The Jovian Combine

: "O' Titan of worlds, O' massive Jupiter and your Galilean moons, oh how you must have been a cornerstone of a bygone Golden Age. But the nature and extent of our ancient presence upon your great moons is now unknown. But ancient records refer to spire cities among ice and world-spanning oceans, but perhaps this is naught but poetry, songs sung by foolish dreamers."
The Jovian Combine, also known as The Cult Vixatorius, The Cult of The Machine, The Vixite Cult Denarius, and an assortment of other names, holds a foundation lies upon the celestial magnon of Jupiter and its numerous moons, satellites and asteroids. Serving as the primary source for the Stellar Imperium's scientists, engineers, and technicians. These skilled individuals are instrumental in upholding and constructing the advanced technology that defines the Imperium. At the heart of the Vixatorius lies the esteemed Vix-precepta, a privileged caste of Imperial Citizenry and Scholars entrusted with the safeguarding of mankind’s technological advancement and wisdom. They are the primary keepers of a knowledge essential to the maintenance and creation of the Imperium's sophisticated technology. Revered as the custodians of the Imperium's intellectual legacy, they hold a paramount position within the Jovian Cult, either Vixite or Denarion.
While the Jovian Combine recognizes the Imperatus Maximus as the sole ruler of the Stellar Imperium and humanity as a whole, they do not fully embrace the religious truth of the Stellaris Divinatum or its associated Ecclesiarchy and subsequent denominations and branches, whether secular and otherwise. Instead, they enjoy a remarkable degree of political and religious autonomy within the structure of the Stellar Imperium, a privilege protected by the Jovian Accords. Effectively, the Vixite Tech-Guilds uphold a kingdom-within-an-empire paradigm within Imperial space, with their interests often aligning, though not always, with those of the greater Stellar Imperium and its subsequent branches. 
Deviating from the Imperial Creed, the servants of the Vixatorius follow their own enigmatic scriptures-of which illuminate their understanding of their revered Machine Court, a Pantheon of Gods known as the "Archologostia." Wherein the only pathways to comprehending these divine entities is through the accumulation of knowledge and the understanding of the broader universe. As a consequence, all creatures and artifacts that embody knowledge are regarded as sacred by the Cult Vixitorius. The Emperor, who serves as an anchor to Humanity's Golden Age, is particularly revered as a supreme object of worship by the adherents of the Cult Vixitorius. The Combine in turn, recognized the Emperor as the fulfillment of a prophecy of which foretold the arrival and subsequent birth of the Archologostia within Realspace. This recognition arose from the Emperor's remarkable comprehension and understanding of the true nature of reality, surpassing that of any other being in existence.
Most of the Jovian Tech Guilds and Cult Internals, represented by the venerable Vix-precepta, consider organic flesh to be inherently weak. They embrace the sacred act of removing and replacing biological tissue with mechanical and bionic augmentations, although it should be noted that there exist sects within the Combine that hold differing views on this matter. Yet, over time these elder Jovian-precepta gradually shed their organic components, becoming more machine than man. Along with these tenets, the Combine's second major Order-The Cult Denarion-followed closely by the Jovian Tech Guilds; the giant, transplanetary conglomerations of plutocratic commercial and industrial interests unified by a single trade language and a common goal - the pursuit of wealth and Profit through the development and sale of advanced technologies and through the rediscovery of lost artifacts from The Ancient Past and the following Golden Age of Humanity, before the Era of The Long Dark, including World Engines, Sentients, Titans and other Archeotech. 
The capital of the Jovian Combine is situated upon Jupiter Proper, its moons, asteroids, and surrounding space stations and Star Fortresses. These locations represent the very first Forge Worlds and orbital forges of the Stellar Imperium and serve as the undisputed rulers of the Gas Titan and its orbiting celestial bodies. From these domains, they provide the Stellar Imperium with its technical and scientific experts and field awe-inspiring armies consisting of colossal Exo-Pattern War Titans, Combine-Pattern Dread-Knights, the formidable Detron Combat Legions, and an array of Battle Servitors. Their technological prowess and military might are unparalleled, solidifying their crucial role within the Stellar Imperium.
== History ==
=== Ancient History ===
According to ancient Jovian remembrance codices, the teachings of the Vixite Mechanicum are older than most modern religions and dogma of the 90th Millennium, and are thus likely several tens of millennia old. The Mechanicum have presumably always believed in a monotheistic belief system whereby technological and scientific progress helps them get closer to their Machine god. 
Since the Mechanicum is this ancient, it is possible that their technological creations have inspired the belief systems of the modern Elkiedai Houses, and the Aularite Sovereignty as well as the pseudo-supernatural tenets of these beliefs, which the Vixatorius do not wholly believe in. However at some point these Jovian Beliefs evidently operated as far away as the fringe star systems of humanities Golden Age, long before the great decline of the Dark Age of Humanity as remnant archeotech can still be found in the dark reaches of humanities old Empire.
In time, the Black Armories would be founded in the tail end of the Golden Age of Technology by multiple secular factions of this ancient Vixite Mechanicum; each bringing elements of their native heritage to the many designs of the Armories. Modern day Mechanicum skeptics are known to speculate that these ancient leaders had some idea of the oncoming Dark Age of Mankind, and in their collective wisdom agreed to manufacture and stockpile advanced weapon technologies and technological advancements to ensure survival of humanities technological development at that point.
The Ancient Mechanicum would construct several thousands of these vaults containing their accumulated knowledge and inventions scattered around human conquered space within the human empire of the known universe. Each vault would reserve an order of militant gatekeepers. However, even with their best precautions many of the Armory's failed when the actual Collapse started; the superior weaponry of the gatekeepers militant often providing little protection against xenos onslaught, or the Armories simply failing due to the ravages of time. And after sustained attacks or loss of resources, the gatekeepers simply had to abandon their stations and leave their Armories behind.
However, the United Aularite Sovereignty, led by the Rei'kharch Vycter Alexand during the middle years of the 61st Millennium found one of these ancient Jovian vaults, killed the automated gatekeepers, and stole the secrets held within. The war machines the Sovereignty produced with this stolen knowledge were perversions and mockeries of the religious sect's work, and allowed the Sovereignty to succeed in their Religious War with the abhumans of the Elkiedai known to the Imperium as the 'Diverge' during their Second Aularan Expansion Crusade. Even after these bloody conflicts, Aularite research into the Vixite technology continued in Sovereign Labs such as the research moons of the Kahltehk Engineering Syndicate used to create and or reverse-engineer new weapons and technologies.
One extraordinary fact about the ancient Vixite Mechanicum is the invention of sophisticated technologies such as anti-grav world engines, directed-energy weaponry, planetary terraforming technology, and mind-control devices that became staples of the Vix Mechanicum during the Golden Age of Technology. A prime example is the vault on Zichi M which contains research on anti-gravity, and Dreadnought Power Armor technology. Despite a good amount of their technology and SDT constructs having fallen into the hands of a myriad of forces, the Mechanicums advanced technologies still can resist the enemies of the Stellar Imperium.
=== The Long Dark ===
=== The Great Crusade ===
== Jupiter ==
Situated as the fifth and largest of the Worlds within the Sol System, and just beyond the Asteroid Belt of Sol, the magnificent gas giant of Jupiter serves as the Capital Forge Titan of the Jovian Combine. This colossal celestial body, with its awe-inspiring scale, is home to a network of continent-sized platforms designed for the extraction of precious minerals and rare elements from within the treacherous atmosphere of the Gas Titan.
The Combine has harnessed the immense potential of Jupiter and its moons, transforming the World Titan into a hub of massive manufactoria and starship construction facilities. Ancient orbital shipyards of the Mechanicum from the Age of Gold adorn the planet, along with remnants of the Golden Age of Technologies mining facilities and floating manufacturing cities. These remarkable installations once enabled Jupiter to function as the sole Forge World for the entirety of the burgeoning Stellar Imperium during the onset of the Great Crusade, providing essential resources and goods for the Imperial Marine Legions when they first embarked from the light of Sol and into the Void of the Milkyway. Notably, the Construction of 20 Imperial Throne-Class Command Ships and the majority of the Imperial Armada, the former of which would go on to become the flagship vessels of the Legions—a monumental undertaking accomplished within the vast capabilities of Jupiter.
The immense production potential of Jupiter, coupled with the intricate web of smaller satellite moons, orbiting asteroids, and forge stations, has turned the gas giant into a microcosm of a solar system. With Jupiter at its core, rather than a blazing sun, its true population remains incalculable. With the construction of numerous floating cities within Jupiter's clouds, each boasting a surface area equivalent to an entire Terran-sized planet, has only covered a mere 20% of the gas giant's vast expanse.
Surrounding Jupiter, a swarm of satellites and Trojan asteroids dot local space, housing ancient human colonies, manufactoria, and Orbiting Forges. These installations thrive by harnessing the radiation emanating from the titanic planet and exploiting its bountiful mineral riches, which have yet to be fully exhausted despite untold millennia of exploitation. Jupiter stands as the Imperium's Royal shipyard, its skies perpetually filled with vessels of all sizes and purposes.
The focal point of the Combine’s operations lies within the greater Galilean moons of Jupiter, complemented by numerous smaller moons. It is here that Vixite spacedocks and fabricators toil ceaselessly, engaged in the construction of an impressive array of crafts. From single-crew Raven Light Assault Vtols to the colossal hulls of mighty Throne-class Battleships.
The early history of Jupiter remains shrouded in mystery, with much of it lost to the annals of time. However, during the Long Dark period, Jupiter's moons were tormented by cruel xenos overlords whose race remains unidentified. It was only after the implementation of the Jovian Accords, following the purging of Jupiter's moons by the Vth and VIth Imperial Legions and The Conflict Upon The Forra'kiir Engine of Saturn, that the Gas Titan was fully incorporated into the burgeoning Imperium. This marked the true commencement of the Great Crusade, as the Jovian Combine's Shipyards and Void Clans contributed extensively to the construction of the Armada Imperialis, solidifying their significant role in the burgeoning era.
== The Cult Mechanicum ==
The Cult of the Machine believes knowledge to be the truest manifestation of divinity as its primary tenet, and holds that anything embodying or containing knowledge is holy because of it. The supreme object of devotion is therefore are the omniscient Machine Gods of the Archologostian Pantheon (also known as the Deus Vixatorii or, in its embodied form as the God-Emperor of Man, the Logos), an eminent and omnipotent spirit governing all machinery and knowledge in the universe. Generally, this deity is held to be an aspect of the God-Emperor (or, most commonly within the Cult itself, both are held to be aspects or faces of the same divine being). The Archologostia is believed to be friendly to humanity, and to be the originator of all human technological and scientific knowledge. Subservient to the Archologostia are the pantheistic Machine Spirits, who are believed to inhabit all machinery and which must be appeased before a piece of technology is used or repaired, lest the machinery fail.
=== The Quest for Knowledge ===
"The universe is not like a puzzle-box that you can take apart and put back together again and so solve its secrets. It is a shifting, uncertain thing which changes as you consider it, which is changed by the very act of observation. A powerful man is not a man who dissects the universe like a puzzle box, examining it piece by piece and measuring each piece with scientific precision. A powerful man has only to look upon the universe to change it."The ultimate goal of the Jovian Combine, is that through trials and many efforts, they will understand and fully comprehend the many glories of the Archologostia. The communal and personal attempt at this form of enlightenment is known as the Quest for Knowledge. The Combine's main Holy Orders believe that all knowledge already exists in the universe, and it is primarily a matter of time before it can be gathered together to complete this Divine Quest. The faith of the Order and its subsequent Guilds and sects is defined by a series of precepts, known as the Twenty Five Universal Laws, which have been divided into two sets of precepts known collectively as the Motive Cycle and the Wards which are listed below;
==== The Motive Cycle ====
* The Archologostia alone are the shapers of Motive.
* Motive is the driving spark of the Spirit.
*The Spirit is directed motion born of motive.
* The spirit is the motivation given to life.
* Life that may perceive is the first step of sentience.
* Sentience is the ability to understand the value of knowledge.
* Intellect is therefore the understanding of that knowledge.
* Sentience is therefore the basest form of Intellect.
* Only through Trial may Intellect be Gained.
* Therefore only through Intellect may we Understand.
* Understanding is the True Path to Comprehension.
* Comprehension is the key to all things.
* The Archologostia knows all, and as such comprehends all.
==== The Archologostian Wards ====
* The alien mechanism is a perversion of our True Path.
* The Soulless sentience is the enemy of all.
* The knowledge of the ancients stands beyond question.
* Flesh is fallible, but ritual honors the Machine Spirit.
* Innovation without reverence leads to the abyss of ignorance.
* The sanctity of tradition binds us to the wisdom of the ancients.
* To break with tradition is to break with faith.
* The spirit is the purest conscience of sentience.
* A soul can be bestowed only by the Archologostia.
* Unity in purpose strengthens the consciousness of the body.
* The Machine Spirit guards the knowledge of the Ancients.
* Man may not be replaced.
=== The Archologostia Pantheon ===
Archologostian 	Domain 	Attributes
Krorght, the Architect 	Invention, Creativity, the March of Technological Advancement 	The Lord of the Archologostia, and consort to the Lady of Knowledge Voltaph. Depicted in a myriad of ways, though often depicted with a collection of blueprints or some completed Archeotechnological device. Krorght is invoked to inspire inventors and guide the evolution of technology.
Lady Voltaph, the Lady and Keeper of Knowledge 	Information, Data, Analysis, Wisdom 	Surrounded by floating data-scripts, tombs or books, Lady Voltaph embodies the pursuit of knowledge and the use and spread of information.
Viancol Denarion, the Martyred, the Lady of Commerce 	Trade, Business, Wealth - Patron Lady of the Jovian Tech Guilds 	Viancol the Martyred, or Lady of the Denarius Cult, is the Holy Saint of the Jovian Tech Guilds or the Bodies of Viancol. Elevated to Archologostian status during Adorned with symbols of commerce like scales and coins, Viancol oversees markets, fair trade, and economic prosperity.
Geronyma, the Rift Weaver 	The Rift Network, Connectivity, Communication – Patron Lady of the Rift-Siren Covens and the Eyes of the Rift	Portrayed with a web of interconnected wires or as a humanoid figure made up of circuits and interconnected wires and conduits, Geronyma governs communication technologies and interconnected systems through her domain of the Rift Network.
Degurmael, the God of Accumulation 	Financial Success, Profit, Investment 	Often depicted with a golden ledger or treasure chest, Degurmael is invoked for financial success and wise investment.
Hermekro, the Engineer & Khobutus, the Mechanical 	Machinery, Engineering, Precision, Automation, Robotics, Machinery 	Often depicted as two towering robotic twins or twins with robotic features with mechanical tools or as constructs of gears and levers. Hermekro specifically oversees the construction and maintenance of intricate machines, and Khobutus oversees the realm of automation and mechanics. Both Lord over all Jovian constructs of which are constructed in their image.
Vor-Jzzul, the Bolt Rider, Saint of the Ellektron-Cults	Energy, Electricity, Voltage - Patron Lord of The Ellektron-Cults 	Often depicted with as a construct of Living Energy, Wreathed in Black Armor.
== Jovian Tech Guilds ==
The Jovian Tech Guilds, the Vixian Guilds or the Jovian Guilds are the giant, transplanetary sects of which dominate within the Jovian Combine. Due to the intense hemorrhaging of humanity's ancient empire, the Sol System, in a bid to survive the Long Dark had to rely on several of the Jovian Tech Guilds to survive. This has given them a capability to operate as they will. There are numerous of these factions, both ancient and not, within the Jovian Guilds, including the Nesuv-XI Collective, who pursue the forbidden science of artificial, or "abominable" intelligence which has been forbidden since the catastrophe of the Black-Crash Conflicts caused by Roque AI Data-Minds who attacked humanity during the death years of the Golden Age of Technology. 
The Akolostissiah, who seek to summon the Archologostia into a physical avatar other than the God Emperor. And the Hand of Vitrimoth, who see biological enhancement using genetic engineering as equal to the more common cybernetic enhancements for which the Vix-precepts of the Vixatorius are best known. Some of these sects are accepted as legitimate interpretations of the will of the Archologostia, others are persecuted by the broader Vixatorius as Tekostates. 
== Hierarchy of the Jovian Combine ==
"A man may die and still endure if his work enters the greater plan, for time is carried upon a current of forgotten deeds, and events of great moment are but the culmination of a single carefully placed thought. As all men must thank progenitors obscured by the past, so we must endure the present, so that those who follow may continue the great endeavor."The following is an example illustration of the organizational structure of the Jovian Combine in the modern 91st Millennium:
* The Emperor / The Archologostia
* High Council of Terra
** The Regimentum Imperialis
**The Regimentum Ministatum
** The Jovian Combine
***Vixatorius - Disciples of the Machine God
****The Jovian Tech Guilds - The Orders of the Machine God
****The Centurio Ordinatus - Engines of the Archologostia
****Collegia Titana Primus - God-Machines of the Exo-Titan Hosts
*****Auxilia Myrmidon - The Machine Gods Savants of War
*****Legiones Detron - Warriors of the Machine God
*****Legio Cybernetica - The Host of the Blessed Machine.
*****Ordo Reductor - The Savant Bringers of His most Blessed Ruin
== Holy Orders of the Vixatorius ==
Within the sacred machine priesthood of Jupiter, there are a number of ranks. The Archo Fabrication Officer, as is known by the common folk of the Stellar Imperium, is the ruler of a given Forge World, though in certain instances, the reign of a Archo Fabrication Officer could stretch for a number of worlds.
Beneath the Archo Fabrication Officer are their Locum Officer, deputies who assist in the overseeing of their territory.
Beneath those illustrious figures are the Magi, of which the Dominus is but one variety. The Dominus, a master of war, is the most common of the Magi seen by the greater Imperium. There are Magi Reductor, masters of siege-craft, the Gene Scribes of Magi Gaven Thurous, makers of servitors and geniuses of bio-engineering. Above these are the Magi Prime, the most skilled in the arts of war and leadership. Even within these branches are many varieties of Magi, from the Magi Prime Archimandrite to the Magi Biologis Xenologis, and to cover them all would take inexhaustible time. The highest ranking Magi are known as the Prime Hermeticon.
Then their are the Magi Exploratus, without which the priesthood would crumble. It is they who delve beneath Jupiter and sail into the reaches of the void, finding what remains of the knowledge of the Golden Age of Technology. It is they who return with SDT templates and new weapons. They are the greatest of the Priesthood, for without them and their work, what would the Dominus wield or the Gene Scribes study?
Finally among the ruling Priesthood are the Jzzik Artisanal Guilds. These are overseers, peerless craftsmen who direct swarms of servitors in their work. They are responsible for turning mere designs and ideas into reality.
Beneath the Magi are the lower ranks of priests, the Datasmiths, who manage what few robotic warriors the Mechanicum possess, the Enginocysts, who repair the vehicles of the Mechanicum and Emperors Guard, and the Ellektron-Priests, warrior-priests of the Archologostia. These are not the equals of the Magi, but the next generation, should one be required, and provide essential numbers, as the Magi, Logii, and Artisans cannot be everywhere.
Beneath even these are the servitors.
=== Rank Structure ===
The Cult Mechanicum is ordered by a strong hierarchy, but details on this hierarchy's actual make-up are not always clear. Generally, more highly positioned Vix-Adepts are expected to have more seniority and knowledge than lower ones, and are consequently more theologically important as greater repositories of knowledge.
Across the galaxy Lexite Mechanics, Datasists, Enginocyst, Secutors, Cognitors, Trifactors, Myrmidons, Technoshamans, and more labor alongside the wider Stellar Imperium to bolster humanity's great war machine.
Within the Jovian Combine the ranks become even more esoteric. A tentative mapping of this hierarchy, in order from highest to lowest, will follow below. It should be noted that specialists such as the Gene-Scribe and The Logicae may not have any specific rank within the Cult as a group, but rather will be ranked as individuals.
Each Forge World is led by an Archo Fabrication Officer or other Archmagi with a similar rank but different titles, and beneath them their Locum Officer. Each Locum Officer can call upon Magi Technicus, Metallurgicus, Alchemys, Cogitatrices, Pedanticum, Tech-assassins, hive monitors and Holy Requisitioners, who in turn can command a body of fabricators minoris, Fulgurites, Corpuscarii, overseers, underseers, stasis clerks, and techno-dervishes. Each sub-division within every facet of the order is split into dozens of ranks.
The Jovian Combine hierarchy (from highest-ranked to lowest-ranked) is as follows:
* Archo Fabrication Officer
*Locum Officer
* Magi
** Logicae
** Gene-Scribes
** Jzzik Artisan Guilds
* Ellektron-priest
* Enginocyst
* Lexite Mechanic
* Datasist
* Runepriest
* Menials
* Servitors
=== Archo Fabrication Officer ===
The Archo Fabrication Officer of Jupiter and her Moons is the highest-ranking individual within the Vixatorius (in his capacity as the Magi Vixatorius), and administers not only the Jovian Combine but also governs the planet of Jupiter itself as the recognized Imperial Planetary Governor.
The Archo Fabrication Officer of Jupiter is the de facto leader of the Vixatorius, and as befits his position, is awarded a permanent seat on the council that runs the Stellar Imperium, known as the Senatorum Imperialis or the Terran High Lords.
Rulers of individual Forge Worlds are referred to as "Archo Fabrication Officer Domini" as well, but only the Archo Fabrication Officer of Jupiter holds a seat amongst the High Lords of Terra, representing himself or herself as the leader of the Vixatorius as a whole.
=== Locum Officer ===
The Locum Officer is the second highest-ranking individual on any given Forgeworld. The Locum Officer assists the Archo Fabrication Officer with the governance of their Forgeworld, including the meeting of production quotas and ensuring the correct devotions to the Machine God are observed at all times.
The position of Locum Officer, like that of Archo Fabrication Officer, also refers generally to the second-highest-ranking Vixatorius official on any Forge World.
=== The Magi ===
"There can be but one protocol to follow when faced with those who blaspheme against the Machine God. Begin the Canticles and send forth the Legions. The doom which we deliver must be absolute. All must fall before the Archologostia's divine might."The Magi (sing. Magnon) are masters of any technological or scientific discipline, having devoted many Standard Terran years of service to the Archologostia in their chosen area of study. Magi of all stripes are senior Vix-Adepta with advanced specializations in various disciplines of science and technology who pursue esoteric agendas as likely to end in triumph as they are disaster. There are many specialist sections within the Jovian Combine known as the Holy Divisions.
Magi from these are given a rank containing the chosen specialization of their Division, such as the Magi Alchemys, Magi Biologis, Magi Technicus, Magi Logicae, Magi Xenologis, Magi Datasistus, Magi Orbologis, Magi Cybernetica, Magi Xenobiologis, Magi Astrologicus, Magi Digitalis, Magi Fabricator, Magi Genetus, Magi Physicae, and possibly many more.
There are two higher ranks within the Holy Divisions that are variations of the Magi, including the Archmagi and Archmagi Priscillus. It is not known what the specific connotations of these titles are, though presumably they are indicative of greater seniority and experience.
=== The Gaven Thurous Gene Scibes ===
The Gene Scribes of the ancient Magi Gaven Thurous probe the mysteries of the biological, creating ever stranger cyborgs or slaughtering xenos beyond number in order to excise yet more secrets of their alien metabolisms.
* Arch-Chymetosyst
* Gene-Scribe Extremis
*Genetus Biologis
*Parasyst Dominant
* Metasurgeon
* Corpus Illuminator
* Chief Medisyst
**Medisyst Greater
***Medisyst Lesser
=== Logicae ===
A logis (plu. logi) is an analyst, statistician, and logistician whose purpose is to predict future trends and make forecasts about Vixatorius expenditures and needs. Because of their duties Logicae are often regarded as prophetic figures within the Jovian Combine.
* Lexico Arcanus
* Bibliophiliac
* Hyper-rationalist
* Monitor Malevolus
* Info-executioner
* Biocogitatus
=== The Jzzik Artisan Guilds ===
The Artisan Guilds create and restore truly wondrous weapons of war, from ornate Gamma Pistols to the mind-boggling immensity of the Ark Vixatorius. Also known as the Construction Guilds, they design machines, buildings, spacecraft, weapons, and military hardware. They often oversee activity on Forge Worlds and control vast labor forces of Servitors.
* Fabrication Officer Praetorate
* Mechasapient
* Praetor Ellectroid
* Cybersmith
* Technoarcheologist
* Necromechanic
=== Ellektron-Cults ===
The Ellektron-Cults represent a faction within the Vixatorius who are fervently dedicated to the more secular aspects of the Cult's teachings, specifically focusing on the mysteries of energy and its manipulation. Their zealous devotion lies in understanding the flow of energy through conductive bodies and harnessing the sacred "Motive Spark" that powers the Machine Spirits. As staunch techno-zealots, they possess an extensive array of Ellektron conduits, enabling them to channel and control energy with great proficiency.
In battle, the Ellektron-Cultists provide unwavering support to other members of the Vix-precept. They stand alongside their fellow followers of the Vixatorius, utilizing their deep understanding of energy manipulation to bolster their allies' efforts. However, it is the most fanatical among the Ellektron-Cultists who exhibit the highest level of devotion. These individuals have undergone extensive cybernetic enhancements, enabling them to generate electrical energy within their own bodies. They transform into living conduits of crackling power, capable of inflicting devastating damage upon their enemies. Their touch is electrifying, capable of annihilating all that it comes into contact with. However, such immense power comes at a cost, as the strain on their bodies becomes unsustainable. Eventually, they succumb to the overwhelming demands placed upon them, collapsing from the tremendous burden they bear.
The Ellektron-Cults, with their specialized knowledge and augmented abilities, serve as a formidable force within the ranks of the Vixatorius. Their mastery over energy manipulation and their willingness to sacrifice themselves in the pursuit of their beliefs make them a fearsome presence on the battlefield.
=== Enginocyst ===
The Enginocyst, skilled technicians of the Jovian Combine, play a vital role in the maintenance and repair of machinery within the ranks of the Cult. Their expertise lies in ensuring the proper functioning of various mechanical systems and vehicles. Often, they are seconded to the Emperors Guard, where their services are employed to keep the armored vehicles used by the regiments in optimal condition.
The Enginocyst's role is highly respected by most Guardsmen and even Imperial Marines, who understand the importance of well-maintained vehicles in battle and therefore refrain from interfering with the Enginocyst's work. However, in times of dire need, when resources are scarce and unique vehicles need to be created from spare parts, some individuals have resorted to makeshift solutions. This can occasionally lead to frustration for the Enginocyst, who prefer to adhere to proper repair protocols rather than piecing together unconventional machinery.
Despite their invaluable contributions to the maintenance of existing technology, the Enginocyst may not always receive the same level of reverence from their fellow Vix-precept. This is because their primary focus is on the upkeep of machines rather than the pursuit of new knowledge or the discovery of groundbreaking technologies. As a result, their work is not directly linked to the Quest for Knowledge, which is highly regarded within the Cult.
However, within the militant orders of the Stellar Imperium, the Enginocyst are recognized and revered for their indispensable labor. They are seen as essential cogs in the vast machinery that is the Vixatorius. Many Enginocyst possess Mechadendrites, specialized mechanical appendages attached to their backs, which aid them in their repair work. These enhancements allow them to work with greater efficiency and precision, further solidifying their role as skilled technicians within the Jovian Combine.
=== Lexite Mechanic ===
Lexite Mechanics are highly skilled technicians and service engineers who possess specialized knowledge in the field of communications technology. They play a crucial role in maintaining and repairing communication systems within the vast network of the Imperium.
Due to the critical nature of their expertise, Lexite Mechanics are frequently sought after by various Imperial organizations and are often assigned to serve in other branches of the Imperium for extended periods. They can be found serving aboard Imperial Navy vessels, where they ensure the smooth operation of communication equipment essential for effective coordination and command. Additionally, they may be stationed on Emperors Guard bastion-worlds, where they contribute their skills to maintain secure and reliable communication networks.
The duties of Lexite Mechanics encompass a wide range of tasks, including troubleshooting communication systems, conducting routine maintenance, repairing damaged equipment, and staying updated with the latest advancements in communication technology. Their specialized knowledge allows them to navigate the complexities of data transmission, encryption protocols, and signal processing, ensuring seamless communication within the Imperium's vast infrastructure.
Given their expertise, Lexite Mechanics often spend a significant portion of their lives immersed in their work, dedicating themselves to the maintenance and enhancement of communication systems. Their commitment to their craft enables the Imperium to maintain efficient and secure lines of communication, allowing for effective coordination and swift response in times of need.
While their primary role revolves around communication technology, Lexite Mechanics may also collaborate with other specialists and technicians from different fields, as efficient communication is crucial for the smooth operation of various Imperial organizations. Through their expertise and dedication, Lexite Mechanics contribute to the overall efficiency, coordination, and effectiveness of the Imperium's vast communication network.
=== Datasist ===
The Datasists, also referred to as the "Logi Calculum Magnon," are esteemed members of the Mechanicum who serve as librarians and scribes within their ranks. Their primary objective is to gather, organize, and rationalize vast amounts of data, which is then entered into central Cogitator repositories for future reference and analysis.
Equipped with exceptional computational skills, Datasists possess the ability to work with remarkable speed and accuracy. They excel in assembling and synthesizing diverse forms of information, including battlefield reports, economic statistics, planetary data, and much more. Their proficiency in data management enables them to extract meaningful insights and patterns from complex datasets, aiding in strategic decision-making and resource allocation.
While the core responsibility of Datasists lies within the Jovian Combine, they are frequently called upon to assist other organs of the Regimentum Imperialis. Their expertise in data compilation and analysis makes them valuable assets in various Imperial organizations. Datasists may be assigned to support different branches of the Imperium, such as the Imperial Navy, where they contribute to the processing and interpretation of critical mission data. They may also be deployed to assist with administrative tasks within Emperors Guard outposts or other strategic locations.
The work of Datasists extends beyond traditional record-keeping. They possess a deep understanding of information management systems, allowing them to implement efficient data structures and algorithms to optimize data processing and retrieval. Their meticulous attention to detail ensures the accuracy and integrity of the information they compile.
In addition to their technical expertise, Datasists are well-versed in the principles of data security and confidentiality. They adhere to strict protocols to safeguard sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access or data breaches.
Overall, Datasists play a vital role in the Mechanicum's pursuit of knowledge and efficiency. Their ability to gather and rationalize vast amounts of data contributes to the advancement of the Imperium as a whole. Through their collaborative efforts with other organs of the Regimentum Imperialis, they help streamline operations, facilitate informed decision-making, and enhance the overall effectiveness of the Imperium's endeavors.
=== M'thedite Priest ===
The M'thedite Priesthood holds a crucial role within the Vixatorius, focusing on the sacred practices of inscribing runes and performing liturgies over machines as part of the ritual of initiation. These rituals are deeply rooted in the beliefs and traditions of the Mechanicum, and they serve to imbue machines with spiritual significance and forge a connection between the Machine Spirits and the worshippers.
Members of the M'thedite Priesthood undergo extensive training in various branches of scientific lore, with a particular emphasis on arcane and specialized areas of knowledge. They delve into subjects such as intuitive mechanics, speculation, innovation, and improvisation. This diverse range of expertise enables them to explore unconventional approaches and think laterally, seeking solutions that go beyond strict logic and standard procedures.
The M'thedite Priests are renowned for their ability to think outside the confines of traditional methods and embrace creative problem-solving. When faced with complex or unprecedented situations, they draw upon their extensive understanding of scientific principles and esoteric knowledge to devise innovative solutions. Their lateral thinking allows them to see connections and possibilities that others may overlook, leading to unique insights and approaches.
In addition to their intellectual pursuits, M'thedite Priests are skilled in the ancient art of rune inscriptions and liturgical chants. These rituals are performed with great reverence and precision, believed to channel sacred energies and blessings onto the machines they are applied to. Through their intricate understanding of the Machine Spirits and their interactions with the physical world, M'thedite Priests facilitate a deeper spiritual connection between the Mechanicum and its mechanical creations.
The M'thedite Priesthood's expertise in lateral thinking and their profound knowledge of scientific lore make them valuable assets within the Vixatorius. They provide a balance between rigid adherence to established practices and the exploration of new possibilities. Their unconventional approaches and innovative ideas can be instrumental in overcoming challenges and advancing the understanding and capabilities of the Mechanicum.
Ultimately, the M'thedite Priesthood plays a vital role in bridging the realms of science, spirituality, and technological advancement within the Vixatorius. Their deep understanding of arcane lore and their lateral thinking abilities contribute to the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the Mechanicum's quest for knowledge and mastery over machinery.
=== Menials ===
As their name suggests, Menials are the menial and unaugmented human laborers of the Jovian Combine and its Forge Worlds, used primarily for unskilled labor too complex for Servitors to economically perform.
The billions of Menials are not considered true Vix-precept, but are usually indoctrinated with the beliefs of the Vixatorius in a simplified form. Detron and, to some extent, newly inducted Vix-precept are often recruited from the ranks of the Menials of Jupiter and Her moons and the other Forge Worlds.
=== Servitors ===
Servitors are mindless slave cyborgs, designed and programmed to perform menial, rudimentary or dangerous tasks for the Vixatorius and other elements of the Imperium like the Emperors Guard or even the Imperial Marine Legions. There exists an almost endless variety of Servitors, from heavy mining Servitors to battlefield Gun-Servitors and elite Praetorian Servitors.
A Servitor's biological components are obtained primarily by growing genetically-engineered human bodies artificially in culture vats, or in rare circumstances by using the fully lobotomized bodies of condemned Imperial criminals -- all are then subsequently augmented with mechanical limbs, computer uplink jacks and whatever electronic accessories are deemed necessary to facilitate their ordained tasks.
As they cannot think for themselves since either their higher brain functions have all been disabled, or they were born without said functions, they are essentially nothing more than partially-organic robots which use a portion of a human brain as their central processing unit. Some Servitors can be installed with combat programs which enable them to function as unswervingly loyal bodyguards.
On battlefields, they often form part of the retinues of Vix-precept, Vix-Marines and Inquisitors. These are seen as Gun-Servitors, bearing heavy weaponry; Combat-Servitors, armed with close-quarters combat equipment; and Technical Servitors, which are intended to perform repairs and construction duties instead of fighting.
Particularly large and heavily armed and armored Servitors are referred to as Praetorian Servitors. Potentially even towering over even a fully realized Luminous Imperial Marine, Praetorian Servitors are created either from cybernetically-enhanced vat-grown genetically engineered giants or lobotomized Ogryns.Note that however unified the Jovian Combine is in theory, every Forge World is a semi-independent autonomous body. And as such their hierarchies and titles are often varied from world to world. As such there's all streaks of internal political, religious and academic factionalism, which results in a myriad of sub-hierarchies, parallel systems of ranks, and petty esoteric titles, creating a thicket of organizational complexity few if any outside the Jovian Priesthood can understand and penetrate. 
Some of this is deliberate however, as the Priesthood of Jupiter enjoys reveling in their privacy.
=== Additional Ranks ===
The Jovian Combine also recognizes the following specialist ranks, which stand outside the standard hierarchy of the Vixatorius and usually serve a related military role for the Vixatorius or its allies amongst the other Imperial Militant Bodies.
Amongst the most learned of Magi are those rare individuals who are considered tech-savants, a genius at the forefront of whatever field to which they turn their minds. Even amongst the ranks of the Jovian Combine -- where artificial devices increase brain capacity and extend life beyond measure -- such an accumulation of knowledge in multiple disciplines is exceedingly rare.
The Jovian Priesthood titles such beings as "Prime Conduits of the Archologostia," or as Dominatus Dominus -- Master of Masters. On a Forge World, to avoid confusion during war, the most senior of the Vix-precept adopts the title of "Vixian Dominus" to lead the planet's military effort.
Exo Titan crews and Technoclast Imperial Marines are listed last not because of their actual position within the hierarchy, but because of their relative separation from the rest of the Vixatorius:
* Vixian Dominus
* Moderatus
* Tactical Officer
* Technoclast Marine
*Collegia Titanicus Princeps
* Detron
== Sacred Duties Within the Stellar Imperium ==
Besides scientific research and maintaining the Imperium's machinery, there are many important duties that the Jovian Combine performs in order to keep the Stellar Imperium functioning on a day-to-day basis. These include:
* Caretakers of the Generatorium: The advanced technology of the Imperium requires power and this power is supplied by Generatoriums, large, nuclear fusion-based Arc Reactor plants. The creation and operation of the Generatoriums (power plants) containing the Generatorium are the function of the Jovian Combine and the information behind their operations and construction are closely guarded from outsiders.
* Geneite Caretakers: Like the Generatorium, the Geneite Caretakers are vital to a planet's survivability. The Caretakers provide a list of all plants and animals that are either on a planet or will be introduced to the planet to make it habitable by Mankind. An Order of Geneite Caretakers is normally run by a Magi Biologis and plays a vital role in the Inquisition's activities. Their duties also extend to searching for genetic impurities in baseline human populations and in the hunting down of dangerous human mutants like rogue psykers.
* Caretakers of the Librarium: All of the knowledge in the Imperium is stored in the vast Librariums of Terra and Jupiter. Along with the Administratum, the Vix-precept store, guard, and reproduce what knowledge they can attain. In the Age of the Imperium where stagnation is the rule, knowledge has truly become power.
* Caretakers of the Manufactorium: As with the Librariums, the Vix-precept administer and protect the manufactoriums of the Forge Worlds that ensure that the Imperium is provided with the goods and machines that ensure its survival.
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Category:Imperial Weaponry
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Category:Jovian Mechanicum
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