In the Gretchin stat block on Into the Storm p. 64, I notice that they haven't got a Speak Language skill. Nathan Dowdell has stated elsewhere that he recommends adding one talent or skill to each Grot to make him actually useful. Do I have to choose between giving my sidekick Medicae and being able to talk with him?

lula said:

There are plenty of examples of NPCs that do not have a Speak Language skill, all humans speak Low Gothic, and all Orks and Orky creatures speak Ork

Few Examples:

Bloodskinner, Core Book pg 370

Entertainer, Corebook 370

Hired Gun, Corebook 370

Scum, Corebook 371

Voidfarer, Corebook 371, its noted he speaks Voidcant

Oathsworn Body Guard, Corebook 372

And thats just the Corebook.

Thanks, that clears it up.