Andre Anahat | Imperium | Inquisitor

[Inquisitor Anahat]

Inquisitor Andre “Asmi Alkufr Von Helvintr” Anahat OVERVIEW » NAME: Andre Anahat » ALIAS: Azi (to their personal acquaintances limited)/Palatine Asmi von Helvintr (cover ID)/Inquisitor Andre Anahat » AGE: 152 » GENDER: Male » AFFILIATION: Imperium/Inquisition/Themselves » OCCUPATION: Ordo Malleus Inquisitor » FACE CLAIM: Character/Actor name, or "Artwork" » PLAYED BY: MrNishi PROFILE THEIR ASPECT A youthful figure with sharp and distinctive features. Most striking are their cerebral implants, shining gold and platinum accentuated by their near matt black hair. Most clearly visible when they tie their hair back as the implants have replaced the sides of their head and neck. Their skin seemingly flawless, signs of a noble upbringing, with the only blemish a duelling scar upon their right cheek. When asked about it Azi politely brushes it aside as a matter of honour and says no more. That aside they are usually impeccably dressed, in the latest of fashions. Always in the theme of verdigris and maned lions heads, a throw back to their ancestral line. This starts from the mastercrafted rapier by their side and mirrored in any accessories they carry. Despite the dedication to fashion they will never wear a ruff or other items that could inhibit free movement. One further point of note is they take pains, and where needed extreme measures, to hide their calling as an Inquisitor. Rarely presenting their rosette, and only in the presence of those disposable or those able to keep a secret. Lastly and most discreetly they have full body Psyk-Active warding tattoos. These are normally invisible, but when combating/dealing with the Enemies Beyond they can be seen to glow from below the skin. Noteworthy Features » Noble Bearing » Gold & Platinum Cerebral Implants » Fashionably Dressed » Always armed, however lightly » Never Late THEIR PERSONA Outwardly they are an exemplary member of the most Upper of Imperial Classes. Understanding and adhering to the courtly currents of the Corinthe system. They have shown clear enjoyment of both hosting and visiting the other noteworthy persons within the system. Given that they are descended from the Helvintr Rogue Trader dynasties this is well in keeping with their cover identity. When relaxing they are always to be found with a quill in one hand, and an Amsec in the other. Penning a missive, poem or thoughts on various matters. Comfortable shifting between light hearted pranks, and deeper conversations on human nature. They are welcoming to all whom are of worthy status, and show remarkable restraint when dealing with those who aren't. Public persona aside they are a brutal Inquisitor, having little tolerance for those in their way, or the predicament they find themselves in trapped in Corinthe. Coupled with their intense strength of will they are intractable once they've set themselves on a course, using any means to achieve their goals. Given their induction as a Radical, the oft cited mantra “The ends justify the means”, has been part of their testing and trials to achieve the rosette. They, with little remorse, scoured hundreds of thousands to root out a single heretic. » POSITIVE TRAITS ✔ Charismatic ✔ Dutiful ✔ Unwavering ✔ Thorough » NEGATIVE TRAITS ✘ Merciless ✘ Psychopathy ✘ Radical ✘ Superiority Complex » LIKES ✔ Knowledge ✔ Demonology ✔ Fashion ✔ Deference » DISLIKES ✘ Corinthe ✘ Social Inferiors ✘ Xenos ✘ Imperial Guard THEIR CONNECTIONS Allies » (Retinue) Texorcist Omega-Xi XI Xi is a member of the Divisio Psykana and has travelled with Andre for the last few years. They were meant to be on-route to the wider imperium, but the chance to visit a forge world was too good to pass up. They’ve also inherited new duties of maintenance of the Deus Plate of Anahats Legacy. This is in addition to their work fighting the demon engines so popular with the forces of the dark gods. They carry a repurposed Scrap Code Generator, which they use when needing to destroy the corrupt machine spirits that cannot be salvaged, something they are loath to do. Their partnership has brought them many items of interest, at least once the demonic influence has been suitably bound. » (Retinue) Ser Raynold A former Tempestus Scion and now working for both Haus Anahat and the Inquisitor. Provided as a bodyguard/bats-man/spy by his father they have been essential in ensuring the safety of the cover identity and acting as the Head of Personal Security for both their Lords and the rest of the Retinue. A hard taciturn man, they are always well presented and more obviously armed & armoured than their Lord. » (Retinue) Savant Asgt Asgt is a member of the Adeptus Adminstratum, their knowledge of law, policy and the interplay between Officos second to none. They’re a timid woman, but serve with due faith after Andre rescued her from a frenzied mobs many worlds ago now. Initially they worked under Inquisitor Gasmus, but was sent along with Andre after the recent promotion. Currently they’re enjoying life in Corinthe as it is much slower paced, she’s able to access the ‘Big Black Book’ making her job much easier. Its this ease that Inquisitor Anahat has filled with the menial work of social secretary for the cover identity. Despite their quiet nature they are able to somewhat step into the role of Seneschal, using facts and data to give the surety needed where their own persona falls short. » (Retinue) Sister Damacles An itinerant preacher who has come into Andres service after controlling a demonic attack. His actions seen as channelling the Emperor's light, their mastery and binding of the demons a sign. They have since followed the now Inquisitor with a small retinue of their own faithful. Usually working to provide seals of purity, blessed water and other Eccesiarchal matters. They are also no slouch in combat, despite lacking training and experience compared to the Adeptus Sororitas, their chainsword and flamer the scourge of many a heretic » (Retinue) Schutafain the Demonhost A young demon bound into an unrepentant heretic, this binding completed with Inquisitor Grasmus but all the work and will to the binding were Andres. It was the demons first time outside of the Immaterium and they were lured into the prepared body. Given their nature they are a potent psyker and combatant, able to shrug off most light wounds. Focusing on Pyro & Cryo kenisis they have been a valued, but ultimately replaceable member of the team. Lacking more experience they are just happy to be in the Materium and wrecking havoc as and when they are allowed to do so. Again due to the novelty they aren't chaffing too hard against their chains, but such confrontations do happen in line with the whimsical nature of demons. » (Retinue) Lady Sohpia (Soh-Pia) van Waalijs of the House of Évreux Lady/Spy/Assassin, found herself caught up in a series of machinations between rival heretical cults, she realised it had escalated to a mere bit of well paid murder and into the worst acts of depravity she'd seen. It peeled aside her understanding of the threats to humanity and so reached out for help in here direst of times. The hand that reached back was the exquisitely manicured one of Andres. Pulling her out of the cults as their judgement poured down, burying their filth and burning what remained. Like many in such a predicament they were given a simple choice, and given the gentlemanly nature of the help offered, the lady graciously accepted the opportunity to serve, not just to sever. Her natural skills and training were supplemented by some time with the Offico Assasinorium, especially the wider standards of poison, food tasting and improvised weaponry. She has since been the air-headed arm candy, often seen accompanying a noble in whom Andre has an interest. » Retinue - Combat Troops Andres retains a minimum of 4 and maximum of 10 of the best possible armed and equipped persons they can recruit. As of yet they haven't seconded an Astartes, nor Sister of Battle, so these troops are currently 4 Tempestus Scions. As one can imagine any Imperial Guard that are needed to be added to the retinue aren't long for this world. » High Admirable Andreas Lubitz With a friendship born from a deep understanding of the importance of Void travel, and the deep consequences of isolation from the Astronomicon. At first it was Andres 'working' the relationship, but since has become a a solid bond between the two gentlemen. As Palatine Asmi von Helvintr is seeking passage out of the system, they've become somewhat invaluable in providing information to Andreas on the state of ships within the system. » Chancellor Nadia Cavalera A flirtatious relationship, that has so far played out well. As Palatine Asmi von Helvintr is one of the few persons of high enough noble standing to be considered for any type of courting. Enjoying the back and forth of court Asmi has become one of the select group of suitors. More to further immerse themselves into court, as well as provide some shielding against unwanted offers of marriage. Both the Chancellor and Asmi enjoy seeing the clothing and similar trends spread from her court into the wider system. This is the main basis of their relationship and between them the trends of Corinthe being overseen by 2 consummate professionals. Enemies » Lord Chevin du Lac One of many defeated duellists, but one of the only ones to take it personally. Coming from a very influential family who have roots going back millennia in the Corinthe system. They and Asmi came across each other discussing war and unfortunately one of the local guard regiments falls under the responsibility of House du Lac to raise. Cross words become cross blades, but neither man finding the satisfaction a duel would normally bring. Since then Chevin has been looking to rally their house behind their efforts to find another pretence to challenge Asmi to a duel that will, most unluckily prove fatal. » Lady Ashinvas The embodiment of warp hath no fury like a woman scorned. An unfortunate misunderstanding that has now escalated to full blown enmity. In court there are 2 Lady Ashinvas, of rival families, Amsi confused the two at the worst possible time. Leading to her awaiting some gentlemanly company that never arrived. Since Amsi has now become embroiled in the courting of Chancellor Nadia, Lady Ashinvas has only taken out her fury on her servants. But she has started seeking further experiences, and the whispers in the dark promise more and more, and the capture of Asmi would be a perfect start to ascension. » Grgggrazzith Demon of Slaanesh, they had been tending, nurturing the body now filled by Schutafain. They'd whispered secrets and forbidden knowledge into the vessel and now they are left with nothing. Nothing but their fury and rage at the mortal who scuppered their plans. Often given to personal vendettas, the more obscure the better, this is now their passion and they seek to make a suitably fashionable set of living shoes out of Andre, treading on they like they trod on the demons plans. THEIR APTITUDES As they are descended from a most noble and notable House they were given every care and attention growing up. Once their nature as a Psyker was noticed, it was carefully protected, developed and enhanced via training. Their parents knew that it’s a Psykers due to serve the Emperor in one way or another. Using their influence this duty would be to serve in life, rather than merely fed to the Throne. Aside from the mental training, noble upbringing they were put through the basic rigours of the Scola Progenium. Again via back channels and bending their influence to protect one of their sons. As any Upperhiver can tell you those early years, are the most vital to determine the long-term worth to the Family name. Andre was no exception and found the cold manipulation of others to be a game. Played amongst sharks, and for high stakes, but a game nonetheless. Their courtly tutors often in conflict with each other as they danced to his tune. And the less said of their courting activities the better. Andre enjoyed their training with the rugged former Tempestus Scion, learning the planning of war, the tactics of the battlefield, the rapidity of CQB and familiarity with the household armoury. As with all of his peers, picking up the sword to settle any gentlemanly matters, and from the Scion, more than a few ungentlemanly moves. Scholastically they excelled, as was the expectation when that amount of money is spent on tutors, biogenic enhancement and most of all bribery. They were drawn to the greater mysteries, ones detailed in the private histories of Haus Anahat. They learned how their awakening to the warp would be misused by the warp dwelling entities, and how in turn to use them. This path would lead most into heresy, and service to the Dark Gods, were it not for their last aptitude. All nobles compete for face, for rank and privilege. It is their war and here, despite their skills, Andre was in a class of equals. Such was the way of their upbringing. They made Haus Anahat shine with style. First in matching the current season's fashion, then on the cutting edge and before they left their home setting the trends. The only downfall in this time was a minor duel fought over the squabbles of teenagers. The ruffs, cuffs and collars of the time caused Andre to be caught up in a riposte, and in doing so caught a cut to the face. A scar they wear to this very day. Being a success, by their own measure, their fate came a cropper when out on a peasant shoot. The untermenschen they hunted had turned to the Dark Gods for salvation from the predation of the Upper Classes. With the lessons learned from their Scion trainer, Andre fought hard, fast and with only consideration for the death of those who would impair their fun. Being the only survivor they played the investigators like a fiddle, but not the Inquisitions follow up. Knowing talent they scooped up the young noble, explained in no uncertain terms what service would mean. And with that Andres parents plans were complete. Now it was on their son to carve their own path to survival, to success, for to stumble here would surely be a swift end. Such talent also finds kindred spirits, and despite their lacking years, were brought into an Inquisitor's retinue, not that of a lesser servant. Here the testing really began, temptations of the mind and body, tests of endurance to the extreme and the ability to make the hardest choice of what and whom to sacrifice for the Holy Ordos’ goals. With their talents laid bare by true masters, Andre saw how lowly he was. It disgusted him and though his hate for their now menial past made it through the trials, tribulations and tests so common with the Inquisition. Their will strong enough to learn the Santic arts from some of the best. In contrast, and with their new authority, they learned the converse of binding, and controlling the same forces they’d learnt to banish. The counterpart of Santic, Malific. » STRENGTHS ✔ Combat Veteran ✔ Auramite Will ✔ Interpersonal Savvy ✔ Very Skilled/Knowledgeable Demonologist » WEAKNESSES ✘ Ruthless ✘ Vain ✘ Intolerant ✘ Xenophobic Abnormal Traits » Very Strong Psyker Highly trained in Santic and Malific Psykic practices. Able to summon & unsummon, control, bind and dismiss denizens of the warp. ACCOUTREMENTS THEIR WEAPONS » Force Sword A beautiful force rapier worn on their side at all times. Used mainly when incognito, and even without Psykic power behind it is still a mastercrafted dueling sword. » Archeo-Tech Plasma Gun An ancient plasma gun, pre-dating the Heresy. It was found by Andre within the bowels of a House Helvintr armoury, and offered as a gift when they were finally promoted to the rosette. » Keshinagel - Demonbalde This unholy blade was bound to the service of the Inquisition by Andre. Taken from the hands of a defeated Champion of Chaos, wet in the dying Champions hearts blood and then dedicated to the Golden Throne with bindings of holy silver, gold and scriptures. This Zwei-Handers rededication was instrumental in Andre’s ascension to Inquisitor. THEIR ARMOR Deus Plate of Anahats Legacy This armour is part of the reason why Inquisitor Anahat became stranded in Corinthe. The Inquisition leverages an occasional tithe to ensure they’re suitably outfitted. This suit of power armour is one such example. It's a proud heirloom of Haus Anahat, but needed reinvigorating for any use aside from ornamental. It's an ancient mastercrafted suit of human power armour, unknown construction and date. It was forged for battle, and more specifically Psychic war. Noticeably the faceplate is smooth with no visible features, the right pauldron bears the Lions head and the left the Sigil of Malcador. So far there is no more ornamentation, this is to give as little as possible to Andres foes as possible, as well as lacking honours earned whilst wearing it. For it's combat functions it provides a built in Psychic Hood, Enhanced Psy-Focus (composition similar to a Crux Terminatus) and Demon Dead switch (to kill the occupant in case of total possession). Noteworthy integrated systems are: highly advanced Psy-Auto-senses, built in Psispex & Auspex, Multi-Frequency Comms, Auto-Medicae, Recoil gloves and shoulder mounting for ranged weaponry. It comes ready to fit a matching master crafted Jump pack [see below]. Plate Von Helvintr This is a beautifully crafted set of Feudal Plate, inlaid in House von Helvintr colours. Intertwining themes of silver and gold tell the tale of the House's founder. This is worn piecemeal depending on the circumstances, and mainly for the show of it amongst the duelists in the noble classes. THEIR EQUIPMENT » Big Black Book This is an Inquisitorial advanced data slate. It receives continual updates on who, what, where, when. Compiled from all possible official sources within the local space. In this instance Corinthe. This allows them to “bump” into people accidentally whenever they need to, and provides an invaluable resource as both a socialite and Inquisitor » Malleus Maleficiarum One of the de facto grimoires dealing with Demon summoning, binding and all such workings. Notably, it doesn't contain any true names of demons. This is a huge book and kept under, lock, key and ward. » Inquisitorial Rosette Their sign of authority. It is gencoded, and hidden within a flesh pocket so as to maintain their cover. It's only recently been issued. » Psy-Implants The singularly most important item of equipment to Andre. These are custom gold & platinum implants that directly control and enhance their Psykic powers. Internally, and unbeknownst to Andre they are mainly of Eldar construction and are significantly over-engineered as they were intended to protect Farseers from Slaanesh leading up to The Fall. However they came into the procession of Haus Anahat is a matter lost to time. » Inquisitorial Supplies Kept aboard their Solar Sail in floors that cannot be accessed by those without authority. Mainly covering the basic tools of the trade. They do have some specific items more dedicated to their calling within the Ordo Malleus. Specifically they have 4 Arcoflagallents kept guarding the interred demonhost when not required, at most 2 will be on-duty ready to smash, rip and tear the demonhost to pieces should it attempt escape. THEIR VEHICLES » Helvintr Solar Sail This is a sturdy Void craft for intra system travel. It was left with Andre whilst they collected their arms and equipment from the system. It has since stayed with them and provides a suitable location to conceal with true identity as an Inquisitor. Specifically large enough to house their retinue, a back-up cohort of men (as required), the arms/equipment for the same, alongside basic facilities for medicae, armoury and a small prison block. It is on board this ship in an extremely secure cell that Schutafain the Demonhost is interred till they are required. Sealed by many holy scriptures, blessings, four Archeoflagellants are also kept here as guards. » Jump Pack This is the matching Jump pack to the armour, it is mentally linked to the user and also provides zero-gee manoeuvrability. » The Shag Shuttle A small shuttle which can be transported on the Helvintr Shuttle. It provides a luxury shuttle for on planet travel and a place for discreet rendezvous Psyker Profile » PSYKER GRADE: Beta » SANCTIONED: Yes » SPECIALTY: Demononlogy » DISCIPLINE: Sanctic/Malefic/Telekenisis THEIR POWERS » Sanctic Demonology The basis of Imperial exorcists, deals with rebuffing demons, destroying and banishing them back into the Immaterium. » Malefic Demonology Technically heretical teaching, but for a Radical Inquisitor one of many 'grey area' tools. They are skilled in bringing and binding demons into service specifically the weapon Andres wields and being able to bind a demon to a circle of servitude. » Telekinesis Often used for providing shields and protecting of the many threats an Inquisitor faces. Andres mainly learned this to make their life easier, a lesson that backfired as their tutors made them master the art, and not just use it for picking up their drinks and snacks. BIOGRAPHY HEADER Born on an Imperial world far from Corinthe into the lap of luxury. Those born with a mere silver spoon in their mouths are servants to the servants of Haus Anahat. Once conceived the most skilled Magos Biologos contracted to provide the best possible progeny to Andres parents; Consul Falish Anahat and Rogue Trader Vixtorix van Helvintr. Born in Vivo (as all Blue Bloods should be) as the 10th child, their path was both clear and uncertain. The eldest 3 would vie for their father’s political position within the greater Imperium. The next 3 considered the heirs to their mother's Warrant of Trade and the accompanying voidship. The next were earmarked for lower positions supporting their elder siblings. Taking whichever family name would best provide the biggest leverage. Andre was born a rejuv cycle after their older sibling, seen as a blessing, but also out of sync with his family planned generations. Their upbringing was a mix of the height of luxury, coupled with strict education and handling. Once their mother's chief astropath first scryed the child Andres potential, the strict side of the regime went into overdrive. No child of either van Helvintr or Anahat would be some plaything of the warp. Their houses dominated, ruled and held power not the opposite. Each of their elder siblings taking time to, literally and figuratively, hammer their lessons home to their young little brother. Taking years of learning, maturity and instilling them into the young man. This was reflected in their rising social status, and they were in the top movers and shakers in the youth courts of the Segmentum Governors. It was here where they acquired their good fashion/style along with a significant disdain for inconvenient and impacting items of clothing. Once they reached their majority, their father implanted deep telepathic commands into their son. Their mother crafted an identity as a distant Helvintr Scion. All in preparation for when they must cut the cord and let Andre sink or swim in the Imperium. One of their final gifts were the Psykic implants, to control, enhance and protect their son's warpskill. The final gift was one Andre took for themselves was the knowledge hidden deep within the house's repository. Perhaps unthinkingly they had free reign and access. Access to forbidden knowledge, mind-twisting secrets and the deep truths of the Immaterium. Here the wards and protections upon them stood Andre in good stead. They were protected from the simple traps and pitfalls for the unprepared. Discipled enough to read what they wanted from the texts, not the lies the tomes would try and twist the reader towards. Their strength of mind and body were able to withstand the pressures of those beings beyond, without drawing too much attention from its denizens. All of this led to their first, and formative introduction to the Inquisition. While upon a simple, and enjoyable peasant hunt, Andre and their companions were set upon by numerous chaos cultists. A protracted fight, and Andre retained two things over his friend's: his life and his composure. The local authority was no match for such a noble and the interviews were all a pro-forma. It was a few weeks later, once the Ordo Malleus had completed their own investigation into the cult, that problems arose for Andre. Despite his mother, despite his father, the interviews were conducted at gunpoint. The half truths and lies to the local Artbites now seemed a death sentence for this unsanctioned Psyker. One mercy was that the Inquisitor had need of a skilled trained pskyer in their retinue. The interview was not only to judge guilt, but worthiness. Would this recruit crack and crumble under their examinations. In a sense here is where Andre Anahat died and the cover identity Palatin Asmi Alkufr von Helvintr, envoy of House von Helvintr, was lifted from paperwork into life. Working alongside Inquisitor Grasmus they maintained the attitude beaten into them as a toddler, child, teenager and now adult. Learned hard, worked hard and showed qualities that their seniors would praise. Nothing seemed to work in even getting a grunt of approval from the Inquisitor. It was hard to face, but for the first time in their lives they were truly failing, and had no idea on how to change their course. Their worry about facing the Inquisitors bolt-pistol ironically faded as someone else faced it. This was the moment, the change, the crucible, was during a confrontation with the System Governor Titisus VII of Ashen Rho V. A man whose bloodline of rulership dated back to the Grand Crusade, the signed Treaty of Compliance was the backdrop to the Palacial throne. Andre hadn’t even known it was a confrontation, they had been escorted to an audience with the Governor. The formal greetings barely out of the herald's mouth. “So it's like that Governor. Very well.” came the Inquisitor's voice, then over the comms to Commissar Sadil “Bring them” Before anything further could happen Titisus’s cooling remains were on the floor. As cleaner a kill as a bolt pistol round can make. The secondary crack of the shell was still in the air as they’d slumped into an undignified mess on the floor. Then the rest of the most noble family members were led in by Sadil. 10,000 years of loyalty, service, and good breeding were in front of us and then they weren’t. The Inquisitor not even unholstering their pistol, leaving the butchery to common men, not a noble amongst them, barely a commission on their epaulettes. It was then that the charges were laid bare, a series of minor infractions, the kind you’d expect swept under the rug. But the list went on, Andre realising the charges went back generations, it took hours but finally the House was declared Excommunicate Tratoris and purged from the records. Acolyte Sturm van der Waal being honoured with laying the charges, and as they finished they knelt, as did they all, to the passing of the Emperors judgement. As they arose Inquisitor Grasmus laid an exquisitely manicured hand, minimally adorned with a single signet ring bearing the Sigil of Malcador, on Sturms head. Not knowing what was coming, Andre knelt again, a good choice as all but the Inquisitor were back on their knees. “By the Will of His Most Divine Majesty, the Light of all Mankind, Saviour of all that is Holy, your actions are seen in His eyes, your deeds prove your worth. Arise, and take this symbol of my authority, act as His agent in my stead, bring judgement unto the stars and the enemies of humanity. I say again, arise Interrogator Sturm van der Waal.” And with that the kneeling Sturm kissed the Inquisitors ring and rising took in the offered Sub-Rosette. Now Andre knew, in his bones, his soul and every depth of his being what the Inquisition truly was. No exceptions, no little tolerances, no looking the other way, for the Emperor of mankind saw all. Now his petty games of impressing a mere man, now revealed for what they were, beneath a true servant of the Throne. There was only one whose judgement was worth a damn, and it was time to start being worthy in those eyes. Now every action, deed and word was for the Throne. Now they started asking for help, allowing their personal weaknesses to be filled in by more experienced hands. The result was all that mattered, for the Enemies Without are the greatest threat to mankind. Personal glory would come with deeds that brought His light into fore, the lesser medals, commendations a distraction for the small minded, those easily distracted, those Andre judged unworthy of Anahat, von Helvintr and most importantly Malcador. He had been such a boy, and now at age 32 he finally became a man. Now he started spending as much time awake and working as possible. They redoubled their efforts to master their gifts of the mind, the implants and their control of the denizens of the Immaterium. In their spare time they consumed with Astropaths on what they saw, listened to the unending nightmares of the Navigators' visions within and without the warp. If they could bear it, master it so could he. They started working as they wanted to be seen, as an Inquisitor. They cemented working relationships into bonds of mutual trust, built their retinue, started working on their own initiative. The long leg work that had seen Sturm raised was not in Andres nature, so he forged his own path. Taking years to uncover minor heresies, small cults, lone psykers, they established themselves a reliable Acolyte, ever unflinching in the dispatch of the Emperor's Mercy. Humans, mutants, xenos all fell to their work. Their own Sub-Rosette achieved well before they reached their first rejuv. It had started on a small Agri-world, the boredom and monotony left the population susceptible to the influence of those beyond. One of his retainers had identified an incongruity in the nutritional value of AW Ardent-Fields Tau-Chi grain supplies. It had been on route to a system known to harbour heretics so a stop off seemed a wise use of time. Using their cover as the envoy of House Helvintr, looking to move crops around they were greeted by the seven overseers of the planet with all due pomp and ceremony. It was immediately clear that this was no minor matter, a festering felt by Andre, and confirmed by his accompanying Tech-Priest Biologus Settius-Delium XVII. Despite the seeming malnutrition of everyone they saw, there was no dip in productivity, in work done. Something was draining the populace and the grain of its life given value. Something that needed to be stopped, traced and burnt out at the root. With the tours of the facilities they saw new buildings going up, in unconventional formation. Staff Sergeant Vicness of the Praetorian guard pointing out the defensive nature of what should have been storage barns. Thinking back to the lessons of their youth it was easy to spot out the kill zones, the fall back points and most importantly what was being defended. Their tour didn’t cover everything they needed to see to confirm the worst suspicions, but it was enough. What wasn’t enough was the size of the Acolytes team. The resources would have to be split, the distraction also a sacrifice. Some would ask for volunteers, others based on personal preference, Andre did neither and just chose the best for the job. His companion, courtier, frequent bedtime companion would be entertained with a feast. Taking the guest role, as Andre was a touch under the weather after the richness of the world's bounty. She, the Tech-Priest, Worshipful Father Casis of St. Hilluscious, Sir Hendrix the Bounteous and 4 accompanying guards. With no doubt in their mind on the investment of their people's lives, Andre and the remaining forces would drop from the overhead ship into the centre of the 3 circular facilities. Armour donned, sealed with wraps of prayer, each of the team knowing this was a moment to serve, to lay down their lives. Not only at the orders of the Acolyte, but their God given duties. The drop from orbit went initially well, then as they neared the surface, the blackness they were diving into became clearer. Some pustulent, festering wound, buzzing with flies and filth. As they descended the engines clogging, their flyer becoming more of a dropper. The servitor the first loss as the rest of the strike force as they jumped out of the flyer into the frying pan. Confronted immediately by plague infested farm hands it was weapons free. As a team they cut a path, protecting Andre as they moved forwards. Only he had the skills that could hopefully prevent the worst case scenario. The data on the planet, and its infection already shared to Inquisitor Grasmus, should they fail the problem could at least be purged. His team being killed as they moved forwards, only Andre and the Staff Sgt. making their way into depths of pestilence. Before them a single figure, strung up from what was the corrupted machinery of the Adeptus Mechanicus, presumably one of the Magos tasked with overseeing the world. Their mental fortitude proved insufficient to withstand the temptations of Nurgle. How and why they had fallen all came out after, in the follow up investigation. “Welp, you'll have the time, Ave Emperor” the last words of the Sargent as they pushed Andre forward, covering their back. The Prayer of Truthful Alignment, bringing clarity and focus, started the ritual. Practiced many times, used less so, always in support of others, the Inquisitors retinue. This time they were alone, alone aside from the Eternally present Emperor. Prayers intoned, ritual committed to, and iron force of will behind the Santic powers forcing impurity back into the Immaterium. The sounds of Vicness’ last stand were ignored as the demonic incursion was battled back into the warp. Taking every shred of their being it was done. Using the blood of their dripping wounds they wrote Holy Words of Binding on the floor around the Magos’ form. Closing, Andre hoped, forever the portal on this world. With the Demonic Energies cut off, they made their way out, alone. Two plumes of smoke visible, one of the crashed remains of the flyer, the other marking the sacrifice of the distraction. All their friends, persons whom had earned worth in Andres eyes and those who served him well dead. Gazing ahead, they'd just been tools for what must be done, and so all would be to Andre. Weeks passed as the planet was restored to order, purges, pyres and purification hunted down any remnants of the cult. Putting the planet to order, ready for the Inquisitor to validate the work completed. Only one question was put to the now Interrogator. “Could you not put the energies of the Immaterium to better use?” They'd half an answer at the time, but it, with their actions, had been enough. Dismissing demons was a waste of such potent weapons, for what better to use against the great enemy, but their own. The Inquisitor now offers their blessing to not just the dismissal of demons, but their binding. They walked and served side-by-side with Inquisitor Grasmus the Demonsbane. Ever in their company a bound demon host, along with replaceable mortals. Time and time again proving their value as a weapon against their own kind. Secrets, insight, forbidden names always pushing back the endless enemies of the Imperium. With each instance Andre learned more, earned more trust and welded greater power on his master's behalf. Their final trial onboard a stranded Void ship, recently ejected from the warp. To cut a long tale short, of 5,000 guard sent on board, only Interrogator Anahat emerged, bearing the Demonbalde they now carry. A host of Chaos warriors, Sorcerers and even foulest traitors: the Fallen Astartes, slain with no mercy, no remorse. With this act of victory they had earned their rosette. Just before the ceremony installing Andre as an Inquisitor a few gifts came from their family. Understandably the ties would have to be cut, aside from the glory their service would bring to the name Anahat. The armour, a gun, a sword and a small replacement retinue from the household. Plans were made and courses set with some of the Rogue Trader cousins for passage to Corinthe to have his armour repaired and fitted. It would take some time to be completed but there would be no need to rush before heading into the new life, that of an Inquisitor. That was till Cadia fell, and the Galaxy was rend in twain. As with all Imperial citizens they were aggrieved, but unlike others at the inconvenience, the interruption to their plans. The Imperial Guard at Cadia had failed, they'd been given the most resources, training and equipment and still the Guard had failed. The mere mortals too weak to do what needed to be done, stranding the newly minted Inquisitor in this system, cut off from their true duty and calling. Since then they have spent their time, like many adjusting to the smaller galaxy. Building and maintaining their relationships within the Hives, Cities and Manufactorums of the Corinthe systems. Seen as a consummate noble, they were welcomed into the highest echelons of society. With their cover only known to those entrusted with the repair of their armour, and even then significantly limited by whatever vague connection Haus Anahat had with the Forge World. Their official Inquisitorial presence limited to merely noting that they had, at some time pre Cicatrix Maladidictum, been in system, with most of the business conducted via his retinue, rather than Andre themselves.

[Last Order]

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