern here.+ TalOS pointed out as he extended his hand, +Then we are in agreement?+

She looked perplexed for a moment but once again the language of the cult made its purpose known. A slightly withered hand reached out and shook the limb with what bits of strength still resided within it.

+Thank you, Arch Dominus TalOS. If you wish to follow me I will explain the situation along with all that we know.+ The Fabricator General said as she beckoned him with a Mechanrite.

TalOS gave a nod to the Magos and UZ1 broke away from the defence detail to follow. A few of the Acillians stayed for security's sake, but the rest along with two Adepts left to alert the fleet of the happenings and prepare a proper defence of the system.

With that they began to walk on the rocky surface of Mezoa.

>>5158863
>‘The generators are overloaded. How is that possible?’ said Zolan.
>‘Who knows what is possible here? How does one displace time into the warp?’ said Dantioch. His throat ached. ‘They use the life of the universe as a weapon. Void shields will not stop such a thing – only will and iron.’
Now of course, this does not necessarily imply that the Iron Hands conjecture that the Hrud are psykers, perhaps there was room for them to believe that time could be displaced into the warp via technological means.

But you're right, if Perturabo was able to devise that they were psykers traveling through time, some sort of large anti-psychic tech would have come handy. I'm sure Magnus would have caught onto it immediately, but he'd just use his own psychic powers and those of his sons to negate the Hrud (though even then I wonder if he could have done it, there were so damn many)

Tbh, I am of the belief that the theory that the Hrud are traveling backwards in time or at least through time and space is as correct as them being psykers, that is mutually compatible. Perhaps they are trying to escape some terrible future after all, like the death of the universe or at least the Galaxy. Why they chose the Great Crusade era to pop into real space is bad luck for them.

I also wonder if even a standard ship based Gellar field would have managed it, mostly because of how many there were. The Hrud were just so concentrated in such massive numbers over multiple planets, their interstellar retreat alone caused rips in the fabric of spacetime that could decimate fleets. I suspect the Hrud campaign was ultimately never won, another unwinnable campaign Horus manipulated Perturabo into to break his willpower. They just managed to move on and the HH became a bigger deal.

>>5158974
Yeah absolutely that's what I thought that option meant "we need as much info as we can before we devise a war plan"

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+The price of the Federation’s services are two fold.+ TalOS declared as he knew things were completely within his control, +First I ask that you join our growing Federation of Lucius. With your direct support a war of some kind of magnitude is something I am more comfortable dedicating our resources towards.+

The Tech Priest simply gave a nod as the meaning of TalOS’s words reached her. One would ask if by chance you would end up being a subordinate in some capacity. In the case of the Federation that was not the case truly, though having the empire named after yourself made it obvious who was the first among equals.

+The second is that you give us all the information and samples you can related to the Mitu Conglomerate.+ TalOS declared, +Not a single piece of information can be witheld, and military actions will be restrained until we can figure out what we are dealing with.+

There was a flash of anger going across the Fabricator General’s face, something that is hard for a Tech Priest of her rank to occur unless it was a truly extreme emotion. Maybe it was the idea of delaying action that really irked her as she saw the Mitu as a very credible threat.

She also had true understanding of the words, +Information is guaranteed, though I am saddened you thought it necessary to make it a demand. A few days delay… I estimate that it can be done.+

+Access to the flesh samples is of my greatest concern here.+ TalOS pointed out as he extended his hand, +Then we are in agreement?+

She looked perplexed for a moment but once again the language of the cult made its purpose known. A slightly withered hand reached out and shook the limb with what bits of strength still resided within it.

+Thank you, Arch Dominus TalOS. If you wish to follow me I will explain the situation along with all that we know.+ The Fabricator General said as she beckoned him with a Mechanrite.

TalOS gave a nod to the Magos and UZ1 broke away from the defence detail to follow. A few of the Acillians stayed for security's sake, but the rest along with two Adepts left to alert the fleet of the happenings and prepare a proper defence of the system.

With that they began to walk on the rocky surface of Mezoa. 11

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The streets of the city were like a town that could have been found on Lucius. The sheer amount of battle damage made TalOS wonder how many times and how far the Mitu came to annihilate the planet. These scars ranged from the ages of a few years ago to nearly two decades at the latest.

+As you can see we have faced Mitu a number of times.+ Admitted the Fabricator General as they continued their journey, +However we have not been strong enough to retaliate against their menace properly. Sometimes we would send out fleets to try and disrupt their operations but only recently has ships actually returned from such a voyage.+

+The Warp Storms only dissipated ten years ago.+ TalOS told her the information he knew, +The Xenos were likely just lucky they were able to travel during that time. Maybe an advance technology or sorcery was employed that gave them the gift of traversal.+

+It is likely sorcery. These Xenos are heavily divorced from the ideals of the Machine God.+ Pointed out the Fabricator General with a good hint of disdain, +They do not use machines but flesh and bone. Where we would use bullets they were offer smotes of lightning or lasers they would employ fluids and electricity.+

TalOS pondered her words as he created a Vox-Datalink and sent her a package, +It sounds similar to a Xenos race that we had to deal with which we coined the Plastoids. However they did not achieve space flight and did employ a series of metal constructs in their operations.+

+Interesting, but the Mitu luckily do not have the Plastoids’ teleportation capability. I can confirm however they are very much able to employ Psychic abilities just like this.+

TalOS shook his head at this. The Psychic threat was something that it seems his entire life will be devoted to the destruction of. At least if the enemy is Psychic in some respects he should be able to sever such links with ease upon the Fortress’s approach.

+We have arrived.+ The Fabricator General announced as they came across what seemed to be a bunker. With a few chants of binary the doors to the place opened and the cohort was led into the bowls of whatever research facility Mezoa decided to create.

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They traveled a ways down to the point where TalOS was noticing several changed in the complexe’s quality. Surely this place was built to be a stronghold just in case whatever was discovered within changed the tides of battle. Such things were obvious where minor damages likely from Bombardment were none existent after they traveled fifty meters deep.

It was after a hundred that they finally arrived at the facility.

+This is the research facility of the Genators and Magos focused on unlocking the mystories of the Mitu.+ Announced the Fabricator General as they glided through the complexe, +Through the wars the Mitu have consistently left equipment, bodies, and occasionally themselves. We have been able to fight off a total of five invasion with the latest being roughly three years ago.+

+You have yet to recover from the event?+

+We do not have the industrial capabilities like Lucius. Being able to retaliate after five years of rebuilding is something we could only dream of.+ Admitted Fabricator General R0SS, +This here is an example of their weaponry, if you wish to see it.+

TalOS did as suggested and looked at the item with his mind only needing a moment to realize its purpose. This was not through his divine eyes, for these days they grew weaker and weaker thanks to the presence of the Blackstone that hung at his neck. No, this was thanks to his knowledge of past experiences and of the supernatural.

+This item is a focus of sorts.+ He admitted while running his hand across it, +A Psychically attuned creature would focus their might into this object and fire it with a bolt of pure warp energy. Dangerous, but useful for the inexperienced.+

The Fabricator General’s eyes blinked as she looked at TalOS for a moment, +Did the Plastoids have some version of this device?+

TalOS gave a certain nod, +Their more proper psykers would have daggers as focuses and this plasma based weapons used similar methods. If I must be honest it is too similar, the only difference being this is a plant instead of a piece of metal.+

+That would be troubling.+ Admitted the Fabricator General as she pointed out a new section, +That over there is the Prison Cells, from which you will find our live samples. If you want those already tested on you can find that information in that cogitator.+

TalOS blinked for a moment as he stood straight, +You have Prisoners?+

+We do, after all they only attacked three years ago.+

>Well time to have a nice meal
>Have the Acillians eat instead, just in case it would harm TalOS’s sanity
>Advance interrogation is fine, no reason to expose oneself to the Xeno’s mind.

>>5159097
>Welp, time to have a meal.
>Fabricator, prepare a sealed meditation chamber

Time to recite the canticles and commune.

>>5159097
>Well time to have a nice meal
If it something would harm TaLOS, than it fuck up an ancilian too much to get some good intel.
So time to ready those rituals.

>>5159105
Oh yeah
>Support the chamber, incense and chants.

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>>5159097
May I ask about the feasibility of TalOS putting away the blackstone for a moment to gain some divine inspiration for the master genetor to hook up a supplied servitor brain, an Omophagea, and a cortex decoder to provide an alternate means to obtaining information from alien flesh? It could be useful to save ourselves and our sons from any potential contaminated tissues in the future. Or at least as a testbed (if it starts melting and frying yeah we know it's probably not safe to eat)

Otherwise if we don't have the means or ability to do that so far from home, I'll just support a standard option.

>>5159105
>support

Eh, I'm gonna guess we don't have the tools or knowledge how to get around it any other way.

Well, our stomach and mind is stronger than any of our sons. We should do this.
>>5159105
>Support

>>5159097
Backing this >>5159105

>>5159105
>>Welp, time to have a meal.
>>Fabricator, prepare a sealed meditation chamber
This should be most flavorful.

>>5159097
>Well time to have a nice meal

>>5159097
>Have the Acillians eat instead, just in case it would harm TalOS’s sanity

You forgot that author want for every action to have consequences? First time MC devoured xenos and we meet Tzeentch. Those xenos have the same blue print for weapons. Do you want to meet Tzeentch the second time? I don't. Still Acilians ability is more than perfect for this and everything what could be known from interrogation is already known to aboriginals. Also having magical sight is very useful so can MC not wear pedant outside the battle, after all he think that Machine God have made him, so degrading one of its gifts even if it psykerish in nature is a no go, no?

>>5159105
>support

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>>5159567
I too am concerned about degrading our sight, but Primarchs are resilient. Hopefully it comes back when we take the blackstone off. Yeah, I think we should consider that there are times we do and do not have to wear it. For example, maybe keeping it in a thick lead lined neutral blackstone container. Alternatively have specific sessions where we distance ourselves from blackstone to ponder the great mechanical mysteries of the Machine God, and commit them to memory.

OR that we can have access to all our best knowledge and skills even with blackstone on.

In theory this could be solved by non-psychic means like, taking the mind of a Cryptek Technomancer, who probably knows so much about science that even DAoT looks like necron elementary school. And best of all, Necrons have no risk for psychic contamination. IIRC Belisarius Cawl essentially did that, stealing a Cryptek from some other Xenarite Mechanicus and then using the information to be able to interface and comprehend necron technology.

Our best bet to do this is to be lucky enough to discover Silva Tenebris. They are a minor, small dynasty in the Sol System bereft of any allies or reinforcements. Their wake up protocols were pretty bad, allowing only a single Ark Mechanicus and its crew to slay their commanders one by one. Plus, they also have some actual stolen STC fragments they've pilfered for their collections.

I think that would ultimately be the best thing. Supreme scientific knowledge on parallel or even beyond the DAoT men, without relying on psychic powers.

>>5159614
If people give you some support we can decide whether or not people want the Sight. I know a few were fearful of it since it is confirmed Warp Power.

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>Vizier Illmahnokh: "Great one, the astromancer and the architect has been slain"
>Overlord Szaregon: "Hnh? Let the others handle it. I'm sleeping here."
>Vizier Illmahnokh: "Great one, intruders have slain our void admiral."
>Overlord Szaregon: "Bah. He was only ever good at ships. Now let me sleep"
>Vizier Illmahnokh: "Great one, our Nemesor has been slain"
>Overlord Szaregon: "Aww, can't I just get five more years of sleep?"
>Recording: "My apologies, Great One, if you are hearing this, I have been slain"
>Overlord Szaregon: "FUCK. FINE. I'll get up! I- oh, the fuck are these red robed things in my bedroom?"

>>5159616
I think in general most of us do, but we will always be suspicious of it until we confer with the Emperor whether "The Sight" was part of his design. If it was a gift from the Emperor, part of our design, then we would use it with far less suspicion. That means speaking to him or Malcador first which isn't right now.

However, I think it likely that if we were ever confirmed to have a mission where we can successfully capture and download the mind of Necron Cryptek (ideally a Technomancer) or achieve apotheosis with a powerful DAoT "machine spirit" and gleam so much scientific information about the cosmos that we no longer need the Sight, then anons might not see any further need to rely on it. To have a non-warp based version of The Sight would be the most ideal.

We know for sure you have plans to let us meet Big E and the Great Crusade.
Is there any possibility of encountering Necrons or a powerful DAoT like the Spirit of Eternity or The Castigator on Forge World Chaeronia before their corruptions?

There's just so much advanced technology and its early prior to Chaos fucking so much up that Tal0S is the only one who can fullfil the dream of "What if the Imperium/Mechanicum got its hands on them first?"

>>5159105
>>5159097
supporting this, carefully, methodically we were lucky the first time, we need to be prepared this time.

>>5159614
>>5159616
I do support in a sense 'rationing' the blackstone useage, at least until we know how impactful it is and if the change is reversable.

>>5159631
>>5159097
ah i forgot the green, here you go
>support

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Okay, so this is more of an opinion poll since QM mentioned it but it'd be swell to see how you guys feel about it. Some of these are more like big huge pipe dreams and might not even happen in this quest at all, but if we were so lucky or given choice to try and pursue.

-So until we meet Big E, we won't know for sure if the Sight is from him. But in general most Primarchs are aware they have warp based powers of a sort, beyond their flesh and bone. Corax knew that he could hide in front of humans in plain daylight even while standing in front of them, but it didn't work on Cameras and Sensorium. Could this be our power, and should we use it more or less?
-Other ways we could become less reliant on The Sight is by achieving blessed apotheosis with a machine spirit, as techpriest Uther Tiberius did, which is the ultimate goal of any techpriest to blend man and machine. If we could achieve that with a very powerful STC Machine Spirit. For example, the Spirit of Eternity has a complete STC library, but became furious and rejected mankind after its pilot (whom it called "bondmate", so perhaps its already bonded to a person) was killed for trying to warn mankind about Chaos and deemed a heretic. But we could be in a time before that happens, and might even try to convince it and its pilot to stay. Its sister ship, the Blade of Infinity, seems more benevolent as it pops in and out from time to time to warn mankind about big Chaos incursions. Perhaps its pilot is still alive, or perhaps it doesn't share the same opinion.
Frankly since both these ships are lost in the Warp and we are having trouble relocating the Ark Lucius, I doubt we could find them easily. It might have been millennia of search before Cawl could. Maybe Magnus or the Pharos could help track them down, if we can discover their existence from ancient federation records on Terra perhaps? Honestly if Guilliman could recover the McCragges Honour, I think finding Ark Mechanicus Lucius or another type of ship from the Warp is doable.

-On Forge World Chaeronia is hidden a Castigator Titan, also housing an STC, and is considered the "Father of All Titans" and is very advanced, appearing as a lithe humanoid whose head is actually over its shoulders rather than the clunky toy like shape of modern Imperators that are only attempts to replicate it. The planet was lost to the warp after the HH, by the time the Grey Knights were a thing, for 100 years realtime but 1000 years in Warp Time. Lost in the warp, it fell to Chaos. If we can find Chaeronia and its Titan, we could move it to somewhere safer like Mars. Maybe teach it to reject the Warp like we did.
-There are some small Necron Worlds who are vulnerable enough to mankind, as show by Silva Tenebris, a minor Dynasty able to be conquered by an Ark Mechanicus fleet lead by a human techpriest. The entire tomb was able to be conquered and opened up for study (or exterminated if you chose in the Mechanicus Game)

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>>5159645
tl;dr how do you guys feel about
>Use of The Sight and Blackstone on and off, until we confirm with Big E/Malcador it's part of design then relying on it more
ALSO if it were possible in this quest, how do you feel about
>Achieving Blessed Apotheosis with or recruiting a DAoT ship like Spirit of Eternity or its sisters (as long as it isn't corrupted) and teach it to reject Chaos
>/Or if it is corrupted, try to hunt it down and challenge it for information like Cawl did
>Achieving Blessed Apotheosis with or recruiting the Castigator, finding it on Chaeronia before it is pulled into the warp, and teach it to reject Chaos
>Taking the information off a Necron Cryptek into our brain for its super science, so we no longer need to rely on the Sight since Necrons have basically done all the super science
>UR025, a Man of Iron that hasn't gone mad like the ones held by the Lion, could be on our Blackstone Fortress or some of the others in the Lucius Sector, but he seems more openly disdainful of Mechanicus and is a Void Dragon worshipper so unless our Charisma is so good we can convince a machine, we may just hunt him down to siphon his info from his body or just ignore him
>Any of the above

>>5159647
I think we should hold off the Sight until we can confirm that it was intended, because the warp mutates and TalOS was just cruising in the warp being haunted by daemons before being teleportes into Lucius.
Not for any actual gameplay reasons mind you, OOC we know TalOS was meant to be the tech primarch and all of them are psykers in some way so it's safe, but IC the molusk did try to tempt hum with knowledge, so it makes sense that TalOS would avoid thinking there is a chance it's another ploy.
Of course, as soon as the crusade reaches us and we have a one on one with Emps, I'm full on board on making use of our gift.

>>5159667
People who fall to Tzeentch/Warp Corruption for knowledge and technology are losers anyway, and I bet Tal0S would recognize it if he ever discovered the Dark Mechanicum. Not only does he not even actually give the knowledge of the universe but just slaps demons into your machines and eats your soul.

Ironically the C'tan, even the Deceiver, was more honest than the mollusk. When they said "immortality and ultimate knowledge for your souls" they meant it and they gave it. The Necrons got exactly word for word what they asked for.

>>5159105
>support

>>5159616
>Maintain the sight. Use blackstone when under threat
It would be a shame if we killed it and the Emperor said it was part of our design
>>5159647
>Any of the above
If they fit into QMs plans and best case scenario happens. I'm partial to the necron option since it gives us more ability to fight the warp, which is something the dark age mankind could not

>>5159097
>Welp, time to have a meal.
>Fabricator, prepare a sealed meditation chamber
>wear blackstone pendant
>get the Pariah child on the planet and keep it close outside the meditation camber to furher weaken any psychic effects
>Give UZ1 some instructions what to do while we are occupied and what to do in case things go bad (get more supplies and troops to Mezoa, etc).

>>5159616
>not using the sight
I think Talos is developed enough as a personality that he would dislike psychic powers enough to see the wakening of this ability as a good thing.

personally, I see Tal0s using his sight and powers and just taking a more utilitarian mindset to them. they are just a tool to be used even if it's a dangerous one. in the same way, a plasma weapon might explode if not cared for properly. I thought we would be using the Blackstone for a more defensive purpose or if we are fighting psykers than cucking ourselves out of our powers.

The primary goal of all children of the Omnissiah is the Quest for Knowledge, the acquisition of knowledge is primary, all others being secondary though not to be neglected.
"Understanding is the True Path to Comprehension."
"Comprehension is the key to all things".
"The Omnissiah knows all, comprehends all"
To understand and comprehend is to come closer to the Omnissiah and the Machine God. Now the ways in which we achieve this can be varied, and not always pleasant.

'The Sight', if it is a tool given unto us without corruption by the Emperor, is a way to achieve understanding beyond our own personal knowledge. I think of it as a crutch, a bionic, one which we can use while it is useful, even if it is psychic which is not very ideal. But like a techpriest would discard a crutch in favor of a bionic, and would then discard an inferior bionic favor of a more perfect one, Tal0S can use The Sight until a better option to gain superior scientific knowledge and understanding appears. We could in theory, use The Sight to guide us to many possible means in the Galaxy by which Tal0S no longer need to use The Sight. If we unlock the knowledge of the ancients, whoever these ancients are and by however means, and their ability to comprehend, then we may at last put The Sight aside, as we no longer have need for it. But for now, there is use in The Sight I feel.

>>5159842
And like a plasma gun, we could strive to find a weapon equal if not even superior potency that is more reliable than finnicky plasma yes?

>>5159842
>>5159870
Comparing Psychic abilities is exactly what Magnus did. Would you call such a man wise?

>>5159959
well, Magnus was kinda right about that as proven by 10k years of relatively safe space marine librarians. Magnus's folly was
1. he was unaware of the chaos gods.
2. he trusted anything a demon would say.
3. he was arrogant enough to believe he was safe from any consequences from going balls deep in the warp while screaming Leroy Jenkins!

>>5159959
We havent met Magnus IC yet. Also the Emperor is a psyker and most of our brothers will have psychic abilities built into them. Plus ours is specific to technology rather than opening up the warp, like Corvus sneaking or maybe even Vulkans techyness.
I like the plan of us using it temporarily until we reach a point where we can confidently say we have no more use for it, because we already know. The sooner the better.
Actually so far has there been anything Tal0s has needed the sight to understand that his mind couldnt?
>>5159963
Yeah. This goal would be temporary usage until we can dispose of it because the Sight can no longer teach us anything.

>>5159967
Also by "use the Sight until cant teach us anything" I mean like replacing it with knowledge from Dark Age or Necron as suggested by anon. I dont want us to become so very reliant on it or try to maximize its psychic power like Magnus did.

>>5159967
And we also don't know that all primarchs and the emperor are psykers IC as well.
As soon as TalOS knows that it's part of the design, and not the bird trying to tempt him with knowledge like he tried, than I feel it's right to use it.
Until then it feel a bit weird for the man that has been so wary of the warp.

>>5160014
This is true. I think just keep it somewhat alive until we can confirm or deny it later. We dont have to use it per say.

Nom
>>5159105
>>5159117
>>5159128
>>5159146
>>5159177
>>5159573
>>5159693
>>5159113
>>5159512
>>5159770
>>5159632

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+Fabricator General.+ TalOS called out to the person with a firmness of authority in his voice, +I will take the Xenos into my care and extract intelligence. I will not be operating for the next few days as I take part in a Ritual. The information of what will be happening…+

The Fabricator General’s eyes widened for a moment as the info reached her over a Vox Data-Link, +This is real? I have never heard of a creature, Xenos or Man, who could perform such a thing.+

+I have done it before and became a great bounty to Lucius. One of the reasons why I am before you today.+ TalOS admitted as he started his march over there, +It will take roughly a week as I understand myself much more, but we will learn everything they have to offer.+

The Fabricator General made a show of thinking. Just long enough to make sure no one thought TalOS was ordering her around like he actually was. It was only after these precious moments that he got a nod, +I will allow you to pick one. I think we have identified the highest ranking one but you might have more luck.+

TalOS gave a nod as he turned towards everyone, +Disperse and take up research, I am only learning their memory not their biology. UZ1 I want you to organize a consolidation and start reinforcing the defenses upon Mezoa. Our fellow fleet should be coming back in around two days and the logistics fleet will be at the end of the week. Deus Mechanicus!+

The replies went out as TalOS quickly turned and approached what was the Prison. Within only a matter of minutes the Primarch was looking at and examining a series of Xenos specimens that were clearly odd.

They ranged from really small creatures to massive brutes. The fact of them being labeled a Conglomerate was becoming more and more tangible with every moment he studied them. It was after a few minutes of study that TalOS caught sight of the one being marked a leader.

+This here is the Slorrs, a Psychically attuned race that is mainly capable of telekinesis and energy manipulation.+ The Magos next to TalOS said as he opened up the pen, +We are 78% sure they are the leaders of the Mitu Conglomerate as they have been seeing scattered among the rank and file. The other chance is that they could be artillery, but they are too close to the battlefield to be just that.+

TalOS was looking at a creature mostly resembling the features of a Terran Slug. However the vibrant colors made it have a supernatural flare that TalOS was sure only the Psychically Gifted Xenos could achieve.

+Bring him.+

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Upon the Onus Probandi was a singular room that was locked off by a series of Acillians and Skitarii. Normally this room would not be nearly as guarded but the current occupant desired the most amount of security. It was to make sure that he was secure, but also that the fleet was secured from his coming actions.

He had done this once, about ten years ago when he was becoming an adept of the Machine God. The time when Lucius was being scouted for an invasion by the vicious Plastoids. Through his actions back then Lucius had survived and now prospered under his leadership.

It was also the time he became aware of what he already knew. The Dark Gods who lurk behind the scenes.

Before him was a sedated Sloog. The simple thought was the longer he kept the Xenos alive the more information he might be able to gleam from it. He had reviewed the Genetors’ notes on the Xenos and was already aware of their physiology. TalOS had decoded it and figured out the optimal way to both sedate and keep the creature alive long enough to be consumed.

The last thing he did was settle a censer of incense above the creature. The smell of the divine smoke going into his senses and relaxing them.

+Machine God, grant me the strength to commit this deed. If I succeed here I will be able to give your people comprehension. If I do not, then I shall be lost. Thus I ask you for the defence against the coming tide of knowledge and worship.+

With those words TalOS took out a Knife and made an incusion, +The Mysteries of the Cult. First Law. Life is Directed Motion.+ And he ate the piece of meat.

Time passed as he ate, knowledge flowing into him with every piece of it. Quickly TalOS learned of the creature’s family. How it was one in a little of ten separate psychic creatures. How it played and bantered with its siblings. It gave a small bit of horror for TalOS knowing these Psychic creatures were able to breed and farrow that many every five years of their fifty year lives.

He watched as the creature grew and matured. While it was of the highest caste of creature the Xenos was more than willing to work between itself and a series of other xenos that TalOS learned about recently. However these Xenos were recognized as the best thanks to their Psychic training and ability.

It was after this that he learned of its childish dreams. The Sloog, named Kiz’Kia, wanted to join the army and fight the Greenskin menace.

They are in the middle of a War with Orks.

Its always Orks.

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In the Galactic North, in a region of space that would be North East of Lucius, lays an entire Empire of Orks. Such an empire has been fought for nearly eight hundred years at this point and had become a massive deadlock. While the Sloog can grow fast and their fellow member species can fight well, the Orks have reached a Critical Mass that can only be described as Apocalyptic.

Both sides were locked in this point. Yes the Mitu Collective would push the Greenskins back but the worlds that were reclaimed did not have anything habitable on them and were covered in fungus. As such within a decade the Orks would start a guerilla war by accident and cause the Mitu to fall back to their original borders upon more Orks coming to fight the good fight. Encircling the Orks was considered, but a betrayal barely understood by Kiz’Kia prevented an invasion to the direct west and the east had no habitable planets.

As such they started to move south, where they found Humanity.

Suddenly TalOS was bombarded with numerous locations that were human colonies. The Mitu wished they could move there and invade the realms of man, but thanks to the sheer amount of military power being devoted to the Orks the Mitu Collective could not invade these human colonies.

Thus a method was established. The entire sub sector was marked and each colony was identified. After identification they would eliminate any Warp Based transit the Human Colonies could have and cull any form of Psyker they had. Warp Transit was eliminated because the Xenos did not want Humanity to come up and stab them in the back. The Psykers were because they did not want Humanity to develop like the Betrayers had.

After this they would invade the humans one by one. Nearly a hundred worlds were lost to this piecemeal strategy. The only reason Mezoa was still alive is because the Xenos counted it as ‘Pacified’.

It was after this moment TalOS identified with his own knowledge what was missing from that of the Sloog’s. It seemed, for whatever reason, the Plastoids were these betrayers and had become something of an impossible foe to fight thanks to their ability to Teleport onto warp bound ships. Lucius was likely protected ironically by the Xenos because the Plastoids were likely ready to pounce on any attempt to claim what they thought was rightfully theirs.

A week later and TalOS had finished the consumption. Moments after he sent out a report containing all the information he had gleamed as well as the numerous Human Colonies that were recorded. Their culture, tactics, and abilities were distributed without care.

However one thing came up that grabbed TalOS’s attention beyond anything else.

These Xenos were currently monitoring the Mezoa and all these other systems for any form of Warp based transit. Such transit the fleet of Lucius was surely doing thousands of times in just this week alone.

>Prepare for the inevitable attack by the Mitu Conglomerate
>Send out forces to start reclaiming these newly found human worlds
>Make a preemptive strike against the Mitu Conglomerate.

>>5160282
>Send out forces to start reclaiming these newly found human worlds

Hmmm, this is actually tricky

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>>5160282
>Prepare for the inevitable attack by the Mitu Conglomerate

Okay, so we know that the Mitu are hard pressed to divert forces from the Ork War. They want to isolate humanity from warp travel and cull psykers, keep them penned in until they can deal with the Orks.

Weve given away the presence of warp travel in Mezoa.

Therefore, we are the outlier. The threat to be responded to. It wouldnt make military sense to try and invade another human system with precious resources while Mezoa stands out as the threat.

We should fortify Mezoa and concentrate here. To go to other planets preemptively would only spread the war all around, and our forces even thinner. Here we should mass and see. If for some reason they do choose to invade other planets, we can attempt to respond to it then. But sending out envoys now would just make them want to attack more planets vs focusing on Mezoa where we can have a go at slugging at them head on on our turf.

Also they likely have proper navigators so will have warp travel superiority, we will have trouble chasing and responding to them.

Maybe we can get the Nullstone Fortress here if we can hold out for a year. That would allow us to anchor Mezoa with a strong defense and slow down fleet invasions by extending the mandeville point in which they can warp back to realspace (and more distance for Mezoa defense lasers to shoot at them), then we can see about moving out to other planets to recruit their void fleet power or fortify. For now we can try to play off that most human planets care only about themselves.

>>5160282
>>Send out forces to start reclaiming these newly found human worlds

>>5160282
>Send out forces to start reclaiming these newly found human worlds

Well it seems anons want to reclaim the human worlds, so I'll fold
>>5160282
Switch to
>Send out forces to start reclaiming these newly found human worlds

>>5160282
Go pick a fight with the Orks, jk
>Send out forces to start reclaiming these newly found human worlds

>>5160282
>>Send out forces to start reclaiming these newly found human worlds

We must ensure that our brothers and sisters among the stars will survive, else this entire venture would be a failure and our dreams of a grand human federation will die before it even truly got a chance to take off.

>>5160282
>Send out forces to start reclaiming these newly found human worlds

Prepare for war. Mezoa still need to hold and become a fortress that can defeat enemies fleets. Naval fights against the Conglomerate will not be easier if we have to claim more territory, we will need to divide fleets/armies afterall. The only advantage is that orks are taking most of their attention, but not all since they attacked Mezoa not too long ago.

I do want to maximize the power of Sight throughout, because why not? Not everything is coming from Chaos and even what does can be usurped

>>5160491
Part of me was hoping we would do that by making Mezoa the primary battleground, sparing the others of Mitu attention.

I just hope we can effectively defend all the planets with the forces we have. Them seeing warp signatures in all these other worlds is gonna light up their map like a christmas tree.

However we go it, may the Motive Force be with us.

>>5160282
>Make a preemptive strike against the Mitu Conglomerate.

Well, speed is essential right now and no war was won on defense.

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>>5160507
Its typically a lot easier for Chaos to usurp the pure, rather than the other way around though yes it is possible.
But mostly, Tal0S just doesnt like warp stuff. It also is still a liability wherever the influence of Chaos or warp storms are it can fuck with our visions same way it did Magnus or the Eldar time and again, even Big E was able to be blocked by the combined might of Chaos. Also if we want to study Null tech it becomes less useful around our experiments.

We wont need the Sight at all if we gain access to the higher sciences directly, either via a DAoT machine spirit/STC or by downloading the mind of a Cryptek and their technomantic knowledge. With such knowledge, we can analyze and comprehend even the most mysterious phenomena.

See this guy? His name is Orikan. He could do almost everything Magnus could do and more. And he did all of it without a trace of warp magic. Proof that the laws of Physics and the Sciences can indeed match the Warp.

We almost assuredly cant take him. But a Cryptek from a minor dynasty? Theres a target we can.

It looks like the Betrayers/Plastoids were their Navigator equivalents.

Huh. More of a loss than it seemed. But we should be able to fix that soon with what we take from the Mitu.

I wish we could eat Necron.

>>5160659
>Talos with upgraded nanobod able to eat necrodermis talks to a necron cryptek caught in a stasis field
https://youtu.be/DC6UtsPa13o

>>5160282
>Preemptive strike

>>5160379
Don't fold, this is a Roman Democracy not Mob Rule. There might be people who agree with you and only changed because you changed.

>>5160282
>Prepare for the inevitable attack by the Mitu Conglomerate

>>5160696
Yeah anon, don't change your vote because of the majority, I've been voting for talking with magos everytime, even though I knew it would lose, because what matters is the voice to be heard.

>>5160282
>>Prepare for the inevitable attack by the Mitu Conglomerate

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>>5160525
>We almost assuredly cant take him
Can't take an old man lol.

>>5160703
This does make a stupid thought that I just had, wouldn't TalOS, being a highly skilled Tech Priest, accidently run into Technomancy? I mean the Necrons could do it before they became Skeletons so who knows. Maybe if you all choose to focus on it.

>>5160705
I think that once we got the all clear from dad about our sight, TalOS will autistically try to understand and master it, eventually discovering technomancy.
Making him even more of an Omnissiah as well.

>>5160282
>Prepare for the inevitable attack

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>>5160705
I am delighted by your saying there's the possibility Tal0S could actually do that by himself if we focused on it. Though I wonder if he would need the Sight to do it, or if he could do so without it.
To answer your question is two questions:
-Can Tal0S reasonably match the Technomancy of a Necron Cryptek through sheer will and effort?

The Necrons had possibly thousands of years more time than DAoT mankind to stud their craft, and did not collapse like DAoT did. They were aware of the nature of the Warp and hated the Old Ones. But most important of all, they had the C'tan infuse them with incredible knowledge and powers, like the very Void Dragon itself, to the point that they could fight the Old Ones. Could we even consider that such races like the Aeldari or Humanity in its prime could do such a thing? Add to that, people who have awoken early like Orikan, who have multiplied their knowledge many millenia fold. Cawl took 10,000 years and still could not fully comprehend Necron technology without the aid of Trazyn. By indomitus, the best he could do was tiny Necron Pylons only after much war with the Pariah Nexus for samples and aid of the Pharos. Granted, Cawl was a human. We are a Primarch. If you think we can think our way into Necron tier Technomancy, which by all accounts is likely superior to even DAoT (they were able to use science to work runes into the fabric of the cosmos so they could zap people from their fingertips, vs Magnus "lol psychic might!") then I have a newfound level of respect for Tal0S

-The other, and more important thing: How much time will it take if we focus on it, and is it the most efficient way we can go about it. Is accidentally our way into Technomancy through research really going to be faster than say, taking the mind of a Cryptek assimilating its information? Granted, this does allow us a better chance at diplomacy with the Silent King if that's what players would consider. Sanguineous did. But can we truly have the time to focus on it with all the other stuff we want to do like securing Lucius Sector, finding lost STCs and Artifacts, fulfilling our duties to the Great Crusade, helping Malcador do his super science, etc.

In my mind, the most time effective plan we could do would be to prioritize and focus on the Pharos. Securing it by building an entire fortress world above it and making sure it won't explode, maybe even figure up a way to reverse engineer Ork planet telyporta's to move it somewhere safe like Terra or Lucius itself. The Pharos is the key to all and the time saver, we won't have to solve riddles or search ancient clues to find what we are looking for of the many things in the galaxy, or traverse the dangers of the warp. We just think it, and it is in our hands or we are there.

That should be the very first thing we focus on imo. The Pharos is the key to the Galaxy. Also not having the Tyranids show up by it going boom is a plus.

>>5160703
Beware a 65 million year old man in a game where civilizations die young.

>>5160282
Having considered that I don't need to switch to the Majority, and I still think the Merits of baiting the enemy to Mezoa outweigh the fact that if we try to consolidate other human planets, we can't be sure where they will strike or target and might be spread thing.

An ancient Terran King and General once said: "He who defends everything, defends nothing" and "Grab thy enemy's neck by thy hand". If Mezoa becomes the threat, they can't waste time and resources invading other human planets while we build up and mass our forces. And if they do, those other human planets might bog or hold them in place long enough for us to mount a proper counter assault or determine if this is a bait attack.

>Prepare for the inevitable attack by the Mitu Conglomerate

>>5160282
>Prepare for the inevitable attack by the Mitu Conglomerate
I really hope that we can fortify Mezoa enough for them to not loose anything important should the Mitu decide to sends some heavy stuff

Gather a Dominion and Ground
>>5160290
>>5160358
>>5160369
>>5160489
>>5160491
>>5160505

Preemptive strike
>>5160520
>>5160686

Prepare (Wish you have Dorn)
>>5160699
>>5160702
>>5160727
>>5160974
>>5160827

Each of these had value and are close, however growing the grounds of war won. This will be interesting.

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TalOS walked from his chamber and received a series of scans upon his person by the first Acillian he met. TalOS’s son gave a nod to him before falling behind TalOS and escorting him through the several other checkpoints they had in place.

These security measures were placed just in case TalOS was somehow compromised by the Xenos flesh. However with each scrying and scanning it became obvious that the Arch Dominus had emerged from the ritual unscathed.

The buzzing hallways were more active than usual as every Tech Priest worth their salt was starting to make changes to conform to the enemy’s form of battle. No one under TalOS’s command would be caught unaware anymore. Not after the Plastoids made their mark upon the history of Lucius.

Halfway through his walk TalOS was joined by someone he knew well, +The information you gathered… its exquisite.+

+Such is a gift I have UZ1.+ TalOS answered without much care in his words, +Once we start gathering many more samples my Sons will likely start committing themselves to the ritual. However that is after we have secured the region.+

+That would lead to an overextension of our forces.+ Pointed out UZ1 with the wit and knowledge of a senior Tech Priest, +While the Logistics Fleet is large enough to manage this our main military force will be lacking.+

+That is a worry I recognized.+ TalOS admitted as he pondered for a moment, +However if we stay here on Mezoa waiting for them we are but mutants crowding caves. If we can gather territory before the war starts proper then we can lose more later.+

The Adept gave a nod to those words, +It is a reasonable assessment. I think the last numbers from Lucius is that we have a Billion Skitarii and five thousand Acillians in transit.+

+We might need to liquidate more souls from Helmnet.+ TalOS admitted as he started to calculate their odds, +The enemy’s army was so large that they did not bother to count it. For the Orks it is easily estimated to be in the billions as well.+

+That is what I thought too, comparing your notes.+ Admitted the Adept as she gave a small smile, +At least all of my training was not for nothing.+

+It was not, nor was the growing of our armies.+

Upon those words TalOS looked out a window to see a hundred ships now in system ready for his commands.

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The ship slowly shuttered in pain as it passed through from the portal. Everyone upon the ship prayed and prayed as they tried their damndest to make sure their souls were not lost in translation.

+Raise the iron Curtains and let us see out destination. Bask in the Glory that is the Machine God for we have arrived!+ TalOS declared as he once again survived Warp transit.

+Deus Mechanicus.+ Said UZ1 as she held her hands over her modest bosom, +The new Gellar Fields are performing beyond expectations.+

+They are indeed.+ TalOS admitted as he had a moment to scan the internals of the Onus Probandi, +My Father is a brilliant man. In the manner of certain Techno-Sorcery he is above even me.+

+He is indeed.+ The Adept admitted as she allowed a very human breath out of her lungs.

TalOS quickly contacted the Machine Spirits of the Sensory Array and locked down their location in the galactic scale. It had been roughly a month since they departed Mezoa and were acting fast in order to cover the ground. Already TalOS could count five worlds in just the last week alone.

It was a wonder what someone could do when they had the knowledge of where everything was already. The only issue with those worlds was their human populations were so sparse from the cullings that they did not provide any strategic or religious interest to the Mechanicum.

TalOS quickly spotted their next target, +C-39 has been located and marked on the Auspex Array. Population is higher than average at roughly… 45 Billion Souls. We have another Hive World.+

+Glory to the Machine God.+ Announced UZ1 as she gave a courteous smile, +That is more manpower for us to use.+

TalOS nodded along with her before the Machine Spirits alerted him to something else, +Attention crew, warm armaments and prepare for battle. I am detecting enemy ships in the area!+

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From the Sensory Array TalOS was able to see them. A quick count of five ships that were currently hanging out in the system. Based on light speeds this image would be roughly five minutes old. With a sudden spark of inspiration TalOS activated the newly installed Psi-Sensors and was quickly given a feed of what was happening in the warp. It was showing six pings of high psychic energy, those being the Hive World and the five enemy ships they were noticing.

Five of those readings were getting stronger. In real time TalOS knew they were getting closer.

+Adept SK4, take over the Sensory Array and keep an eye on the Psi-Sensors.+ TalOS ordered without hesitation, +We have spotted everyone! Prepare for coming conflict!+

+Do you think they are preparing for battle? They do not have nearly as much information as we do.+ Admitted UZ1 as she fed off a quickly released data-packed from TalOS.

+They might have mistaken us as those from planet C-39, or an allied fleet.+ Pointed out TalOS, +Can Psykers determine the brand of ships through their biological Psi-Scans?+

+There are no recordings of that based on your readings. However the Witch-Sight of Psykers is something to be wary of.+ Pointed out UZ1, +If they knew we are a Mechanicus Vessel then they likely think us to be Mezoan.+

+Which would be an error on their part.+ TalOS agreed, +They will underestimate at least the capabilities of the Tartarus vessels. Do you think boarding would be possible?+

+Definitely not with the Knight Detachment.+ Pointed out UZ1, +You could send your sons and have them capture high ranking individuals as we do not know their purpose here. However that might mean the Mitu could send out a message declaring what we are and our intentions.+

+Or we could shut down our systems and make them think we are a Space Hulk.+ TalOS offered, +A bit sneaky and maybe hard to believe with this many ships, but we could cause them more confusion for a few minutes. If they have Ship based Witch-Sight only the Dukes and Princes of the Knight Detachment will look ‘normal’.+

From entering the system to now, only five seconds had elapsed.

>Fight them and destroy them ASAP
>Prepare for a Boarding Action
>Lure them into a trap.

I don't feel right skipping to here but all the current decisions I feel could be made were made. Maybe I should have done some fluff but atlast I am kinda in a rush to think.

>>5161212
Heh, maybe I choose this event because I am near the end of Pretorian of Terra lol. War is on the mind!

>>5161212
>Lure them into a trap.
>Prepare for a Boarding Action

>>5161212
>Lure them into a trap.
How pe that it involves using the gellar field or some other anti-psyker measure, that should cripple the Mitu

>>5161212
>Prepare for a Boarding Action
>Lure them into a trap
We can attempt to use our advanced mind to make special adjustements to the Gellar Fields. Using the Psionic Sensors, we can attempt to calibrate them and perhaps divert additional power so that they cause great interference with astropathic hymns (witch messages or whatever they be called)

With these up, when the ships board, we can try to interfere with their ability to send messages of aid.

>>5161212
>Prepare for bording

>>5161212
>>Prepare for a Boarding Action

>>5161212
>Prepare for a Boarding Action
Caught up with the quest just now, been a good read so far keep up the good work QM.

>>5161212
>supporting >>5161290

>>5161290
>supporting

>>5161290
>>5161212
i like this so
>supporting

>>5161212 #
>>Prepare for a Boarding Action

>>5161290
>supporting

>>5161212

>Fight them and destroy them ASAP

Their tactic do not include fighting superior force, so it's better to attack them ASAP before they flew.

Tricking them into a trap, a clever trap.
>>5161229
>>5161290
>>5161729
>>5161745
>>5161804
>>5161861

Trap
>>5161278

Boarding Actions
>>5161309
>>5161350
>>5161717
>>5161838

Fight them!
>>5161887

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+A trap could be possible.+ Admitted UZ1 as she sifted the data, +However that will not stop their communications. You stated in your early paper that they used some form of Warp based transmission?+

TalOS gave a nod before growing a smile, +Indeed that is true, and we can use that to our advantage. Everyone, shut down the systems and make ourselves looks like dialect ships!+

The Tech Priests did exactly what they were told. By the time ten seconds elapsed the numerous systems ranging from standard life support and even lights were cut. To put it simply they would look to be a dead voidship among a growing many coming out of the Warp.

With that TalOS disconnected from the Command Throne and turned towards one of his sons, +Tell AL4N to prepare boarding parties. When they enemy is near you will board their ship.+

+Deus Mechanicus.+ Answered the Acillian before running down the halls at speeds even Tech Priests would struggle to match. Such a thing brought a grin across the face of TalOS as he knew a scheme was slowly coming together.

+When the Acillians launch themselves I want every ship to be prepared to fire. I know we will have a minute before the first shot but I will be orchestrating an interference to prevent retaliation.+ TalOS told the bridge before leaving the location and running down the halls.

Hot on TalOS’s heels was UZ1 and three Acillians for security purposes. Due to their combined speed the group was able to make their way down the rooms and soon breached into the Gellar Field’s chamber.

+Oh great Machine Spirit, I have come again.+ TalOS told the machine as he walked over and placed his hand on a console that he previously used for great effect, +I need your help once more if you are willing.+

TalOS inserted a Mechanrite and UZ1 quickly started getting out sticks of incense for the ritual. The Acillians fanned themselves out and took up positions in case of enemy intrusion. While likely not needed it was something that TalOS knew was necessary. You never know if some piece of information was lost and caused them to lose horribly.

The Machine Spirit was receptive to TalOS’s newly found scheme. The systems configured and a frequency was chosen that would run throughout not only this ship but surely nail anything within a light minute.

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With the sensory array down, those on the fleet of Lucius were blind. It was like a man playing dead before a bear not and keeping their eyes closed so they can play the part. Said man would feel moments of fear as he heard the stomping of the beast’s feet and nearly scream as the beast came closer.

This, to a lesser extent thanks to their augmentations, was exactly what the Tech Priests and their servants felt as they drifted like space hulks.

The only way the Priests of Lucius were able to get any understanding was by visual observation. Some saw themselves clever enough and steered their ships in such a way to make this easier while others simply sent Skitarii to viewports around the ship.

After roughly fifteen minutes of waiting visual contact was made. All who can see them counted five ships among the fleet of the Mitu Conglomerate. Their hulls were not that of metal but that of an odd organic structure comparable to trees. It must have been a material divorced from trees however for no Tech Priest worth their salt would employ the use of such a weak material.

There they waited.

And waited.

Waited.

With every moment the xenos waited the more the Mechanicus Ships began to look dead. Acillians and Skitarii, arriving in their positions, place themselves in self imposed stasis in order to simer what little light soul they might have had. Tech Priests began to lower their Machine Spirit’s activity and left only the receiving and visual systems live.

They stayed like this for an hour. An hour of dead silence.

Finally two of the enemy ships broke off and made their approach. Whatever mystical thruster systems they used glided the ships closer and closer at a slow pace that would make all but the Tech Priests cry.

The ships stopped, almost a mile away from the Onus Probandi. All but one felt something go over their flesh. In an instant it reached everyone it was understood to be the makeshift singal that they were waiting for.

A trap was then sprung.

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The Xenos only had ten seconds to understand that the ships were inhabited before a series of boarding torpedoes were all sent across the void and into their hulls. They would have called out but the instant they were impacted a wave of something cut through space and put a damper upon everything the Xenos the psychic xenos could say.

The Skitarii who were aboard the torpedos quickly slaughtered everyone before them in a radioactive haze of gunfire. Seconds later the xenos who could see the Skitarii watched as the fabric of reality was sundered allowing giant steel and beige giants walk out.

Moments later they were slaughtered by Volkite fire.

It was not just those ships close to the Mechanicum’s fleet that were suffering problems. A blanket was placed over the Warp in such a way that the communications of the Xenos became impossible even between one another. Such a thing only shrinked their reaction time as the numerous Tartarus Class ships awakened and pointed their mounted bow gun in their direction.

Seconds later a barrage of gunfire was sent out and many slammed into the surface of the ships with devastating effect.

It was then the true nature of the Mechanicum’s ships were finally realized that those from afar tried to engage. A series of small fighters were sent flying towards the awakened Pickett Line in an attempt to help the boarded ships in escaping the realized trap.

Such an attempt was not in their favor as the Pickett’s line second purpose was discovered. Numerous las-turrets that were mounted upon their hulls began to fire out in an all encompassing blanket of energy bolts. Some of these bolts whitted short thanks to the starting Machine Spirits, others went too far for they were too eager to fight, but more than enough hit their mark and shredded all the fighters that were approaching.

Another barrage of prow mounted cannons went off and slammed themselves against the now active shields of the enemy. While five of these shots would not have been a problem, nearly twenty of them caused the shields to collapse and scratch into the hull. The Xenos Cruisers would not die from the shots but it definitely spoked to them.

It was then that the Onus Probandi finally awakened once more in service of the Machine god.

>Advance forward with the full fleet and engage the enemy ships!
>Take complete control of these two ships. There is plenty to learn with these
>A Primarch is the Captain, see if we can win with just a Cruiser and Tartarus class ships.

>>5162724
We can not allow them to escape
>Advance forward with the full fleet and engage the enemy ships!

>>5162724
>Advance forward with the full fleet and engage the enemy ships!

>>5162724
>Advance forward with the full fleet and engage the enemy ships!
Get em outta here!

>>5162724
>Advance forward with the full fleet and engage the enemy ships!

>The tartarus completely fulfilling their intended purpose and doing (Machine) Gods work
I'm so proud I could cry tears of oil

>>5162724
>Advance forward with the full fleet and engage the enemy ships!
Tal0S ain't the cocky type when it comes to war. Full blast with all guns and maximum delivery of firepower! None of this daring duel silliness if we can avoid it.

>>5162724
>Advance!

>>5162852
Fellow Magi, your emotional vault is malfunctioning.

I suggest reciting the litanies.

>>5162724
>>Advance forward with the full fleet and engage the enemy ships!

Our boarding parties should still have a good amount of momentum and surprise. They need to keep pushing.

>>5162962
My emotional cores register joy in the destruction of filthy xenos.
I choose to experience it.

I feel like they would have tried to make peace.

Ah well.

>>5163872
We don't negotiate with xeno psyker imperialists.

>>5163872
Mc is from Mechanics faction who mercilessly kill mutants and aliens of whatever gender and age, why would you think that?

>>5162724
>Take complete control of these two ships. There is plenty to learn with these

I kind want to advance but I also want QM to write the boarding scenes more than that.

>>5163872
Peace is never an option.
Violence is always the answer.

Advance!!
>>5162748
>>5162762
>>5162767
>>5162849
>>5162852
>>5162952
>>5162979

Take Control
>>5163982 - Good to know the boarding sounds cool. I will see what I can do.

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With the Machine Spirit awakened the Onus Probandi’s next act was activating its thrusters to full throttle towards the three enemy ships. She was flanked by ten Tartarus class ships that were waiting for this exact moment to close the gap between their enemies.

The enemy ships did not take this standing and tried to retaliate with their own armaments. The sound energy weapons hitting the shields erupted through the Onus Probandi. This lasted a moment before there was the distinct sound of the systems shutting themselves down to prevent an overload.

As the Void Shields were gone, they were soon battered and shot with dozens of energy shots that scarred the hull. It did not falter however even as pieces of the hull started to crumble from the combined firepower of three enemy ships.

With all of their attention taken by the Onus Probandi the Tartarus ships were bare scratched and could fire their prow guns. Ten shots against a vessel whose shields were already down caused several pieces of its shell to fly apart and reveal systems that should not have been exposed to the void. The only thing that kept it alive was that it was a Cruiser, for anything else would have fallen from such firepower.

It did however mean that numerous systems, including whatever sorcery its guns employed, were almost completely disabled.

Realization must have hit the Xenos at this moment seeing that their fellow ship was crimpled. They began to turn in an attempt to escape. They were still able enough to land shots on the hulls of the Tartarus craft. The physics of the situation however meant that the Tartarus Destroyers and Onus Probandi were more to gain ground.

Another volley was let go from the Tartarus class ships which resulted in the permanent crimpiling of the first of three ships.

Thus the fate of this battle was decided, however the result of things were yet to be determined.

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TalOS arrived at the Bridge with a fire in his chest. The Arch Dominus received in an instant the numerous injuries that the Onus Probandi was inflicted by the Xenos. The Shield systems were disabled meaning whatever damage they took they were going to take it directly.

+Will we be catching up to the enemy?+ TalOS asked the room as he sat upon the command throne and integrated himself with its blessed Machine Spirit.

+The enemy’s thrusters are warmed up and capable, so they will start gaining speed against us.+ Admitted a Tech Priest from the floor, +However if we keep our thrusters at a constant we will be able to match up with them for a broadside in three minutes.+

+Status of the boarding parties?+

+We have reports of Centarii Alpha has taken control of one of the bridges.+ Another Tech Priest announced as he looked over the reports, +There is struggle on the other ship, they are reporting Knight size Xenos upon the vessel.+

+Have them locate the Shield Systems and shut those down. After that they should alert the surrounding Tartarus to fire into the location where the Xenos are currently holding them up.+

+I shall issue the report.+ The Tech Priest answered while flipping a series of switches.

+Seventh barrage in three, two, one.+ As a Tech Priest finished their countdown a series of massive energy bolts from the Destroyers were sent out and threw themselves into the ship that fell behind. It exploded in a shower of fire and wood that was beautiful for TalOS to watch.

+Target destroyed. Realignment needed. Sending a new firing solution.+ One of the Magos on the floor shouted as they began processing the new solutions.

+Target whatever can be identified as their engines.+ Announced TalOS as the firing solution was surely being created.

+Understood.+ The Magos replied as they issued a new series of solutions to follow. After several seconds of immense thought the Magos called out, +Solution processed and sent. Assigning solution. Guns are primed. Firing in three, two, one.+

TalOS watched as another ten shots were sent out into the void. Such shots would not have any reason until they slammed themselves into the waiting hulls of the Xenos. Moments later they collided in a near perfect accuracy and precision against first the shields, then the hull.

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+Xenos acceleration has been severed.+ Pointed out one of the sensory adepts, +They will not be able to travel any faster than they are going now.+

+Good.+ Answered TalOS as he felt it all happen, +How long until we can start using the turrets?+

+One minute Arch Dominus.+

+Good, good!+ TalOS cheered as he grew a massive grin, +Keep up our speed!+

+Understood Arch Dominus.+

+Firing in three, two, one.+

Another barrage of guns were sent flying towards one of the enemy ships with immense effect. Even from here TalOS could see the sparking and explosion of power that erupted across the void of space. They had surely hit something that was vital in that ship and they were not going to survive too many more shots.

+TalOS.+ UZ1 called the Primarch out as she watched the display, +What are the chances they will attempt a Warp Jump from here?+


+Possible, but they will need time.+ TalOS pointed out as he checked the Psi-Sensors, +Though it seems one of them is trying to do just that.+

+Sir, we are thirty seconds from short rang armaments and 45 seconds from possible boarding actions.+

TalOS nodded as he looked over the systems, however as he did he could feel a the numerous energy bolts hitting the Onus Probandi. It seems the enemy decided now was a mighty fine time to start their retaliation in earnest. The most damaged of the two turned itself about and its broadsides were not facing the Onus Probandi.

TalOS did not worry about that ship though, for the Tartarus Destroyers had it cornered. What TalOS needed to do was deal with the one that was clearly trying its damndest to get away.

>Ram it
>Drive by for another boarding action
>Prepare for a series of TalOS’s own broadsides.

Gotta admit, Battle Fleet Gothic helped me so much to write these even if I only played the Tutorial.

>>5164321
>>Ram it

>>5164321
>Prepare for a series of TalOS’s own broadsides.
Pewpew

>>5164321
>Prepare for broadsides.

Dont ruin our own damn ship

>>5164321
>Prepare for a series of TalOS’s own broadsides.

>>5164321
>Ram it

>>5164360
we don't have to worry about that. our ships are built tough.

>>5164321
>Ram it
SHIPS CAN USE GLORIOUS MELEE TOO!

>>5164321
>>Ram it
No escape