Prologue - Complications
Beep. Beep. Beep...
I open my eyes and look at the chrono on my side. It is 6 o'clock in the morning. I look out my window and declare that the atmospheric cogitators did announce that today is going to be sunny. Getting up at this hour became sort of a routine. I get up and head out in the exercise room regularly in order to get accustomed to my "new" body. Everyone heard that after you get mechanical bionics the work immediately. Well...mostly. Vat-grown biological replacements need time to adjust. I am told that it's also a mental thing. I started out light with stretching and went to muscle and speed exercises then martial training. At the Navy it was duty to keep on body strong, now it became a routine. It was well after a year of my treatment, but I decided to keep up my routine. It helped me relax as well. After I finished, I took a shower. In my room, I took my trusted slate and prepared to head out.
"Sebastion, get me a hovercraft please I skip breakfast today!" I called my butler trough the internal vox.
"Understood milord... but may I interject, your brother is already in the diner waiting for you"
I stop. "Oh! Then dismiss my last order!" The holo-projection of Sebastion bows then disappears.
I go to the diner and indeed my brother Janus was waiting there sipping on a local tee variant.. "You know, it 's considered bad manners if you keep your guest waiting." he tells me patiently.
"A guest normally announces his visit... not that I mind" I sit down across him. "So you are here because...? my Brother Janus was a man of medium standing, about 5'5". He was average in every aspect. Not weak but certainly, not soldier material. Wasn't nimble but he could juggle two oranges. He couldn't do more but it was enough. He had light brown short, spiky hair and blue eyes. His skin was fair just like mine. He was well versed in multiple scholastic lores as well.
"Just thought that I drop by. We were supposed to meet today morning anyway."
"I appreciate it but why not in the office?"
"I prefer the family estates and..." he looks away uncomfortably.
"Its about the journey." I declare and he nods. It was no secret that Janus had multiple second thoughts about going to the stars... well no secret for me that is. Sebastion came by again and was holding a big tray. "I took the liberty to prepare a light breakfast milord" he bowed. The man was close to fifty but the man was strong and regal. He had straight silvery short hair and brown eyes.He had very few wrinkles, and overall looked more like a solider than a servant. He wore the traditional black butler suit. His clan has served my family since many generations as servants, retainers and also bodyguards.
"Thank you and..."
"Nobody will disturb you milord unless it's an enemy strike force." the man then excused himself. Yeah he was very good guessing my intentions...a bit too good actually.
"So brother" I start again. "You were saying?"
"Yes, I thought that if we want to review the news I brought, we might do it in a nice quiet place. Here."
"So she is nagging you!" I declare, because there is only one place his fiancée will newer come looking. Mine.
Janus narrowed his eyes at my comment "I would like if you wouldn't bad mouth Anastasia. She is to be my wife." I don't speak up "Then again she can be a bit possessive." he admits. " None the less I would ask you to treat her with respect. I don't want another incident like last time."
"I did apologies beforehand"
"You indeed did. That is the reason we are still speaking"
I look at the love-struck fool in front of me, and remember that certain incident. I was "bonding" my brother and started working on our pet project, when a certain blonde female busted in and then couldn't shut up about my design decisions and side-tracked our meeting. So I did the only sensible thing. I had thrown her out...gently of course, and locked the door. After 4 hours we found her at the same place still fuming. Since that, she evades me like the plague.
"Until you are officially wed, she has nothing to do with internal business and certainly nothing with MY business. Her only redeeming quality is that she indeed loves you."I pause and we take a bite from the food. "So she doesn't want you going into space, I presume." Janus looks up nervously. "Not per se...she wants to come with us."
I stop eating. "Since I have come to know you as both intelligent and sensible, I presume you have told her: NO!"
"I tried" He answers me honestly.
I put down the silverware "Define tried!" I spoke in my Lieutenant tone. We arrived at business at least. Janus always found this tone of my a bit unsettling. He swallowed and started fessing up.
"I told her this is a Clan assignment, whereupon she replied that, as my to-be she should be at my side. Then I told her, that you need preparation and training to get in space which she doesn't have... but she cut back and declared that neither do I. Then I said that such a voyage is dangerous and not for the faint of heart. Here She just looked at me and said all the more reason for her to be there and keep an eye on me. Honestly I think I got beaten. Worst, she gave me reasonable replies."
"You got whipped alright. Did you surrender to her?"
"No. I pulled out the joker! I told her that I have a dependable brother, who is an experienced Voidfahrer to take care of me, and he might object her coming along."
"Bravo." I tell him in monotone and clap a little "Not my usual modus operandi, but if it worked..."
"Sort of...she started to weep and and told me, even if I don't want her with me, she will be near me even if she has to hire a ship herself...because she is afraid she will never see me again." I already knew what will come. "So I promised her I would ask you if she could come aboard my Frigate. Since it will serve as our backup ship, she will be far enough and I can just sail over if the need arises." He stopped speaking and looked at me pleadingly.
I used my impassive face and took my sweet time with my answer. My face was a stone mask. "Shame." I started. I took a big breath "Her safety will not be guarantied." Janus wanted to speak up but I continued "That aside, she will be a passenger and will NOT have any authority, ever! Not even over the lowest voidfahrer! She is also not allowed to leave your Frigate without permission. If she can't abide by these rules, then she need not to come." Janus seem glad, so I give him my last two cents "And tell her this: If I catch her breaking the rules, I will throw her out again... but this time from the airlock."
"That sounds unpleasant. But thank you" Janus' mood seemed a bit lifted "I will surely present her your ultimatum, Lieutenant."
I nod at him and change my tone. "So what are the good news then?" I take another bite from my food.
"The Lynx Spear is fully operational. Last minute checks were al green." I can't help to smile. "Supplies are being transported as we speak."
"When can we leave port?"
Janus doesn't answer at first and suddenly finds his food very interesting. "There are complications" he adds. I don't understand and it shows on my face. "We don't have enough crew." Janus
"Pardon?"
"Apparently your ship has an ominous reputation among the men. Getting hulked without any survivors is not the best recommendation. In a nutshell: Your ship is labeled as a ghost ship."
"How many do we have?"
"About 4000. We could have more if we become a bit lenient."
I start to massage my forehead. Not even a skeleton crew. "No." I say "When it comes to the Void, you cannot be lenient or you die."
"I could transfer some crew from my ship you know."
"That won't help in the long run, I'm afraid. We need at least 5000 skilled crewmen for various positions even officers. Rearranging already proven men is less than optimal." I look at my slate "Anything else?"
"Yes, Explorator Teron called this morning. The repair of your equipment will take more time."
"What the hell? I only asked for cosmetic changes and recalibration..." I don't get it what could have...? Then it hits me "They disassembled it, didn't they?"
Janus sips some tee. "Indeed. First they denied it of course, saying they needed to bless it for your own safety, so I told them that the ship is ready and we would like to head out so as per contract we want them back fully functional. Since no blessing was commissioned. The rest was haggling." He shrugged "Your Pistols will be fine, but the rifle... " He left the sentence open. "So they will compensate you if the need should arise."
"They can start by getting me a new one. I swear I will shoot every idiot of a gear-head." I started to grumble.
"Yes...they will compensate you very well. I made sure of it. By the way, legally you are only entitled to execute one of then."
I look at him intently "Seriously? I can do that?" He nods. "Wow and people think I'm the scary one"
My brother shrugs. "I try to please."
"Well, about the crew. I will call one of my friends, at the Navy maybe he can help us out."
Janus nods and the breakfast slowly goes by. There were some papers to fill, numbers to check, and validating permissions. Overall it was not a tiring affair. When they finished, Janus excused himself saying that he still had some paperwork to do.
"Sebastion" I called "I will be in my study. You can transfer any mails there."
In my study I looked over my contacts in the Navy. I had a couple of names who could help enlisting Voidmen. I decided to call captain Marducas. He was a very strict but dependable man. His ship was in the neighborhood as well. I wrote a binary mail, and waited. It surprised me when I got a holo-call from the man himself instead some attendant for appointment. Marducas looked well and greeted me with his usual nonsense attitude, but his cap was not on and that meant a lot for those who knew him.
"Greetings Lieutenant. I hope you are fully healed."
"Captain! This is a pleasant surprise. Yes I am combat ready again."
"Shame you are not with us anymore. What can I do for you."
"My Ship is ready at Aldora dock. The Navy did a fine job." Here my tone changes "Unfortunately Voidmen think its cursed, so getting even the minimal needed crew was extremely difficult. I hoped you could give me some pointers in this regard."
Mardukas had a thoughtful expression. "There is a temporary battalion at Korinus-7, but they are a bit occupied at the moment."
"Could you elaborate?"
"Not...unless you get conscripted again..."He says with dry humor "But wait...you have a warrant now don't you?"
"My family has. Yes, I am also entitled by it."
"Then we might get to an agreement. I you are willing to take on a little errand."
"I have too much time already! I am listening"
"Benidus-7 has a bit of a mutant problem. Production of the mines are down and wealthy men are pissed of. An investigation was called in. It was decided that a small squad will go in and check things out. Problem they are external as well, so the constituter asked for a mediator who is well versed and has good ties with the military. I presume you still qualify even if discharged, aren't you?"
"I didn't burn my bridges."
"Excellent. I was actually glad you called because we didn't had many applicants who would have fit the bill. If this affair is over then the battalion is to be dismissed and the soldiers go back being reservist. You will have good chance to get reasonably well trained crew."
"All I have to do is being a guide and give some support if the need arise?" I ask a bit skeptical.
"Exactly! A cake walk, really. And you will get paid since you are an external contractor as well. Taking your rank into consideration as well the relative easiness of this mission, I am willing to offer 200 Standard Gelt for your trouble. What do you say?"
"Thank you for your help Captain. I am in your dept." I bow slightly.
"Your not. Before I forget I would like you to keep an eye on the squad. Even if their records say otherwise, to me they seem a bit green behind their ears..." I nod at the captain he had good eyes for these kind of things. "I will send you the dossier of the mission. The squad will arrive in 5 standard days at Sepheris where a transport is already arranged to bring you to your destination. After you sign of course."
I gave a digital sign and stated the nondisclosure oath. After 10 minutes a file was transferred with multiple protection. I stated to read them. Mission time was labeled as unsure, but stated that extra expenses will be paid. I also found 4 bios, two men and two women, and started to familiarize myself with their dossier.
I called my father and brother and related the news. Our crew problem might have solved itself...
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I am currently sitting on a small ship on the way to Sepheris. When I told my father the news that I took a military contract, he wasn't exactly thrilled. Still I had a pleasant supper with them. Father was displaying his master-crafted prothesis, and asked me if I miss the battlefield. Mother was more direct... I got reminded that should I get injured like father, I will die. The emperor protects but he doesn't like fools. I therefore informed her that I won't go to the fronts. My job will be that of a mediator. I get a free trip and will do some advertising. Brother didn't speak up and curiously neither did Anastasia. Next day we asked for a meeting with the Local techpriests and demanded my equipment. In the end we decided that my rifle will be a tribute to the Omnissiah. For that they modified my pulse pistol to accept standard Plasma-pistol canisters, they also upgraded my aforementioned pistol, to be more reliable. We managed to get a written promise that they will be more forthcoming with my next requisition.
I look at my datapad: A pack with basic equipment was prepared for me at Benidus-7 regiment camp.
I was in my mesh armor, which was tucked under my officer garb. I had two pistols and a blade on me. Both pistols were of plasma design but the second was gained when I took down a kroot on a mission in the Expanse. It is called a Pulse pistol. I also have 4 extra canister which are now compatible with both of them.The blade was found on the hulk of my new Ship. Apparently it's a mono enhanced blade, but after I made some tests it was clear, that it is far superior to the normal mono-blades. Maybe it was made with different technology in ancient times...
Before me, on the slate, are four bios.
The first is Called Mar...no last name. He is a feral-worlder. He was conscripted as a guardsman and served two years, then he got promoted. There is no data where he serves now, just like the other three, so must be some black ops. Quite strong and durable if the medical reports are accurate. In all other aspect he is an average guy. He is skilled with hand to hand and good with a sniper rifle...hm...useful. Special: school...learning to read and write.
The second is that of Kashim. This man was already 50 years old. Former hive worker, with a nice service record. There is almost no weapon training mentioned but the man was socially active. Still a good shot and a nimble man but seems to fragile for my tastes. His medical report isn't that great either. Special: There is a mention of a possible rejuvenescent therapy in the future.
Xantana is the next one. She is a headstrong woman who comes from a feudal world...and not one of the pleasant ones. With her I am sure she is a newbie. Her profile indicates overwhelming fascination with modern fashion. Electoo, hair-dye etc... She seems fairly good with blades and has excellent agility. She is probably the lancer of the squad. There is a notice however that she has problems respecting authorities and sometimes following orders...
The last one is also a female, Cintia. This woman is disturbing to look at, and an extreme fanatic, if what I read is correct. The record states that she herself executed her parents after they were accused of heresy. The woman was a voidborn and had spent her life on a space-hulk. She had multiple attempts on her life. Considering the place she stamps from and that see used to be a lawman I got mixed feeling reading her file. She lived on a space-hulk with mutant and cultist alike, yet her service record was spotless. Everithing about her is average she was good in multiple task and if believable a generic all-rounder, but she was not that good. Her mindset was full on puritan so
much that it was actually scary. Her strong personality indicated that it was her who led this squad.
My senses pick up the deceleration of my craft. 'Looks like I arrived.' I wait till the craft comes to a complete halt, turn off my slate and unfold my seatbelt. The space-station where I arrived is one of the smaller ones in the region. I didn't linger to look around, instead went straight to dock 11-D where an Aquila lander was waiting patiently. There were two guardsmen at the gate. They saluted me and after I presented my pass they let me through. A got on board and met with the squad. They were as described in the files.
"Greetings" I spoke "I am Lieutenant Sylverhawk. I will be your guide and mediator."
I took seat and fastened my belts. The copilot then came in and saluted. "If everyone is on board we will take off." Everyone nodded "Our estimated arrival will be around 1400 standard." he excused himself and the lander started to shake, signaling that the engines had started to rev up. A quiet humming could be heard throughout the ship, and we lifted of.
I lent back and looked at the people in front of me. They had mixed emotions on their faces which included curiosity and reached till scrutinizing. Nobody has spoken up. 'Lovely, six hours of silence' I think.
It was Kashim who spoke first. "Your uniform is different from those guardsmen."
"I am from the Navy" I answer truthfully.
My answer must have struck a chord. The woman Cintia speaks to me. "Not to sound disrespectful, but we were expecting an Imerial guard officer."
I shrug "Those are not common on spaceships. Rest assured I am well versed with the guard and the procedures as well. And I happen to know this sector well enough to be of assistance."
"Where you briefed...sir?"
"I got the rundown and looked at the latest reports. I don't know what dossier you got though, and since we are not on a ship you don't have to call me sir."
The Big man on my left, Mar has spoken up "There has been a rebellion." I nod "Led by some kind of cult." My face is still impassive but the last info was new to me.
Kashim continues "The regiment did his job, but in the mines they were attacked by mutants."
"Yes, I heard of it. The regiment took heavy losses so they enlisted the workers and called in the reservists. The military even sealed off the mine, what lead to the complete halt of production and made many nobles angry." At the mention of nobles, Xantana makes a grimace.
Cintia spoke again "You said that you know this place?"
"Not the first time something like this happened. I have to admit though that the mutants are new. My money is on a secret under-hive, where the aberrants were kept as extra workforce. They can be very resilient and procreate fast if not checked. They number is however a surprise, but this is why you are here, I presume."
They nod, some of them enthusiastic like Cintia and Mar, the other two not so much.
"I presume requisition was placed for you?"
They look at each other, perplexed.
"Seriously?" This reaction I didn't expect. "It's winter on Benidus! Your rags," I look at Kashim "will be your death, and the standard Flack also wont provide much comfort without warm fabric." I look at Mar and then at Cintia. I continue "The only rifle I see is that longlas. Pistols are nice but very limited, and less than optimal against multiple enemies"
"Look who is talking!" Xanatan called out.
I make a mouth "I am a GUIDE foremost and mediator second. I don't plan on getting in your way or getting in on the action itself. my weapons are here because I like to be prepared, for anything, but don't expect me to be your front man. I will fight if I must but only if I must... and of course my requested cache is waiting for me at the camp." 'They are definitely new to this!' I declare inside of me.
"We will carry out our orders, with or without you!" Cintia declares.
"Very good! But to be sure I will place an order for you. Hopefully the quarter master will be able to get you some standard equipment. At least something to keep you warm, and some rations." I start to type away on my slate. I place an order for standard field equipment. Field medkit, some guns if possible, lamps, thermo-bags... etc.
The rest of the trip went by in silence. I look at my chrono and decided to take a nap. i still had 3 hours. Set my alarm that I wake up before the atmospheric entrance. So much for the cake walk...
The hours fly by, in an instant. In the military you learn quick to get as much sleep as possible. I wake up to my set alarm. Mar also took a nap, but the others were vigilant. Over my head the vox came to life.
"We arrived at Benidus-7. Starting atmospheric entry in 10 Minutes!"
I check my seatbelts, Then my own belts and pockets that hold my gear. I take my handles and brace myself.
The lander starts to dive. As we reach the upper atmosphere the ship starts to shake violently. This lasts about 2 minutes then our descend becomes smooth. After 5 minutes of flight the lander stops and the pilot gently puts us down. I walk up to the ramp and open it.
Having disembarked from the lander I watch as its engines roar up again, carrying it upwards towards the station that floats in orbit around this wretched world. As it shrinks away and vanishes, you I in my surroundings. All around me is an Imperial Guard encampment, filled with scores of grim-faced men and women, some bloodied and bandaged, all wearing the gray uniforms.
The camp is mostly a sea of tents positioned around smoking craters, steam vents that belch violet clouds of stinking gas into the air, and providing some warm. A walker screeches as it patrols the perimeter, its pilot deftly maneuvering the vehicle through the wreckage of old buildings, smoking cars, and unburied bodies. At the camp’s center there stands a rust-red hab-block bearing the eagle symbol of the Imperium on its exterior. Beyond it is a range of low mountains covered in ice and the sprawl of industry. Flames belching forth from smokestacks, storage containers, great bubbling vats issuing toxic steam, and more combine to make the structures look like some
vast metal insect straddling the peaks of this rugged range. A lovely sight indeed...
My mesh armor provides me with some protection against the cold, but a change into more weather appropriate ensemble will be required. Next to me Kashim is rubing his hands, and looks uncomfortably to the sides...oh yeah! Forge word! For him cold probably meant about 20 degrees Celsius. Here, it was around minus 6.
We start to walk toward the hab-block...
Beep. Beep. Beep...
I open my eyes and look at the chrono on my side. It is 6 o'clock in the morning. I look out my window and declare that the atmospheric cogitators did announce that today is going to be sunny. Getting up at this hour became sort of a routine. I get up and head out in the exercise room regularly in order to get accustomed to my "new" body. Everyone heard that after you get mechanical bionics the work immediately. Well...mostly. Vat-grown biological replacements need time to adjust. I am told that it's also a mental thing. I started out light with stretching and went to muscle and speed exercises then martial training. At the Navy it was duty to keep on body strong, now it became a routine. It was well after a year of my treatment, but I decided to keep up my routine. It helped me relax as well. After I finished, I took a shower. In my room, I took my trusted slate and prepared to head out.
"Sebastion, get me a hovercraft please I skip breakfast today!" I called my butler trough the internal vox.
"Understood milord... but may I interject, your brother is already in the diner waiting for you"
I stop. "Oh! Then dismiss my last order!" The holo-projection of Sebastion bows then disappears.
I go to the diner and indeed my brother Janus was waiting there sipping on a local tee variant.. "You know, it 's considered bad manners if you keep your guest waiting." he tells me patiently.
"A guest normally announces his visit... not that I mind" I sit down across him. "So you are here because...? my Brother Janus was a man of medium standing, about 5'5". He was average in every aspect. Not weak but certainly, not soldier material. Wasn't nimble but he could juggle two oranges. He couldn't do more but it was enough. He had light brown short, spiky hair and blue eyes. His skin was fair just like mine. He was well versed in multiple scholastic lores as well.
"Just thought that I drop by. We were supposed to meet today morning anyway."
"I appreciate it but why not in the office?"
"I prefer the family estates and..." he looks away uncomfortably.
"Its about the journey." I declare and he nods. It was no secret that Janus had multiple second thoughts about going to the stars... well no secret for me that is. Sebastion came by again and was holding a big tray. "I took the liberty to prepare a light breakfast milord" he bowed. The man was close to fifty but the man was strong and regal. He had straight silvery short hair and brown eyes.He had very few wrinkles, and overall looked more like a solider than a servant. He wore the traditional black butler suit. His clan has served my family since many generations as servants, retainers and also bodyguards.
"Thank you and..."
"Nobody will disturb you milord unless it's an enemy strike force." the man then excused himself. Yeah he was very good guessing my intentions...a bit too good actually.
"So brother" I start again. "You were saying?"
"Yes, I thought that if we want to review the news I brought, we might do it in a nice quiet place. Here."
"So she is nagging you!" I declare, because there is only one place his fiancée will newer come looking. Mine.
Janus narrowed his eyes at my comment "I would like if you wouldn't bad mouth Anastasia. She is to be my wife." I don't speak up "Then again she can be a bit possessive." he admits. " None the less I would ask you to treat her with respect. I don't want another incident like last time."
"I did apologies beforehand"
"You indeed did. That is the reason we are still speaking"
I look at the love-struck fool in front of me, and remember that certain incident. I was "bonding" my brother and started working on our pet project, when a certain blonde female busted in and then couldn't shut up about my design decisions and side-tracked our meeting. So I did the only sensible thing. I had thrown her out...gently of course, and locked the door. After 4 hours we found her at the same place still fuming. Since that, she evades me like the plague.
"Until you are officially wed, she has nothing to do with internal business and certainly nothing with MY business. Her only redeeming quality is that she indeed loves you."I pause and we take a bite from the food. "So she doesn't want you going into space, I presume." Janus looks up nervously. "Not per se...she wants to come with us."
I stop eating. "Since I have come to know you as both intelligent and sensible, I presume you have told her: NO!"
"I tried" He answers me honestly.
I put down the silverware "Define tried!" I spoke in my Lieutenant tone. We arrived at business at least. Janus always found this tone of my a bit unsettling. He swallowed and started fessing up.
"I told her this is a Clan assignment, whereupon she replied that, as my to-be she should be at my side. Then I told her, that you need preparation and training to get in space which she doesn't have... but she cut back and declared that neither do I. Then I said that such a voyage is dangerous and not for the faint of heart. Here She just looked at me and said all the more reason for her to be there and keep an eye on me. Honestly I think I got beaten. Worst, she gave me reasonable replies."
"You got whipped alright. Did you surrender to her?"
"No. I pulled out the joker! I told her that I have a dependable brother, who is an experienced Voidfahrer to take care of me, and he might object her coming along."
"Bravo." I tell him in monotone and clap a little "Not my usual modus operandi, but if it worked..."
"Sort of...she started to weep and and told me, even if I don't want her with me, she will be near me even if she has to hire a ship herself...because she is afraid she will never see me again." I already knew what will come. "So I promised her I would ask you if she could come aboard my Frigate. Since it will serve as our backup ship, she will be far enough and I can just sail over if the need arises." He stopped speaking and looked at me pleadingly.
I used my impassive face and took my sweet time with my answer. My face was a stone mask. "Shame." I started. I took a big breath "Her safety will not be guarantied." Janus wanted to speak up but I continued "That aside, she will be a passenger and will NOT have any authority, ever! Not even over the lowest voidfahrer! She is also not allowed to leave your Frigate without permission. If she can't abide by these rules, then she need not to come." Janus seem glad, so I give him my last two cents "And tell her this: If I catch her breaking the rules, I will throw her out again... but this time from the airlock."
"That sounds unpleasant. But thank you" Janus' mood seemed a bit lifted "I will surely present her your ultimatum, Lieutenant."
I nod at him and change my tone. "So what are the good news then?" I take another bite from my food.
"The Lynx Spear is fully operational. Last minute checks were al green." I can't help to smile. "Supplies are being transported as we speak."
"When can we leave port?"
Janus doesn't answer at first and suddenly finds his food very interesting. "There are complications" he adds. I don't understand and it shows on my face. "We don't have enough crew." Janus
"Pardon?"
"Apparently your ship has an ominous reputation among the men. Getting hulked without any survivors is not the best recommendation. In a nutshell: Your ship is labeled as a ghost ship."
"How many do we have?"
"About 4000. We could have more if we become a bit lenient."
I start to massage my forehead. Not even a skeleton crew. "No." I say "When it comes to the Void, you cannot be lenient or you die."
"I could transfer some crew from my ship you know."
"That won't help in the long run, I'm afraid. We need at least 5000 skilled crewmen for various positions even officers. Rearranging already proven men is less than optimal." I look at my slate "Anything else?"
"Yes, Explorator Teron called this morning. The repair of your equipment will take more time."
"What the hell? I only asked for cosmetic changes and recalibration..." I don't get it what could have...? Then it hits me "They disassembled it, didn't they?"
Janus sips some tee. "Indeed. First they denied it of course, saying they needed to bless it for your own safety, so I told them that the ship is ready and we would like to head out so as per contract we want them back fully functional. Since no blessing was commissioned. The rest was haggling." He shrugged "Your Pistols will be fine, but the rifle... " He left the sentence open. "So they will compensate you if the need should arise."
"They can start by getting me a new one. I swear I will shoot every idiot of a gear-head." I started to grumble.
"Yes...they will compensate you very well. I made sure of it. By the way, legally you are only entitled to execute one of then."
I look at him intently "Seriously? I can do that?" He nods. "Wow and people think I'm the scary one"
My brother shrugs. "I try to please."
"Well, about the crew. I will call one of my friends, at the Navy maybe he can help us out."
Janus nods and the breakfast slowly goes by. There were some papers to fill, numbers to check, and validating permissions. Overall it was not a tiring affair. When they finished, Janus excused himself saying that he still had some paperwork to do.
"Sebastion" I called "I will be in my study. You can transfer any mails there."
In my study I looked over my contacts in the Navy. I had a couple of names who could help enlisting Voidmen. I decided to call captain Marducas. He was a very strict but dependable man. His ship was in the neighborhood as well. I wrote a binary mail, and waited. It surprised me when I got a holo-call from the man himself instead some attendant for appointment. Marducas looked well and greeted me with his usual nonsense attitude, but his cap was not on and that meant a lot for those who knew him.
"Greetings Lieutenant. I hope you are fully healed."
"Captain! This is a pleasant surprise. Yes I am combat ready again."
"Shame you are not with us anymore. What can I do for you."
"My Ship is ready at Aldora dock. The Navy did a fine job." Here my tone changes "Unfortunately Voidmen think its cursed, so getting even the minimal needed crew was extremely difficult. I hoped you could give me some pointers in this regard."
Mardukas had a thoughtful expression. "There is a temporary battalion at Korinus-7, but they are a bit occupied at the moment."
"Could you elaborate?"
"Not...unless you get conscripted again..."He says with dry humor "But wait...you have a warrant now don't you?"
"My family has. Yes, I am also entitled by it."
"Then we might get to an agreement. I you are willing to take on a little errand."
"I have too much time already! I am listening"
"Benidus-7 has a bit of a mutant problem. Production of the mines are down and wealthy men are pissed of. An investigation was called in. It was decided that a small squad will go in and check things out. Problem they are external as well, so the constituter asked for a mediator who is well versed and has good ties with the military. I presume you still qualify even if discharged, aren't you?"
"I didn't burn my bridges."
"Excellent. I was actually glad you called because we didn't had many applicants who would have fit the bill. If this affair is over then the battalion is to be dismissed and the soldiers go back being reservist. You will have good chance to get reasonably well trained crew."
"All I have to do is being a guide and give some support if the need arise?" I ask a bit skeptical.
"Exactly! A cake walk, really. And you will get paid since you are an external contractor as well. Taking your rank into consideration as well the relative easiness of this mission, I am willing to offer 200 Standard Gelt for your trouble. What do you say?"
"Thank you for your help Captain. I am in your dept." I bow slightly.
"Your not. Before I forget I would like you to keep an eye on the squad. Even if their records say otherwise, to me they seem a bit green behind their ears..." I nod at the captain he had good eyes for these kind of things. "I will send you the dossier of the mission. The squad will arrive in 5 standard days at Sepheris where a transport is already arranged to bring you to your destination. After you sign of course."
I gave a digital sign and stated the nondisclosure oath. After 10 minutes a file was transferred with multiple protection. I stated to read them. Mission time was labeled as unsure, but stated that extra expenses will be paid. I also found 4 bios, two men and two women, and started to familiarize myself with their dossier.
I called my father and brother and related the news. Our crew problem might have solved itself...
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I am currently sitting on a small ship on the way to Sepheris. When I told my father the news that I took a military contract, he wasn't exactly thrilled. Still I had a pleasant supper with them. Father was displaying his master-crafted prothesis, and asked me if I miss the battlefield. Mother was more direct... I got reminded that should I get injured like father, I will die. The emperor protects but he doesn't like fools. I therefore informed her that I won't go to the fronts. My job will be that of a mediator. I get a free trip and will do some advertising. Brother didn't speak up and curiously neither did Anastasia. Next day we asked for a meeting with the Local techpriests and demanded my equipment. In the end we decided that my rifle will be a tribute to the Omnissiah. For that they modified my pulse pistol to accept standard Plasma-pistol canisters, they also upgraded my aforementioned pistol, to be more reliable. We managed to get a written promise that they will be more forthcoming with my next requisition.
I look at my datapad: A pack with basic equipment was prepared for me at Benidus-7 regiment camp.
I was in my mesh armor, which was tucked under my officer garb. I had two pistols and a blade on me. Both pistols were of plasma design but the second was gained when I took down a kroot on a mission in the Expanse. It is called a Pulse pistol. I also have 4 extra canister which are now compatible with both of them.The blade was found on the hulk of my new Ship. Apparently it's a mono enhanced blade, but after I made some tests it was clear, that it is far superior to the normal mono-blades. Maybe it was made with different technology in ancient times...
Before me, on the slate, are four bios.
The first is Called Mar...no last name. He is a feral-worlder. He was conscripted as a guardsman and served two years, then he got promoted. There is no data where he serves now, just like the other three, so must be some black ops. Quite strong and durable if the medical reports are accurate. In all other aspect he is an average guy. He is skilled with hand to hand and good with a sniper rifle...hm...useful. Special: school...learning to read and write.
The second is that of Kashim. This man was already 50 years old. Former hive worker, with a nice service record. There is almost no weapon training mentioned but the man was socially active. Still a good shot and a nimble man but seems to fragile for my tastes. His medical report isn't that great either. Special: There is a mention of a possible rejuvenescent therapy in the future.
Xantana is the next one. She is a headstrong woman who comes from a feudal world...and not one of the pleasant ones. With her I am sure she is a newbie. Her profile indicates overwhelming fascination with modern fashion. Electoo, hair-dye etc... She seems fairly good with blades and has excellent agility. She is probably the lancer of the squad. There is a notice however that she has problems respecting authorities and sometimes following orders...
The last one is also a female, Cintia. This woman is disturbing to look at, and an extreme fanatic, if what I read is correct. The record states that she herself executed her parents after they were accused of heresy. The woman was a voidborn and had spent her life on a space-hulk. She had multiple attempts on her life. Considering the place she stamps from and that see used to be a lawman I got mixed feeling reading her file. She lived on a space-hulk with mutant and cultist alike, yet her service record was spotless. Everithing about her is average she was good in multiple task and if believable a generic all-rounder, but she was not that good. Her mindset was full on puritan so
much that it was actually scary. Her strong personality indicated that it was her who led this squad.
My senses pick up the deceleration of my craft. 'Looks like I arrived.' I wait till the craft comes to a complete halt, turn off my slate and unfold my seatbelt. The space-station where I arrived is one of the smaller ones in the region. I didn't linger to look around, instead went straight to dock 11-D where an Aquila lander was waiting patiently. There were two guardsmen at the gate. They saluted me and after I presented my pass they let me through. A got on board and met with the squad. They were as described in the files.
"Greetings" I spoke "I am Lieutenant Sylverhawk. I will be your guide and mediator."
I took seat and fastened my belts. The copilot then came in and saluted. "If everyone is on board we will take off." Everyone nodded "Our estimated arrival will be around 1400 standard." he excused himself and the lander started to shake, signaling that the engines had started to rev up. A quiet humming could be heard throughout the ship, and we lifted of.
I lent back and looked at the people in front of me. They had mixed emotions on their faces which included curiosity and reached till scrutinizing. Nobody has spoken up. 'Lovely, six hours of silence' I think.
It was Kashim who spoke first. "Your uniform is different from those guardsmen."
"I am from the Navy" I answer truthfully.
My answer must have struck a chord. The woman Cintia speaks to me. "Not to sound disrespectful, but we were expecting an Imerial guard officer."
I shrug "Those are not common on spaceships. Rest assured I am well versed with the guard and the procedures as well. And I happen to know this sector well enough to be of assistance."
"Where you briefed...sir?"
"I got the rundown and looked at the latest reports. I don't know what dossier you got though, and since we are not on a ship you don't have to call me sir."
The Big man on my left, Mar has spoken up "There has been a rebellion." I nod "Led by some kind of cult." My face is still impassive but the last info was new to me.
Kashim continues "The regiment did his job, but in the mines they were attacked by mutants."
"Yes, I heard of it. The regiment took heavy losses so they enlisted the workers and called in the reservists. The military even sealed off the mine, what lead to the complete halt of production and made many nobles angry." At the mention of nobles, Xantana makes a grimace.
Cintia spoke again "You said that you know this place?"
"Not the first time something like this happened. I have to admit though that the mutants are new. My money is on a secret under-hive, where the aberrants were kept as extra workforce. They can be very resilient and procreate fast if not checked. They number is however a surprise, but this is why you are here, I presume."
They nod, some of them enthusiastic like Cintia and Mar, the other two not so much.
"I presume requisition was placed for you?"
They look at each other, perplexed.
"Seriously?" This reaction I didn't expect. "It's winter on Benidus! Your rags," I look at Kashim "will be your death, and the standard Flack also wont provide much comfort without warm fabric." I look at Mar and then at Cintia. I continue "The only rifle I see is that longlas. Pistols are nice but very limited, and less than optimal against multiple enemies"
"Look who is talking!" Xanatan called out.
I make a mouth "I am a GUIDE foremost and mediator second. I don't plan on getting in your way or getting in on the action itself. my weapons are here because I like to be prepared, for anything, but don't expect me to be your front man. I will fight if I must but only if I must... and of course my requested cache is waiting for me at the camp." 'They are definitely new to this!' I declare inside of me.
"We will carry out our orders, with or without you!" Cintia declares.
"Very good! But to be sure I will place an order for you. Hopefully the quarter master will be able to get you some standard equipment. At least something to keep you warm, and some rations." I start to type away on my slate. I place an order for standard field equipment. Field medkit, some guns if possible, lamps, thermo-bags... etc.
The rest of the trip went by in silence. I look at my chrono and decided to take a nap. i still had 3 hours. Set my alarm that I wake up before the atmospheric entrance. So much for the cake walk...
The hours fly by, in an instant. In the military you learn quick to get as much sleep as possible. I wake up to my set alarm. Mar also took a nap, but the others were vigilant. Over my head the vox came to life.
"We arrived at Benidus-7. Starting atmospheric entry in 10 Minutes!"
I check my seatbelts, Then my own belts and pockets that hold my gear. I take my handles and brace myself.
The lander starts to dive. As we reach the upper atmosphere the ship starts to shake violently. This lasts about 2 minutes then our descend becomes smooth. After 5 minutes of flight the lander stops and the pilot gently puts us down. I walk up to the ramp and open it.
Having disembarked from the lander I watch as its engines roar up again, carrying it upwards towards the station that floats in orbit around this wretched world. As it shrinks away and vanishes, you I in my surroundings. All around me is an Imperial Guard encampment, filled with scores of grim-faced men and women, some bloodied and bandaged, all wearing the gray uniforms.
The camp is mostly a sea of tents positioned around smoking craters, steam vents that belch violet clouds of stinking gas into the air, and providing some warm. A walker screeches as it patrols the perimeter, its pilot deftly maneuvering the vehicle through the wreckage of old buildings, smoking cars, and unburied bodies. At the camp’s center there stands a rust-red hab-block bearing the eagle symbol of the Imperium on its exterior. Beyond it is a range of low mountains covered in ice and the sprawl of industry. Flames belching forth from smokestacks, storage containers, great bubbling vats issuing toxic steam, and more combine to make the structures look like some
vast metal insect straddling the peaks of this rugged range. A lovely sight indeed...
My mesh armor provides me with some protection against the cold, but a change into more weather appropriate ensemble will be required. Next to me Kashim is rubing his hands, and looks uncomfortably to the sides...oh yeah! Forge word! For him cold probably meant about 20 degrees Celsius. Here, it was around minus 6.
We start to walk toward the hab-block...