++Outpost Judo++
Seventy-six Kilometers from Leytan City. Roughly three years after the capture of the city, It remains engulfed in the warp spawned sandstorm. The command elements in the city have only scattered reports from garrisons outside the storm-wall. All forces are operating with only local command elements and support.
++Fifth Platoon, eighth company, XII Regiment++
-Lieutenant Parker, four squads of ten men.
-Support element of six Chimeras, four heavy bolter teams
It was another day of standing guard under the unforgiving suns of Arrakia. Private Fox stood upon the walls of Outpost Judo staring out into the endless sea of sand that surrounded the isolated post. The only thing he had to look forward to was the occasional pot-shots taken from Chaos cultists that were encamped a few kilometers out. Their 'raids' had been few and far between as of late, and Fifth Platoon showed signs of lowering morale as their boredom took hold. The Lieutenant attempt to curb this with daily physical training and drills, but the heat of the sun proved to be a strong deterrent even to the officer corps. Lack of communication, mail, supplies, and fresh equipment proved to be an issue as well, with some men openly beginning to modify their kit to accommodate the environment. While this practice was frowned upon by quartermasters, the regimental commander had authorized it directly for men who had been planetside for more than a year. Fox leaned against the bulwark of the permacrete wall, lighting a lho stick and staring down at the sand below, thinking about home and the hellish world he was on now.
A thunderous explosion rattled his teeth as a large chunk of the wall a ways down from his was reduced to rubble. The shock sent him hurtling across the ramparts and face first into the steel walkway. He removed his helmet and squinted into the desert. To his surprise, several plumes of exhaust and sand were being kicked up by rapidly advancing rhinos.
"Contact Eastern Wall! It's the Marines, all hands on deck!"
Alarms rang loudly as men rushed up the wall and into the rubble caused by the breach. The men waited in silence as the rhino's advanced. Lieutenant Parker quickly rushed up to Fox's position. "Status Private?" he inquired calmly
"Six Rhinos sir. Rapidly advancing" Fox replied with some hesitation.
Parker scoffed. "It's just like before, they'll stop about sixty meters out, fire on our position and realize they can't break through, then pull back." he turned to face his men. "Steady yourselves, we've all done this before. Keep discipline and fire once they disembark the vehicles."
The Rhinos roared forward at a breakneck speed not slowing nor stopping. The clouds of sand being kicked up behind them serving as a natural smoke screen only barely keeping up with the vehicles that caused them. Fox's eyes widened as he saw the insignia on the front of the lead Rhino.
"Uh.. Sir."
"Yes Private?"
He choked on his words. "Those.. Those are World Eaters."
Parker panicked as he saw the devouring fangs engulfing an ancient Terran like planet. "By the Emperor.."
With a great roar a Corrupted Land Raider tore through the cloud of sand and smoke toward the Outpost, quickly outpacing the Rhinos and smashing into the breach made by earlier artillery fire. The red and Brass of the tainted vehicle gleaming in the sunlight, Desecrated corpses and skulls littered the behemoth of a tank. Quickly, it's forward ramps dropped. There was a briefest moment of silence before the roar of a dozen chain axes filled the air. A single battle cry was the last thing the defenders of Judo heard.
"BLOOD FOR THE BLOOD GOD!"
Showing posts with label Fluff. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fluff. Show all posts
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Friday, January 31, 2014
A brief look into last weekend: A collage
For those of you who don't know, I play airsoft actively. Airsoft is a military simulation sport in which two teams of multiple people use tactics, communication, and strategy to best the other team.
Our squad (that's myself, Cameron, Alex, Taylor, William, And Jokob) Were assigned to 2nd platoon for the course of the game. The objective of 2nd platoon was essentially search and destroy. I'm not doing an after action report, just sharing some pictures. Hope you all enjoy
The game was taking place at an old farm. Around 250 acres to play on, about a hundred players. Fifty players each team. Two day game with night-fighting allowed.
A river divided the farm, and thick forest overgrew around the fields of the farm. There were a few abandoned buildings within the forest as well.
This guy was our platoon leader
Our squad (that's myself, Cameron, Alex, Taylor, William, And Jokob) Were assigned to 2nd platoon for the course of the game. The objective of 2nd platoon was essentially search and destroy. I'm not doing an after action report, just sharing some pictures. Hope you all enjoy
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| Jakob, Cameron, William, Myself, Alex |
A river divided the farm, and thick forest overgrew around the fields of the farm. There were a few abandoned buildings within the forest as well.
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| Me on the horn with the platoon lead letting him know we've setup a position across from an old barn |
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| 2nd Platoon Medics relaxing after a firefight |
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| 2nd Platoon scouts pinned down in an old Animal pen |
This guy was our platoon leader
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| Myself in the back of the truck our team used to get around quickly |
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| 2nd Platoon holding up on a trail while waiting for the rendezvous with 1st and 3rd platoon. |
Me enjoying a tactical snack while our squad took
a fiver. This was during the first day after a nice, hour long firefight with the other team.
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| Taylor Crawling under a barbed-wire fence that ran Parallel to the river. |
Myself and Another returning to our Forward HQ for the night.
This was my favourite picture. Anyways. Hope you all enjoyed the pictures
Things will be posted soon, I know I keep saying that but I keep getting distracted. This time I'll make sure things are done.
Friday, January 24, 2014
A little Fluff: Vatarian Plate
This post is born from a discussion we had during Dark Heresy after getting spaced. Several times. It goes into light detail of the various suits of Vatarian plate Armour. On a side note, expect more posts soon.
Mark I-A - The Vatarian Mark I-A suit of armour is a reliable design from early M.37. It is expensive, but is durable, easy to maintain, and strong enough to withstand most types of ballistic weaponry.Additionally, the power cables on the suit are covered by a light carapace coating. The joints are also reinforced with additional padding to protect the wearer from shrapnel. It's internal systems give it the ability to track targets, provide multiple vision settings to see in a higher spectrum, and allows the wearer to patch into local computer and navigation networks. More recent upgrades have increased the vox range to nearly a kilometer without having to tap into an external vox link.
The suit also has capacity to go into space for limited time. The wearer can comfortable stay in an airless/toxic environment for about forty five minutes without having to find another air supply. Along with the internal air unit, the suit also has mag-boots to allow the wearer to walk in a Zero-G area. This is the suit preferred by spacers, assassins, and units on long-range missions that expect little to no supply.
Mark I-B - The Mark I-B suit has all the aforementioned capabilities, with the edition of an improved logic engine. This suit can track multiple targets at once, provide an improved HUD for the wearer, as well as increased motor units that allow the wearer to better move around and fight.
Mark II - The Mark II suit loses some of its internal systems, but has gains in mobility. Now unable to track more than one target at a time, it now can allow the wearer to run faster, just higher, and have overall better gyroscopic control.
The upgrades also mean that Zero-g movement has become much simpler with the addition of Mag-gauntlets. However, this comes with a sacrifice: The suit is only able to operate in airless environments for half of an hour. The power consumption of the suit is also led to exposed power cables along the chest and back. Normally the wearer of the suit would be a scout, a medic, or a light infantryman.
Mark III - The Mark III suit was developed in mid M.38 as a replacement for the aging, and flawed Mark I and II suits. It has an extended battery life to allow to the wearer to operate for several days without having to recharge. It's internal systems were improved to allow the wearer to track multiple targets at once, have an integrated HUD system that connects directly to the user's weaponry, improved communication and navigations modules, and a wireless logic tool that can hack into various frequencies and signals. The power cables on this suit have been covered by several layers of Carapace plating, and the joins have been reinforced with flak/carapace fibers to protect the wearer from explosive and ballistics damage.
This suit also has external hardpoints to mount various devices and equipment, further freeing the wearer from having to carry cumbersome bags and pouches. There is also an optional Vox Caster unit that can be mounted on the back of the suit, but this would definitely limit the wearer's mobility and maneuverability. This suit is preferred by Commanders, Vanguard Units, and Technicians.
Mark I-A - The Vatarian Mark I-A suit of armour is a reliable design from early M.37. It is expensive, but is durable, easy to maintain, and strong enough to withstand most types of ballistic weaponry.Additionally, the power cables on the suit are covered by a light carapace coating. The joints are also reinforced with additional padding to protect the wearer from shrapnel. It's internal systems give it the ability to track targets, provide multiple vision settings to see in a higher spectrum, and allows the wearer to patch into local computer and navigation networks. More recent upgrades have increased the vox range to nearly a kilometer without having to tap into an external vox link.
The suit also has capacity to go into space for limited time. The wearer can comfortable stay in an airless/toxic environment for about forty five minutes without having to find another air supply. Along with the internal air unit, the suit also has mag-boots to allow the wearer to walk in a Zero-G area. This is the suit preferred by spacers, assassins, and units on long-range missions that expect little to no supply.
Mark I-B - The Mark I-B suit has all the aforementioned capabilities, with the edition of an improved logic engine. This suit can track multiple targets at once, provide an improved HUD for the wearer, as well as increased motor units that allow the wearer to better move around and fight.
Mark II - The Mark II suit loses some of its internal systems, but has gains in mobility. Now unable to track more than one target at a time, it now can allow the wearer to run faster, just higher, and have overall better gyroscopic control.
The upgrades also mean that Zero-g movement has become much simpler with the addition of Mag-gauntlets. However, this comes with a sacrifice: The suit is only able to operate in airless environments for half of an hour. The power consumption of the suit is also led to exposed power cables along the chest and back. Normally the wearer of the suit would be a scout, a medic, or a light infantryman.
Mark III - The Mark III suit was developed in mid M.38 as a replacement for the aging, and flawed Mark I and II suits. It has an extended battery life to allow to the wearer to operate for several days without having to recharge. It's internal systems were improved to allow the wearer to track multiple targets at once, have an integrated HUD system that connects directly to the user's weaponry, improved communication and navigations modules, and a wireless logic tool that can hack into various frequencies and signals. The power cables on this suit have been covered by several layers of Carapace plating, and the joins have been reinforced with flak/carapace fibers to protect the wearer from explosive and ballistics damage.
This suit also has external hardpoints to mount various devices and equipment, further freeing the wearer from having to carry cumbersome bags and pouches. There is also an optional Vox Caster unit that can be mounted on the back of the suit, but this would definitely limit the wearer's mobility and maneuverability. This suit is preferred by Commanders, Vanguard Units, and Technicians.
Saturday, October 5, 2013
15 Easy Steps to making 3AM Tea
1. Get thirsty, but don't feel like getting up yet
2. Still thirsty, try to ignore the face that you're getting thirsty
3. Say screw it, get up and go look in the fridge for ten minutes but to no avail. Return to you seat
4. Give up and go look again, this time have an idea of what sounds good. Some nice warm tea
5. Get a mug and put water in it
6. Realize that you don't remember where you put your tea bags
7. Ask your cat where the bags are
8. Realize your cat is a selfish asshole and wouldn't tell you even if he knew where they were
9. Fight off your cat attacking your feet as you search each cupboard
10. Find tea
11. Realize what you found is green tea, and keep looking
12. Find the proper tea
13 Get the mug of water and nuke it in the microwave
14. Once finished, carefully remove the mug and put tea bags in it
15. Wait about five minutes, add sugar, stir, and enjoy
2. Still thirsty, try to ignore the face that you're getting thirsty
3. Say screw it, get up and go look in the fridge for ten minutes but to no avail. Return to you seat
4. Give up and go look again, this time have an idea of what sounds good. Some nice warm tea
5. Get a mug and put water in it
6. Realize that you don't remember where you put your tea bags
7. Ask your cat where the bags are
8. Realize your cat is a selfish asshole and wouldn't tell you even if he knew where they were
9. Fight off your cat attacking your feet as you search each cupboard
10. Find tea
11. Realize what you found is green tea, and keep looking
12. Find the proper tea
13 Get the mug of water and nuke it in the microwave
14. Once finished, carefully remove the mug and put tea bags in it
15. Wait about five minutes, add sugar, stir, and enjoy
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Hammer of Absolution, On Station
From inside the bridge, Captain Darius ordered the ship prepare it's warp drives for full acceleration toward the planet Arrakia. The ship was assigned to the Vatarian 8th Battlegroup, which was currently assigned to the Harkonnen system to act security for the units operating on the ground. The duty may not be glorious, but it was an important part of the war being fought. His helmsman turned toward him to deliver a report. "We're cleared for warp, Captain." Excellent, our part of the war begins here. "Take us out, number one."
"Aye Aye sir."
Captain Darius sat in his command chair as he felt the vibrations go throughout the ship; signifying that they had entered the perilous warp. The Hammer of Absolution was on its way to it's first deployment.
As they arrived back in realspace, Captain Darius sent a single of transmission to the men on the ground. "Hammer of Absolution is on station."
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Arrakian Accord pt 5, Battle for Leto Highway
Segmentum Tempestus 999.M41
Harkonnen IV System; Planet Arrakia
Days on planet: 15
Situation: Optimal
"Wake up Aelgafar." The voice was soft, yet authoritative. "Major, it's time to wake up." Carpenter felt a sharp pain in his arm and he felt energy flow into him.
A different voice, more hostile, spoke along with a prod in his side. "Oi! Major. Wake up. It's time to get your sorry arse on the line."
Aelgafar slowly raised his hand and used an all too familiar gesture. There was a chuckle of laughter followed by a good humored response.
"Glad to see you're alright, Major. I was starting to get worried for a second there."
He sat up and opened his eyes slowly to let them adjust to the light. He was inside a tent. His tent. Every belonging was in it's normal position, the only difference was when he looked outside the tent flap, there was a mountain range in the desert instead of the desert. He then looked at the two figures who had been attempting to wake him. The first voice belonged to Captain Ulysses. The second one to Sergeant Rielly.
Ulysses spoke first. "We're glad you're awake Major. There is a Major operation going on and The Inquisitor wanted every man who could hold a lasgun or autogun available."
Carpenter rubbed his neck and stood up. "Major Operation, Captain?"
Rielly answered this time. "Yes sir. The Black Legion is attempting to break out of Leton. The Inquisition scraped up two entire companies of space marines to try and hold back their assault."
Aelgafar walked out of the tent and was amazed at their surroundings. Far to the east and in front of the distant mountain range, columns of smoke raised high into the sky from the capital city. It was unnerving to the think of all the death that was taking place there. Rielly and Ulysses emerged from the tent as well and observed the same columns of smoke that continuously rose. "It's horrible, isn't it sir? There were well over a hundred thousand civilians in that city. All either dead, enslaved, or followers of chaos now." Aelgafar felt a strange feeling when Ulysses finished his sentence. A feeling of unnatural serenity. He shook it just as quickly as it came, and he felt anger fill his mind and heart. This anger though, also did not feel natural. Like it was not his own. He felt the anger at himself for not killing more of the traitors. He felt anger at his men for being slow to act against the Black Legion. He just felt angry at it all. Only one thought prevailed in his mind through the anger, and this thought felt like it was fuelled by the anger.
"We have to stop them." He whispered.
Rielly placed his hand on his shoulder. "Sir?"
"We have to stop them Rielly. We have to put a halt to the Black Legion here and now before that" He pointed towards the capital city "Becomes common on this planet."
Ulysses replied before Rielly could. "That's why we're here sir. We have a company from the Steel Nightmares, a Company from the Steel Sabres. (That is the name of the Former "Renegade Marines" chapter. The player finally decided that he would be a proper chapter instead of a Gaggle of random marines.) and our entire company has been called up to this battle as well."
Carpenter thought for a moment. "What of the Thunder Dragons? Were they not also deployed on this planet?"
"Yes sir, ther are. However, we lost contact with them after the First battle of Melange. They are presumed cut off due to sandstorms and enemy contacts."
"Damn. We could have used them here. Estimated enemy strength?"
"Early estimates say that at least five companies, all mechanized, have deployed into the area."
Aelgafar saw a black strip along the ground in the distance. He notioned to it and looked at Rielly. "What is that?"
"That is Leto Highway sir. It is the only way to get vehicles into the desert and other cities. If you're not on that asphalt when you leave the region, your vehicle sinks right into the sand."
"So that's why they chose here to break out. Interesting."
"Yes sir. This is the only highway that leads into the capital from this direction. The only other one is to the direct south of the capital, and it leads into Melange. Nothing so far has come back from that town, be it Imperial or Traitor."
"Good. Natural buffer zone then. When are we expecting to ride out an meet the Black Legion?"
"Tomorrow, Sir."
"Excellent. Ulysses, Order your men to eat a hardy meal tonight. As well as a good night's sleep. Rielly, what is our supply situation?"
"Truthfully sir, with what we could salvage from wreckage around this area. We have enough ammunition to supply three companies for a few days."
Carpenter was taken aback. "THREE companies, Rielly? And what wreckage?"
"Well sir, from what we ascertain, this is where the Imperial PDF forces who fled the city got cut down. Not all of them, but certainly quite a few. The supplies were left abandoned along with a few working Half-ton trucks."
"Outstanding then! Make sure that each trooper is issued at least twice his normal ammunition supply. If we are facing five companies of Traitor marines, we'll need every shot."
"Yes sir. Oh, and I believe The Inquisitor wanted you in the command tent when you woke up. Its the largest tent at the very centre of camp. You can't miss it, sir." With those final words, Rielly vanished to do his assigned duties, Leaving Carpenter standing in between rows of tents.
He passed various guardsmen long the way to the command tent. None of them stopped what they were doing to salute him. Good men, he thought. They remembered not to ever salute in an active warzone due to possible enemy snipers. Most of them did nod or acknowledge his passing with a simple wave. Good men indeed. He tried not to think about how many men would be lost before this Warp-damned campaign was over. As he approached the command tent, he was intercepted by two Astarted clad in Black amour with red legs and green helmets. "Identify yourself." One demanded.
"Major Carpenter." Aelgafar replied.
The Astartes froze for a moment, no doubt talking into a vox link inside of his helmet. "You may proceed." He stated, and both of them cleared out of his way and back to their original positions.
When Aelgafar entered the Tent, he could feel the tension in the air. There were two Astartes standing with the Inquisitor who Aelgafar had met before. "Ah, Major. I was beginning to wonder if you would ever recover from your... fatigue."
"What, and miss this lovely outing you have planned for us? Not a chance."
The Inquisitor smirked under his hood. "Good to see that your attitude hasn't suffered any. Good. We'll need you in this upcoming battle." He motioned to the Astartes on his left. This one was clad in the same armour as the guards outside. "This is Chapter Master Holt of the Steel Nightmares. He and his Astartes will be advancing up the centre in an attempt at breaking the main advance of the Black Legion." He then motioned to the Astartes to his right. This Space Marine's armour was completely grey, save for black shoulder pauldrons and metallic trimmings. "This is Chapter Master Troy Armstrong of the Steel Sabres. He and his chapter will be advancing up the left flank to preform a blocking manuvoure to prevent any further extensions of the traitor's lines." Both of the Chapter Masters nodded respectfully. That was quite a display of respect coming from the Space Marines. To even be acknowledged by an Astartes commander was highly uncommon.
"I'm assuming that would leave my company to advance up the right flank and ensure that no hostile reinforcements are brought up?"
The Inquisitor seemed suprised. "Yes, that is correct Major. Your duties will also involve ranged support with your battle tanks." He looked at the two Chapter masters and dismissed them both with a wave of his hand. Aelgafar was now alone with the Inquisitor.
"So, Major. From what the Medics tell me, you're completely fit to fight."
"Yes, Inquisitor."
"It leaves one to wonder how you survived your trek through the desert. Would you care to shed some light on how you managed to survive?"
"I kept going, Inquisitor."
"We found you in the midst of a sandstorm, miles away from the original objective. MaiLai is quite a ways away from where we are now. How did you know which direction to go?"
"I didn't, Inquisitor."
The Inquisitor looked him over for a moment before speaking. "Is there anything I should know, Aelgafar?"
"No, Inquisitor. Only that I am here now and ready to assume command of my Company."
The Inquisitor pulled back his hood to reveal his face. He had dirty blond hair and purple eyes with skin that said he'd spent a lot of time in the sun. There were wrinkles on his face. Not from age, but from what looked like years of stress. "Nimorol, Major. Inquisitor Nimorol." He reached into a compartment on his armor and pulled out a flask, offering it to Aelgafar.
Aelgafar took it and took a swig. The Amasec was strong enough to make him cringe. Nimorol spoke up. "It's Cadian. Hard to find this far away from the gate, but damn worth the cost."
Aelgafar cleared his throat with a cough before he replied. "Didn't think Inquisitors drank."
"You'd be surprised at the number of things we do that others do not expect. I would ask you to have a seat."
He sat down and Aelgafar did the same. Nimorol took the flask and had a long drink before returning it to it's compartment. "Truthfully Major, we're a half-step away from losing this planet. If the Black Legion breaks through here, there is nowhere else we could have a proper chance at stopping them. This is it. This is our one shot to buy time for reinforcements to arrive. It's simple numbers. They have more, and will continue to get more so long as the warp portals they came in on stay open. There is currently a debate on what units could go in to kill the chaos sorcerers who keep the portals open"
Aelgafar was surprised at Nimorol's openness. "Why are you telling me this? Is this not information better left with the Astartes?"
Nimorol looked grim. "Because your unit is under consideration of being sent in."
Aelgafar felt himself go pale. "A company of guardsmen is no match for a Traitor Legion and it's foul sorcery!"
Nimorol was unmoved at the outburst, in fact, he suspected it. "Sacrifices must be made if Victory is to be achieved, Aelgafar. Just as the 3rd Calvalry Ensured that the Black Legion was unable to take the eastern highway."
"What do you mean by that?"
"They fought the Black Legion in the city of Voge to buy time for us to seal the mountain pass that led out of the area. They were cornered and they knew it. But they also knew what was at stake."
Aelgafar felt the urge to strike Nimorol at that moment more than ever. He placed his hand on the hilt of his saber and fought the muscles not to draw it and strike out.
"Do you not approve of what's happening here? Well too bad Aelgafar. It's a simple fact: The Black Legion will stop at nothing to take this planet and if they do they will eventually move on to the entire system. If we do not stop them then all of this," Nimorol waved his hands around "all of this would be for nothing."
Aelgafar didn't immediately reply. He simply stood and stared out of a nearby window flap. "I do understand, Inquisitor Nimorol. I understand all too well at what this victory will cost. Don't you worry about my men tomorrow. They'll be ready. You make sure that the end is justified by all the means." With those closing words, he left the tent to prepare for the next day.
Segmentum Tempestus 999.M41
Harkonnen IV System; Planet Arrakia
Days on planet: 16
Situation: Stable
It was early morning when Imperial forces deployed near the highway to intercept the chaos convoy. Major Carpenter rode atop the tank Von Sica to the ambush point. There was no vox chatter this morning, each unit knew what their mission was and what to do. He looked through his night vision scope in the direction of the highway. Sure enough, there was a line of Black Legion Rhinos trudging along. He felt the tank stop with a slight jerk, and he climbed out of the cupola and stood behind with his advisors.
A nearby vanquisher was training it's sights on an enemy Vindicator. He walked over behind the tank and opened a small compartment near the engine. It contained a field telephone that had a direct link to the tank commander. He held it to his ear.
"Sergeant Zale, here."
"This is Major Carpenter. We fire the opening shot in this Op. Make it count." He promptly returned the telephone to its housing and all was silent for a moment. Then the Vanquisher fired.
A brilliant explosion lit the sky as the enemy tank went up in flames. The Vanquisher round had pierced the ammo stores of the siege vehicle and caused a lethal explosion. It was beautiful.
The convoy skid to a halt and began to disgorge Traitor Astartes who promptly began to return fire in the direction of the loyalists. The traitors began to pick off loyalist Astartes from the centre line. His radioman strode up to him as the rest of the 2nd company tanks opened fire.
"Major Carpenter Sir, Vox for you."
"Thank you, Harvey." He took the vox headset and put it on. "Carpenter here."
"Major, this is Holt. one of my dreadnaughts just took a direct hit. He has been taken out of action and completely immobilized and has a weapon destroyed. We need your armour to focus on the centre section. The left flank is holding nicely, but we're threatening to be overrun in the centre."
"Copy that, will direct armour fire to centre column."
"All tanks, fire on targets in the centre line. The Astartes are requesting support, show them what we're made of." The various tanks of 2nd Company rotated their turrets and began firing against targets in the centre. The sentinels that were providing escort for the tanks began to also unleash torrents of autocannon fire at the nearest of the rhinos in an attempt to cripple it before it could disgorge it's lethal occupants.
Fire began to ricochet off the front of the tanks as the rhinos drew closer. "Get down!" Carpenter's voice was almost drown out as the lead tank erupted into flames from a stray lascannon blast. Carpenter glanced up from his position to try and catch a glance at his attackers. All he saw was a plasma blast coming straight toward him. Time seemed to move in slow motion as he jumped away from the incoming round. It erupted into a brilliant plasma flash behind him and he was propelled into the side of another tank. Captain Ulysses ran over to him as he lay curled up on the ground in pain. "Major are you alright!?" Aelgafar let out a stream of curses that made Ulysses flinch. Aelgafar had a death grip on his stomach. There was blood pouring from under his hands. "Oh damnation. Medic!"
Sergeant Rielly saw the one who fired the plasma blast. He led his Veterans against the traitor squad. "Take those bastards down men! Throw the demo charge and fire at full auto!" He and his men unleashed a helltorrent of lasgun fire against the traitor marine squad. Rielly was close enough to hear the traitor's voices over the lasgun fire. Before the traitors could raise their own boltguns in response fire, he heaved a large demolitions charge at the traitors and their rhino. It exploded with devastating effect, effectively destroying the entire squad in one blast.
Unexpectedly, the chaos rhinos began to surge forward against the Imperial lines. 2nd Company was slowly being forced to retreat back, else they would be crushed under the treads of the oncoming vehicles. Seeing the threat of a broken line, Chapter Master Armstrong pushed his men forward on the left flank. They drove hard into the Traitor lines and broke several hostile squads and forced them to retreat. Chapter Master Holt urged his men up the centre and began a grueling counter attack against the Black Legion mechanized infantry.
The Guardsmen of 2nd Company had pulled back to form a defensive line around the forward aid station that held Major Carpenter. The Armour stayed on the forward line to help the Astartes fight off the Chaos assault.
Explosions rattled the earth and the constant chatter of heavy bolter fire filled the air as the intense battle continued on throughout the day. It wasn't until around noon on the next day that things began to wither down to only an occasional bolter shot. The Imperials had held the highway at the cost of well over a hundred warriors. The wounded numbered in the dozens and the cries of the dying were echoing throughout the battlefield. The cost was much too high to be considered anything less than a Pyrrhic Victory.
Segmentum Tempestus 999.M41
Harkonnen IV System; Planet Arrakia
Days on planet: 23
Situation: Stable, In need of relief
Aelgafar lay in a hospital bed being examined by constant sensors. He was in an constant, dull pain from the plasma that had caused his stomach to burn to the point of opening. The medics had sewn up but it didn't hold. It wasn't long until he was put into sedation and when he awoke, his abdomen muscles were replaced with cybernetic augmentations. He fell into shock when he first realized it and had to be put back into sedation. When he finally woke up, he started for long periods of time at his new abdomen. It was during one such staring session that Inquisitor Nimorol visited him. He sat at the foot of the bed and also looked at the augmentation. "You can thank me for that, Major. I used my resources to secure you Augmentations worthy of a Techpriest."
Aelgafar looked up at him. "It takes getting used to, I suppose."
Nimorol nodded. "That it does. Well, you'll have plenty of time to adjust during your next deployment."
He gave a puzzling look to the inquisitor. "Next deployment?"
Nimorol stood up. "You and the remains of your company are being deployed to Outpost Idaho. It provides the much needed water to a large portion of settlements in this region. It should be a relatively easy mission. Guard duty combined with rest and relaxation. You leave in the morning, and will be there within two days. I hope you enjoy yourself out there, Major."
Harkonnen IV System; Planet Arrakia
Days on planet: 15
Situation: Optimal
"Wake up Aelgafar." The voice was soft, yet authoritative. "Major, it's time to wake up." Carpenter felt a sharp pain in his arm and he felt energy flow into him.
A different voice, more hostile, spoke along with a prod in his side. "Oi! Major. Wake up. It's time to get your sorry arse on the line."
Aelgafar slowly raised his hand and used an all too familiar gesture. There was a chuckle of laughter followed by a good humored response.
"Glad to see you're alright, Major. I was starting to get worried for a second there."
He sat up and opened his eyes slowly to let them adjust to the light. He was inside a tent. His tent. Every belonging was in it's normal position, the only difference was when he looked outside the tent flap, there was a mountain range in the desert instead of the desert. He then looked at the two figures who had been attempting to wake him. The first voice belonged to Captain Ulysses. The second one to Sergeant Rielly.
Ulysses spoke first. "We're glad you're awake Major. There is a Major operation going on and The Inquisitor wanted every man who could hold a lasgun or autogun available."
Carpenter rubbed his neck and stood up. "Major Operation, Captain?"
Rielly answered this time. "Yes sir. The Black Legion is attempting to break out of Leton. The Inquisition scraped up two entire companies of space marines to try and hold back their assault."
Aelgafar walked out of the tent and was amazed at their surroundings. Far to the east and in front of the distant mountain range, columns of smoke raised high into the sky from the capital city. It was unnerving to the think of all the death that was taking place there. Rielly and Ulysses emerged from the tent as well and observed the same columns of smoke that continuously rose. "It's horrible, isn't it sir? There were well over a hundred thousand civilians in that city. All either dead, enslaved, or followers of chaos now." Aelgafar felt a strange feeling when Ulysses finished his sentence. A feeling of unnatural serenity. He shook it just as quickly as it came, and he felt anger fill his mind and heart. This anger though, also did not feel natural. Like it was not his own. He felt the anger at himself for not killing more of the traitors. He felt anger at his men for being slow to act against the Black Legion. He just felt angry at it all. Only one thought prevailed in his mind through the anger, and this thought felt like it was fuelled by the anger.
"We have to stop them." He whispered.
Rielly placed his hand on his shoulder. "Sir?"
"We have to stop them Rielly. We have to put a halt to the Black Legion here and now before that" He pointed towards the capital city "Becomes common on this planet."
Ulysses replied before Rielly could. "That's why we're here sir. We have a company from the Steel Nightmares, a Company from the Steel Sabres. (That is the name of the Former "Renegade Marines" chapter. The player finally decided that he would be a proper chapter instead of a Gaggle of random marines.) and our entire company has been called up to this battle as well."
Carpenter thought for a moment. "What of the Thunder Dragons? Were they not also deployed on this planet?"
"Yes sir, ther are. However, we lost contact with them after the First battle of Melange. They are presumed cut off due to sandstorms and enemy contacts."
"Damn. We could have used them here. Estimated enemy strength?"
"Early estimates say that at least five companies, all mechanized, have deployed into the area."
Aelgafar saw a black strip along the ground in the distance. He notioned to it and looked at Rielly. "What is that?"
"That is Leto Highway sir. It is the only way to get vehicles into the desert and other cities. If you're not on that asphalt when you leave the region, your vehicle sinks right into the sand."
"So that's why they chose here to break out. Interesting."
"Yes sir. This is the only highway that leads into the capital from this direction. The only other one is to the direct south of the capital, and it leads into Melange. Nothing so far has come back from that town, be it Imperial or Traitor."
"Good. Natural buffer zone then. When are we expecting to ride out an meet the Black Legion?"
"Tomorrow, Sir."
"Excellent. Ulysses, Order your men to eat a hardy meal tonight. As well as a good night's sleep. Rielly, what is our supply situation?"
"Truthfully sir, with what we could salvage from wreckage around this area. We have enough ammunition to supply three companies for a few days."
Carpenter was taken aback. "THREE companies, Rielly? And what wreckage?"
"Well sir, from what we ascertain, this is where the Imperial PDF forces who fled the city got cut down. Not all of them, but certainly quite a few. The supplies were left abandoned along with a few working Half-ton trucks."
"Outstanding then! Make sure that each trooper is issued at least twice his normal ammunition supply. If we are facing five companies of Traitor marines, we'll need every shot."
"Yes sir. Oh, and I believe The Inquisitor wanted you in the command tent when you woke up. Its the largest tent at the very centre of camp. You can't miss it, sir." With those final words, Rielly vanished to do his assigned duties, Leaving Carpenter standing in between rows of tents.
He passed various guardsmen long the way to the command tent. None of them stopped what they were doing to salute him. Good men, he thought. They remembered not to ever salute in an active warzone due to possible enemy snipers. Most of them did nod or acknowledge his passing with a simple wave. Good men indeed. He tried not to think about how many men would be lost before this Warp-damned campaign was over. As he approached the command tent, he was intercepted by two Astarted clad in Black amour with red legs and green helmets. "Identify yourself." One demanded.
"Major Carpenter." Aelgafar replied.
The Astartes froze for a moment, no doubt talking into a vox link inside of his helmet. "You may proceed." He stated, and both of them cleared out of his way and back to their original positions.
When Aelgafar entered the Tent, he could feel the tension in the air. There were two Astartes standing with the Inquisitor who Aelgafar had met before. "Ah, Major. I was beginning to wonder if you would ever recover from your... fatigue."
"What, and miss this lovely outing you have planned for us? Not a chance."
The Inquisitor smirked under his hood. "Good to see that your attitude hasn't suffered any. Good. We'll need you in this upcoming battle." He motioned to the Astartes on his left. This one was clad in the same armour as the guards outside. "This is Chapter Master Holt of the Steel Nightmares. He and his Astartes will be advancing up the centre in an attempt at breaking the main advance of the Black Legion." He then motioned to the Astartes to his right. This Space Marine's armour was completely grey, save for black shoulder pauldrons and metallic trimmings. "This is Chapter Master Troy Armstrong of the Steel Sabres. He and his chapter will be advancing up the left flank to preform a blocking manuvoure to prevent any further extensions of the traitor's lines." Both of the Chapter Masters nodded respectfully. That was quite a display of respect coming from the Space Marines. To even be acknowledged by an Astartes commander was highly uncommon.
"I'm assuming that would leave my company to advance up the right flank and ensure that no hostile reinforcements are brought up?"
The Inquisitor seemed suprised. "Yes, that is correct Major. Your duties will also involve ranged support with your battle tanks." He looked at the two Chapter masters and dismissed them both with a wave of his hand. Aelgafar was now alone with the Inquisitor.
"So, Major. From what the Medics tell me, you're completely fit to fight."
"Yes, Inquisitor."
"It leaves one to wonder how you survived your trek through the desert. Would you care to shed some light on how you managed to survive?"
"I kept going, Inquisitor."
"We found you in the midst of a sandstorm, miles away from the original objective. MaiLai is quite a ways away from where we are now. How did you know which direction to go?"
"I didn't, Inquisitor."
The Inquisitor looked him over for a moment before speaking. "Is there anything I should know, Aelgafar?"
"No, Inquisitor. Only that I am here now and ready to assume command of my Company."
The Inquisitor pulled back his hood to reveal his face. He had dirty blond hair and purple eyes with skin that said he'd spent a lot of time in the sun. There were wrinkles on his face. Not from age, but from what looked like years of stress. "Nimorol, Major. Inquisitor Nimorol." He reached into a compartment on his armor and pulled out a flask, offering it to Aelgafar.
Aelgafar took it and took a swig. The Amasec was strong enough to make him cringe. Nimorol spoke up. "It's Cadian. Hard to find this far away from the gate, but damn worth the cost."
Aelgafar cleared his throat with a cough before he replied. "Didn't think Inquisitors drank."
"You'd be surprised at the number of things we do that others do not expect. I would ask you to have a seat."
He sat down and Aelgafar did the same. Nimorol took the flask and had a long drink before returning it to it's compartment. "Truthfully Major, we're a half-step away from losing this planet. If the Black Legion breaks through here, there is nowhere else we could have a proper chance at stopping them. This is it. This is our one shot to buy time for reinforcements to arrive. It's simple numbers. They have more, and will continue to get more so long as the warp portals they came in on stay open. There is currently a debate on what units could go in to kill the chaos sorcerers who keep the portals open"
Aelgafar was surprised at Nimorol's openness. "Why are you telling me this? Is this not information better left with the Astartes?"
Nimorol looked grim. "Because your unit is under consideration of being sent in."
Aelgafar felt himself go pale. "A company of guardsmen is no match for a Traitor Legion and it's foul sorcery!"
Nimorol was unmoved at the outburst, in fact, he suspected it. "Sacrifices must be made if Victory is to be achieved, Aelgafar. Just as the 3rd Calvalry Ensured that the Black Legion was unable to take the eastern highway."
"What do you mean by that?"
"They fought the Black Legion in the city of Voge to buy time for us to seal the mountain pass that led out of the area. They were cornered and they knew it. But they also knew what was at stake."
Aelgafar felt the urge to strike Nimorol at that moment more than ever. He placed his hand on the hilt of his saber and fought the muscles not to draw it and strike out.
"Do you not approve of what's happening here? Well too bad Aelgafar. It's a simple fact: The Black Legion will stop at nothing to take this planet and if they do they will eventually move on to the entire system. If we do not stop them then all of this," Nimorol waved his hands around "all of this would be for nothing."
Aelgafar didn't immediately reply. He simply stood and stared out of a nearby window flap. "I do understand, Inquisitor Nimorol. I understand all too well at what this victory will cost. Don't you worry about my men tomorrow. They'll be ready. You make sure that the end is justified by all the means." With those closing words, he left the tent to prepare for the next day.
Segmentum Tempestus 999.M41
Harkonnen IV System; Planet Arrakia
Days on planet: 16
Situation: Stable
It was early morning when Imperial forces deployed near the highway to intercept the chaos convoy. Major Carpenter rode atop the tank Von Sica to the ambush point. There was no vox chatter this morning, each unit knew what their mission was and what to do. He looked through his night vision scope in the direction of the highway. Sure enough, there was a line of Black Legion Rhinos trudging along. He felt the tank stop with a slight jerk, and he climbed out of the cupola and stood behind with his advisors. A nearby vanquisher was training it's sights on an enemy Vindicator. He walked over behind the tank and opened a small compartment near the engine. It contained a field telephone that had a direct link to the tank commander. He held it to his ear.
"Sergeant Zale, here."
"This is Major Carpenter. We fire the opening shot in this Op. Make it count." He promptly returned the telephone to its housing and all was silent for a moment. Then the Vanquisher fired.
A brilliant explosion lit the sky as the enemy tank went up in flames. The Vanquisher round had pierced the ammo stores of the siege vehicle and caused a lethal explosion. It was beautiful.
"Major Carpenter Sir, Vox for you."
"Thank you, Harvey." He took the vox headset and put it on. "Carpenter here."
"Major, this is Holt. one of my dreadnaughts just took a direct hit. He has been taken out of action and completely immobilized and has a weapon destroyed. We need your armour to focus on the centre section. The left flank is holding nicely, but we're threatening to be overrun in the centre."
"Copy that, will direct armour fire to centre column."
"All tanks, fire on targets in the centre line. The Astartes are requesting support, show them what we're made of." The various tanks of 2nd Company rotated their turrets and began firing against targets in the centre. The sentinels that were providing escort for the tanks began to also unleash torrents of autocannon fire at the nearest of the rhinos in an attempt to cripple it before it could disgorge it's lethal occupants. 
Fire began to ricochet off the front of the tanks as the rhinos drew closer. "Get down!" Carpenter's voice was almost drown out as the lead tank erupted into flames from a stray lascannon blast. Carpenter glanced up from his position to try and catch a glance at his attackers. All he saw was a plasma blast coming straight toward him. Time seemed to move in slow motion as he jumped away from the incoming round. It erupted into a brilliant plasma flash behind him and he was propelled into the side of another tank. Captain Ulysses ran over to him as he lay curled up on the ground in pain. "Major are you alright!?" Aelgafar let out a stream of curses that made Ulysses flinch. Aelgafar had a death grip on his stomach. There was blood pouring from under his hands. "Oh damnation. Medic!" Sergeant Rielly saw the one who fired the plasma blast. He led his Veterans against the traitor squad. "Take those bastards down men! Throw the demo charge and fire at full auto!" He and his men unleashed a helltorrent of lasgun fire against the traitor marine squad. Rielly was close enough to hear the traitor's voices over the lasgun fire. Before the traitors could raise their own boltguns in response fire, he heaved a large demolitions charge at the traitors and their rhino. It exploded with devastating effect, effectively destroying the entire squad in one blast.
Unexpectedly, the chaos rhinos began to surge forward against the Imperial lines. 2nd Company was slowly being forced to retreat back, else they would be crushed under the treads of the oncoming vehicles. Seeing the threat of a broken line, Chapter Master Armstrong pushed his men forward on the left flank. They drove hard into the Traitor lines and broke several hostile squads and forced them to retreat. Chapter Master Holt urged his men up the centre and began a grueling counter attack against the Black Legion mechanized infantry.
Explosions rattled the earth and the constant chatter of heavy bolter fire filled the air as the intense battle continued on throughout the day. It wasn't until around noon on the next day that things began to wither down to only an occasional bolter shot. The Imperials had held the highway at the cost of well over a hundred warriors. The wounded numbered in the dozens and the cries of the dying were echoing throughout the battlefield. The cost was much too high to be considered anything less than a Pyrrhic Victory.
Segmentum Tempestus 999.M41
Harkonnen IV System; Planet Arrakia
Days on planet: 23
Situation: Stable, In need of relief
Aelgafar lay in a hospital bed being examined by constant sensors. He was in an constant, dull pain from the plasma that had caused his stomach to burn to the point of opening. The medics had sewn up but it didn't hold. It wasn't long until he was put into sedation and when he awoke, his abdomen muscles were replaced with cybernetic augmentations. He fell into shock when he first realized it and had to be put back into sedation. When he finally woke up, he started for long periods of time at his new abdomen. It was during one such staring session that Inquisitor Nimorol visited him. He sat at the foot of the bed and also looked at the augmentation. "You can thank me for that, Major. I used my resources to secure you Augmentations worthy of a Techpriest."
Aelgafar looked up at him. "It takes getting used to, I suppose."
Nimorol nodded. "That it does. Well, you'll have plenty of time to adjust during your next deployment."
He gave a puzzling look to the inquisitor. "Next deployment?"
Nimorol stood up. "You and the remains of your company are being deployed to Outpost Idaho. It provides the much needed water to a large portion of settlements in this region. It should be a relatively easy mission. Guard duty combined with rest and relaxation. You leave in the morning, and will be there within two days. I hope you enjoy yourself out there, Major."
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Arrakian Accord pt 4.
Segmentum Tempestus 999.M41
Harkonnen IV System; Planet Arrakia
Days on planet: 13
Situation: Critical
From the diary of Major Carpenter: We hit another sandstorm, so I Picked up reading the service record again. At some point after Golgotha, he was an Imperial Guard Commander without an Imperial guard unit. His requests to Cadian Command for a new regiment had all been denied, and he was unable to transfer to another unit. He met up with an Inquisitor from the Ordo Malleus at some point in his medicae treatments. The name of the guy was erased. Typical. Whatever the details of the meeting were, they involved him getting incredibly high quality treatment for his injuries in exchange for disappearing and working for the inquisition. I did some searching, and other than his medicae release forms, there is not a single mention of Captain Peach again until the battle of Tyrok fields! To top things of, when he was finally mentioned again in the after action report of the battle, he had gained an entirely new regiment and carried the title of Field Marshall. Whatever happened to him in those years of inquisitorial service had really paid off. He was entirely different from the man who lost his regiment on Golgotha. Unrelated note. Just heard the Engine cut out, going to talk to the driver.
Aelgafar climbed out of his seat and knocked on the small hatch that separated the passenger compartment and the driver compartment. There was no reply so he tried knocking again. No reply. He eased open the hatch and peered inside the driver's compartment. The Sergeant and his driver were gone. He went inside the compartment and looked around for any sign of where they could be. The front hatch was open and there was the tattered remains of Imperial fatigues strewn about the front of the Chimera. "No. It can't be like this" Carpenter whispered to himself. "It can't be this way." He checked the fuel reading for the vehicle. It read 19%. "Alright, I can work with this." He sat down at the controls for the Chimera and tried to start it back up, but to no success. A light flashed on the console indicating that there was a problem with the electrical box. "It's always some damn thing." He moved over to the electrical box and pried it open with his combat knife.
"By the Emperor.." He gasped. The inside of the box had been shot and fried to the point of uselessness. There was only one weapon that could leave damages like that. An Imperial Laspistol. "Frak!" He punched the wall of the chimera then reeled back in pain holding his hand. "Of course. Frakking metal box of an APC." Aelgafar climbed out of the front hatch of the chimera and into the harsh desert sun.
He took a deep breathe and looked around for any sign of the chimera's crew. There was a single set of footprints leading off to the east. "Frak" he muttered as he returned to the chimera to salvage what he could. Before he left, he sent out a call on the emergency vox caster that was attached to the top of the turret. "This is Major Carpenter of the XII Vatarian Legion. The chimera I had commandeered is inoperable. Separated from any kind of Imperial Forces. Heading due north from my current position. Emperor be with me."
The desert heat scorched Carpenter's lungs with each heaving breathe he took. He had long since abandoned his flak jacket and wore only the fatigues that were underneath. "By the Emperor, who would live in a place like this?" He asked himself as he began to drag his feet. The chimera he abandoned had long since left his view, and was now only a glimmer in the far, far distance. Aelgafar tripped over something cropping up out of the sand. He turned around and dug around it and let out a gasp of surprise. It was the driver of the chimera, there was a hole in the skull from a small weapon. The sergeant was still nowhere to be seen. He kept very attentive as he walked onward.
It felt like an eternity of walking. The sun was now setting and the winds were picking up. There was a sandstorm coming. Carpenter fell to his knees and unbuckled his pistol's holster and sabre's scabbard. They weighed too much for him to carry them any farther. He tried to stand but quickly fell onto his face instead. He could begin to feel the tiny needles of the sandstorm drawing closing. "Emperor" He gasped "Emperor help me! I have served you well, have I not!?" The winds of the sandstorm began to screech as they drew ever closer and swirled around him. "Emperor what must I do to serve you!?" The only reply was the sandstorm encircling him and he could feel the layers of his fatigues begin to rip away, and his skin became bloodied as it was ripped open by the wind. His cries of anguish became hateful. "Damn you Emperor! You sit and watch as I lay and die! How many souls must fade away before you act!?" He began to hate the Emperor. He hated everything about the Emperor, he hated the Inquisition, He hated Terra, He hated the Priests, He hated them all. "You are nothing but a corpse! A corpse! The horror that men commit in your name is a testament of how fallen you truly are! The horrors, of the horrors! You are nothing but a false god! Damn you, and damn your imperium!" He screamed those words into the sandstorm. His voice pulled from him as he was enveloped in the blackness of pain and suffering. Then it all stopped. All the pain, all the suffering, his anguish ceased to exist in one fell being. He felt strength fill his muscles as a light seemed to flicked in front him just out of reach. As he began to crawl after it, it moved away from him.
"C-Come back!" he cried desperatly as it kept moving away from him. He continued to follow it until it vanished. He felt his strength dwindle away again, and felt the familiar pain of the sandstorm. No longer wishing to fight death, he simply gave up. His rescuer was gone, and he was to be lost here in this Arrakian desert. He felt a rumbling through the sand. "It must be a Sand Wrym." He thought. As suddenly as it began, the rumbling stopped. Out of nowhere he heard a familiar voice. "Sir? Major Carpenter, is that you?" He struggled to look up and saw the familiar outline of Sergeant Rielly. He was rescued. "First squad dismount! Get the major inside NOW! Don't worry sir, you'll be alright."
As he felt himself being carried inside the cramped innards of a chimera, he heard something unusual. Something from deep within his own brain. He heard a voice, and it only had one thing to say. "You belong to me Aelgafar. You always have, you simply did not know it. You will always belong to me. Now embrace the cold darkness of sleep. When you awaken, your true purpose will reveal itself."
Harkonnen IV System; Planet Arrakia
Days on planet: 13
Situation: Critical
From the diary of Major Carpenter: We hit another sandstorm, so I Picked up reading the service record again. At some point after Golgotha, he was an Imperial Guard Commander without an Imperial guard unit. His requests to Cadian Command for a new regiment had all been denied, and he was unable to transfer to another unit. He met up with an Inquisitor from the Ordo Malleus at some point in his medicae treatments. The name of the guy was erased. Typical. Whatever the details of the meeting were, they involved him getting incredibly high quality treatment for his injuries in exchange for disappearing and working for the inquisition. I did some searching, and other than his medicae release forms, there is not a single mention of Captain Peach again until the battle of Tyrok fields! To top things of, when he was finally mentioned again in the after action report of the battle, he had gained an entirely new regiment and carried the title of Field Marshall. Whatever happened to him in those years of inquisitorial service had really paid off. He was entirely different from the man who lost his regiment on Golgotha. Unrelated note. Just heard the Engine cut out, going to talk to the driver.
Aelgafar climbed out of his seat and knocked on the small hatch that separated the passenger compartment and the driver compartment. There was no reply so he tried knocking again. No reply. He eased open the hatch and peered inside the driver's compartment. The Sergeant and his driver were gone. He went inside the compartment and looked around for any sign of where they could be. The front hatch was open and there was the tattered remains of Imperial fatigues strewn about the front of the Chimera. "No. It can't be like this" Carpenter whispered to himself. "It can't be this way." He checked the fuel reading for the vehicle. It read 19%. "Alright, I can work with this." He sat down at the controls for the Chimera and tried to start it back up, but to no success. A light flashed on the console indicating that there was a problem with the electrical box. "It's always some damn thing." He moved over to the electrical box and pried it open with his combat knife.
"By the Emperor.." He gasped. The inside of the box had been shot and fried to the point of uselessness. There was only one weapon that could leave damages like that. An Imperial Laspistol. "Frak!" He punched the wall of the chimera then reeled back in pain holding his hand. "Of course. Frakking metal box of an APC." Aelgafar climbed out of the front hatch of the chimera and into the harsh desert sun.
He took a deep breathe and looked around for any sign of the chimera's crew. There was a single set of footprints leading off to the east. "Frak" he muttered as he returned to the chimera to salvage what he could. Before he left, he sent out a call on the emergency vox caster that was attached to the top of the turret. "This is Major Carpenter of the XII Vatarian Legion. The chimera I had commandeered is inoperable. Separated from any kind of Imperial Forces. Heading due north from my current position. Emperor be with me."
The desert heat scorched Carpenter's lungs with each heaving breathe he took. He had long since abandoned his flak jacket and wore only the fatigues that were underneath. "By the Emperor, who would live in a place like this?" He asked himself as he began to drag his feet. The chimera he abandoned had long since left his view, and was now only a glimmer in the far, far distance. Aelgafar tripped over something cropping up out of the sand. He turned around and dug around it and let out a gasp of surprise. It was the driver of the chimera, there was a hole in the skull from a small weapon. The sergeant was still nowhere to be seen. He kept very attentive as he walked onward.
It felt like an eternity of walking. The sun was now setting and the winds were picking up. There was a sandstorm coming. Carpenter fell to his knees and unbuckled his pistol's holster and sabre's scabbard. They weighed too much for him to carry them any farther. He tried to stand but quickly fell onto his face instead. He could begin to feel the tiny needles of the sandstorm drawing closing. "Emperor" He gasped "Emperor help me! I have served you well, have I not!?" The winds of the sandstorm began to screech as they drew ever closer and swirled around him. "Emperor what must I do to serve you!?" The only reply was the sandstorm encircling him and he could feel the layers of his fatigues begin to rip away, and his skin became bloodied as it was ripped open by the wind. His cries of anguish became hateful. "Damn you Emperor! You sit and watch as I lay and die! How many souls must fade away before you act!?" He began to hate the Emperor. He hated everything about the Emperor, he hated the Inquisition, He hated Terra, He hated the Priests, He hated them all. "You are nothing but a corpse! A corpse! The horror that men commit in your name is a testament of how fallen you truly are! The horrors, of the horrors! You are nothing but a false god! Damn you, and damn your imperium!" He screamed those words into the sandstorm. His voice pulled from him as he was enveloped in the blackness of pain and suffering. Then it all stopped. All the pain, all the suffering, his anguish ceased to exist in one fell being. He felt strength fill his muscles as a light seemed to flicked in front him just out of reach. As he began to crawl after it, it moved away from him.
"C-Come back!" he cried desperatly as it kept moving away from him. He continued to follow it until it vanished. He felt his strength dwindle away again, and felt the familiar pain of the sandstorm. No longer wishing to fight death, he simply gave up. His rescuer was gone, and he was to be lost here in this Arrakian desert. He felt a rumbling through the sand. "It must be a Sand Wrym." He thought. As suddenly as it began, the rumbling stopped. Out of nowhere he heard a familiar voice. "Sir? Major Carpenter, is that you?" He struggled to look up and saw the familiar outline of Sergeant Rielly. He was rescued. "First squad dismount! Get the major inside NOW! Don't worry sir, you'll be alright."
As he felt himself being carried inside the cramped innards of a chimera, he heard something unusual. Something from deep within his own brain. He heard a voice, and it only had one thing to say. "You belong to me Aelgafar. You always have, you simply did not know it. You will always belong to me. Now embrace the cold darkness of sleep. When you awaken, your true purpose will reveal itself."
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Arrakian Accord Pt 3.
Segmentum Tempestus 999.M41
Harkonnen IV System; Planet Arrakia
Days on planet: 12
Situation: Critical
They were all gone. The Leman Russ Von Sica and its crew, as well as Major Carpenter, were all alone. At some point in the last few days the chain that held them in place within the convoy had snapped, and they unknowningly strayed far off course. From what they could scrape up navigation wise, they were about a hundred kilometres away from the target village. The tank's commander had long given up trying to raise anyone on the vox. It simply did not have the range to be trying to link back up with any kind of force. "Alright. We have a general Idea of where we're going. Take us out Sergeant." Before he could hear the sergeant's reply, Carpenter got back up into the cupola and surveyed the area with binoculars. Far off in the distance, he saw what looked like a few structures. The directional compass on the binoculars said east. "Sergeant, bearing one-oh-five. We have what looks like Imperial PreFab structures. adjust the course so that we pass by them at a close distance."
As they got closer, Carpenter could see there was much more than just the few structures. It was the ruins of an entire city, and there was still a battle raging from somewhere within the depths of the ruins. "Sergeant Yrmi, take us into the city. Slowly. Sponson gunners on alert here." The Von Sica crept down a ruined street, passing occasionally under the shadow of a ruined high-rise. As the street grew much narrower, buildings began to creep upwards into the sky. The echos of whatever battle was being raged became louder and disorienting. Suddenly, an Astartes with Jet black armour ran into the street in front of them. Before Carpenter could bring the tank's pintle mounted storm bolter to bear, the Space Marine was cut down by an unseen lasgun. Carpenter jumped down off the Von Sica and inspected the marine. Black Legion. "Who goes there?" The voice rang out of an alleyway nearby. He decided it would be wise to respond truthfully. "Major Aelgafar Carpenter. Vatarian XII Legion, Second Company!" There was a brief silence before a man in Dark Green flak and camoflauge fatigues stepped out of the shadows. "Guardsman Henri Chesaney. Arrakian 3rd Calvalry. Follow me, sir. I'll take you to my CO."
One street over, it was a hellscape. Wrecked vehicles were strewn about. Burnt out chimeras, half incinirated chaos predators, husks of leman russ tanks, anything an Imperial commander could bring to bear had it's place among the wreckage somewhere. Carpenter followed the Guardsmen up the street and was suprised to find the area opened up into what he highly suspected to have been a park at some point. Trenches had been dug and what was left of the 3rd was dug in around one central bunker. Being led through the trenches, carpenter truly saw the situation of the third. Men who had bled out while manning their rifle positions, empty ammunition boxes strewn about, shell cases coated the ground next to unexploded munitions. Aelgafar wondered how anyone could hold out in these conditions. Just beyond the trenches was an area filled with the dead of the Black Legion and Guard alike. In some places where the trench had collapesed, bodies were being used to hold up the walls and form a type of cover.
When he finally reached the centre bunker he was suprised to see the entrance was not a door, but a hole that had been blown open on one side. "Sir, go inside and down there stairs to operations. Colonel Marlow will want to see you." Having said that, the young trooper took off to return to his original position. Aelgafar reached onto his belt and pulled off a small radio. "Carpenter to Von Sica, Return to base. There is no way you can get through these buildings now that i'm on the other side." There was a slight pause before a reply was heard. "Yes Major. Also, good luck out there." Carpenter put his radio away and headed inside the bunker. He was being entirely ignored by the troopers manning the defences. Dedication, he thought. To what was the question. Survival? The Homeworld? Their Colonel? Who could tell. He took a moment to look over these men and what little peice of land they had paid in blood for. All out beyond the trenches was proof that the third hadn't just been sitting on the sidelines. The dead easily numbered in the thousands, and the occasional cry of pain hinted that there were survivors out in the sea of bodies who didn't have the good fortune to die, nor the luxury of being rescued. The men of the Third were grim. They wore tattered uniforms and battered armour. Their faces bore a stoic expression of men who highly suspected they were to die in that very moment. Then Aelgafar saw something that burned into his mind more than any great daemon of the warp ever could. He saw a soldier take off his helmet and step up out of the trench and was handed a strange case. He took the case and climbed up to a flat spot next to the central bunker. The case opened and the trooper took out a beaten and battered string viola. And then he began to play. Something about the scene burned into Aelgafar's mind. Surrounded by the worst kinds of death, surrounded by pain of unimaginable levels, This man was playing to mourne the dead. Carpenter rushed to get to the lower levels of the bunker, for he simply could not hold the sight in any longer.
"Colonel Marlow of the 3rd Calvalry?" The man who hunched over the operations table stood and turned toward a saluting Major Carpenter. He spoke in a raspy voice. "Yeah, that's me." He saluted back to put Carpenter at ease before continuing. "Who are you and what is your purpose here?" Carpenter adjusted his Beret and spoke. "Major Aelgafar Carpenter of the Vatarian XII Legion, 2nd company. I'm looking for a Field Marshall Peach, sir." Colonel Marlow simply stared at him as a response. He bore the same stoic face and spoke without hope. His uniform resembled that of his men's, and he looked unshaven for at least a week. "Well Major, the man you're looking for isn't here. We've been out of contact since the invasion." Carpenter cleared his throat. "Well sir, my company has been sending out vox signals since we landed to try an-" Marlow cut him short. "Major why do you think we've been out of contact with Peach? Our transmitter got blown to the warp in the first few hours of invasion. We only have short range vox. On top of that, whenever Baelstrom and his lot came through here in the first few days, he ordered all spare equipment to be loaded onto his chimeras and wheeled transports." "Baelstrom sir?" "Yeah. He runs the Capital City's PDF. From what I hear he let the Astartes get blown to hell while he and his men held at his field HQ." He looked back at his maps. "You know you can't stay here. In a couple of hours the Black Legion will attack again. They've managed to push us back to this position by doing that. Street by street, building by building, they pushed us back. We've run out of everything." Aelgafar took a step forward. "Sir, I hate to have to be asking this, but I'll need transport if this position is unable to be held until I can request for one. It is vital I get to the village of MaiLai." Marlow sighed and looked into his datapad. "Do you know why this is a Calvalry Regiment, Major?" Before Carpenter could reply, Marlow continued. "Up until about two thousand years ago, this unit was entirely mounted up on horses. We carried everything we needed for battle. We traded our hunting lances and horses for Chimeras and Multilasers. It may not look it now, but before all this began" he notioned around him at the bunker and trenches. "the entire regiment was able to be transported by our dedicated chimera force." he took a breathe. "We only have one Chimera remaining. Ony one. It can be found on the eastern defensive wall. I'll leave it up to you to decide to take it or not." He set down his datapad and began walking our of the bunker followed closely by Aelgafar. He stopped at the entrance of the bunker and took a long look at his men. "This will all be for nothing if can't stop the Black Legion. Major, I hope you find the Field Marshall, If anyone could stem this heretical tide, it's him. Emperor help us if he can't. You have a Chimera to requisition. I'll leave you to it." Marlow turned and went back into the depths of the bunker, leaving Aelgafar standing there speechless.
The only chimera avalible to the 3rd Calvalry was currently in use. What Colonel Marlow failed to mention was that it was being used to evacuate the wounded. Aelgafar stood in the hatch of the chimera staring inside at the wounded guardsmen who occupied the vehicle. Carpenter stopped the vehicle's commander as he was passing. "Sergeant, where is this chimera going?"
"Fort dix, sir."
"Where is that in relation to MaiLai?"
"Opposite end of the region, sir."
Aelgafar became quiet and the sergeant went back to inspecting the chimera before he was to make one last run to evacuate the wounded. From somewhere in the city, the war drums and war cries of the black Legion could be heard starting up. The Men of the Third began to hastily prepare their positions for the next wave of Traitor Marines that would undoubtly overrun their position. "Sergeant. Unload the wounded." The sergeant looked at him, as did all the wounded in the chimera. "Sir?!" Aelgafar cleared his throat. "You heard me Sergeant. Unload the wounded, and make ready to punch out of here." There was a pause before the sergeant began to help the wounded unload. Each wounded man stared at him with mixtures of hatred and silent pleas for reconsiderment. After they were unloaded and he got into the back of the chimera, he made eye contact with only one of them as the rear hatch was closed. He heard the Sergeant's voice over the intercom. "So, MaiLai then?" Carpenter pushed the talk button to reply. "Yes, MaiLai."
"Rodger that. MaiLai. It'll be about two days."
"Alright, Sergeant."
From the diary of Major Carpenter: Note to self, Request that Segmentum Command recognize the 3rd Arrakian Calvalry as heroes of the Arrakian War. Emperor protect them all. Their leader, a Colonel Marlow, seemed to think that Field Marshall Peach is the Key to all this. I hope he's right. Not particularly in the mood to do this vox-recording stuff. Not after men who are much better than I gave their life so that I may complete my mission. Major Aelgafar Carpenter, Signing off for now.
Harkonnen IV System; Planet Arrakia
Days on planet: 12
Situation: Critical
They were all gone. The Leman Russ Von Sica and its crew, as well as Major Carpenter, were all alone. At some point in the last few days the chain that held them in place within the convoy had snapped, and they unknowningly strayed far off course. From what they could scrape up navigation wise, they were about a hundred kilometres away from the target village. The tank's commander had long given up trying to raise anyone on the vox. It simply did not have the range to be trying to link back up with any kind of force. "Alright. We have a general Idea of where we're going. Take us out Sergeant." Before he could hear the sergeant's reply, Carpenter got back up into the cupola and surveyed the area with binoculars. Far off in the distance, he saw what looked like a few structures. The directional compass on the binoculars said east. "Sergeant, bearing one-oh-five. We have what looks like Imperial PreFab structures. adjust the course so that we pass by them at a close distance."
As they got closer, Carpenter could see there was much more than just the few structures. It was the ruins of an entire city, and there was still a battle raging from somewhere within the depths of the ruins. "Sergeant Yrmi, take us into the city. Slowly. Sponson gunners on alert here." The Von Sica crept down a ruined street, passing occasionally under the shadow of a ruined high-rise. As the street grew much narrower, buildings began to creep upwards into the sky. The echos of whatever battle was being raged became louder and disorienting. Suddenly, an Astartes with Jet black armour ran into the street in front of them. Before Carpenter could bring the tank's pintle mounted storm bolter to bear, the Space Marine was cut down by an unseen lasgun. Carpenter jumped down off the Von Sica and inspected the marine. Black Legion. "Who goes there?" The voice rang out of an alleyway nearby. He decided it would be wise to respond truthfully. "Major Aelgafar Carpenter. Vatarian XII Legion, Second Company!" There was a brief silence before a man in Dark Green flak and camoflauge fatigues stepped out of the shadows. "Guardsman Henri Chesaney. Arrakian 3rd Calvalry. Follow me, sir. I'll take you to my CO."
One street over, it was a hellscape. Wrecked vehicles were strewn about. Burnt out chimeras, half incinirated chaos predators, husks of leman russ tanks, anything an Imperial commander could bring to bear had it's place among the wreckage somewhere. Carpenter followed the Guardsmen up the street and was suprised to find the area opened up into what he highly suspected to have been a park at some point. Trenches had been dug and what was left of the 3rd was dug in around one central bunker. Being led through the trenches, carpenter truly saw the situation of the third. Men who had bled out while manning their rifle positions, empty ammunition boxes strewn about, shell cases coated the ground next to unexploded munitions. Aelgafar wondered how anyone could hold out in these conditions. Just beyond the trenches was an area filled with the dead of the Black Legion and Guard alike. In some places where the trench had collapesed, bodies were being used to hold up the walls and form a type of cover.
When he finally reached the centre bunker he was suprised to see the entrance was not a door, but a hole that had been blown open on one side. "Sir, go inside and down there stairs to operations. Colonel Marlow will want to see you." Having said that, the young trooper took off to return to his original position. Aelgafar reached onto his belt and pulled off a small radio. "Carpenter to Von Sica, Return to base. There is no way you can get through these buildings now that i'm on the other side." There was a slight pause before a reply was heard. "Yes Major. Also, good luck out there." Carpenter put his radio away and headed inside the bunker. He was being entirely ignored by the troopers manning the defences. Dedication, he thought. To what was the question. Survival? The Homeworld? Their Colonel? Who could tell. He took a moment to look over these men and what little peice of land they had paid in blood for. All out beyond the trenches was proof that the third hadn't just been sitting on the sidelines. The dead easily numbered in the thousands, and the occasional cry of pain hinted that there were survivors out in the sea of bodies who didn't have the good fortune to die, nor the luxury of being rescued. The men of the Third were grim. They wore tattered uniforms and battered armour. Their faces bore a stoic expression of men who highly suspected they were to die in that very moment. Then Aelgafar saw something that burned into his mind more than any great daemon of the warp ever could. He saw a soldier take off his helmet and step up out of the trench and was handed a strange case. He took the case and climbed up to a flat spot next to the central bunker. The case opened and the trooper took out a beaten and battered string viola. And then he began to play. Something about the scene burned into Aelgafar's mind. Surrounded by the worst kinds of death, surrounded by pain of unimaginable levels, This man was playing to mourne the dead. Carpenter rushed to get to the lower levels of the bunker, for he simply could not hold the sight in any longer.
"Colonel Marlow of the 3rd Calvalry?" The man who hunched over the operations table stood and turned toward a saluting Major Carpenter. He spoke in a raspy voice. "Yeah, that's me." He saluted back to put Carpenter at ease before continuing. "Who are you and what is your purpose here?" Carpenter adjusted his Beret and spoke. "Major Aelgafar Carpenter of the Vatarian XII Legion, 2nd company. I'm looking for a Field Marshall Peach, sir." Colonel Marlow simply stared at him as a response. He bore the same stoic face and spoke without hope. His uniform resembled that of his men's, and he looked unshaven for at least a week. "Well Major, the man you're looking for isn't here. We've been out of contact since the invasion." Carpenter cleared his throat. "Well sir, my company has been sending out vox signals since we landed to try an-" Marlow cut him short. "Major why do you think we've been out of contact with Peach? Our transmitter got blown to the warp in the first few hours of invasion. We only have short range vox. On top of that, whenever Baelstrom and his lot came through here in the first few days, he ordered all spare equipment to be loaded onto his chimeras and wheeled transports." "Baelstrom sir?" "Yeah. He runs the Capital City's PDF. From what I hear he let the Astartes get blown to hell while he and his men held at his field HQ." He looked back at his maps. "You know you can't stay here. In a couple of hours the Black Legion will attack again. They've managed to push us back to this position by doing that. Street by street, building by building, they pushed us back. We've run out of everything." Aelgafar took a step forward. "Sir, I hate to have to be asking this, but I'll need transport if this position is unable to be held until I can request for one. It is vital I get to the village of MaiLai." Marlow sighed and looked into his datapad. "Do you know why this is a Calvalry Regiment, Major?" Before Carpenter could reply, Marlow continued. "Up until about two thousand years ago, this unit was entirely mounted up on horses. We carried everything we needed for battle. We traded our hunting lances and horses for Chimeras and Multilasers. It may not look it now, but before all this began" he notioned around him at the bunker and trenches. "the entire regiment was able to be transported by our dedicated chimera force." he took a breathe. "We only have one Chimera remaining. Ony one. It can be found on the eastern defensive wall. I'll leave it up to you to decide to take it or not." He set down his datapad and began walking our of the bunker followed closely by Aelgafar. He stopped at the entrance of the bunker and took a long look at his men. "This will all be for nothing if can't stop the Black Legion. Major, I hope you find the Field Marshall, If anyone could stem this heretical tide, it's him. Emperor help us if he can't. You have a Chimera to requisition. I'll leave you to it." Marlow turned and went back into the depths of the bunker, leaving Aelgafar standing there speechless.
The only chimera avalible to the 3rd Calvalry was currently in use. What Colonel Marlow failed to mention was that it was being used to evacuate the wounded. Aelgafar stood in the hatch of the chimera staring inside at the wounded guardsmen who occupied the vehicle. Carpenter stopped the vehicle's commander as he was passing. "Sergeant, where is this chimera going?"
"Fort dix, sir."
"Where is that in relation to MaiLai?"
"Opposite end of the region, sir."
Aelgafar became quiet and the sergeant went back to inspecting the chimera before he was to make one last run to evacuate the wounded. From somewhere in the city, the war drums and war cries of the black Legion could be heard starting up. The Men of the Third began to hastily prepare their positions for the next wave of Traitor Marines that would undoubtly overrun their position. "Sergeant. Unload the wounded." The sergeant looked at him, as did all the wounded in the chimera. "Sir?!" Aelgafar cleared his throat. "You heard me Sergeant. Unload the wounded, and make ready to punch out of here." There was a pause before the sergeant began to help the wounded unload. Each wounded man stared at him with mixtures of hatred and silent pleas for reconsiderment. After they were unloaded and he got into the back of the chimera, he made eye contact with only one of them as the rear hatch was closed. He heard the Sergeant's voice over the intercom. "So, MaiLai then?" Carpenter pushed the talk button to reply. "Yes, MaiLai."
"Rodger that. MaiLai. It'll be about two days."
"Alright, Sergeant."
From the diary of Major Carpenter: Note to self, Request that Segmentum Command recognize the 3rd Arrakian Calvalry as heroes of the Arrakian War. Emperor protect them all. Their leader, a Colonel Marlow, seemed to think that Field Marshall Peach is the Key to all this. I hope he's right. Not particularly in the mood to do this vox-recording stuff. Not after men who are much better than I gave their life so that I may complete my mission. Major Aelgafar Carpenter, Signing off for now.
Friday, August 23, 2013
War of Arrakia pt.2
After the defeat at the capital city, Leton, Imperial forces were routed. The Imperial Guard company had lost itself a nearby desert due to negligence of the command staff. Nearly fifty miles away, the Space Marines were securing an already war-torn town. This puzzled the Astartes since the war had not yet reached this part of the planet.
The Chapter Master of the Thunder Dragons, Varlen, and his newly fitted Terminator Armour was discussing possible options with Captain Lysander of the Imperial Fists. Lysander had come to this planet to try and bring back loyalty to the populace. When the chaos marines attacked, he had taken up arms with the band of "Renegade" marines to act as their leader. Unable to agree on the best course of action, a new and experimental land speeder, the Fremen-pattern, was sent into the centre of the battle-scarred town. Not long after it vanished over a line of buildings did gauss fire erupt from all directions. An explosion was heard and the last transmission was simple. "Unable to maintain altitude. Necron presence confirmed. Crash Landing imminent." With those three simple sentences, the battle for the town of Melange had begun.
The Thunder Dragons advanced rapidly into combat positions. Assault Marines soared over the battlefield and landed behind the approaching Steel Nightmare Rhinos. A krak grenade was thrown at the Rhino to no effect. The lead scout summoned Chapter Master Varlen on the vox with an idea. Fire into the side of the Rhino and try to rend through the armour. It was a gambit. And it Worked.
The Chapter Master of the Thunder Dragons, Varlen, and his newly fitted Terminator Armour was discussing possible options with Captain Lysander of the Imperial Fists. Lysander had come to this planet to try and bring back loyalty to the populace. When the chaos marines attacked, he had taken up arms with the band of "Renegade" marines to act as their leader. Unable to agree on the best course of action, a new and experimental land speeder, the Fremen-pattern, was sent into the centre of the battle-scarred town. Not long after it vanished over a line of buildings did gauss fire erupt from all directions. An explosion was heard and the last transmission was simple. "Unable to maintain altitude. Necron presence confirmed. Crash Landing imminent." With those three simple sentences, the battle for the town of Melange had begun.
 |
| Land Speeder Fremen crash site |
The advanced units of the Thunder Dragons crept up the streets without saying a word. All units stopped at the hand signal of the Lead marine. First and Second squad took up defensive positions along the side alleyways and waited patiently. A single voice broke through the silence. "Hostile Astartes spotted. Rhino approaching. Not responding to Communications." The Steel Nightmare Chapter had arrived and was in a battle formation.
 |
| First and Second squad advancing by the numbers |
Forward Scouts Spot the Oncoming Rhinos
The scouts' fire destroy the Rhino, Embarked unit evacuates
The Marines from the Steel Nightmares were cut down without mercy. A librarian from the Nightmare's appeared not long after the destruction of the Rhino. As he began to summon a Vortex of Doom, the perils of the Warp overtook him. He was torn limb from limb by the powers of the dark gods. The ground shook violently beneath the approaching Space Marine advance force.
The advance was going smoothly
All hell broke loose as the Necrons sprung up from the ground
The ground roared as a Necron Monolith teleported onto the battlefield, bringing with it the death and destruction of Immortals and Warriors. Leading the Necron onslaught was Anrakyr the Traveler. He had come to Arrakia on the eve of the chaos invasion to reactivate a small tomb world that had laid buried far below the surface. Flying over the main force were a brutal-looking squad of Necron destroyers. Lysander ordered one of his renegade predators to open fire. At first, the autocannon only chipped away at the rugged chassis of the destroyers. But then, one by one, the destroyers crashed and burned from as the autocannon began to rip them apart. The victory was a small one, because soon after, the Monolith opened fire. The Renegade's Librarian saw an opportunity to push forward and try to carve a path through the Necron lines. They never made it to the front line. The Necron monolith fired its main weapon at the advancing Astartes.
And then there were none
Seeing an opportunity to strike, Captain Lysander led a squad of Terminators against the enemy immortals. The assaulters charged against the Necron Immortals, losing only two brothers in the process. They struck the immortals like a hard tidal wave. However, from the rear of the Immortals, He appeared. Anrakyr the Traveler. He stood before captain Lysander. The challenge was made and accepted. Time seemed to slow as the two great warriors circled each other. Thunder cracked with each blow struck. The epic duel seemed to last a lifetime. Beside the two great warriors in their duel, The Terminators and Immortals were locked in vicious combat. But suddenly, as if the Emperor himself empowered Lysander, A killing blow was struck against Anrakyr. The Necron immortals seized the husk of their fallen leader and skulked back to wherever they had come from. A great cheer arose from the surviving battle-brothers.
The Epic Duel
Even though Anrakyr had fallen, the battle was far from other. The Monolith roared back into combat and continuously bombarded the marine positions. The Astartes had no choice but to take cover and go to ground to prevent being wiped out entirely. During the exchange of bolter fire and gauss fire a frantic transmission had been sent from the Thunder Dragon's Scouts. "Sir! The Fremen-pattern, they have it! The foul Necrons have secured the crashed speeder. No sign of the crew of the speeder, presumed dead."
The Necrons had won. While the forces of Astartes were occupied fighting Necron diversionary forces, a Necron warrior squad was able to raid, secure, and capture the downed land speeder. This means that the experimental technology and computing systems of the Astartes can now be analyzed by Necron spies. Unfortunately the Friendly Fire incident with the Steel Nightmares Chapter has led to many casualties. In the coming battles, The allied forces numbers are significantly few. There are three companies of Astartes, a company of Arrakian PDF soldiers, and the soon arriving 44th Arrakian Light Infantry.
"We are reduced to fighting a running war. We must hit them every chance we have with whatever we have. I am currently organizing a retaliation force at Con-D'Ben. Bring your respective companies back to this line. Victory is soon to be ours, but first we must regroup to hit them right where it hurts. You have your orders. Carry on." -Field Marshall Peach
Friday, August 9, 2013
War of Arrakia pt. 1
In the grim darkness of the future, there is only war! Abbadon the Despoiler leads a chaos warband with Daemons in tow to a planet that has known nothing but peace. Arrakia. To make matters worse, using some twisted warp-spawn magics, he has managed to lure orks into fighting for his cause. Only a localized company of imperial guardsmen and a handful of space marines stood between the Planet and a horrid chaos infestation.
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| Abbadon and his Justaerian terminators |
It was a chilly evening on the planey Arrakis, the sun was just setting on the horizon and the PDF had just finished their training for the day. All was calm in the night until a violent explosion consumed the city centre. From the fiery inferno charged forth the Warbands of the Black Legion; Hell bent on killing all who stood in their path. Planetary alarms sounded as men, women, and children were mercilessly slaughtered by the rampaging traitors. The few guardsmen that could escape from the Slaughter rallied near the Spaceport. Not long after the rally, Colonel Brinkman assumed command of the Imperial forces. Fearing his life, Baelstrom ordered half his company to stay in reserved near his temporary HQ, while the rest of the company sallied forth undermanned. Unknowingly to all of the warriors, a civilian distress beacon had been picked up by a passing Imperial fleet. Luckily enough for the Imperials on the planet, a small contingent of Space Marines was deployed to help maintain the Hopeless Defence.
Imperial Commander and Advisors
Half of the Imperial Comapny
Forward Space Marine Scouts
The Space Marines were a hundred strong, Fifty marines were the Thunder Dragons, and Fifty were a Renegade "Chapter." Between the hundred the two half companies sported ten suits of the Honoured Terminator Armour. Two predator tanks, a razorback, the Ironclad Dreadnaughts, and a Experimental Land Raider.
Thunder Dragon Biker Squad
The Space marines charged out of their landing zones and into defensive positions. They did not have to wait long. The ground began to shake uncontrollably. Suddenly from far ahead a single shout was heard. "Orks!!!!" Cries of "WAAAAAAAGH" echoed down the streets from the city centre. Mobs upon mobs of greenskins were charging down the road toward the Marine Positions. Then the Marines saw them. The wartrucks of the greenskin horde barreling down a nearby road. Then the unthinkable happened. Daemons. Great monstrous beasts were in the air flying above the ruined buildings and began assaulting the Renegades' Scouting positions. On the right flank a lucky lascannon shot had destroyed an ork dreadnaught and the surrounding boys. A feirce firefight was erupting up and down all the streets on the left flank.
The orks charged against the Marine positions all across the front. Casualties were horrid. The green tide was smashing against the space marine positions over and over again, chipping away at their defense little by little. The Imperial guard commander saw the eventual collapse of the line and ordered all his men to form a defensive position around his headquarters. Seeing the Guard falling back, the Black Legion warband entered the fray and quickly overwhelmed the already overtaxed loyalist marines. The Traitors combined with the brutish forces of the orks completely overwhelmed the Marine lines, forcing them to fall back.
Chapter Master Varlen of the Thunder dragons was trying to fend off chaos terminators when he realized just exactly who he was fighting. The Justaerian guard of the Black Legion. Abbadon's person guard. Then he saw him in his black terminator armour. Abbadon the Despoiler. Varlen was struck with a very real feeling of danger as Abbadon's black eyes looked him over. The fanged mouth of the traitor turned to a grin as he struck a challenge. "Fight me, Dog of the Emperor." The Justaerian guard backed off, as did Varlen's honour guard. So began a duel of epic proportions. Varlen's armour was rended to a point of needing major repair. However, before Abbadon could strike a killing blow, Varlen struck out with his relic blade. The blade went clear through Abbadon's armour and wounded him. Sensing that victory was no longer certain, Abbadon ordered his forces to full back.
Varlen looked around at what little was left of his forces. Fifty eight Battle brothers had deployed. There were only seven left. Of his allied chapter, only a Razorback, their Chapter master, and Four battle-brothers were left. Of the Imperial Guard, Baelstrom brought up his reserves and they had fended off the ork assaults. Of their seventy man company, fifty were left. Of their three chimeras, two were left. Both Leman Russ's were still active, and there were little wounded amongst the ranks of the guard. The First battle of Arrakia had taken an extremely heavy toll on Imperial Forces and the Traitors had taken most of the capital City. So with a butchers bill of nearly a thousand total, Civilians, Marines, Guardsmen, Orks, and Traitors, The war of Arrakia had begun.
"In no situation should the body count of Space Marines ever be Higher than that of the Imperial Guard." -Field Marshall Peach, After the first battle of Arrakia.
(Post note: This is the extremely shortened version. Of the hundred or so pictures I took with an Iphone, only about thirty were actually delivered to me. So I had to leave much out. Will add more parts as I get more pictures.)
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Vatarian XII: Meet Warrant Officer Victor Traakas
Warrant Officer Traakas has always been a navy man. His father was a navy man, and his father's father was a navy man. He comes from a whole line of navy men. So when he was stationed as a liaison with the Vatarian XII's command squad, he was sour about it. He made every argument to his superiors but was ultimately sent planet side. On his first day he went to Knight-Commander Zaros and demanded a transfer. The Commander promptly acknowledged his request and stationed him with a frontline combat unit for a week. At the end of that week, he was given the option to remain with the frontline unit or to return to the command headquarters. To this day he refuses to leave the command centre without an armed escort. While he despises everything about his current assignment, he understands this is just one step on the road to admiralty.
History: Vatarian Plate
Someone asked me this weekend why my commanders are in space marine armour. I replied their not, it's just really fancy carapace armour. But that person asking the question sparked off a question. Why do my commander wear plate?
Long ago before gunpowder and cannon, warriors were led into battle directly by their leaders. These kings and generals needed protection from the hazards of being the spearhead in a charge, so they would be clad in full plate armour and given the weapons of their choice. Their armour was treated with as much respect as the officer that wears it, and each suit is fitted specifically to that officer. After the Great Crusade brought Vatar into compliance, commanders and generals who proved themselves loyal to the imperium were awarded very primitive forms of power armour. Over time Vatarian armoursmiths were able to replicate and reverse engineer the armour, and soon began to produce a more modern form of Vatarian Plate Armour. This was dubbed VP.M35 and quickly spread throughout the Vatarian commanders. Once a commander has his plate, it belongs to him and he is expected to maintain it to the highest standards. It is not unheard of for the son of a high ranking officer to don his fathers armour, earning it and himself more renown with each battle fought. Currently, the VP.M41 is being tested by a select few high commanders, and is known as "Vatarian Heavy Plate"
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