secrets, heresy, power

Designer: Alex Helm

Number of participants: 21

Duration: 4 hours

The presenter feels that this larp IS NOT suitable for young people aged 16+

About the larp

A UK-style freeform game set in Games Workshop’s Warhammer 40,000 setting based around the activities of the Imperial Inquisition. An Inquisitorial conclave has been called to pass judgement on Raven Black, who was once one of the sector’s greatest Inquisitors before falling to heresy and the powers of Chaos. However, this meeting is not just about the trial. From across the sector, inquisitors and their retinues have gathered together to make the most of this rare chance to discuss business and resolve disputes. Yet there is also a darker undertone to this meeting. Heresy runs deep and rampant, and many are wondering just how far Raven Black’s web of corruption has spread throughout the holy Ordos. Are any of the other people here heretics as well…? This is a game of secrets and mysteries, of corruption power and the consequences that come to those who must decide upon the fates of billions of lives. Some basic knowledge of the Warhammer 40,000 setting is recommended but not essential (if you don’t know it, there will be an extra handout with the essential lore). Character sheets are about 6 pages long and contain detailed background, relationships, plots and goals.

Content Warnings: The Warhammer 40,000 setting contains elements of theocratic fanaticism, xenophobia (against actual aliens) and bigotry against less than pure human forms. The game will feature themes of mass genocide of entire planets, murder, execution and torture, but nothing that wouldn’t reasonably be expected to occur in the context of the setting as laid out in the various media. There are no parallels to anything in real life.

Costume (optional): Warhammer 40k-themed props such as purity seals and aquila welcome.

Presented by

Alex Helm: One of the UK’s most prolific freeform larp designers – I have been creating games for over 20 years now! People seem to enjoy the games I create, so that’s something! I am also a video game professional, published author, larper, re-enactor and verified Inquisitor of the Imperium of Man.

Parameters

Physical contact	Light contact with permission only
Romance and intimacy	Not relevant for the larp
Conflict and violence	Shouting and other intimidating actions not involving contact
Communication style	Lots of speech
Movement style	Players need to move to talk to each other. But it’s fine for people in wheelchairs etc.
Characters	Characters are fully predesigned.
Narrative control	Intensely plotted and designed, but players have freedom as to how to achieve their goals.
Transparency	There are predesigned secrets that players will have from each other.
Representation level	The fictional space looks very unlike the play space, but players will use their imaginations
Play culture	Players are individually trying to achieve goals, such that not all can succeed.
Tone	Dramatic

Saturday afternoon, Studio 5