Wrath & Glory Forsaken System Player's Guide

CREDITS Cover Art: Sam Manley Art: Helge C. Balzer, Tarik Boussekine, JG O’Donoghue, Bartłomiej Fedyczak, Wesley Gardner, Dániel Kovács, Sam Manley, Felix Tisch, Erin Rea, Stefan ‘Storykillinger’ Ristik, Siman Vlaisavljević Writing & Game Design: Tim Cox, Micheal Duxbury, Jeff Hall, Tim Huckelbury, Jordan Goldfarb, and Thurston Hillman. Graphic Design & Layout: Rory McCormack Editors: Bob Davis and Christopher Walz Managing Editor: Síne Quinn Senior Producer: Emmet Byrne Developer: Zak Dale-Clutterbuck Proofreader: Lynne M. Meyer Cubicle 7 Business Support: Anthony Burke, Elaine Connolly, Donna King, Eileen Murphy, and Kieran Murphy Cubicle 7 Creative Team: Dave Allen, Emmet Byrne, Zak Dale-Clutterbuck, Dániel Kovács, Elaine Lithgow, TS Luikart, Rachael Macken, Rory McCormack, Dominic McDowall, Sam Manley, Pádraig Murphy, Ceíre O Donoghue, JG O’Donoghue, Síne Quinn, and Christopher Walz Publisher: Dominic McDowall Special thanks to the Games Workshop team. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in an retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying recording or otherwise without the prior permission of the publishers. Warhammer 40,000 Roleplay: Wrath & Glory © Copyright Games Workshop Limited 2021. Warhammer 40,000 Roleplay, the Warhammer 40,000 Roleplay logo, Wrath & Glory, the Wrath & Glory logo, GW, Games Workshop, Space Marine, 40k, Warhammer, Warhammer 40,000, the ‘Aquila’ Double-headed Eagle logo, and all associated logos, illustrations, images, names, creatures, races, vehicles, locations, weapons, characters, and the distinctive likeness thereof, are either ® or ™, and/or © Games Workshop Limited, variably registered around the world, and used under licence.

The Forsaken System Player’s Guide is based on work by Darren Bowley, Ben Counter, Aaron Dembski-Bowden, John Dunn, Bill Keyes, Michael Merrell, Darren Pearce, Ryan Powell, Stephen Rhodes, Andy Smillie, and Ross Watson

CONTENTS

BACKGROUNDS

Canoness Jeanne Grace D’emysa .80 Farseer Lanriel Taranlys...............82 Ferianwyr, the Emerald Princess...84

ENDEAVOURS

Warboss Vazdrok Spikey-Smasha. 86 Chaos Lord Maloquence................88 Introduction ..............................131 Introduction....................................4

CHARACTER OPTIONS

Avachrus.........................................5 Nethreus.......................................12 Ostia ............................................17 Enoch ...........................................22

Performing Endeavours .............132 Events .......................................133 Duties & Responsibilities............135 General Endeavours ..................137 Faction Endeavours ...................140

Gilead Primus ...............................27 Charybdion ...................................33 Introduction.................................90 INDEX........................................143

FACTIONS

Species Ogryn ....................................92 Ratling...................................94 Kroot .....................................96 Archetypes

Sister Repentia.....................100

Introduction ................................39 Dialogus...............................101 Order of the Sanctified Shield ......40 Imagifier..............................102 Machine Cults of Avachrus...........42 Seraphim .............................103 Ecclesiarchy of Enoch ..................44 Canoness.............................104 Guard Regiments of Gilead ..........46

Astartes Apothecary.............105

Remnants of the Inquisition ........48

Astartes Chaplain ................106

The Varonius Dynasty .................50

Astartes Librarian................107

The Absolvers .............................52

Primaris Reiver ...................108

The Administratum .....................54

Tech Adept...........................109

Craftworlders of Ul Khari .............56

Sicarian Infiltrator ...............110

Greensteel Corsairs ......................58

Sicarian Ruststalker.............111

Da Blood Axes! ...........................60

Tech-Priest Dominus............112

Traitors of the Rift........................62 Confessor ............................113

III

PATRONS

Ratling Sniper......................114

Ogryn Warrior......................115

Bullgryn ..............................116 Lexmechanic........................117 Interrogator..........................118

Kroot Mercenary .................119

Introduction ................................64 Wargear Archdeacon Merramar Clade.........65

Melee Weapons....................120

Archdomina Axekra Vakuul.........67

Ranged Weapons.................122

Master Eshgar Quintus Lorae ......70 Armour ...............................124 Novator Octavia Omincara........... 72 Equipment...........................125 Ordo Malleus Inquisitor

Augmetics............................128

Tytrona Dikaisune ...................... 74

Librarius Discipline..............129

Brevet Captain Akahir .................77

INTRODUCTION USING THIS BOOK

led by magnanimous figureheads. These souls — or

The Forsaken System Player’s Guide is a useful

of the Gilead System. Each Patron has Frameworks and

resource for players and Gamemasters of Warhammer

mission ideas to kickstart your adventures working

40,000 Roleplay: Wrath & Glory. Packed with

for a formidable figure. With detailed information on

fascinating facts on the Gilead System’s people, places,

Patrons, this chapter provides deep insight on the

and organisations, it’s the perfect guide to enhance

Gilead System’s major figures and turbulent political

your enjoyment of Wrath and Glory.

situation.

Chapter 1: Backgrounds

Chapter 4: Character Options

The Gilead System is a bastion of faith in the Emperor trapped in Imperium Nihilus by the colossal Warp

The Gilead System is rife with diverse creatures

storm known as the Great Rift. This chapter focuses

desperately vying for survival, including stable

on its six most populous planets, detailing their major

strains of mutated Humans, genetically enhanced

industries, war-torn histories, powerful organisations,

and mechanically augmented death machines, and

and political intrigues. Filled with a wealth of

strange xenos from across the galaxy. This chapter is

entertaining adventure hooks, Chapter 1 is an ideal

jam-packed with options for character creation as well

introduction to life in this strange system for both GMs

as three playable Species: the diminutive abhuman

and players alike.

Ratlings, the abhuman barbarous Ogryns, and the

Chapter 2: Factions

savage mercenary xenos known as the Kroot. Each Species has unique Backgrounds and Objectives,

In a future wracked by war, most are forced to choose

and special rules for the bizarre biological mutations

a side or die alone. The Gilead System’s fractious

unique to the Kroot. With twenty Archetypes from

Factions each pursue their own goals, sometimes in

across seven Factions, including additional Wargear

alignment, but more often coming to dramatic blows.

used by these Species and Archetypes, these options

Understanding these Factions may be the difference

add extra impact to any game.

between life and death when dealing with the strange characters of the 41st Millennium. This chapter details the purpose, training, and political relationships of

Chapter 5: Endeavours

Even the mighty warriors that inhabit the myriad

each of the major Factions, forming a helpful guide for

battlefields of the 41st Millennium have a brief respite

both players and GMs when building and roleplaying

from war occasionally! This set of optional rules are

characters, as well as creating seeds for exciting

designed to aid you in roleplaying the time between

adventures.

your characters’ adventures or between gaming

Chapter 3: Patrons

sessions. Chapter 5: Endeavours provides rich storytelling opportunities to allow your characters to

In the 41st Millennium, powerful individuals may

pursue their personal goals, and confer benefits from

decide the fate of untold trillions. Powerful armies,

them during play.

major Factions, and even entire planets are ruled and

those that work for them — may well determine the fate

BACKGROUNDS Millennia have passed since the Gilead System was first liberated from heretical infestation, but though

AVACHRUS

numerous Imperial organisations have settled on its six habitable planets in that time, its history has been

Tidally locked in a close orbit around the Gilead star,

tempestuous. Cut off from the Imperium by the Great

Avachrus is a world of contradictions. The sun side

Rift, the Gilead System now faces its greatest challenge,

of the planet has blistered with an unlivable heat for

standing as a bastion of Imperial purity against the

millenia, and yet crawls with the activity of heavily

inescapable ruin of Chaos.

shielded servo-haulers harvesting vital minerals. The night side (that faces away from the star) is a strip-

This chapter gives an overview of the key planets of

mined wasteland that seethes with malign xenofauna

the Gilead System, detailing their major industries,

adapted to permanent darkness.

histories, organisations, and the political relationships both on each world and between the planets. This

In stark contrast to the unlivable wasteland of the

information can be used by both players and GMs to

surface, the caverns beneath the bizarre crust of the

inform character backstories and to help illustrate the

Forge World teem with industry. Those who take one

setting of Wrath & Glory, and is filled with adventure

of the colossal slave-driven elevators down from the

hooks to inspire the perilous encounters your party

temperate equatorial zone find themselves in continent-

will face.

sized caverns suffused with the industrialised cities of the Mechanicus. Each subterranean metropolis produces its own weather system, cycling through acid rains and billowing clouds of smog-birthed fog.

Even this harsh weather is a welcome respite from

of augmetics as symbols of status, and the zealous

the cloying heat generated by constant industry and

hatred of innovation or any subversion of the status

carefully contained rivers of magma flowing to the

quo are values etched into the mind of every Avachrun

ever-active forges.

from birth. Whilst logic is valued and emotion muzzled,

The forge cities house the population in complex webs

feelings are never absolutely suppressed.

reverence and zeal amongst the faithful mean that of plasteel buildings connected by precarious walkways. The natural rocky surfaces are covered with orderly cubes of Mechanicus temples and manufactorums. Subterranean tunnels weave below the cross-crossing catwalks as tectonic fragdrills bore through the ground.

Sols of Toil

Life beneath the surface of Avachrus would be

There is no concept of day or night on

impossible without the Eternal Engines, arcane relics

the tidally locked surface of Avachrus, let

from the Dark Age of Technology protected by a

alone in the subterranean caverns beneath.

shadowy cabal of Tech-Priests known as the Suspire.

Millions of lumens keep each forge city

The Eternal Engines are scattered across the blasted

permanently bathed in a sickly light. Though

surface of Avachrus, each ventilating a subterranean

most members of the Mechanicus have long

cavern that houses a smog filled forge city, forming

surpassed the need for sleep through the use

a system known as the Hestian Web. Though the

of holy augmetics, their religious devotion

arcane technology of the Eternal Engines ventilates

to efficiency means they still track time and

and powers the forge cities below, tireless industry

the shifts of their numberless servants. In

ensures the air is thick and viscous with pollution.

the wake of the Chronostrife, the Machine

Most hereditary workers have lived their entire lives

Cults of Avachrus have decided to honour the

with augmetic rebreathers, and view unmasked faces

homeworld of the Mechanicus and unilaterally

as unusually naked.

agreed that they would track time in Martian Sols. This decision has proved unpopular in

Every Imperial on Avachrus is a cog in a titanic

principle with the Administratum, though

machine. The society of Avachrus is a reflection

they cannot deny the results — when

of the technology they venerate — impenetrable,

the Mechanicus measure their own time,

archaic, and understood fully only by those at the

productivity increases.

top. From the outside, the mysticism of the TechPriesthood may seem simplistic: the hierarchy of the Adeptus Mechanicus is somewhat linear, and they rule completely over the unwashed millions that serve their will in the name of the Omnissiah. In truth, the Mechanicus are a fractured Faction of a thousand permutations of their creed. For all the citizens of Avachrus religious worship and work are as one. Preserving the Motive Force, ensuring sacred technology is maintained, and paying their tithe to the Imperium are all pious acts. As such, every waking moment is dedicated to toiling in the name of the Omnissiah. On other worlds of the Imperium, time for prayer might be a sanctified part of each citizen’s day, but on Avachrus ritual and servitude are combined. Most are unaware of any other way of life, or indeed life on the surface of a planet. The pursuit and exchange of valuable knowledge, the veneration

INDUSTRY Avachrus is the manufactorum of the Gilead System, providing to its neighbouring planets imprisoned in the Great Rift everything from tools of war to cogitation engines. Almost every piece of weaponry more advanced than a simple sword hails from the forges of Avachrus. Though primitive slug weapons and simple, mass produced pattern weapons like lasguns can be produced en-masse by the hives of Gilead Primus and Charybdion, even that would be impossible without closely guarded knowledge from the vaults of Avachrus.

Adventure Hook: Recruitment Shortcuts The common citizens of Avachrus all dream of joining the lofty ranks of the Adeptus Mechanicus, but know that only the brightest, most talented, and luckiest amongst them will be selected to become Tech-Adepts. A much easier route to greatness is through becoming a Skitarii after suffering a horrendous injury in service of the Machine Cult, though most that suffer such fates will aid the Omnissiah as lobotomised servitors. The Cog’s Teeth, an enterprising gang in forge city Belaxia, are offering a quick route to becoming a Skitarii. For a cheap exchange of augmetics, weapons, or other valuable technology, the Cog’s Teeth will ensure you have an unfortunate — but never deadly — accident. Some of these desperate labourers join the unfeeling Skitarii legions, but most ultimately serve the Mechanicus as servitors or corpse starch. Of course, this information is not widely known, and the mind-wiped Skitarii legions are unable to report on their previous lives. The Cog’s Teeth are a relatively new gang with unknown motivations. Rumour has it Archdominus Belaxia would pay highly to know what, or who, is pulling their strings.

Vehicle parts constructed by laborers on Gilead

constantly hungers for more essential minerals.

Primus have their complex systems assembled in the

However, even savvy Tech-Adepts are aware that the

manufactorums of the forge cities, then fueled with

precious alloys and ores they rely on are becoming

promethium refined on Charybdion. Every Imperial

harder and harder to find, and that continued use of

Faction looks to the forges of Avachrus to provide their

their colossal tectonic fragdrills could cause permanent

advanced weapons, armour, and vehicles to support

damage to the planet’s structure. Most crucially of all,

their perpetual wars — even the vox systems that allow

the Suspire must maintain the Eternal Engines, and

the Munitorum to demand forge city Belaxia increase

are allowed free reign to do so.

plasma weapon production are made on Avachrus. Voidships are repaired at a glacial pace on the orbital ring that surrounds Avachrus, as the technology required to build them is long lost. Only the Adeptus Mechanicus are permitted to construct cogitators, dataslates, and other computing devices to ensure no Abominable Intelligence is accidentally created.

Adventure Hook: The Endless Grind

Despite the many wonders that flow from the forges

Mining on Avachrus is an essential but

of Avachrus, its greatest export is arguably knowledge.

despised assignment. Digging for ores with

Tech-Adepts are inducted and trained with production

tools — or, as is often the case, by hand —

line speed and shipped to the other planets of the

is exhausting and dangerous work. Worse

Gilead System to oversee projects. From rockcrete

still are the duties of those that support the

manufacture in the hives of Charybdion to lasgun

tectonic fragdrills, as miners must work

assembly on Gilead Primus, the Mechanicus outsource

in close proximity to the colossal drill bits

as many low-tech tasks as they can to meet the

to dislodge blockages and collect valuable

overwhelming demand for technological supplies.

ores. Magos Aes-Incoquo, a devoted servant of Archdominus Belaxia, is tasked with

Beyond the blessed few inducted into the Tech-

overseeing the expansion of mining operations

Priesthoods of the Mechanicus are the millions of

on Avachrus, and frequently harvests the bio-

uneducated vassals and thralls that serve them as

electricity from thralls to ensure the tectonic

manual laborers. The zealous culture of Avachrus

fragdrills function at their peak.

ensures there are always hordes of hereditary servants eager to toil to serve the Omnissiah. Most hand crank

Despite the high death rate amongst miners,

manufactorum machines, hammer materials together,

a fervent cult known as the Fathomless Faith

or simply carry heavy loads for their Mechanicus

has sprung up amongst them. Members of the

masters. Whenever the populace dissents or is

cult cover their bodies in complex interwoven

injured by one of the many catastrophic industrial

skinplants that shed consistent lavender

accidents, the Skitarii legions are deployed to ensure

light on their work, and are seemingly more

mass lobotomisation protocols are followed and new

dedicated to gathering ore and creating

servitors are created where possible.

tunnels than they are to the Omnissiah. The Fathomless Faith have bolstered the number

Almost every augmetic in the Gilead System is

of purple-hued miners available to Aes-

produced on Avachrus, and their cultural significance

Incoquo, but though the Magos can happily

has led to a thriving underground market. Ambitious

report increased speed, the material produced

thralls and disgraced former Mechanicus members

has remained at a suspiciously stable rate.

alike skulk in the shadows of forge cities, operating

Magos Aes-Incoquo believes the Fathomless

unsanctioned chop-shops to provide scrap augmetics

Faith must be stealing the valuable ores,

to desperate and injured citizens.

and needs someone to investigate the cult, especially as reports have reached his many

Huge swathes of the population, Tech-Priests and their

cogitation systems of members being sighted

minions alike, work simply to maintain the status quo.

loitering near the space elevators that lead to

Entropy is one of the greatest enemies of production on

the orbital ring.

Avachrus. Mining is constant as the maw of industry

HISTORY

During the Age of Apostasy, Avachrus stood stubbornly

When Explorator Fleet Tsuruoka rediscovered the placid

from Ostia were poisoned, and onboard death cultists

resolute against the Ecclesiarchy. Shipments of food

Gilead System sometime in 92.M32, its Archdominus

flooded the streets. Amidst fierce resistance, thousands

pounced on the seemingly barren rock of Avachrus.

of deaths, and mass starvation, Avachrus shut down

Though many records on initial activity in the area

all interaction except for Nethreus, Charybdion, and

have been redacted or lost amongst the tides of time

the Vow of Absolution. The details of these slights

in Administratum data vaults, it is known that many

have been lost to the sands of time, but the enmity

lives were lost to colonize harsh Avachrus. Some point

remains to this day.

to the need for a Titanworks to slay the megafauna of Gilead Primus and Nethreus as justification of this the decisions of the past. Initial records of Avachrus redacted or discarded, as time and industry have razed their surfaces beyond recognition. The Gilead Crusade proved a boon to the Machine Cults

FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS

mass sacrifice, and few in the Imperium dare question and its twin moons, Odo and Uru, have largely been

BACKGROUNDS

Adventure Hook: Eternal Suffering

of Avachrus, as Skitarii legions and Sicarian killcades

The Administratum have shown concern

marched out to capture and lobotomise heretics to

over the increasing numbers of Skitarii and

bolster their servitor mines and harvest bio-electricity

laborers requested by the Suspire, but ancient

to fuel their technology. Even 8,000 years ago the

dictates on Avachrus prevent any form of

Magi of Avachrus were attempting to court the Knights

intervention. The stern Adept Hadriana needs

of Nethreus, fervently building Sacristan Forgeshrines

a team to investigate what happened to the

for the forces of King Farlin Acasta III. Some speculate

ten thousand tech-helots sent to the Eternal

the distraction of war was enough to prevent the

Engine supplying the forge city Anacite —

mining on Uru from destroying the moon entirely, but

its Suspire representative, Magos Militium,

none could doubt their zeal in eradicating any threat

has requested double the amount of helots

to their new holdings. On occasion, this zeal was seen

without explaining the huge power surges

as too extreme even to Julyana Gilead, who curtailed

that are assailing the city.

ENDEAVOURS

a Mechanicus plan to burn the fields of Ostia to starve enemy traitors before it engulfed a second continent. As the system recovered from the Gilead Crusade, the true value of Avachrus became apparent: the archeotech wonders of the Eternal Engines. These titanic machines remain a mystery to the Magi of the Mechanicus even after millenia of study, though their purpose was revealed through tragedy: when the first Engine failed, the population of foundry-forge Illiarch lost 89% of the Motive Force that sustained it, and all ventilation systems ceased simultaneously. Ever since, the Eternal Engines have been fastidiously protected by the Suspire, a shadowy cabal of TechPriests beyond the control of the Fabricator General. Skitarii and void-shielded vehicles are commissioned in ever greater numbers by the Suspire to ensure the upkeep of the Eternal Engines, each on the precipice of permanent decay. Thought to harness the power of the Gilead star’s rays, the machinery locked on the surface malfunctions more than ever, causing deadly brownouts for the forge cities below.

ORGANISATIONS

The union of industry, labour, and religious devotion

As a Forge World, Avachrus is literally owned by the

there. Each forge city is home to thousands of minor

on Avachrus extends to the organisations that work

Adeptus Mechanicus. Though they are nominally ruled

churches, each focused on the niche knowledge

by their Fabricator General, the wide range of sacred

needed to praise the Omnissiah as purely as possible.

knowledge

each

Tech-Priest

obsessively

collects

invariably leads to differences of opinion. Private wars

The Church of Iron Sighs in Belaxia produces masses

rage as puritans decry the Kastellan Robots employed

of ferrocrete inlaid with binary litanies. In the forge

by Kharnian sects in the forge city Versh. Omnissiads

city Mercur, the Abbey of the Immortal Mind labors

shirk their work to sneak to the surface Titanworks

tirelessly, conducting month long rituals to ensure

of Kauradar, beginning earnest attempts to construct

every cogitator they produce is animated purely by a

a physical body for the Omnissiah. The churches of

Machine Spirit, and never an Abominable Intelligence.

Fulgrite and Corpuscarii Electro-Priests cause more

The Auger systems produced by the Chantry of the

altercations than any others, and in some cases have

Omnissiah’s Eye have gradually become larger and

been servo-hauled to different locations to limit death

less effective as its Tech-Priests regress to more

tolls over philosophical disagreements.

trustworthy, traditional mechanisms.

Despite dissent between adherents of the Omnissiah,

Despite the variety and prowess of production-focused

the utterly logical minds of their military forces

organisations on Avachrus, there are few focused

unite

on trade. Most agreements are either millenia old or

without

difficulty.

Skitarii

legions

guard

manufactorums and shrines from intrusions by

pragmatic necessities begrudgingly authenticated to

tech-gangers and heretics, and utilise their resilient

serve the Varonius Flotilla in these desperate times.

augmetic bodies to patrol Avachrus’s harsh surface. Combat servitors and grotesque Kataphrons are kept

Gangs are few and far between amongst the forge

inactive in darkened storage warehouses between

cities due to the monopoly the Tech-Priesthood holds

shipments to warzones. Killcades of Sicarians are

over every life on Avachrus. However, tech-gangs

dispatched to missions across the system, supporting

of zealous faith or opportunistic drive war for work

the Knights of House Acasta to garner support from

throughout the forge cities. Many indentured workers

Nethreus whenever possible.

are identified by skinplants or specific augmetics. This has led to some gangs harvesting body parts — mechanical and organic — from others to steal their work and ensure a better place in Avachrun society. Electoos and back alley augmetics make many of the lower classes barely identifiable as Human. Those that venture to the wide catwalk streets that link habs to forges will often be accosted by menials with makeshift wheels instead of legs begging for alms, or thugs with glowing, strangely coloured skin covered completely in interlacing circuit-like tattoos.

POLITICS

Trade with the Ecclesiarchy of Enoch has been stunted

The Machine Cults of Avachrus hold complete

to the Mechanicus, and as such they have sent fewer

for centuries; the Shrine World produces little of value

sway over the planet’s politics. Though internal

and fewer Tech-Adepts to oversee their rockcrete

disagreements between the cults cause minor scuffles,

manufactorums, contributing to the crumbling state of

they are inconsequential compared to issues beyond

Enoch’s minor shrines.

the crust of Avachrus — at most, only a million have

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS

died in disagreements over the exact limitations

There are those who claim the mountainous monument

of Abominable Intelligence. Younger generations

to Saint Dermia was once a depiction of the Omnissiah

of Adeptus Mechanicus, those that have lived two

that was bastardised during the Great Apostasy, a

centuries or less, have started to favor a pragmatic

slight the Mechanicus would never forgive. Since the

approach to invention and innovation due to their

emergence of the Great Rift, Enoch at long last has a

current situation and the arrival of the Primaris

resource to barter with Avachrus: refugees indentured

Astartes, yet none flagrantly oppose the traditions that

as labourers or lobotomised to provide more servitors.

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

their order have held for millenia. Fabricator General Belaxia is at the forefront of this divide in thought — she is actively working with the Varonius Flotilla, and some say attempting to leverage freedoms to research Aeldari weaponry. Whether her strange, steel-nosed approach to furthering Avachrun power will widen the divide between staunch Mechanicus puritans and their younger counterparts is unknown. Sicarians are shipped to Nethreus as frequently as

Adventure Hook: Faces of Faith A strange sect has been spreading amongst

House Acasta will allow. It is an open secret that

the organisations of Belaxia, and its members

Belaxia wishes to court the Knight House, and is

are easily identifiable — they all share the

Varonius’ greatest ally in doing so. House Acasta

same face. The lack of passion for aesthetics

have long tolerated the interference of the Mechanicus,

typical to Avachrus has ensured this is not

knowing it is necessary to maintain their machines,

a huge problem, as every member has kept

but this dependency may be warming to friendship.

their name, and they claim the face is based on that of the Omnissiah. Some have noted

Promethium fuels the majority of Imperial technology,

a slight change in behaviour, suggesting that

and as such is of dire need on Avachrus. The close

others make the same face conversion and

bond between the Forge World and Charybdion was

join them in their unified worship, breaking

formed on this basis, fueled by their mutual distrust

down barriers of belief to form a cohort united

of the Ecclesiarchy.

in ideals and appearance.

Even with the support of the Eternal Engines, the

The true source of this sect is sinister — the

metallic environment of a forge city is almost inimical

conversion is forced on unwary citizens, and

to life. The only local food sources are humongous

involves both facial augmetic surgery and

fungal growths that thrive on pollution, and the slurry-

extensive mind-wiping. The timing of the

like corpse starch produced in concert with the fearful

sect’s upsurge coincides with the discovery

Ecclesiarchy enclaves in each forge city. Fortunately,

that a perverse artefact known as the Mask of

the citizens of Avachrus view the sensation of taste

Unity was stolen from a stasis vault.

as unimportant, and stomach bitter gruel as their exalted Tech-Priest masters funnel nutrient rich paste through their sustenance rigs. Due to this, and the devotion of Ostia to the Ecclesiarchy, there is little to no relationship between them, save for the seemingly charitable desire of the Mechanicus to improve production on the Agri World.

The righteous Adepta Sororitas, caught between the Inquisition and the Adeptus Ministorum, are almost

NETHREUS

always suspicious of those from Avachrus, though the Sisters Hospitaller rely heavily on the medical supplies

To the citizens of other worlds in the Gilead system,

produced in the forge city of Llurgica. Similarly, the

Nethreus appears as a brief image of a potent Knight

pious Gilead Gravediggers maintain a minor distrust

war-engine standing guard over toiling workers, if it

of the ‘cogfolk’, but know better than to voice their

appears at all. This simple image is both more and

misgivings, lest they find their armouries empty, and

less than the truth. Amidst the tectonic turmoil and

be forced to fight with shovels instead of lasguns. Only

constant volcanic discharge of Nethreus’s unstable

the Absolvers truly accept and appreciate the Adeptus

geology, a tightly-knit and unyielding society has

Mechanicus of Avachrus, sharing a distaste for the

emerged. Based around the heirs to Freeblade Knights

wasteful Ecclesiarchy of Enoch, and understanding the

deployed in the Gilead Crusade and their support

value of weapons, vehicles, and their own Techmarines.

personnel,

these

elements

formed

seemingly

unshakeable foundation for the society of the newlyThe Administratum operate in small numbers on

claimed world. Yet with the emergence of the Great Rift

Avachrus, desperately attempting to catalogue the

and the fears of abandonment by the larger Imperium,

perpetual production lines of the forge cities. Their

new fault lines run through all Nethreun social strata,

task is thankless, endless, and likely impossible.

threatening to cast it all into the abyss.

Rumors spread of scribes attempting to sabotage manufactorums temporarily, simply so their scribes

The core of Nethreun society revolves around the

can catch up on their recordings, though their efforts

concerns of survival on a planet in constant, violent

are ultimately futile as they too will have to document

flux. Contrary to their world’s nature, social roles

the impact of their actions.

are strict and rigid, defined by a system laid in place millennia ago. It is a commonly-held aphorism that anyone not doing their assigned part to make Nethreun social structures and industries function is a destabilizing element, an impurity in the molten ore that forms their livelihood and their greatest fears.

Adventure Hook: Apostate Martyrs

Thus, two fears motivate Nethreun workers more than anything else: the fear of the hellish volcanic crucible outside the shielded dominions, and that of not measuring up to the standards necessary to keep the hostile environment at bay.

The emergence of the Great Rift is the greatest catastrophe to ever strike the Gilead

Each of the Nethreun dominions, as their shielded and

System, and many feel it is a punishment

tectonically anchored fortress cities are called, is a realm

for the population’s lack of faith. One radical

unto itself. Mounted on artificial adamantium bedrock

Confessor in particular, Homeros Vecht, is

and enclosed by vast void shields, the dominions are

attempting to stoke hatred for the Adeptus

the only truly stable features of the planetary surface,

Mechanicus with parades on Enoch. Magos

where even vast mountain ranges are only temporary

August-5 has discovered a fringe Mechanicus

adornments of the crust. Travel between dominions

plot to direct a Sicarian Killcade to assassinate

is limited, as vast ash storms and voltaic discharges

Vecht during one of these parades, but believes

threaten aerial transit. The only regular commerce

this will only make matters worse, and needs

between dominions is by means of land trains, vast

a team to quietly prevent the murder.

macro-haulers that lay a track of adamantium before them as they travel and remove it as they pass. These trains serve as dominions in miniature, and have many of the same protections guarding their crews, who serve for life and see them as home.

Guarding dominion and land train alike are the Knights of House Acasta, without whom no discussion

INDUSTRY

of Nethreun society would be complete. Nobles sworn

Although Nethreus is primarily renowned off-world

to service by hereditary oaths and the demands of

for the Knights of House Acasta, most of the populace

the Thrones Mechanicum, they nevertheless find

consider the mineral-rich planetary crust the planet’s

themselves becoming increasingly insular and drawn

greatest resource. The world’s constant geological

into petty scheming as, since the advent of the Great

churning frequently exposes new lodes of rare and

Rift, their society turns away from the larger Imperium.

valuable ores, many of which are vital to maintain the

Yet for all their faults, the Knights remain Nethreus’s

fortified foundations of the dominions and the armored

surest protectors, providing succour and protection

bulwarks of the void shield generators that keep the

against threats whom even potent void shields are

devastating megafauna at bay. When such resources

useless. In their hands, and in the armaments of their

become available, a great mobilisation of armoured

Knight steeds, lies the fate of their world

mining rigs and cargo haulers hurries to the site, under the watchful protection of an Acastan Knight, to seize

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

and process as much ore as possible before the planet’s violent activity once more submerges the bounty.

Adventure Hook: Rebels in the Knight In

the

manufactorums

What does not go to maintenance of the dominions’ bulwarks and foundations goes to repairing House Acasta’s Knights, so little of this mineral wealth is seen off Nethreus.

Nethreun

Those not involved in the dangerous business of

dominion, quotas are not being met, leading

mineral claims beyond the protection of a dominion’s

to civil unrest. Enough is being produced to

boundaries are almost invariably involved in the

meet basic needs, but the lack of surplus for

processing of the resultant ores. Foundries across

trade and stockpile is causing many in other

the planet smelt and refine thousands of tons of

roles across the dominion to blame the factory

mining proceeds every day to meet the demands

workers as weak and undeserving of their

of the manufactorums. These great factory hubs

lords’ protection. A secret society of hereteks

in turn produce everything the planet needs, from

is the source of the problem, as they steal

new components for vital technology, to exquisite

parts to build their own blasphemous engine

showpieces of gems and precious metals for the

of war in mockery of a Knight. However, the

planet’s numerous Barons, to excavators for the

social strife they leave in the wake of their

harvest of world root, to weapons for House Acasta’s

operations may impede any investigations to

enforcers and keepers of law and order.

find the terrible machine.

Small amounts of these manufactured goods and surplus

metals

are

occasionally

traded

beyond

Nethreus, finding their way into the markets of Gilead

HISTORY The heritage of Nethreus and its Acastan rulers goes

Primus or the tech-shrines of Avachrus, but the supply

back to the Gilead Crusade, where the freeblade Knight

is limited and unreliable.

Acasta won great renown on the front lines. By the time

Thus the Gilead System at large either remains largely

Acasta’s adamantium steed, Knives of Ivory, was

the crusade prepared to move on from its initial victories, unaware of Nethreus’s mineral bounty, or knows

battered nearly beyond functioning, but by its sacrifice

of it in a purely academic sense that does not factor

had many victories been won. Acasta herself retired

into most economic or political calculations. Certain

from active duty and was awarded custodianship of

Factions of the Tech-Priests of Avachrus are the most

the last unclaimed world in the system, where several

prominent consumers of Nethreus’ limited ore surplus,

of the crusade’s other Freeblades swore themselves

though they are never satisfied with the amount on

to her service and began the lineage of House Acasta.

offer. When House Acasta’s lords must deal with

Though the honour granted to Acasta and her vassals

other worlds of the Gilead System, they have little to

was great — if perhaps less great, so too were the

offer in terms of trade goods. Instead, they pay for

challenges. It took long decades of effort before the

their people’s needs with the service of their Knights.

barest trace of Nethreus was truly pacified and the

The devastating barrages of Acastan war engines in

foundation of the first dominion laid down. Acasta

battlefields across the system and beyond have served

herself passed before seeing her world’s promise come

to purchase surplus grain from Ostia and complex

to fruition. Yet through her line, the Throne of Ivory

technology from Avachrus on numerous occasions.

Knives was passed down to rule Nethreus.

On occasion, a trend sweeps House Acasta for offworld fashions, leading to a flurry of imports for Gilead

As more dominions were founded, House Acasta grew

Primus, but the lords of the house have not been

in prestige and responsibility. More vassals came,

seized by such a whim for over a century.

forming the lesser nobility of the Acastan League, who managed the affairs of far-flung dominions. Further, the Imperial tithes were levied on the fledgling world as soon as it could support them, if not before. The

Adventure Hook: Rotten Roots

service of Acastan Knights fulfilled many of these

The incredibly hardy world root is the only plant

and Ostia, whose inhabitants many saw as living safe

known to survive and thrive in Nethreun soil,

and indolent lives.

obligations, but there were also other demands over time, for ores, labour, and even vital technology. The Nethreun people bore these trials unflinchingly, but looked with envious eyes at worlds like Gilead Primus

and it forms the core foodstuff of the natives’ diet. Now, a never before-seen blight in the

Since the onset of the Noctis Aeterna, the gulf between

previously impervious crop risks planetary

Nethreus and the Gilead System has only grown wider.

famine if not investigated and contained.

House Acasta’s Knights are ever in demand to fight

Preliminary samples of blighted world root

off dangerous encroachments, and less food and aid

shows signs of an outside contaminant. The

is available to provide in recompense. The arrival of

crisis is the work of an Interrogator of the

the Varonius Flotilla brought little encouragement to

Inquisition, who hopes by destroying the core

the dour Nethreuns, who saw the outsiders’ promises

Nethreun food supply to force the stubborn

as more demands on resources already stretched to

populace to rely on trade with the rest of the

breaking point. What the future holds for Nethreus

Gilead system. Unknown to the Interrogator,

and House Acasta remains to be seen, but without

their work is being aided by the influence of

great tact and diplomacy, the possibility of a growing

Nurgle, and their planned cure for later use

divide between Nethreus and the rest of the Gilead

will only accelerate the blight due to the Chaos

system seems ever more likely.

contamination in its formula.

swore themselves to the Throne of Ivory Knives, to petty hangers-on at the Acastan Courts granted titles for some ingratiating deed or another. Beyond the

Adventure Hook: Fallen Guardians

Knives presides, each dominion is ruled by a Baron

A new movement spreading across all strata of

titles, status, and the choicest finds of ore and other

capital of Nethreus Majoris, where the Court of Ivory of the League and their household. The Barons spend much of their time scheming amongst each other for

Nethreun society has become of concern to the

resources. However, as the bloodline of Acasta grows

lords of Gilead Primus and the representatives

thin and the number of heirs dwindles, they also have

of the Varonius Flotilla. Originating in the

begun to set their sights higher, towards the Court of

Lismel Dominion, those who have embraced

Ivory Knives and the throne therein.

it claim that the lack of tithe-ships arriving from beyond the Great Rift means that Terra

Below the nobles are the innumerable workers of the

has fallen, the claims of Jakel Varonius

dominions, who largely fall into one of three categories.

notwithstanding. Furthermore, they warn

The first are the miners who venture beyond the

that without enforcement from Terra to keep

dominions’ protection, working with the crews of land

them in line, no off-worlders can be trusted.

trains to secure resources for the manufactorums and

The movement serves as cover for heretical

smelteries. The second are the workers and artisans

leanings and piratical deeds among the rulers

who crew those same facilities, creating an endless

of Lismel, who have been allowing land

stream of worked goods to repair and refit what the

trains to falsely disappear near their lands so

planet’s turmoil wears down and to amuse the whims

they can steal the resources to further their

of the Acastan nobility. The remaining workers tend

own ends.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

the subterranean grow-domes of world root set beneath the foundations of the dominions. Those who cannot work mining, manufacturing, or

ORGANISATIONS

growing food (or who do not fit within Nethreus’ harsh strictures) are cast to the edges of the dominions, living in an ash-choked haze barely protected by the

Life on Nethreus is defined by rigid social structures

wavering energies of the void shields. They survive by

and hierarchies. At the very top of all local affairs is the

scavenging, begging, and the occasional theft, and live

High King, Vilmaar XIV, a descendant of Acasta herself.

the harshest lives of a harsh world.

Since the loss of contact with Sector, Segmentum, and Terran authorities, Vilmaar acknowledges no higher lord, and treats the Lord Militant merely as a distant peer. The High King’s status is betokened by the Throne

POLITICS

of Ivory Knives, which is said to be forged from the

Though most Nethreuns devote more thought to

adamantium wreckage of Acasta’s own Knightly steed.

labour and survival than politics, such matters are ever on the minds of the world’s nobles. The Barons

Below Vilmaar are the lords of House Acasta who

of the Acastan League are constantly jockeying for

share his bloodline, and the potent Knights in their

power and prestige, whether in the form of resources,

service. The true Acastan lords are themselves almost

favours, or simply the envy of their peers. Some even

universally pilots, and hold themselves apart from

speculate that the line of Acasta may soon end, and

the populace they protect, whether from the gilded

make preparations for their own ascension to the

windows of their palaces or the plasteel-rimmed

Throne of Ivory Knives. All such schemes and plots,

viewports of their steeds. However, they are few in

whatever their goal, take place under the watch of High

number, with the majority of Nethreus’ noble class

King Vilmaar, his courtiers, and their spymasters, who

comprising the Barons of the Acastan League. These

strive to weed out the most ambitious Barons and curb

range from descendants of later vassal Knights who

the most excessive and grandiosely wasteful gestures.

Also watching Nethreun politics closely are the Tech-

Yet for all this, at least they are still Imperial forces.

Priests of Avachrus. Though the Adeptus Mechanicus

The Knights of House Acasta have served on the front

avoids direct involvement in such volatile affairs, they

lines of innumerable battle fields, with the oldest pilots

eagerly watch for signs of surplus production in ores

even remembering crusades from before the advent of

and mineral resources that could fuel their technology.

the Noctis Aeterna. Through the experiences of those

Nethreus in turn looks to Avachrus for what its

who return from duty, Nethreus has developed a

own manufactorums cannot produce, the advanced

great animosity towards xenos, heretics, and traitors

technologies to maintain dominions, land trains,

without having seen any incursions onto their own

and Knights. Thus, Avachrus maintains a closer

world since the time of Gilead.

relationship with Nethreus than any other world has managed. This closeness has not gone unnoticed by

The great deeds of Acastan Knights against these

the Ecclesiarchy, already suspicious of the faithfulness

foes has filtered into local myth, and some fear the

of such an isolationist world.

vanquished may one day come seeking vengeance

The same closeness cannot be ascribed to Nethreun

Were the Varonius Dynasty’s dealings with the Aeldari

against those who have defeated them so many times. relations with the Varonius Flotilla. The Barons of

to come to light on Nethreus, it would likely cause a

the Acastan League see Varonius representatives

new tide of fervent isolationism.

as meddlers with no appreciation for the difficulties of Nethreun life, and those lower class citizens who

Though the Acastan House are loath to ask for anything

are aware of the Dynasty’s existence tend to hold

of their neighbouring worlds, the other Factions of the

an even worse opinion of them. To most Nethreuns,

Imperium would give willingly to Nethreus to garner

the Varonius Flotilla represents the worst excesses of

support, all knowing that reinforcements in the form

privileged and arrogant off-worlders.

of Imperial Knights would turn the tide of any battle.

Adventure Hook: Fool’s Honour Scav-dregs on the edge of Corthos Dominion have grown bold of late under the leadership of a former shift leader from the manufactorums named Aramir. They are encroaching on the hab-blocks where workers take their scant hours of rest. Workers returning to their habs are regularly finding them burgled by these dregs. Curiously, more than food and medicine are missing: the structures themselves have been stripped for parts, particularly those relating to the shielding and environmental plating of Knights. The scav-dregs of Corthos are attempting to repair the neglected habshielding surrounding the dominion, but the lords of Corthos have been enraged by the thefts, and may deploy their Knights against the dregs if the truth of the situation is not brought to light.

OSTIA

Limited remnants of an older way of life yet remain, but for how much longer none can say. Administratum surveys are in progress to optimise every Ostian biome

The Agri World

of Ostia appears a placid paradise,

for maximum yield of agricultural products, but the

with a vast array of differing biomes suitable for life,

process has been under way for centuries and no end

bountiful harvests capable of feeding untold millions,

is in sight. As such, some areas of the planet remain

and a population securely shepherded by the God-

cultivated in the ancient style that emphasises natural

Emperor’s adepts and ministers. This is a lie. In truth,

growth and native flora and fauna until Administratum

though its diversity of life is unparalleled in the Gilead

solves the particular problems they represent. However,

System, that ecological abundance has dwindled over

the workers here are placed in no less demand to meet

the centuries since the Imperial tithes in. It continues

their quotas than those in the vast monoculture grain

to shrink as yet more of the planet’s surface is

fields and grox pens. As the needs of the system and

converted to vast fields of grain and massive macro-

flotilla grow, agitation spreads across Ostia, growing

enclosures for penning innumerable head of grox. Yet

towards a breaking point.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

even these measures are proving insufficient to the voracious needs of the Gilead System after the Great

Perhaps the only element of Ostian society that remains

Rift cut off access to outside supplies. The arrival of the

capable of appeasing and uniting the worn and uneasy

Varonius Flotilla only deepened these demands, as their

populace are the Ministorum adepts who walk among

shipboard stores soon ran dry. All the while, the simple

the fieldhands and farmers on behalf of the God-

farming life of the inhabitants has grown harsher and

Emperor (who some Ostians refer to as the Lord of

more demanding due to the increased production needs,

Dawn). As unrest increases, even the Ministorum is

while even less of their bountiful harvest is allotted to

not truly safe from retaliation and riot, but they still

those who produce it. In short, for all its seeming peace

enjoy a shroud of awe and reverence that protects

and plenty, Ostia is a world in crisis.

them from the worst of it, including targeted reprisal efforts. The brunt of hostility from weary farmers and would-be revolutionaries alike goes to the adepts of the Sortium who set the quotas, as well as the newly

Adventure Hook: The Ion Hastilude The Ion Hastilude is a tourney held by the Acastan League, a rite of passage for new

arrived Tech-Priests of Avachrus, hated faces of the newly incorporated reclamation efforts more widely known as the servitor farms.

INDUSTRY

Knights, and a proving ground for veterans.

For most Ostian citizens, life is defined almost entirely

The only prize is pride, though winners often

by the nature of the things they produce. Grain

receive prestigious positions, and losers

farmers find seasonal routines dictating the sowing

are left utterly broken. Unarmed combat,

and harvesting of their crops, while grox herders

sharpshooting and hunting all feature in the

find their highest priority is avoiding a stampede that

tourney, but knightly jousts are always the

could cost lives, or worse, valuable equipment. Given

most important event. By ancient tradition,

Ostia’s varied biomes and the vast demands of the

anyone may enter or sponsor a Knight. While

Gilead system, this creates a wide range of different

intended as a way to judge Freeblades, the

behaviours and rituals among its people. Of course,

Varonius Flotilla plan to use this rule to sway

some things remain universal — reverence for the

a Knight to their side, and improve their

God-Emperor in His role as the Lord of Dawn, endless

standing on Nethreus. They need a group

hours of back-breaking physical labour, and the

of diplomats to convince a Knight pilot to

constant attention and oversight of the Sortium.

support their cause — and perhaps sabotage their enemies.

The representatives of the Sortium still carry on

products of the local biomes. Farms, orchards, and

the task appointed to them by the Adeptus Terra

cattle yards radiate out from the Mega-Acreages, which

before the advent of the Great Rift: to ensure Ostia

are placed to offer maximised utility and efficiency in

produces sufficient food to secure the prosperity and

agricultural production and processing.

continuance of the Gilead system. Of late, accusations of corruption in the Sortium have grown, as workers see less food on their own plates and at the same time see increased quotas and more rigorous production

Adventure Hook: Luddite Strike

methods. Whether there is any truth to the claims that the Sortium hoards the choicest victuals and most plentiful supplies for themselves, they are known for cracking down on all obstacles to their goals, whether these obstacles are failed harvests, seditious

On a trip to Villam Fundus’ spaceport, a Tech-

rumours, or food riots. To the Sortium, all things have

Priest working in the reclamation efforts has

their proper place, and that of the workers is one of

been murdered. His superiors on Avachrus

endless labour.

are irate, and demand the murderer be found by the Sortium and turned over to them for

The efforts of Ostian agricultural workers is organised

interrogation

in hubs around the worlds’ few cities. These are

the

and

reclamation.

investigators,

matters

Unknown are

referred to as Mega-Acreages, and serve as granaries

complicated than a revenge killing by some

and transport depots more than true urban centers,

irate workers upset by the servitor farms.

with the only real city in the traditional sense being the capital of Villam Fundus. Offworld trade and

The Tech-Priest was slain by a devoted but low-

shipments are coordinated through the capital and

ranking preacher of the Ministorum, who saw

sent out to the rest of the Gilead System, though rarely

the servitor farms as an affront to perfected

beyond the Heartworlds — even in the system’s heyday,

forms of Humanity and has already brought

Ostian agriculture was reserved primarily for Gilead

a small conclave of Ostian citizens under their

alone. The other Mega-Acreages assist in regional

sway. If the zealous preacher is turned over to

organisation, being warehouse centres for whatever

the Tech-Priesthood of Avachrus, it may cause

specific machinery or tools are needed to process the

outright conflict between the Mechanicus and the Ministorum.

As the world’s biomes recovered, the fledgling Sortium began the task of organising its natural abundance into industrial mass production. Some early efforts

Adventure Hook: Bloody Fields

harvests, whether due to miscategorisation of local

Though the zealousness of the Ostian populace

the Sortium’s systematic approach prevailed, but

are rumoured to have gone poorly and ruined entire

BACKGROUNDS

life, premature encroachment on areas ruined in ancient battles, or more esoteric mishaps. Over time,

has often aided the Gilead System, their

their failures and the first food riots showed them the

fervent faith can be perverted to misguided

necessity of controlling and moulding the populace

ends. The citizens of mega-acreage Rubricatus

with the assistance of the Adeptus Ministorum,

have given in to desperation following the

cementing the Ecclesiarchical presence on the world

emergence of the Great Rift, and have joined

early on.

the Death Cult of the Sanguine Sacrifice. They now hold bloody rituals, cutting down

FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Thanks perhaps to this presence and to the local

farmhands for minor indiscretions in the

fervour it engendered, the arrival of the Great Rift

foolish hope that the Emperor’s blessing will

only redoubled faith in the Emperor. Though the Rift

reach their crops. The Administratum, keen

is rightfully seen as unnatural and terrifying, the

to preserve Human resources, aim to employ

local custom of viewing the Emperor as a solar deity

a group of emissaries to peacefully lead the

has served the local rulers well, as only the light of

citizens away from the Death Cult. Radical

day banishes the Rift’s presence from the sky. Thus

deans of the Ecclesiarchy, eager to expand

is the power of the Lord of Dawn proved to all on

their power, are employing ‘missionaries’ to

Ostia, calming them and placing His representatives

take control of the Sanguine Sacrifice. The

almost beyond reproach. However, as isolation made

iron fist of the Inquisition ensures these

Ostian food more needed elsewhere, the continuing

operations must take place in secrecy, as they

worsening of labour conditions and imposition of

seek to destroy these potential heretics.

scarcity threatens to undo even this protection. The arrival of the Varonius Flotilla is not widely known on Ostia, as it was deemed by the Sortium and

HISTORY

Ministorum alike to be a matter beyond the concerns of most workers. However, the recent presence of

Ostia bears the honour of being a crucial turning point

dynastic representatives across the system have made

of the Gilead Crusade. From the onset of the early

some dissemination of the news inevitable. Public

wars for the system, crusade command recognised

opinion regarding the new arrivals has yet to crystallise,

that the planet’s fertile fields and vast output would

remaining another variable in the possibilities of

serve to shore up supply lines as an initial conquest.

Ostia’s future.

However, the Imperium’s foes did not relinquish this prize willingly, and the world was nearly ruined by bitter warfare. The planet’s histories claim it took centuries for the world to recover. Certain classified data-archives

disagree,

suggesting

the

process

occurred much almost unnaturally swiftly, and that Ostia was operational as an Agri World within less than a hundred years. The discrepancy can perhaps be explained by ancient Sortium data-vaults containing dubious allusions to strange Aeldari structures, supposedly found in the overgrown Ostian wilderness. Even the radical xenobiologists that give credence to these rumours being the source of the planet’s vitality dare not voice such an intolerant idea.

ORGANISATIONS

The Sortium is the organising force of Ostian society.

At its heart, Ostia is a world of farmers. The Sortium

punishment for those who can’t or won’t fulfil their

would be quick to point out that their produce and

duties. However, the Ecclesiarchy’s sermons serve

They set quotas, plan new crop rotations, and oversee

labour belongs to the Gilead System at large, and

as society’s glue, comforting, the populace with the

the Ministorum eagerly reminds them of what they

promise of the Emperor’s favour, or cow them with

owe to the Emperor, but Ostia is still ultimately their

the threat of his anger. Though they are loath to

world. All other groups combined do not form even

differ from the mainline teachings of the Imperial

a hundredth part of its vast population, and farmers

Cult, the Ecclesiarchy cannot deny the productivity

labour across the wide fields, pastures, and orchards

affected by the fervent beliefs of Ostia’s farmhands.

almost in isolation from the rest of the planet save

As unrest spreads, these efforts grow in importance,

for the accounting of quotas and the enforcement of

and the presence of preachers among the workers is in

official edicts. It is this vast populist potential that the

increased demand. However, in some Mega-Acreages

Harvest Smith and other revolutionaries seek to tap

different prayers are whispered, as cults find a ready

into, whether out of idealism, ruthlessness, or other

audience among the disaffected.

motives. That they should succeed is a possibility of great concern to the Sortium, who oversee the routines

In their desperation, the Sortium recently accepted an

of the workers, trying to funnel them into a structure

offer of aid from the Adeptus Mechanicus. Despite

that best suits their own needs.

opposition from the Ministorum, the Tech-Priesthood have set up their own enclaves on Ostia, where those too injured to work — through overexertion, accident, or punishment — are repurposed as servitors. The TechPriests and their ‘reclamation’ efforts have become an easy rallying cry for would-be revolutionaries and the organisers of revolt. As the servitor farms expand and

Adventure Hook: Ghost Hunters

become integrated with Ostian work output, so too are fanned the flames of dissension.

Workers near Mega-Acreage Ceres have reported strange roaming figures on the periphery

their

vision

that

vanish

when approached. The local Ministorum representatives have called this a mere distraction from labour, and exhort the workers to ignore these phantasmal and likely blasphemous visions.

Adventure Hook: Hidden in the Harvest Local intelligence suggests the elusive Harvest Smith has made a slip and could be vulnerable to capture and interrogation if a team moves

However, highly classified Sortium records

quickly enough. However, even in such

indicate a quarantined Aeldari ruin in the

circumstances, the matter will not be simple.

area that has in the past defied all attempts

This window has only become possible due to

at intrusion. Some of these attempts were

the Harvest Smith’s need to combat influence

well-equipped indeed, with backing from

from a cult of Nurgle whose blight would ruin

Ecclesiarchical or Mechanicus sources eager to

the possibility of anyone, whether labourer or

control the ruins. If the wanderers are indeed

Sortium representative, from benefiting from

Aeldari, what secretive business do they have

Ostia’s crops. In order to enter this playing

on Ostia, and how do these strange ruins play

field safely, the team must go undercover

into it? Perhaps even more troubling, what

amidst the Harvest Smith’s operatives to fight

effects would breaching the ruins have on

the greater threat of Chaos, then turn the

Ostia’s delicate balance of power?

tables on these allies of convenience.

POLITICS

The Sortium are torn between the monopolising

While ostensibly the Sortium is the key authority of

Adeptus Mechanicus and the insatiable zealotry of the

Ostia and its sole governing body, of late its officials

Ecclesiarchy whilst struggling to meet the agricultural

find themselves relegated more to an administrative

needs of an entire system — the many eyes of the

role. Attempts at direct control of the populace without

Ruinous Powers are ever watchful for infighting to

the aid of the Ministorum to placate the masses have

exploit that they may reclaim and corrupt the fertile

become more volatile than ever, leaving the Sortium

jewel of the Gilead System.

at best partners in delivering new laws and mandates. Furthermore, while the Sortium invited the Adeptus

Amid all this manoeuvring and jockeying for power, the

Mechanicus and initially welcomed their reclamation

Varonius Flotilla focuses on Ostia as a vital resource

efforts despite the warnings of the Ministorum, they

and lynchpin of the system’s survival. Though they

find the new arrivals more than they had planned for.

too are dependent on Ostia’s output, the authorities

The Tech-Priests have flatly refused any inspection or

of the Flotilla are far enough removed from internal

oversight of their facilities, claiming that their now-

politics and old grudges to recognise the danger of

vital contributions to the planet’s production exempt

excessive struggle over such an important and fragile

them from supervision by peers.

source of supplies. Threats to Ostia are considered

This conflict in Ostia’s government is a microcosm of the

with as much responsiveness and precision as can

Gilead system at large, where each of the Heartworlds

be managed.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

among the Dynasty’s highest priorities and are treated

covets what Ostia has. The authorities of Avachrus, Enoch, and Gilead Prime all yearn for greater access to

Yet the Varonius Dynasty and the other heartworlds

the Agri World’s output. The Barons of Nethreus view

of Gilead are far from the strangest outsiders to

Ostians with contempt, but even Nethreuns envy the

show an interest in Ostia. Sightings of Aeldari scouts

plentiful bounty of their sister world.

have been recorded on the planet as far back as its archives extend, and lately they have been noted with increasing frequency.

Adventure Hook: A Crop of Psykers In light of Ostia’s vital role feeding the Gilead system, representatives from the Varonius Dynasty are pushing for an outright military garrison on the planet to speed response times in case of disaster. However, with the situation on Ostia as delicate as it is, and the Sortium desperate to maintain their control, local authorities are refusing any offers of assistance. Given this resistance to outside involvement, Inquisitor Dikaisune of the Ordo Malleus is concerned of a greater risk than simple political strife. The vast population of Ostia provides fertile ground for an upsurge in psyker activity to be concealed, and the Inquisitor wants agents to investigate the possibility.

Though the enigmatic xenos have a clear interest in

The populace is split into three major social groups:

the world, they have not yet taken overt action against

the hereditary menials who slavishly work to ply

Imperial forces there, cold comfort to those who risk

Enoch’s vast oceans and maintain the splendour of

so much on the mercurial aliens’ attentions. Diplomats

the Theocropoli, the members of the Ministorum

from the Varonius Dynasty have attempted to delicately

hierarchy (from the many milling priests to the

broach the subject with both the Farseers of Ul-Khari

highest Arch-Deacon), and the numberless hordes

and the corsairs of the Greensteel Warriors, but the

of pilgrim refugees. These groups utterly eclipse the

Aeldari do not speak of their interest in Ostia to any

other enclaves; the Adepta Sororitas of the Order of

beyond their own.

the Sanctified Shield have martyred themselves in droves, and recruit constantly from the many Schola

ENOCH

Progenium established on the Shrine World. A small enclave of Inquisitorial agents occupies a former Ordo Xenos base hidden in the northern polar region. None would attempt to count the Scum that form the gangs,

The little land that exists on Saintly Enoch, a world

cults, and Scavvies that survive in the maintenance

ensconced in faith and piety, is covered with monuments

undercrofts.

to the Emperor and His martyred fallen. From the sky, it is a series of glittering gems dancing in beatific blue.

Devotion is everywhere on Enoch. Just below that

The truth is revealed on the ground, where billions of

veneer, however, is desperation driven by raw hunger.

starving refugees pray for deliverance amidst fortified

Only the elite are free from such want, dining on the

cathedrals that protect the ruling priesthood. Within the

bounty of the wide ocean and imports from Ostia; even

Theocropoli, the vast cathedral cities, there is a facade

the well-fed who serve them are driven to find food

of pre-Rift life, but in the surrounding shantytowns

each day. What sustenance is available is barely edible

there is only increasing barbarism, where the search

gruel, barely better than the organic slime left from

for food of any kind dominates every waking moment.

receding tides. Each day everyone prays for deliverance,

The camps are loud and dangerous, where life is

for the saints to protect them, for the Emperor to save

measured from one squalid morsel to the next and

them. Each day fewer and fewer believe their prayers

screams fill the packed streets. Such sounds never

will be answered.

reach the distant cathedrals, their silence interrupted only by exhortations for greater prayer and the roars of flamers should such calls fail to inspire the faithful. Lacking an axial tilt, Enoch has no seasons; the equators feature constant deserts while the poles are eternal, icy tundra. A single, huge moon, already the site of several desperate battles with daemons,

Adventure Hook: Disturbing the Dead

imparts powerful tides across the small continents

Deacon Kamakirn has uncovered a deliberately

and assorted islands. Coastal inhabitants often rush to

buried report concerning the Tainted Truth, a

scour the revealed soil for anything to eat or sell. Land

proscribed Enochian cult. The report indicates

is so scarce that entire villages are mobile, moving

the cult has been selling relics from the

back and forth each day like crabs in the surf.

Shrine of Saint Abian the Daemonbane, who destroyed countless of the foul beings during

It has always been a static world, as unchanging as

the Gilead Crusade. The Crusaders who guard

the ancient relics it houses, but it has soured since the

the shrine, part of the Abianian warrior sect,

Rift. The seas have gone bitter, perhaps as life within

insist the shrine remains inviolate and to

them reacts to the Warp’s baleful energies, and grows

allow it to be disturbed would besmirch both

angry, almost hostile. What was once a glorious planet

the saint’s and their own honour. Kamakirn

filled with oceans of sweet breezes now feels stagnant,

needs agents to investigate the cult and the

humid, and sweltering, as if the stench of the endless

shrine to determine the nature of these relics,

masses has starved the winds of their power. What

especially as if they could be twisted to aid the

few freshwater lakes that once existed have long since

daemons banished so long ago.

been drained to make room for new shrines and crypts.

INDUSTRY

hungry a long time. For the fisherfolk, life is much the

Enoch, like most Shrine Worlds, subsisted on faith — or

depart each day while coastal fishers slowly dwindle

same, except even more trying. Millions of small boats

more specifically, the faithful, who flocked there daily

as nearby catches shrink. Enforcers and Confessors

by the millions. Transport fees, skinplant mementos,

work to ensure the shrines and those who oversee

holy relics (and counterfeits), mandatory ‘offerings’,

them are defended from zealots, rioters, and heretics.

tours of the equatorial Explorations of Julyanna; all

FACTIONS

these and more supported Enoch and kept its priests

Of late, the planet has developed a new export based

in splendour. Further funds trickled in through secret

on its sole surplus: Humans. The desperate Astra

donations from Gilead’s noble families, each angling

Militarum eagerly accepts refugees eager to fight for

for more support from the Ecclesiarchy and a better

the Emperor. Those not willing to fight often find

placing in the eyes of the Emperor.

themselves leaving as penal legionnaires or servitors.

The faithful once provided, but now they cry out for alms. Now, Enoch must provide for them, or try to. Food production is paramount as Enoch’s oceans can never

BACKGROUNDS

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

HISTORY

sate the ravenous billions and supplies from Ostia

Legend has it that during the Gilead Crusade Enoch

can’t be wasted on such lowly hordes. Seeds, spices

was sparsely populated and largely ignored due to

for the foul slop most are forced to eat, potable water,

its lack of strategic significance and useful resources.

gelatinized ocean krill, and other items are worth more

Many assume this is why it was left largely unspoiled

even the wealthiest pilgrim could imagine. Such is the

when the Imperium declared the system pacified

desperation that many have taken to boiling crushed

and its forces departed to reclaim other systems.

rubble into rockpaste to assuage the endless hunger.

Missionaries left behind to properly indoctrinate the

Enoch’s other main industry is fishing, with some

with crypts to house the remains of many lost in battle.

native fisherfolk raised churches everywhere, along fisherfolk crafting trade items from unusual sea life and oceanic plants. After the fisherfolk take their small

When the Crusade ended Julyanna Gilead herself was

share the vast remainder goes to priests, nobles, and

laid to rest here. Doctrine says it was her final wish,

other potentates, though the tonnage shrinks each

and none dare suggest politics factored into this ruling.

month. They, in turn, often send the rarest delicacies

Soon many of the system’s nobles demanded their own

off-world to curry favours.

mausoleums. On the centennial observance of Gilead’s death, she was declared a saint. Ten centuries later,

Construction and maintenance of religious facilities is

Enoch was designated a Shrine World. More saintly

still an omnipresent activity. Covert factorums that once

repositories followed, along with millions of travellers

produced false relics now churn out bladed weapons

eager for sanctified prayer and a convent of the Order

and crude armours. Lack of ammunition sources have

of the Sanctified Shield to strengthen faith throughout

stymied manufacture of proper weaponry, though the

the system.

need to armour penal legions has allowed many once illicit operations to operate inside the Imperium.

In the millennia that followed, Enoch became a shining

Enoch’s oldest communities are the coastal fisherfolk

of His servants. Pilgrimages to it became an essential

bastion to the glory of the Emperor and the most devout villages; the Imperium brought inland cities. The largest

part of faith throughout the sector and beyond, even

continent, Perseum, houses the planetary capital of

during the Age of Apostasy when bloody clashes on

Theocropolis Vehementer, which has the main shrines

Enoch saw entire cities put to the torch. Such were the

along with the Sororitas convent and the Absolvers’

crowded conditions that priests extended the ancient

shrine to Chapter Master Dalir. Smaller islands might

tunnels beneath many of the land masses, especially

have a Theocropolis devoted to a single saint or other

on Vehementer, into a labyrinthian network called the

venerated personage of note. Daily life revolves around

undercrofts. Ministorum officials once used them to

prayer. For refugees, the other daily ritual is the search

bypass the chanting, wailing throngs of the faithful.

for food. Many spend more time doing this each day than praying or they go hungry, and many have been

Worse, Enoch has no mass-housing hab-towers, as by ancient decree no structure taller than Saint Gilead’s

Adventure Hook: The Path Of Poison During a major feast on Vehementer for the

shrine is permitted. The undercrofts are as far as any dare venture into the soft, porous ground, though many have tried. More land is now devoted to the dead than the living, with even more demands for cathedrals, shrines, and crypts each day. Cruel sports such as the Ravening Trials multiply in the squalid refugee camps

Synod, an outbreak of poisoning almost

to sate the hunger for both food and bloodshed. More

eradicated the senior priesthood, and the

worrisome, xenos raiders, perhaps bored with orbiting

agents are tasked with finding the culprits.

pilgrim ships, now dare assault the sanctified surface

There are plenty of suspects, people outraged

for fresh sport. Military resources are now stretched so

at this gluttonous event amidst widespread

thin that attacks that once were routinely repelled are

starvation, but the ingenious poison has an

now slaying thousands at a time. So long as no major

ingredient found only at one village: an extract

shrines are damaged or the priesthood involved, the

from a shellfish native to that shore. These

Synod secretly turns a blind eye.

lowlies couldn’t possibly be behind such a cunning plot, unless they had outside support. The poison has been found on the cruel edges of Drukhari blades and recent Magos Biologis analyses have mentioned its efficacy

ORGANISATIONS The Enochian Synod rules with an iron, pious grip and

— something the Tech-Priests supporting the

controls all aspects of life. Most importantly, it decides

village’s Gun-Servitors might have learned.

who is fed. It makes these and more decisions from palatial cathedrals, isolated from the famished masses by barricades more resembling military fortifications

The Synod, like so many in the system, proclaimed the

than sanctified edifices. Enforcers maintain order in

Rift to be a minor disturbance that would soon pass.

conjunction with flame-wielding Confessors and duty-

A month went by. Then a year. There were no plans

bound Crusaders. For both, protecting shrines takes

for sustaining the billions of faithful here; those who

precedence over protecting civilians; after all, the fewer

had sought plans had long since been put to the torch

people, the more available food.

as doomsayers.

Enoch is well defended in other ways. The Order of the

Gangs rule most refugee shantytowns; their collusion

Sanctified Shield has its main convent on Holy Enoch,

with corrupt Enforcers has often led to cruelties like

guarding its shrines and defending Gilead’s faith. The

the Ravening Trials. Cults rose as the Malefic Night

Absolvers have an honour guard to stand over its own

fell, subverting pilgrims into worshiping Dark Gods

shrines, but the eternal schism over the Emperor’s

eager to feed on twisted prayers. Others openly follow

sanctity sometimes impairs joint operations. The Astra

the Imperial Creed in hideous ways, like the Emperor’s

Militarum has no such disagreements and is a growing

Visitation — who secretly venerate the hypnotic xenos

power through its unending recruitments to bolster

that fell from the sky — or the Joyously Culled —

Gilead’s military and lessen Enoch’s overpopulation.

who insist that only by constant (and usually lethal) bloodletting can the Great Rift be dispelled. Worse, there

Few

noble

houses

exist,

and

only

those

demonstrable piety wield any power. Lacking that,

are degraded populaces within neglected undercrofts that feed on anyone they find in the darkness.

sufficient offerings ensure a say in the Synod’s actions. Many noble houses rule isolated islands and rely on

Armoured walls keep starving refugees from invading

off-world arrangements to ensure relatively luxurious

fisherfolk villages, each of which operates alone with

lifestyles far from inquisitive eyes.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

little connection to other fisherfolk populations. There is talk that angry youths from multiple folklines are

The most notable guilds are the Enochian Stonemeisters

meeting at sea, as the yoke of Ministorum officials

that construct and preserve the blessed structures. No

grows ever harsher. Such is their fervour that none

one knows who now oversees the transfer orbitals in

notice that the floating island marking their gathering

high anchor, as the Adeptus Mechanicus abandoned

point is slowly regaining flesh and revealing itself to

all of them a year ago without explanation.

be a predatory behemoth that died out aeons ago.

Maintenance Undercrofts The sprawling cathedral cities of Imperial Shrine

pilgrim-packed

Worlds, commonly called Theocropoli in the Gilead

undercrofts, a system of ramshackle tombs for

System, are the revered destinations of pilgrims of

the low-born that allow the peasantry to move

the Imperial Cult. Conglomerations of numberless

and go about their work unseen, lest their shabby

temples,

appearance distract from the splendors above.

churches,

and

monasteries

form

streets

are

the

maintenance

Theocropolis, each attracting to their hallowed doors millions of paying devotees. The grand

Each part of an undercroft may differ greatly,

shrines are constantly cleaned and stocked with

though they are usually constructed of metal and

alms, and their ancient, crumbling structures are

stone, forming a complex web of dark tunnels

constantly repaired; preserving the divine visage

and technology beneath a Theocropolis. Many

of a Theocropolis is an endless operation, but a

commoners make their homes and live a large

necessary one to properly glorify the God-Emperor.

percentage of their lives in these dark undercrofts, travelling to their next appointed task surrounded

The endless work required to maintain a Theocropolis

by the nameless ranks of their own dead ancestors.

is conducted by the vast, almost unseen peasant

Some never leave at all, working the technology

population of a shrine world. Ritual cleansings are

that allows the other peasantry to travel quickly to

conducted daily, transport systems are laboriously

their next job, cut off from the sun for so long they

operated, and the grand streets are picked clean of any

seem to develop strangely tinted skin. And though

detritus (most of which is ‘recycled’ by the peasants).

the glorious praise of the God-Emperor rings out above, the undercrofts echo with whispers of other

This

huge

undertaking

conducted

almost

entirely behind the scenes. Beneath the bustling,

powers…

Few are aware that the mysterious Deathwatch is within Gilead, let alone has a secret base hidden under the frozen northern tundra of Enoch. Their numbers are few, a mere dozen or so, but their reach is vast. An auspex-cloaked Corvus Blackstar can ferry kill-teams to a powerful warship for missions across the system. They work closely with Ordo Xenos Inquisitor Xardt,

Adventure Hook: Beatification Beacons

especially to battle Aeldari raiders — and investigate

Canonization of a new saint, Oslin Ux, is

her suspicions concerning Rogue Trader Varonius.

normally cause for celebration, but as rumours persist that Ux perished with a horde of riches

POLITICS

and xenos relics there have been violent calls for greater reviews before the event. A rise in cult activities and shrine desecrations also

Despite its veneer of purity, Enoch roils with political

stirs attention. Enemies of the new saint’s

disputes over control of the Synod. The Faction that

wealthy family would love to see this go badly

controls the Synod determines how to manage the

and are willing to pay handsomely to prove

problems of starving refugees, collapsing faith, and

Ux’s corruption and ensure they never reach

perhaps most importantly the power its members have

ecclesiastical ascension. The Synod, though,

over Enoch.

wishes the anointment to proceed as planned

One bloc, the Flames of Resistance, holds that the

stands in its way. Tracing the ancient Ux

and supports the elimination of anyone who Malefic Storm can only be held at bay and forced into

lineage back to the Crusade may determine

submission through increasing prayer. Flame-Deacons

who — or what — Ux was dealing with

send Confessors to tread through every street to ensure

before their death.

all are consumed with supplication. Those who do not show proper enthusiasm are encouraged with fire and lash until their cries to the Emperor are judged worthy. Not all Factions agree with this approach, but the Flames control so many Confessors that few dare openly oppose them.

Adventure Hook: Interrogator Down Interrogator Xenia has gone missing, and there are many who want her recovered — or at least definitely shown to be dead. One of these personages sends the agents to find her, investigate her murder should that be the case, and possibly keep anything they discover while doing so in secret from other agencies. Her trail leads to a remote artificial island, where a Magos ex-communicated from the Tech-Priesthood conducts biologis experimentation employing xenos specimens. The genetic subversions might increase food production, though some side effects may be even worse than starvation. Still, the organization that feeds the masses is sure to be hailed as saviour and possibly new ruler

of Enoch.

No sect wishes to be thought lacking in devotion, so

Enoch’s elite have always traded favours with nobles

each has pushed for greater strictures over apparel,

seeking the churches blessings. Now, as space on

ornamentation, and even ambulation. These have

Enoch shrinks, social vendettas over such matters

helped fill new penal legions, a source of greater ties

have grown to disguised assassinations and covert

to the Astra Militarum and the Lord Militant. This has,

war between houses, especially on Gilead Primus. This

however, led to friction as Confessors expand their

doesn’t diminish the close ties Enoch has to the capital

remit into enforcing more mundane laws.

world, or to the priests who rule the equally pious

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS

Ostia, and its vital food supplies. Enforcers now find themselves with fewer ways to show their worth; for the corrupt, this means less

There is little Mechanicus presence, especially after all

revenue. As Confessors claim territory and enforce

the Tech-Priests departed from the orbital stations. The

Pax Imperialis with blazing zeal, private Enforcers

Synod, while puzzled, quite prefers this arrangement;

have less work. Some have thrown in their lot with the

it lessens contact with Charybdion and Nethreus,

Ecclesiarchy, happy to pay lip service to the Imperial

both of whom sided against Enoch during the Age of

Cult to maintain their dominance over the general

Apostasy. The Sororitas, normally a staunch ally, has

populace. Many more turn to lives of crime, or become

of late been unable to support the Ministorum to the

violent tyrants amongst the refugee camps. The worst

Synod’s satisfaction; vitriolic confrontations between

of these displaced mercenaries have turned to warring

local priests and sister superiors are growing common.

against the Confessor Cults, propelled either by the

The arrival of the Varonius Flotilla has brought new

rage of displacement or in service of new abominable

entanglements. Many deacons refuse to believe the

masters. Such upheaval only aids outlying heretical

tale of how Varonius pierced the Rift. Few know

cults spread into cities; some radical priests dare

that a flock of the fleet’s devout psykers are certain

attempt to manipulate such traitors to target rival

that psychically focussed prayers can tear the Rift

Synod Factions.

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

apart, and work with radical priests in an abandoned undercroft to ready their assault.

GILEAD PRIMUS Adventure Hook: Shadows of the Saint

Populous far beyond the other worlds of the Gilead

A city is consumed as rival Factions war

mass produce weaponry and supplies for warfare.

over the placement of a new shrine to Saint

The untold billions are mostly confined to hive cities,

Dorma that would shroud the chantry to Saint

each a multi-kilometre tall industrial megastructure

Karln in perpetual darkness. Such conflicts

consisting of layers of urban sprawl. The planet’s

are common, but this one is spiralling out

population is estimated to be 16 billion, but these

of control. Streets are running red from riots,

estimates cover only the top and middle layers of the

confrontations between the Iron Bells and the

five hives that stand. The true population, including

Once a mighty and influential planet, Gilead Primus’s fading grandeur is a reflection of the Imperium itself. System, the numberless hordes of hive-bound zealots

Razorprayer, linked gangs associated with

the lower hives, may bring that number to more than

the Factions. Covert assassinations happen

40 billion.

daily, and attacks targeting visiting Synod priests are growing in viciousness. As they

Between these five proud hives are swathes of red,

aren’t part of Enochian politics, the party is

irradiated wastelands, bisected by the colossal gouges

brought in to calm things. Evidence suggests

of mining operations, fallen cities, and sludge oceans

that the Crimson Spikes flagellant cult might

of toxic runoff. The shifting radioactive sands of Gilead

be stoking the clashes, but could one of the

Primus erode the lower levels of hives, cutting through

Factions be working with these heretics to

plasteel and rockrete, leaving openings for attacks by

further their own aims?

nomadic Scum, and outcast mutants.

The hives of Gilead Primus are labyrinthine, easily

ignorant minds of the unwashed masses is made

navigated only by natives who have spent their

on Gilead Primus. The Las weapons of the Astra

entire lives on a single level. Almost all space is

Militarum are assembled by hand on production

given over to the gargantuan plasteel cuboids of

lines, whilst their flak armour is cut and hammered

manufactorums flanked by towering cathedrals, both

together by hordes of menials. Rockcrete is mixed in

stretching beyond the cramped ceiling of their hive

lake-sized vats overseen by Mechanicus Tech-Adepts

level. Between the colossal buildings are tunnels

who ensure no more than a thousand workers fall in

and passageways barely large enough to allow two

per day. Grox meat and vegetable matter from Ostia

labourers to pass by in different directions. The heat

are cut with ash, bone, and industrial runoff to stretch

of billions of other bodies is permanent and pervasive.

the huge population’s limited food supply. Whilst the

The cabled walls of every corridor drip with sweat

Mechanicus may produce wonders, the basic needs of

and moisture-loving mold, often harvested by those

Imperial life are fulfilled on Gilead Primus.

desperately hungry enough to risk eating potential poison. Many of the priests that wander a hive level do so on portable lecterns with built-in cooling systems, or planaquins carried by devoted zealots that fan their representative of the Imperial Creed. Though the temperature of a manufactorum may be less stifling, it is a far from comfortable atmosphere. The mid to lower levels of every hive are made up of box rooms, each built from mass-produced panelling adorned with gothic windows and the glowing sigils of the Adeptus Mechanicus. Their ceilings often stretch through multiple hive levels, tall enough to produce their own disgusting weather systems fuelled by toxic sludges.

Adventure Hook: Nine Blasphemies In a colossal valley formed from the corpses of two titan-slain megafauna, the Novemhive

Most hivers spend as little time as possible travelling

is a testament to Imperial folly visible from

the restrictive spaces between temple, workplace, and

space. Once an interlinked system of nine

hab. Most move quickly because they have no choice:

grand hive cities, the ruling lords of each

the punishment for being late for labour duties or

were consumed with a jealous desire to rule

mandated prayer sessions is recruitment to a penal

from above their neighbours. Far from the

legion. Some manage to avoid travel altogether,

logical vox of the Adeptus Mechanicus, each

though this is hardly a blessing; guilders have taken to

hive grew tall, top heavy, and unstable. The

building habs and shrines inside their manufactorums

central hive attempted a daring move by

to ensure their workers never have to leave. The

building outwards in a wide landing platform

innovative habs are little more than hundreds-high

to create a ceiling over the other eight cities —

towers of bunks to which workers rush at the end

a damning move that caused all nine hives to

of their shifts. The strongest and fastest claim the

catastrophically topple.

bottom bunks whilst the others face the gruelling and dangerous climb to the very top, sleeping centimetres

Now the Novemhive is a stark reminder of the

from the ceiling, often hearing the sounds of industry

consequences of the glory-hounding mindset

from the manufactorum above.

of most on Gilead Primus. The husks of former hives are now home only to outcast mutants,

INDUSTRY Mass production sustains the Emperor’s bloated war

nomadic Scum, and desperate archeotech treasure hunters. These populations and the treasures they hold are unknown and potentially of great value. Governor-Militant

machine, and massed population is the true might

Fylamon is looking for a group of agents

of Gilead Primus. The sheer number of individuals

willing to convince — through words or

Governor-Militant Fylamon is willing to sacrifice to

actions — those living in the Novemhive ruins

achieve a goal gives the planet power. Anything that

to fight for the Imperium.

can be produced by the rough hands and blessedly

Most of this population are simply engaged in

now also harvest the temperature of billions of bodies,

labor. In the lower and middle levels of the hives,

converting it to power and dispersing it relatively

all appointments are hereditary. Workers know no

safely. Huge shielded elevators move goods up and

life beyond their simple task of laboring amongst

down the vast vertical hives, safe from specific levels

thousands on a uniform loom, or turning the colossal

that have been quarantined due to collapse, plague,

crank to move a conveyor belt on a Chimera production

or rioting. Attendants of the Adeptus Mechanicus

line. Life is tough, but for most mercifully brief. Those

manage each heat sink, building their forgeshrines at

strong enough to excel at their duties are usually taken

optimal positions to better collect the Motive Force and

to serve amongst the ranks of the Gilead Gravediggers,

transit themselves to manufactorums and lend their

whilst the rest are used until they can be converted

invaluable knowledge to projects under the purview of

into corpse starch.

Avachrus.

Guilders and nobles rule over the vast population of

say otherwise, their lives are little better, perpetually hounded to produce more and spending what little wealth they accrue to maintain their status and prevent Ecclesiarchy punishment. Their habs may have entire

FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

menials, managing the exchange of goods and labor and ensuring tithes can be met. Though they would

BACKGROUNDS

Adventure Hook: Quarantine Extremis

rooms rather than a single bunk or sleeping coffin,

Many visitors to Hive Gulgatha pass through

and they may have access to artificially flavoured food,

Level 317, an essential docking port and

but like the menials whose lives they own there is no

religious center, though none who have done

respite from work and they may never see the sky.

so recently remember it. Some speculate that it has been declared Quarantine Extremis by

Beneath the common Imperial menial, even the lowly

the Inquisition, and everyone who enters or

Scum contribute to Industry, ensuring crude weapons

leaves is being mind wiped. The Confessor

are accessible to all and distributing alcoholic rotgut

Glorina Cicero wants to visit the Shrine of

made in the irradiated hive sumps to ensure the

Gamila, a church in Level 317 famed for

workers are placated.

clearing impure thoughts, and is looking for

Running like an industrial digestive tract through

preserve the memory of the event.

a group of agents to escort her there and help the center of every hive is a geothermal heat sink. Originally designed to draw heat from the planet’s core and distribute the energy throughout the hive, they

Through savvy deals with the sovereigns of every

The Age of Apostasy caused a schism on Gilead

planet, Fylamon has ensured that all trade runs

Primus, with many intercene wars in the hives

through Gilead Primus. As a hub of manufacture

themselves. The Administratum retreated to Brassyl

and distribution, the Hive World controls the flow of

and the moon Imperia whilst the hives tore themselves

technology from Avachrus, victuals from Ostia, even

— and each other — apart. The zealous military won

the information on new laws and heresies as dictated

out, exterminating swathes of the abhuman and

by the Ecclesiarchy of Enoch. Most crucially of all,

Adeptus Mechanicus populations. Bloody battles

Gilead Primus controls the distribution of manpower,

with Absolvers through Gulgatha ended the uprising

for blood, bone, and flesh have ever been the true

in the System, and reclaimed Gilead Primus for the

wealth of the Imperium.

Administratum and the Imperium as a whole.

HISTORY

of Gilead Primus and the performance of the Gilead

When the Great Crusade pacified the quiet Gilead

bastion of Imperial rule. When reality was torn and

In the time before the Great Rift, the industrial output Gravediggers reinstated the world’s reputation as a

System, little was thought of it. Its variety of biomes

the daemons descended, the Hive World was perfectly

were considered perfect for systematic reduction into

placed to deploy millions of soldiers to the system’s

resources, and industrialisation began. By the time the

defence, with Fylamon’s claim of leadership a logical

system was rediscovered three millenia later, it was

conclusion to the conflict.

both heavily industrialised and plagued by fearsome megafauna. Explorator Fleet Tsuruoka chose orbital attack over risking their forces, creating further gouges into the planet’s surface which coincidentally primed it for mining at minimal cost to the population. The newly discovered population of Gilead Primus, whilst somewhat primitive, initially welcomed their new saviours from the stars, and earned their trust over a decade of devoted work. However, the megafauna

Adventure Hook: The Gorge of Brassyl Even the Adeptus Mechanicus look askance at

regularly returned, each creature more grotesque and

the technology that lifts the continental plate

mutated than the last.

of Brassyl into low orbit. This relic of Dark Age Technology left a huge gash in the planet

When the armies of the arch-enemy revealed their hand,

itself, and recently the Adeptus Mechanicus

Gilead Primus became the site of the worst of the wars.

have been tunneling this continent-sized

Gargantuan Warp-spawned creatures crawled from

chasm in pursuit of additional information.

the hole in the planet’s crust left by Brassyl, tearing

Unfortunately, progress is slow, with mining

Knights to pieces and proving horrific foes for Imperial

servitors

Titans. Some partially redacted records report that the

returning from their work with different parts.

surface of the planet itself was twisted and torn. The cleansing fire of the Gilead Crusade shredded both the population and the planet’s biology, and when the battle was over, industrialisation began anew. Many heroes of the Gilead Crusade were awarded positions of power on Gilead Primus, proudly squeezing the planet to feed the tithes of Holy Terra. The planet’s history created a society that was equal parts reverently devout and staunchly military — the perfect representation of the Emperor’s will at this far fringe of the Imperium. The rapid growth of population ensured that though many regiments of the Gilead Gravediggers were quickly

martyred, they were easily replaced.

consistently

malfunctioning

ORGANISATIONS

fight; in the mid-hive, they are united by fringe death-

The majority of those living on Gilead Primus

manufactorums. In the lower hive, they raise the cry of

cultist beliefs and battle others for appointments in

cling to the Imperial ideal. All time is split between

mutant against Ogryns and Ratlings to eliminate other

backbreaking work and vehement worship of the God-

workers and improve their share of rations.

BACKGROUNDS

Emperor. Almost every Faction of the Imperium can be found here; hereditary noble guilders oversee vast

Nobles, guilders, and adepts who reach the top of the

manufactorums with Mechanicus Adepts, watching

hives find a new goal overhead — the low-orbital

millions of menial laborers work in twenty hour shifts.

plate Brassyl. Spewing toxic exhaust and sewage,

Administratum scribes catalogue their output and

this continental plate was lifted from the planet in the

inform the Astra Militarum of any low performers

Dark Age of Technology and orbits above the hives,

— or worse, potential psykers — to be disciplined or

docking at their spire peaks to gather supplies and

removed for service in a penal legion. As the workers

occasionally lift high performers of the Administratum

leave for their mandated shifts of rest, Ministorum

or Ecclesiarchy to join their ranks. The Great Rift has

Priests flanked by vox gargoyles lead them in

created a fashion for expansive headgear to prevent

marching prayers, collecting worship-tithes as they

the wealthy denizens of Brassyl from looking upon

are funneled through cloister tunnels to ensure the

the foul Warp storm that surrounds them, but has

Eclessiarchy’s coffers are filled. Some spend their rest

otherwise changed little of their luxurious lives.

FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

time running tasks for guilds and gangs, performing religious duties, eliminating those they deem heretics or thieves of valued labour positions. Though every citizen is undeniably cunning and opportunistic, they view their every act as venerating the God-Emperor and spend every breath seeking His glory. Though the Administratum claim dominion over the Gilead System, they are duty-bound to obey the rule of Lord-Governor Fylamon since she plunged the desperate system into military rule. Even Jakel Varonius views Fylamon as a close peer, and her position as ruling monarch of the Heartworlds has given the Astra Militarum Regiment she commands, the Gilead Gravediggers, more power than ever before. Three years ago, Fylamon decreed the dissolution of all other Regiments in the system, subsuming the forces of all other planets into the Gravediggers. This colossal force is constantly bolstered by recruits from across the Gilead System, making the training moon of Saintshold a constant site of mock battles and systematic drilling. The greatest of these soldiers are shipped to the frontlines of daemonic wars across the system, whilst the remainder flood the streets of each planet to keep the peace, emboldened by military rule. Guilds, nobility, and religion are intertwined on Gilead Primus. Hereditary positions are common, and many can trace their lineage back to the Gilead Crusade. The strong military traditions of the hive, as well as the System’s erased history of treachery, have resulted in a consistent crack down on gangs. However, there are always individuals ready to band together and

POLITICS

Daemonic assailants from the Great Rift have stoked

Diversity is a strength that allows Gilead Primus

Primus closer than the religious chasm between them

the fires of industry and brought Avachrus and Gilead

to function as the hub of the system, but the many

would suggest; Fylamon and the Administratum

Factions that reside in every hive work against each

desperately need the enciphered knowledge of the

other as often as they are united. The Astra Militarum

Mechanicus to ensure they are appropriately armed

and Administratum have a long held agreement to

and armoured. Similarly, the deep calculations of

stick to what they know best, ensuring the planet is

Fabricator General Belaxia and her cohort reveal the

protected and that the protectors have ammunition.

miniscule percentage chances of their survival without

This relationship is complicated by the Ecclesiarchy;

the shield of the Astra Militarum. However, the Tech-

the Astra Militarum happily allows the Adeptus

Priests of Avachrus are keen to show they hold all the

Ministorum to pass any decree that suits them, filling

cards in the relationship. Though the armies of the

their penal legions with heretics. The Administratum

Mechanicus are small, they know the Machine Spirits of

often see the Ecclesiarchy as a waste of resources,

their armaments will not fail, and the Astra Militarum

but know they are necessary to lead the people of the

are utterly reliant on their tanks and artillery. Gilead

Imperium and venerate the God-Emperor.

Primus must even ask the tech-ghouls their religious populous revile to assist in negotiations with the frosty

The

many

guilds

that

run

Gilead

Primus’s

House Acasta.

manufactorums fund private wars between one another, battling over resources and space on their level. Their

Gilead Primus has long held that prayer and hymns are

workers become small, zealous armies, some battling

the greatest motivators for their citizens. Priests have

for pride, others food. Occasionally, these guilds take

been stationed amongst the Gilead Gravediggers and

up arms against larger Factions, such as the abattoir

in manufactorums for millennia, screaming canticles

guild Vol Ormoth protesting the Ecclesiarchy calling for

above the din of battle and machinery. These priests all

extended worshipping hours.

hail from holy Enoch, and the huge tithes Gilead Primus supply to the Shrine World in recompense have ensured their relationship is strong. This relationship has been so ingrained in the Gilead System that the devout

Adventure Hook: Prophet of the Stars

citizens of Ostia view the Gilead Gravediggers as angels of the Emperor, happily sacrificing almost their entire yield of crops to the Hive World. Those on Gilead Primus that even consider Charybdion’s

A prophet has been causing a stir amongst

existence think of it as a blasphemous backwater —

multiple levels of hive Amarathia. Pale and

they are too attached to the Mechanicus for their own

prematurely wrinkled, the populous initially

good, and the horrific storms that endlessly assail their

assumed the prophet’s unusual skin was a

hives are a result of their impiety.

result of saline mines of Enoch, but he now claims to be from much further afield — a holy

Few citizens of Gilead Primus have ever seen the

land known as Chancer’s Vale. The prophet

sky, let alone heard that the Gilead System is now

proselytizes the worship of the Emperor Larval,

controlled by a Rogue Trader who has penetrated

a new god of the Gilead System. This ‘priest’

the Great Rift. The highest of the nobles and most

has enraptured swathes of the population,

powerful of the guilders share an unease of anything

taking them away from their work and causing

that has emerged from Cicatrix Maledictum. Even if he

significant disturbance, not least through the

is not some daemonic illusion, a Rogue Trader has ever

ritual killing of Ratlings. Nobles and guilders

been a suspicious figure, and many Rejuvenat-fueled

in hive Amarathia have tried to eliminate

nobles have had bad dealings with their ilk before.

this preacher, but his rise seems unstoppable, with huge numbers of the recently converted sacrificing their lives to save this stranger.

CHARYBDION Adventure Hook: A Noble Pursuit

The dark pearl of the Gilead System is covered by a

Ahkenaten Meraclus of Gulgatha is the

what little irradiated land remains or form their own

hereditary heir to Meraclus Alchemicals,

tiny islands. Some descend underwater, or have

and is a lazy embarrassment to the noble

mountainous foundations that rest uneasily along

Meraclus bloodline. The pious family are at

the sea’s bottom. Promethium powers the hives and

roiling ocean, a perpetual tempest of turmoil on and

BACKGROUNDS

below the waves. Promethium drives everything on Charybdion, from discovery and extraction to

FACTIONS

refinement and transportation. Hive cities dominate

their wits end, unable to deny the hereditary

is processed into all manner of goods before being

appointment. Their younger daughter, the

exported across Gilead to fuel vehicles, technology,

pragmatic Heshet, is conspiring to take his

and the sacred conflagration of flame weapons.

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

position. She has garnered the private support of both the Administratum and Ecclesiarchy

Slightly larger than Holy Terra, Charybdion is one

to do so clandestinely. Heshet needs a team

endless, cold ocean dotted with innumerable islands

of unscrupulous individuals to frame her

formed from continental plates colliding or forming

brother for heresy, but that would bring the

vicious volcanoes. Gigantic reef structures emerge

family under suspicion, just enough to ensure

like jagged, rotting teeth, forming uneasy landmasses

Ahkenaten leaves Gilead Primus forever.

entwined with strange fauna. The waters are dark and thick with pollutants, reeking of refinery effluent and

Ahkenaten abides by a daily routine that is

chemical hive waste. Its weather is violent and filled

unchanging in its slovenly hedonism. He

with harsh storms that burn exposed flesh; lightning

rises late, enjoying the few rays of sunrise

tears apart night skies as towering waves threaten

that penetrate the smog from his spiretop

surface vessels and crash against the tops of hives,

apartments, before taking a private elevator to

brushing the hulls of Imperial Cruisers and ripping the

Meraclus Alchemicals. There, he meets with

satellites of the Adeptus Mechanicus from low orbit.

Biologis Dalawa for updates on manufactorum performance before donning a rebreather and

Travel underwater is not appreciably safer, as the

strolling the high catwalks to look down on

biome favours gigantism. The best-known creature is

his tens of thousands of labourers. After this

the colossal Worldfish, but there are tales of even larger

hour-long stint of Administratum-mandated

beasts. Carcasses of things larger than battleships

work, he travels to the Hive fringes to trade

float to the surface periodically; flensing fleets, alerted

for oddities and luxuries, then returns to his

to such discoveries, spend months carving up the

apartments. Occasionally he entertains other

putrefying flesh to feed hives, their corpses often used

nobles with relatively lavish parties, serving

as makeshift habs as they are butchered.

synthetic amasec and finely spiced corpse starch, but more often is content to simply

The air feels cold beyond its low temperature, and there

laze in the lap of luxury.

is an unpleasant, mildly irritating stench everywhere.

It is no secret that the Mechanicus approved

from Ironwatch, the result of psyker overcrowding.

Many believe these are due to psychic miasmas leaking of Ahkenaten’s appointment, as the young scion’s laxity allowed Biologis Dalawa to

Life is as harsh as the world itself, where oceans

take more control over Meraclus Achemicals.

separate hives rather than the deserts typical to other

Indeed,

safety

worlds in the system. Faith is strong, but tech-shrines

with Skitarii bodyguards and custom Ogryn

to the Machine God outnumber Ministorum chapels.

they

ensure

Ahkenaten’s

Servitor bodyguards, and framing him will be

Study and veneration of the ancient submerged

no easy feat.

refineries reflects devotion to the Omnissiah.

Servitors and servo-skulls fill habways, no noble goes unaccompanied by a guardian slave-Ogryn, and cybernetic implants are viewed as holy sigils. There are several billion occupants, almost entirely concentrated within the hives. These dwellers vastly outnumber the Astra Militarum units that guard Charybdion, but the real power rests with the Adeptus Mechanicus Tech-Priests who oversee the refineries. The dark, dank, frequently flooded regions at the bottom of most hives host innumerable dregs, including more mutants than anyone imagines, perhaps the result of refinery radiation leaks or pollutants in the water. Talk of ever-growing enclaves of escaped psykers are worrisome, though the info-prayers that spew from vox gargoyles claim this is more rumour than fact. There is always enough fuel and power on Charybdion, but that rarely makes life any more enjoyable. There is a serious, no nonsense tone to daily existence on this world. When a single mistake can be lethal, discipline is essential; both the sea and the powerful processing machinery alike can end dozens of lives in a moment.

Adventure Hook: A Hole in the Ocean An Explorator vessel on a mission to locate new promethium sites reported a literally unfathomable energy vortex deep underwater. The ship’s signal vanished soon after, and the party is tasked with recovering the valuable property (and personnel). Auspex returns indicate something unusual in that region, akin to a Geller field tremoring before failure. Tech-Priest Magi calculate this might be a Warp fissure that could grant escape from the Irrational Storm, or even a lost Aeldari Webway gate of illicit xenos tech. Confirming either could be difficult, as the anomaly is mutating nearby sea life into apex predators or may even be allowing unnatural life to infect Charybdion.

INDUSTRY

The Lord Militant views Charybdion as an essential

Much industry takes place underwater, where flocks

The Astra Militarum defends refineries, storage tanks,

of Tech-Priests tend to the promethium auto-refineries

and transports from offword raiders, xenos pirates,

as best they can from scaffold-like facilities they

and resource cartels. Many forces are commonly

asset for the system, as does Rogue Trader Varonius.

construct around each relic of ancient technology.

rotated with Ironwatch duty, especially as means

The venerated devices are sealed, and so binaric

of punishment.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS

prayer and anointments are often the only methods to ensure continued function. Adepts may spend

Travel between hives is difficult, as the sea and air

lifetimes studying and probing a single unit and its

seem to target vessels like hungry predators. Attempts

idiosyncrasies, hoping to divine lost secrets from

at floating or suspended bridges have all proved

millennia past. Some refineries appear to have

embarrassing and costly failures. Submersible shuttles

populations living within them like tiny hive cities,

are the common inter-hive transportation method,

though none would dare ruin a functioning unit to

though encounters with aquatic megafauna can make

verify this.

for exciting journeys.

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Pipes wider than hab-blocks carry promethium from the depths up into hives for further treatment, and then to transport vessels. In times past, hives routinely dumped refinery by-products back into the oceans, but now only the most toxic and mutagenic chemicals are expelled. The remainder, along with organics including algae scum and hive effluvium, are processed into

Adventure Hook: Dakka in the Depths

textiles, explosives, ration packs and more to create

The party is travelling transoceanic when they

new exports.

are attacked by what they take to be a gigantic,

Almost every hive also has at least one zone dedicated

ship in a single gulp. The ‘monster’ is actually

to Worldfish harvesting. Such operations take months

part of Kaptin Goldteef’s latest cunnin’ plan,

aggressive serpent that nearly devours their

per carcass as each is slowly conveyed into a huge

taking advantage of a Rok that fell from orbit.

bay where hundreds of rendors descend like ravenous

The Ork Warboss had his Meks convert the Rok

insects. Each group attacks a single component, from

into a sea-worthy Kustom Dakkablitz Stabba-

teeth to organs to bones, until there is nothing left

Sub to swallow and raid refineries for as much

but the unstable, mysterious blood… which always

go-fasta fuel as they can steal, or blow them

seems to disappear quickly. The highly illegal (and

up, or both. Maybe at the same time. The party

hazardous) export of this substance supports several

must take command of their ship, and stop the

crime syndicates on Charybdion and is part of many

armed (but not quite watertight) submersible

cult activities across Gilead.

before it can destroy its next target, a refinery that supplies promethium to much of Aidon.

Like most Hive Worlds, Charybdion imports the bulk of its food, mostly as processed organic pastes that arrive in the same tanker shuttles that transport promethium offworld. Tech-Priest Biologis are experimenting to produce strains of growth-accelerated algae weeds and viral macro-plankton which may mean the planet may become self-sufficient — both to help lessen food imports and make it less reliant on hated Ostia. Many Charybdionians have always held there were too many ‘accidental’ missing deliveries from that Agri World, and insist that any setbacks in their food production efforts are due to Ostian sabotage.

HISTORY

Looking back, several Ordo Malleus Inquisitors now believe that Magestrix Allseer’s attack on Ironwatch

Charybdion was almost overlooked when the first

was a portent of the Rift’s emergence. Their Cult of the

Explorator vessels arrived in Gilead. There was little

Thricewise Gaze was repelled, but not without the loss

land worth settling and no readily available resources.

of many of the most dangerous prisoners. Spikes in

Adepts of the Machine God are nothing if not patiently

daemonic activity throughout Gilead occurred exactly

efficient, though, and deposited countless extraction

nine days later.

modules

after

detecting

significant

promethium

deposits along ocean beds. Each of these devices

Since the Dark Curtain fell, demand for promethium

located suitable drilling sites and prepared themselves

is rising, especially as the Varonius Fleet also thirsts.

for when their harvests would be needed to support

Ironwatch has become even more crowded and the

the new system.

Lord Militant has ordered other worlds to house their own psykers. Entire hives have been lost to rising

During the Crusade there was little action on this

seas or apocalyptic storms as if the increasing Warp

cold world; records of the riches below the surface

activities have stirred greater violence in the oceans.

having long since been forgotten. It wasn’t until the

Resentment grows in the breast of every promethium-

Mechanicus established itself on Avachrus that Tech-

jockey on Charybdion for the pompous, pious members

Priests detected the cyphered calls of the engorged

of the Ecclesiarchy, even as gifts from the Adeptus

refinery-temples, ready to feed a hungry Gilead.

Mechanicus ensure their relationship with Avachrus is

Adepts, many fitted with autogills, began to build

forged ever stronger.

pressurized stations around refineries to study and protect the sealed devices. Devotion to the Omnissiah dominated the growing hives, and wayward disciples of the Machine God colluded with Vandire’s forces to drive opposting priests far into hive depths during the terrors of the Age of Apostasy. Most hives extend deep underwater and the struggle to stave off leaks is unending. Regions known

Adventure Hook: Refinery Reanimated

as darkwaters dominate the lowest levels, containing

The party investigates a long-forgotten refinery

all manner of Scum and aquatic mutants.

that suddenly went active and blasted highly encrypted transponder pulses throughout

Aidon, the hive connected to the most productive

the surrounding ocean depths. The rusted

refineries, became the world’s capital. Not all hives

refinery pipes are issuing a biological sludge

thrived, though. Some shut down when promethium

filled with primordial microorganisms. Visual

pipelines ran dry, and are still haunted by millions

inspection reveals the structure is somehow

of forgotten dregs in varying degrees of civilisation.

fully powered. Someone or something prowls

Others flooded or collapsed due to the immense

within its still dead support facility, possibly

pressure of Charybdion’s dark waters.

drawn by heat and light energising the abyss. This may be what reactivated the refinery or

Ironwatch was constructed alongside Hive Aidon for

could be what was unwittingly or purposefully

criminals not sentenced to CS reclamation, and in M38

unleashed when power was restored. Other

the initiators of the Amethyst Lightmares were also

refineries may also be in peril, and any

imprisoned there. It slowly grew with psi-shielded

shortage of promethium could cripple Gilead.

chambers and ironwards to hold all of Gilead’s psykers. The Black Ships have not been sighted for nearly a century, though.

ORGANISATIONS

are common. Wise gangs know the secrets of leaving food in certain darkwater crevices to be replaced by

Gilead views Charybdion as a vital resource and military

strange technologies and other wonders the next day.

forces are everywhere. Astra Militarum regiments are

Strange mutants, the result of exposure to toxic wastes

stationed within most hives; a smattering of islands

and Warp energies, sometimes fight their way uphive

serve as training camps and munitions depots. Others

to form their own gangs.

contain Imperial Navy airships or support assault

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS

boats and submersible warships. Detachments of Tempestus Scions and their attack boats in a disguised orbit guard against void-based threats. Varonius has a small squadron of gunboats at high anchor, and the Magi of Avachrus have assigned Skitarii cohorts to defend the irreplaceable refineries.

Adventure Hook: Sieves in the Iron

While industry is essential, only a few venerable Tech-

Confessor Alithea is offering the support

Priests have the slightest comprehension of how the

of their followers — and a not insignificant

refineries operate. Archotech through and through,

cache of holy artworks — to anyone capable

they detect veins of promethium kilometres below the

of recovering Regila Phvylle, a powerful

oceanic bed, and Titan-level energy beams to reach

psyker who was liberated before they were

them. Many have even been observed to deploy crab-

to be imprisoned at Ironwatch. Now leading

like legs and scuttle to new locations. The promethium

the Fellowship of the Forsaken Eye, Phvylle

allows Charybdion to barter for food, machinery, raw

is believed to be tied to psychic eruptions on

materials, finished goods, and other necessities.

Gilead Primus, as well as a series of ritualistic

The Adeptus Mechanicus is the ruling power, even as

fisherfolk who support what they believe to

it may appear more a Militarum bastion planet. That

be a benevolent society are quite unaware of

the Mechanicum has little control over the devices,

the true Tzeentchian nature of this psyker cult.

though, is a carefully guarded secret. Tech-Priests

Confessor Alithea is suspected of having ties

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

murders of local Ministorum priests. The

also sponsor expeditions to recover lost refineries and

to the death cult known as the Weeping Eagle,

other priceless technologies. Ministorum priests are

whose psyker-sacrificing rituals are rumoured

often visible in hive cities, promoting proper faith in

to grant great powers to their members.

the Emperor, but all too often fall to terrible industrial accidents.

Adeptus

Astra

Telepathica

personnel,

especially those normally assigned to Astropathic Choirs, are often assigned guard duties at Ironwatch as the Rift has made such communication impossible. Nobles rule their hive fiefdoms but constantly fight over promethium supplies and other raw materials for their own industries. Guilds are influential (though generally controlled by the Adeptus Mechanicus), each with its own refinery formulations or Worldfish flensing rites. The most powerful guilders, though, are the Flowmasters who repair and construct the underwater promethium pipes, without which Gilead would wither and die. Gangs, some with escaped psykers, operate with impunity in lower hive areas, mostly above the waterline. Below these levels, especially in darkwaters that might stretch to the ocean floor, mutants rule. Their forms are endless, but gills and similar features

POLITICS

Fylamon takes a personal interest, with logistical

Gilead recognises Ganthet Veneratio of Hive Aidon

elsewhere to fuel its flamers, Enoch’s Synod would

as Governor. It is an open secret, though, that Magos

enjoy seeing the planet burn. It conducts a fervent

reports each morning. If they could find promethium

Faxas Ytterbium is the true sovereign, and that the

propaganda war to paint Charybdion as unfit for

real seat of power is within her brass bastion on the

habitation, and funds extensive missions to find new

island of Kappa-V. Lack of trust from other Gileadian

deposits of promethium elsewhere. Perhaps most

rulers (and the massed armaments of the Militarum)

worrisome are the thefts of anti-psychic technologies.

ensures Nuln dares not step too far from the Lord-

This might be so that other worlds can better contain

Militant’s decrees.

their own psykers, but does not explain why so many actual psykers have also been stolen from Ironwatch.

Part of this is due to Nuln’s lack of attention to the terrible state of Ironwatch, where the psychic overloads sometimes ignite the skies with arcs of unnatural pigments that burn retinas. Some suspect Nuln desires a cataclysmic failure to force Fylamon into deeding

Adventure Hook: Sinking an Island

Charybdion to her. Skitarii squads are increasingly extending their zones of operation, leading to disputes with local Enforcers and Militarum forces that have — so far — stopped just

The party is contracted by Hesia Aidon, a

shy of violence. Ironteeth commanders are convinced

senior noble of Hive Aidon who some whisper

that covert Adepts sparked recent hive riots to initiate

is funding the sabotage of a highly publicised

such events.

project to build an artificial island tethered to a major refinery. Success would mean

The most intense battles are fought within hive

the Adeptus Mechanicus could build similar

spires, hidden ones over promethium access. Too

structures and further consolidate its power.

many have seen other hives collapse when cut off

Hesia believes that Ecclesiarchy agents are

and are willing to go to extreme lengths to preserve

to blame and are framing her for actions to

their families. Many have allied with the Mechanicum

restore the Emperor’s Church on Charybdion.

to hamper Ecclesiarchical evangelism in exchange for

Felice Varonius takes a personal interest in the

additional promethium.

matter as it is an open secret that the island will dedicate much of its promethium output

Even though the Adeptus Administratum allocates

to the Rogue Trader Fleet. The party must

promethium, every potentate has deals for covert

determine the true culprits while ensuring that,

deliveries. This is discreetly ignored so long as regular

no matter what, the promethium continues to

shipments aren’t impacted. All know of Veneratio’s

flow.

arrangements with Ostia for extra foodstuffs, for example, or Nuln’s for technology from Avachrus. The strategically minded Magi has also promoted reprocessing of refinery waste into food to lessen the Governor’s alliance with Ostia. Varonius takes special interest as his ships need promethium; thus, one of his cousins keeps a close watch from orbit. Very covertly, Veneratio’s senior advisor Everin Baelin has been meeting with Felice Varonius to dispose of psykers into the void — something that might garner them cells in Ironwatch if discovered.

FACTIONS None can survive the dangers of the 41st Millennium

Both players and GMs can use this information to

alone. Almost all individuals belong to a Faction,

build and roleplay characters (whether they follow

swearing to serve some greater cause in exchange for

these rules or rebel against them), inform social

weaponry and allies to ensure survival.

encounters, to create seeds for adventures, and to better understand the fractious nature of the Imperium.

This chapter details the major Factions at work in the Gilead System, including the following information:

Some of the Factions in this chapter are smaller sects of large organisations. For example the Sanctified Shield

u A general overview of the Faction and their purpose.

are a single Order Minoris of the Adepta Sororitas entrusted with the task of protecting the holy shrine

u The training the Faction gives to its members and how that informs their place in the world.

world of Enoch. The vast, hierarchical nature of the Imperium ensures that even the established strictures of an organisation have endless variety across the

u The political goals of the Faction in the Gilead System.

galaxy. Some of the specifics of a sub-Faction may not apply to every member of the greater organisation, but can serve as examples and inspiration for their dark

u The relationships between this Faction and others.

deeds, strange goals, and arcane traditions.

u The duties and strictures members of this Faction (supposedly) abide by.

ORDER OF THE SANCTIFIED SHIELD Locus of Power: Enoch

a poisoned meal in order to kill a heretical ruler; Drill Abbess Alytinne Cho, who oversees the order’s

Acting Figurehead: Canoness Jeanne Grace D’Emysa

training programmes.

Important Writings: Rule of the Order of the Sanctified

There are perhaps none more devout in their worship of

Shield; Beatitudes of Karolyne, the sayings of a

the Emperor than the faithful of the Adeptas Sororitas.

martyred sister who eradicated a Nurgle infestation;

It supports the church in numerous non-martial ways,

Admonitions of St Hallas; Bastions of Faith, a collection

but is foremost the righteous army of the Ecclesiarchy.

of battle tactics honed over centuries

In Gilead, this means that while Sisters of the Sanctified Shield offer spiritual succour in a system that the

Symbols:

Order’s

icon

(skull

with

fleur-de-lis

Emperor seemingly has abandoned, even novices are

on forehead, on a shield surrounded by flames),

expected to answer the call to battle, no matter their role.

fleur-de-lis Founded in M38 by Canoness Jessamine Hallas, later Heroes: Veteran Battle Sister Wilhelmina Lorol,

beatified in M39.172 for repelling the Necron invasion

Cleanser of Hive Kappan; Sister Odelle, the mysterious

of a shrine world, the Order fought in many Wars of

Hospitaller who seems to appear at every battle;

Faith across the Segmentum Obscurus. In early M39,

Celestian-Imagifier Sister Valerinne Tancin, entrusted

after purging a system of daemonic infestation, the

with the Bones of Defiance; Sister Febronia of the

Synod directed it to Gilead. There it would bolster

Order Famulous, employed as a diplomat and trusted

spiritual purity and covertly monitor the local

food tester on Ostia, who martyred herself by ingesting

Ecclesiarchy, to ensure it did not fall to heresy as it did during the Age of Apostasy.

The Order is a bulwark of faith in Gilead, especially

The Sisterhood privately view the Adeptus Mechanicus

as its people fear the Emperor has abandoned them.

as religious deviants, and decry the Administratum’s

It defends the shrines on Enoch from unbelievers,

lack of spiritual fevour, but these frosty, frictional

especially those who would defile crypts for relics to

relationships must be maintained to ensure the Adepta

be used in unholy rites. It allows no compromise, no

Sororitas receive their holy Wargear.

BACKGROUNDS

deviance from the Emperor’s Will. While the Order stands, Gilead cannot fall.

Training

The arrival of the Varonius Flotilla seemed to be an

FACTIONS

answer to the Gilead System’s prayers, and indeed, the Adepta Sororitas greatly respect the sanctioned

New sisters received into the Order have honed both

saviours from the outer Imperium. However, there are

mind and body through the harsh ways of the Schola

those that believe the rumours that Varonius consorts

Progenium, but that is just the beginning. Battle sisters

with vile xenos, and all share the Firstborn Absolvers’

receive instruction in combat tactics and the use of

distrust of the Primaris Astartes that came with him

power armour, bolters, chainswords, flamers, and

through the Great Rift — to ‘improve’ on the Emperor’s

meltaguns. Others learn the rites of healing, negotiation,

vision of the Astartes is deeply suspicious to the

translation, and other ways to support the Order in

traditionally minded Sisterhood.With the loss of the

non-combat positions. Mind and soul are further

Black Ships, the Order watches for suspected psykers,

indoctrinated through blessed texts concerning heresy

and finds many within Enoch’s refugee masses. Some

and the Order’s relationship to the Ecclesiarchy. Veteran

are shipped to Charybdion; most are site-executed and

sisters impart lessons learned from battlefields and

their sealed ashes consigned to the depths.

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

throne rooms alike.

Politics

The Order of the Sanctified Shield seeks to preserve the Emperor’s Light in Gilead, and supports the Ecclesiarchy as defenders of the faith. The Sisters are well aware of their role as spiritual exemplars to the faithful, and also oversee medicae facilities and offer

Duties & Strictures

relief to the many refugees on Enoch. This does not

u Protect the venerated shrines on Enoch.

mean they ever hesitate to forcibly discipline any who

u Guard and aid refugees, but do not allow

display weakness of faith or signs of heresy, however.

them to interfere with our Holy Remit. u The Emperor is listening and watching

As an Order Militant, there are many weapons

even in these dark times — do not

available to carry out this holy mission. Each Battle

disappoint Him.

Sister is a fierce warrior who fears nothing save failing the Emperor. Their most powerful weapon, though, is their unshakable faith — any who face them know

u Serve the Ecclesiarchy, for they interpret the Divine Vision. u Be ever watchful of the Ecclesiarchy, so

the Order never falters and can call upon that faith

that the dreaded apostasy may never befall

to achieve miraculous deeds when all appears lost.

us again.

This was famously displayed on Ostia when an entire horde of plague-cultists devoted to the Faithful Writ were said to be transfixed to ash by the light of Sister Delphyne in prayer.

Relationships The Order has strong relations with the Ecclesiarchy of Gilead and fights alongside Militarum and Astartes forces, as well as common citizens who follow where Sisters lead. Many Sisters have worked closely with Puritan Inquisitors in combating cults.

u Be a shining example of faith and purpose to all around you. u Believe in the Emperor’s Will, especially in actions against heretics and cults. u Burn the psyker and support the Ironwatch in its efforts to contain these abominations. u Trust not the Alien, for its ways are abhorrent to the Emperor. u Smite the Daemon, for its temptations lead only to damnation. u Let your Faith be your Shield. u Those that falter must Repent.

MACHINE CULTS OF AVACHRUS Locus of Power: Avachrus

may appear a unified order on the outside, in reality it is a conglomeration of sects, each of which has its

Acting Figurehead: Archdomina Aexekra Vakuul

own view of the Ominissah’s nature, the quest for knowledge, and other matters of technological divinity.

Important Writings: The Universal Laws of the Cult Mechanicus; Litanies of Eternity, containing the daily

This is especially true in Gilead, where the irrational

rites of the Suspire; Compilex Heretekonus, a collation

Warpstorm has provoked holy schisms that may

of all data concerning archeotech and xenos tech found

irreparably fracture the Mechanicum. The Mechanicum

on Avachrus and beyond (and only available to certain

arrived first at Gilead and has been a fundamental

Arch-Magi and Inquisitors)

part of it ever since. Once the Eternal Engines were uncovered it claimed dominion of Avachrus and

Symbols: Mechanicus Cog, Avachrus Icon (a cog on

transformed the planet into a powerful Forge World.

starburst with two moons below), palm on forehead

Now it must supply and maintain all technology for

then extended out (‘I offer my reason to you’)

the entire system with no external aid, even as their ordered existence is failing to meet demands.

Heroes: Explorator Kappo Lev, known for their unending search for remnants of the pre-Imperial

Tech-heresy and unsanctioned research flourishes

archaeotech; Magos Jynn Rho, tireless hunter of

like scrap code in unshielded cogitators, no matter

Hereteks and their horrid creations; revered Tech-Priest

how many Tempering Litanies are engrammically

Obsolom, who has assisted in training the Techmarines

inscribed into new Tech-adepts. Explorator Lev reports

of the Absolvers Chapter for over 400 years; Skitarii

of asteroids in the Reach filled with xenostech and

Vanguard Commander Metril of the 87th Gilead Cohort

possibly the remains of a deliberately shattered world. Buried in the Avachrus sands is evidence of an earlier

The Adeptus Mechanicus oversees all aspects of

Martian presence, one that employed unholy numerics

technology in the Imperium. Its church, the Cult

and profane logic.

Mechanicus, worships the Emperor as the Omnissiah

as its adherents chant binaric prayers with each forging

Try as they might, the Magi cannot suppress such data

and implantation of blessed cybernetics. Though it

much longer.

Training

Interactions with other Gileadian agencies are much

As can be imagined, the Adeptus Mechanicus revolves

worse. For millennia the Ecclesiarchy of Enoch have

around

begrudgingly

technology;

the

blessed

rites

involved

accepted

the

religious

differences

for repairing, operating, and venerating (but not

between the Imperial Cult and the worshipers of the

inventing) machinery are a fundamental part of its

Omnissiah, viewing the arcane creations of the mystical

existence. Knowledge of such matters, along with the

Magos with a mixture of fear, awe, and suspicion. In

ways of the flesh and even xenos devices, is similarly

the wake of the Great Rift, the Adeptus Mechanicus’

essential for many. Despite their scholarly veneer,

failure to meet constantly increasing production needs

almost all members of the Cult Mechanicus are able to

has led to the Ecclesiarchy viewing them as barely

defend themselves, as failure to do so would be a waste

sanctioned heresy. The Cult Mechanicus have a similar

of a servant of the Machine God’s. Thus, many Tech-

(but more logically expressed) opinion of the Adeptus

Priests are skilled in the use of powerful sidearms of

Ministorum in return.

unusual (but sanctioned) designs not suited for mass production.

Politics

There are also sects within the Cult Mechanicus that

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

withhold vital data or assert falsehood, all to lessen their rivals and making unified action sometimes

The Cult Mechanicus has few drives, but they dictate

impossible. Despite this, almost all reserve their

all its actions within Gilead. Preserving Avachrus is

greatest binaric hate for those who knowingly subvert

foremost through fulfilling its sacred duty to fabricate

the Omnissiah’s Will. These might include Apostate

arms, but detecting and eradicating tech-heresy is a

Tech-Priests who lead proscribed rites to glorify

close second. With the loss of support from other Forge

xenos technology, Hereteks who conduct prohibited

Worlds, spreading the Word of the Machine God has

experiments, and worse Magi who seek knowledge

become vital. This has caused much friction with the

from the Gods of Illogic that live in the Warp.

Adeptus Ministorum, as both seek out new adherents. Even efforts to acquire more subjects for servitor creation are stymied, as most are sent to penal legions. The power of the Adeptus Mechanicus, however, is enormous. It controls technology and manufacture in Gilead. That it also determines which Factions are

Duties & Strictures

granted access to its technologies is an unspoken and

u The Forges Must Pour. All else is secondary.

rarely needed threat, even in times when it can barely

u Obey the Universal Laws, for without them

meet ordinary replenishment demands for material. It has its own powerful fighting forces to defend the

all is disorder. u Suppress

unsanctified

‘requisitions’ alike.

directed to research or even use them to try

The Adeptus Mechanicus works most closely with

mechanisms…

and

unholy

Relationships:

alien

technology

Forges against piratical raiders and unofficial Imperial

except

and pierce the Night Wall. u Search for lost technology and archaeotech; a functioning Standard Construct Template,

the Astra Militarum and Administratum to provide

or even a fragment of one, could save the

weaponry and other necessities, as per agreements as

Avachrus (and Gilead).

old as the Gilead System itself. It views both, though, as extremely wasteful of both flesh and metal. The Absolvers, on the other hand, are held as exemplars of efficiency. While the Adeptus Mechanicus deals with various Rogue Traders, chiefly Varonius, it is of necessity as their ships are effective in guarding

u Pity the Ministorum, for they know not how to worship. u Revere the Omnissiah, for He knows all and comprehends all. u Abhor the Heretek, for their works stain the Will of Machine God.

against pirate attacks made against Explorators and

u To break with ritual is to break with faith.

research stations.

u The flesh is weak. The machine is strong. u Placate the Machine Spirit in every device. u Venerate, Not Innovate.

ECCLESIARCHY OF ENOCH Locus of Power: Enoch

The Adeptus Ministorum is the one true church of the theocratic Imperium, and leads the fervent worship

Acting Figurehead: Archdeacon Merramar Clade of

of innumerable billions. Faith in the Emperor is more

the Enochian Synod

vital than promethium or voidships; without this

Important Writings: Scriptures of St Gilead; Rites

warring star systems and become easy prey for xenos

of Passage, the internment scriptures of Daedalon;

and traitors. It is this faith that must sustain Gilead in

Dawning Proverbs, a collection of schoolbooks for the

these hopeless times.

unifying power the Imperium would fragment into

youth of Gilead The Ecclesiarchy has been a firm presence in Gilead Symbols: Blessed waters of Enoch (open palm gliding

since the foul taint of traitors and heretics was purged

over closed fist); Star of St Gilead’s Chariot, a stylised

and the Emperor’s Light established. Now that light

Gothic-class cruiser symbol; Ministorum icon

has gone dim, possibly forever, and the populace turns to the Ministorum for guidance. Billions

Heroes: Missionary Janos, thought to have converted

countless refugees stranded on Enoch. Never has the

Uhn, known for their ‘burn first, ask questions later’

Ecclesiarchy of Gilead been tested like this.

approach

unbelievers;

beloved

Shrinemeister

Gregor Imrak, overseer of ultimate rest and arbiter of ossuary assignments; Preacher Karam, seemingly eternal

everywhere struggle with their faith, especially the

untold millions across the system; Confessor Darius

exhorter

Gravedigger regiments.

the

faith

centuries

It is a test that the Ecclesiarchy must face and defeat,

The Priests of Enoch have always been at odds with

for the system is ripe for collapse. Even as Warp flares

the Tech-Priests of Avachrus; a covert war wages for

rend the darkness like daemons ready to devour souls,

believers, resources, and political support from other

priests and deacons must ensure their flocks retain

Factions. Corruption amongst rival Confessors over

their faith and that it is strong enough to withstand

internment priorities, however, is turning many nobles

such terrors. Should Gilead abandon the Emperor, all

away from the Church.

hope is lost and it would once more be a haven for the Forces of Chaos.

Training

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS

Inquisitors are likely the few who know that the system’s

pre-discovery

religions

were

deemed

abomination and impossible to assimilate into the

Preachers and other members of the Ecclesiarchy

Imperial Creed. The Gilead Crusade was thought to

are primarily known for their words, and so they

have purged them. The Age of Apostasy saw heresies

exercise their vocal skills for maximum volume and

re-emerged under the guise of supporting Cardinal

projection. Persuasive rhetoric is the ideal way to sway

Vandire’s madness, though, and the entire priesthood

those lacking in faith; when that fails, intimidating

was removed, sometimes by fire. Now there are echoes

mental and physical coercion are necessary. This also

of the old beliefs in sermons, and fresh cults to them

holds true for dealing with other Imperial agencies.

festering in underhives and isolated villages.

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Many of the Ministorum learn to wield flamers and massive chainswords to smite heretics. All must know the tenants of the Imperial Creed of Gilead by heart, along with planetary variants designed to keep local populations devoted to the Emperor’s Light.

Politics

Faith drives Imperial life, and Gilead’s priesthood

guides that faith. Ever since the recent Night of Torches

Duties & Strictures u Let the Emperor’s Light guide us in these Dark Times.

the Church has expanded its role as defender of that

u Only through Faith will a new dawn arise.

faith to defender of the law. Deacons wield scriptures

u The Emperor hears you. A prayer asked is

and chainswords to keep the populace obedient. Gatherings not devoted to worship are now unlawful.

a prayer heard. u Faith can never be allowed to grow lax, for heresy grows to fill that void.

The Ecclesiarchy has powerful allies but is its ability

u We are the shepherds of the Emperor’s

to mobilise millions that shows its real strength. Even

subjects. Those who cannot be guided

the raging of the Unholy Storm cannot fully diminish this as the righteous of Gilead see it as a trial of faith. Missionaries now sweep across planets to gather armies ready to burn any who do not share their

must be eliminated. u Ensure the purity of the Imperial Creed is maintained. u We must ensure all of Gilead is worthy

fiery conviction. Its power is also subtle. The growing

number of orphans means there is a near endless

servants return.

supply of recruits for its Schola Progenium. There it trains and indoctrinates Sisters of Battle, Commissars, and others who are vital for Gilead’s survival.

Relationships: The Order of the Sanctified Shield is the Ecclesiarchy’s

rediscovery

u Ensure

Enoch

when remains

the

Emperor’s

peaceful

and

under control. u A soul that cannot be won is a soul that must be burned. u Provide Priests and other spiritual support for Militarum.

staunchest ally. The Gilead Gravedigger regiments are

u Watch for unsanctioned modes of worship,

well known for the number of Priests who accompany

rites, and other deviations from orthodoxy.

them into battle, using inspirational exhortations to

u Deviate Not from the Emperor’s Path.

ensure troopers would rather die before retreating.

GUARD REGIMENTS OF GILEAD Locus of Power: Gilead Primus (especially its moon Saintshold)

Gilead’s Militarum regiments are the mortal wall that keeps its enemies from overrunning the system. Though regiments were once raised on Enoch, Ostia

Acting Figurehead: Lord-Militant Taleria Fylamon

and Charybdion, all have been subsumed into the Gilead Gravediggers on the orders of Lord-Militant

Important Writings: Imperial Infantryman’s Uplifting

Fylamon. This has dramatically reduced the costs of

Primer, Tactica Gilead, The Gilead Crusade (a carefully

uniform and armament production in a critical time

redacted and rewritten military history of the conquest

for the Gilead System, though the few veterans that

of system), Imperial Munitorum Manual

have survived three years of war against the horrors of the Great Rift are furious at the destruction of their

Symbols: Regimental badges, Militarum icon, slap

traditions.

palm on right shoulder (common location of regimental symbol), salute whilst holding 9-70 Entrenching Tool

The Gravediggers’ numbers are further bolstered by

Heroes: Famous (and dashing) Colonel Paterson

Fylamon controls both the Militarum and the law, and

Devries IV of the Gravediggers, Sergeant Kolos ‘Ork

her regiment’s close ties to the Ecclesiarchy affords her

the frequent drafting of penal legions. Lord-Militant

Killer’ Thom, Hero of Dawn’s Blood and seen on many

no shortage of sinners from all walks of life to press

recruitment posters; Trooper Peppersmack Brandle,

into service defending His Gilead System.

fabled (amongst abhumans) Ratling sniper and chef Many officers of the Gravediggers have publicly The Astra Militarum, commonly known as the Imperial

suggested that the Adepts of the Administratum

Guard, is the largest fighting force in the galaxy.

would serve the Imperium better as frontline soldiers

Fielding gigantic cadres raised across countless worlds,

than

bean-counters,

further

worsening

its sheer numbers are often enough to repel invasions,

relationships between the Militarum and those that

and conquer systems in the Emperor’s Name. This

supply their weapons.

reliance must end for Gilead’s regiments to continue

glorified

to defend their homes with ever decreasing supplies of troops and material.

Training

actions. Rumours that Guard units are ignoring proper

Members of the Astra Militarum know the value of

Mechanicum rituals to hastily refurbish and even

training, and every moment not in battle is consumed

cannibalise war material (especially tanks), though,

with instruction and drills. The Guard, no matter

has recently become a source of friction between the

the regiment, would be nothing without it. Even the

organisations.

BACKGROUNDS

finest of native warriors must learn how to fight as part a unit, and each unit to fight as part of an army.

The Administratum provides logistical support such

Everyone learns ranged weaponry from lasguns to

as ammunition, but with that failing most regimental

lascannons, while medical, piloting, and other skills

commanders have little but disgust and contempt for

taught to a select few. All of this falls apart without

its adepts. As the Officio Prefectus has seen record

skilled commanders, though, and so instruction in

numbers of graduating cadets, due to the growing

leadership and warfare is essential as members rise

numbers of orphans in the system, it does ensure that

in the ranks.

each regiment has a preponderance of Commissars.

Politics

With the Imperial Navy horribly mauled when the

The Imperial Guard had few political roles in Gilead, but

storm erupted, regiments must often barter with Rogue

that changed when Lord-Militant Fylamon assumed

Traders for transport through the void — and so must

system command. Its goals now encompass the entire

stay on good relations with them, even as it galls them

system’s existence.

to do so. Without such support, the Militarum would

The Militarum’s numbers are endless, with masses of

invaders and rebellious Humans.

FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

be unable to fight its greatest enemies, namely xenos infantry divisions and huge armoured corps far greater than any other force in Gilead. Fylamon knows that this cannot remain so for much longer, as the Eternal Night prevents external resupply — assuming the Imperium is still able to do so. The storm also prevents any retreat, which suits the Gravediggers’ fighting ethos perfectly.

Duties & Strictures u The Emperor Protects!

Relationships:

u A lasgun that fails is a Guardsman who

Gilead’s regiments have strong connections with the

has failed the Emperor. Keep your las packs

Ecclesiarchy, with priests accompanying regiments

full, your weapon orderly, and your faith

into battle — especially in these times when Chaos is ascendant. Enoch also raises numerous penal legions, essential to maintain overall strength.

resolute, for you are never off duty. u The enemies of the Emperor always watch for signs of weakness. Be strong and vigilant, and never forget you are the

Most regiments have fought alongside the Absolvers

guards who protect all of Gilead.

and respect their effectiveness, but always know

u We are the Hammer of the Emperor!

to never get between these marines and their

u They are not mere citizens — they are

targets. With the assumption of system command,

servants of the Emperor, and guarding

political relationships have become perhaps even

them is your duty.

more important than martial ones, especially with

u Duty Ends only with Death.

Planetary Governors.

u Watch the psyker, and keep your lasgun aimed at their head at all times.

The

Adeptus

Mechanicus

has

always

provided

mechanical support for regiments, but both view the other with fear and suspicion. The Hearthguard have perhaps the best connections, and its joint with Skitarii

u Gilead endures as long as one soldier stands. u Dig your grave before the battle. Die in it before retreating.

units in the assault on Hive Plunon’s unsanctified manufactorums is still the ideal standard for such

REMNANTS OF THE INQUISITION Locus of Power: Several, such as Ordo Hereticus

power that a single word from an Inquisitor can raise

bastion on Imperia. Most are highly secret and hidden

armies or condemn entire worlds. Yet this power is

Acting

have been isolated from it, perhaps forever.

nothing without the Imperium, and Gilead seems to Figurehead:

Tytrona

Dikaisune

the

Ordo Malleus The unending mission of the Inquisition became even Important Writings: Gilead Daemonicus, a thrice-

more vital when Gilead became entombed by Eternal

blessed and sealed tome of all daemons encountered

Night. Surrounded by Chaos itself, heresies emerge

in system, including their True Names when known;

in every world. Much of the power of Inquisitors,

Litanies of Hate, the transcribed admonishments of

though, lies in the fear every Imperial citizen has of

Inquisitor Abrack Zaffar; Xenos Purgation, the Ordo

them. This was disrupted, as the storm also cut them

Xenos’s history of alien activity in Gilead

off from the Imperial backing so essential to much

Symbols: Inquisition icon, rosette or other personalised

ways most had never imagined, knowing the only aid

symbol of their office, variety of secret hand signals

they now have is within this small system.

of their authority. Inquisitors have had to operate in

unique to each Inquisitor and their Acolytes Gilead now sees previously unimagined horrors, Heroes: Inquisitors Tytrona Dikaisune and Stephan Argyle, Interrogator Inge Xenia

such as the Plaguefont of Edon or the Scrying of Enochid, occurring more often than ever before. Xenos-revering sects and heretical cults grow

They are the singular individuals charged with

in power as the nobility grows lax. Though few

defending not the Imperium, but Humanity itself from

in number, Inquisitors, as always, must ensure

enemies within, without, and beyond. Such is their

Humanity does not fall.

Training

Acolytes can come from anywhere in the Imperium

uses a bound daemonhost as her deadly weapon against Chaos-worshipping Machine Cults.

and from any agency, so they typically already possess skills and abilities that made them stand apart. It is

Some Inquisitors have strong alliances with other

up to Inquisitors to provide further training, such in

Inquisitors, but the one thing they often trust the least

social interactions from deception to intimidation. The

is another Inquisitor. With so few of them remaining

longer they survive, the more they learn of the Holy

in Gilead, most seem willing to coordinate efforts and

Ordos, heretical practices, the terrors from beyond

even work together on occasion — something that

and without, and even how to better use (or defend

would be anathema until these dark times.

how to investigate and uncover threats to Humanity

CHARACTER OPTIONS

and, when judged worthy, to wield their own rosette and its power without hesitation.

Inquisitors are charged with defending Humanity

Duties & Strictures

itself and are ready to use any means available

u Burn the Heretic!

to do so. Most are skilled combatants with deadly

u Smite the Daemon!

weapons; some are even potent psykers. Their greatest

u Eradicate the Alien!

power is fear. The threat of mass executions, if not

u Innocence Proves Nothing.

planetary Exterminatus, is impractical at best now,

u We are the things that daemons fear.

and so threats must be achievable. Negotiations

u We cannot be Everywhere, so we must

with Gileadian Factions, even those abhorrent, have

u Our war is for the Emperor’s Soul.

to making deals with devils.

u Pick

Inquisitors often gather unique beings as Acolytes

ENDEAVOURS

be Anywhere.

become necessary. Luckily, many Inquisitors are used

Relationships

FACTIONS PATRONS

against) psychic powers. Most importantly, they learn

Politics

BACKGROUNDS

battles

wisely,

but

never

falter

once committed. u Always watch for talented individuals as Acolytes don’t replace themselves.

(some of which might not even be Human) and in doing so develop networks across Gilead. The strongest Factional relationship is perhaps between Ordo Xenos Inquisitors and the Deathwatch, but it varies with each Inquisitor. Puritans fight alongside the Absolvers, while Radicals are quite willing to deal with Rogue Traders and even xenos. Both utilise Militarum forces when armies are needed, or Tech-Priests for aid in technological expertise. Ordo Hereticus Inquisitors have strong ties to the Adeptas Sororitas for support against cults and heretical gatherings. Several Sisters have become Acolytes, with Canoness D’Emysa giving her blessing for this dispensation. Few know that one supposedly lost Battle Sister now wields her own rosette. What makes for an ally for one Inquisitor means an enemy to another. One Inquisitor has judged the Ecclesiarchy weak and ready to once again fall to heresy, and so keeps a watchful eye from within its ranks. Another operates a pirate fleet to hunt Corsairs and those who would associate with them. A third

THE VARONIUS DYNASTY Locus of Power: Varonius Flotilla, specifically the

The Imperium must feed its hungry populations and

Ducal Circlet

even hungrier manufactorums. It is always desperate for resources as existing planets fall to external

Acting Figurehead: Jakel Varonius

predation, internal collapse, or decree of Inquisitorial

Important Writings: The Warrant: An Analysis,

Warrants, seek out new worlds to plunder — all in

Exterminatus. Rogue Traders, empowered by Imperial centuries of commentary, scrutiny, and wishful

the name of the Emperor, of course. It is rare that one

thinking by the Varonius family; Lineage Varonius, a

comes to the rescue of an isolated system, but Rogue

who’s who in the family, along with the current line of

Traders are nothing if not unique.

succession and cryptic notes on each. Let none say that Jakel Varonius never dared to take Symbols: Crux Varonius (the dynastic icon), individual

huge risks when there were profits and renown to be

ship badges, subtle signal of hand pointed down with

had. Navigating the Great Rift, however, was the easy

two fingers in V shape

part. He arrived in Gilead as a saviour, and a desperate system now looks to him for salvation. The dynasty

Heroes: Jakel Varonius; Captain Gillan Lej of the attack

cannot access its holdings elsewhere in the Imperium

boat Hard Bargain; Commander Felice Varonius, the

and beyond, and so must look for new ones.

family’s lead negotiator for Imperial matters and high in line of succession

Opportunities beyond imagining await him here.

however they can. Other Rogue Traders, eager for

Priceless archaeotech awaits in unexplored regions,

their own profit, have aided Varonius with their own

and the rift itself may open up new Warp routes to

connections and ships.

unclaimed systems. Varonius’s alliance of convenience with the Aeldari, if firmly cemented, could pay off

The more traditionalist elements of Gilead, such as the

handsomely once the storm fades and Warp travel

Absolvers and Lord-Militant Fylamon, find little appeal

resumes. His dealings with these xenos is kept a

in the Rogue Trader’s ways. Rumours of consorting

secret from the rest of Gilead. His connection to the

with xenos are rife and have attracted Inquisitorial

untrustworthy Rogue Trader Dyre Kedjrick who

attention. The Aeldari have proved excellent assets,

supposedly negotiates deals with all manner of unholy

able to carry out raids and assassinations that cannot

xenos is one he keeps to himself.

be linked to him.

Training

The most dangerous relationships are within the

Rogue Traders are a breed apart from Humanity,

dynasty itself, for the intrigues and schemes for

each unique with their own style of operating. All

succession, power, and shares of profits are unending.

generally have some degree of martial skills, but it is

Few outside the lineage know of the Golden Cull, or

their social skills that keep them successful. A good

the terror of the Final Desert. The family comes before

trader is exceptionally cunning and persuasive, and

all else, but who controls the family must be the most

able to discern the motivations of anyone, even xenos,

ruthless, devious, and charismatic member. Otherwise,

in a negotiation. They are also able leaders, for what

the family fails.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

is a Rogue Trader without a loyal crew? Lastly, they spend far longer than desired studying Warp routes, xenos civilisations, and even historical tales for signs of profitable journeys to be had and new systems to exploit.

Politics

Duties & Strictures

The dynasty serves the Emperor — as clearly stated on

u Family First.

the Warrant. The ways it serves Him allows for a great

u Determine the profit, then act accordingly.

deal of flexibility, however. Varonius makes no secret

u This is just one provincial system among

that profit is a motivation, but always incorporates a

millions. No great loss should it fall, so

sincere desire to defend Gilead.

long as we’re not here when it happens. u It matters not what species is across the

To do so, the dynasty has a large fleet, including the

negotiating table, only that a deal can

cruiser Ducal Circlet. With it, Varonius controls much

be struck.

of the vital shipping between the Heartworlds. Its firepower also allows it to fend off pirates and quash insurrections. One day this could be the Varonius system, after all.

Relationships The arrival of the fleet has offered hope that the

u Your greatest friend is the relative ahead of you in succession. u Your greatest enemy is the relative behind you in succession. u Explore and Exploit! u A trader not in motion is a trader who is dying.

Emperor sees Gilead, though Varonius’s claims

u A placid system is an exploitable system.

that a long-dead Primarch has returned only to ally

u We do the Emperor’s Will, as per our charter.

himself with xenos forces was nervously dismissed

As we have since the Great Crusade! It is

as jest. Despite this, the Administratum has agreed to

not yours to question us.

work jointly to oversee planetary ways as the adepts had for millennia before. The lure of archeotech and mysterious devices has proved too much for some Tech-Priest Magi, who eagerly assist Varonius

THE ABSOLVERS Locus of Power: Battle barge The Vow of Absolution,

to defend the system may be all that stands between

currently sailing deep within the Reach

Gilead and eternal damnation.

Acting Figurehead: Brevet Captain Akahir

The Absolvers have been bound to Gilead since its earliest days, and then became its home when Chapter

Important

Writings:

Codex

Astartes,

Rites

Master Dalir swore a grand oath to protect Gilead

Absolution (chapter’s secret rituals)

forever. Most of its numbers were trapped within when

Symbols: Chapter icon, Astartes icon, two handed Aquila

commanders have not been heard from for long years.

symbol, hands held together to form a chalice/cup

Even if the Absolvers could leave they would never do

the Dark Storm erupted, though, and the chapter’s

so, for such is the permanence of their vows. Heroes: Founding Chapter Master Tygranus Dalir, Battle Brother Titus Mikel, First Company Sergeant

Each day brings new perils to the chapter’s future.

Tarik Kamril, Veteran Scout Diallo Mirl

Ammunition and other essential materiel are growing scarce. Viable geneseed stock is dwindling as well,

The Space Marines are the Emperor’s Angels of Death,

meaning fewer scouts can progress to become full

the mightiest warriors of the Imperium. They arrive

Battle Brothers. Chaos Space Marines grow bolder in

like thunderbolts from the heavens, raining destruction

their probing attacks from the Reach, and even within

on His enemies across the galaxy. Now ensnared

hive cities. Only firm conviction and vigilance offers any

within the Noctis Aeterna, one chapter’s ancient vow

hope of preserving the chapter until the storm recedes.

Training

There is always friction with the Ministorum, though,

The Absolvers are warriors of the finest calibre, with

over doctrinal beliefs. The chapter’s inflexible nature

instruction that takes their transhuman physiques to

also means Rogue Traders are rarely welcome. Dealing

levels the finest regimental troopers could never match.

with xenos is, of course, unthinkable.

BACKGROUNDS

Their senses are honed to perceive all around them, and even their scouts have reactions allowing them

Its most troubling relationships are internal. The

to ready and operate weapons with uncanny accuracy.

Primaris Absolvers who arrived with Varonius’s fleet

Some become skilled pilots and all are impeccable

have been met with cold indifference at best. Some

marksmen, but the recent low levels of ammunition

Absolvers, especially newer brothers, would rather

replenishment means for greater reliance on close

they be welcomed into the chapter, but dare not

quarters combat. Their minds are also rigorously

speak openly.

doctrines dating to the chapter’s founding as well as

ENDEAVOURS

from battles not recorded in Imperial records.

The Absolvers have but one essential goal: defend Gilead, as their founder vowed ages ago. All who know

Duties & Strictures

these marines know that their vows are inviolable, so

u Honor the Chapter.

there is assurance that Gilead is well protected. The

u Know No Fear.

Absolvers are also known to be utterly honest, but also

u We Are the Angels of Death.

utterly ruthless. Entire populations might be eradicated

u One Bolt, One Death.

before allowing one rebel to escape, as happened in

u Our chapter elders are missing. They must

the Cleansing of Yellem. This means political dealings

be found lest our past be lost. Any who

are difficult, and so the chapter relies on might more

have knowledge of this matter must share

than negotiation.

it with us or be branded a traitor to Gilead. u We

must

cleanse

—

destroy

—

The power that the Absolvers wield is immense but

Persephone’s Regret before it can venture

limited. The chapter can bring lightning from the

into the Heartworlds. Any who would say

skies in thunderclaps of bolter fire and can destroy

otherwise, even with the desire to reclaim

most enemies before defenses can be mounted. Even

lost heritages buried within the Space Hulk,

targets in the void are not safe from Astartes attack

have no concept of what the unleashed

craft. Sometimes even the merest hint that such

xenos aboard could do to Gilead.

actions are imminent is enough to drive capitulation.

u Be Stern and Obstinate in all things.

Its relatively few numbers, however, means it cannot

u Those who rebel against the Emperor will

fight prolonged battles — victories must be fast and

face our unending wrath.

decisive, or not at all. The drought of ammunition

u To break a vow is to shame the Emperor.

also means every shot must kill; suppression fire is a

u There can be no rest until Gilead is purged

luxury the Absolvers can no longer afford, even when

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS

trained, with millennia of tactical and strategic

Politics

FACTIONS

of the alien and the rebel.

facing the Chaos Space Marines of the Faithful Writ.

u Our duty is as our Founder stated, and

Relationships

u Recruiting and training new Astartes

nothing will change that.

The Absolvers are both feared and revered by Humans.

paramount.

Preservation

On the battlefield, Militarum troops and Sisters of

replenishment of geneseed is essential.

and

Battle welcome their aid, as do the cybernetic Skitarii. Away from combat, the Mechanicum have a good relationship as do some Puritan Inquisitors, and fellow Astartes of the Deathwatch.

THE ADMINISTRATUM Locus of Power: Ostia

The Adeptus Administratum is, in many ways, the Imperium. It is everywhere, recording each datum

Acting Figurehead: Master of the Adepts Sabien Erim

of Imperial life and ensuring proper adherence to its strictures. Without it, the essential tithes that allow the

Important Writings: Index Administratum; Producto

Imperium to exist would falter and fail. A world bereft

Gilead, a record of all tithes, materiel production, and

of the Imperium is likewise doomed, for every system

populations across system, stored in its own dedicated

is dependent on others —something senior Gileadian

city; Rites of Recording, a 122-volume (and counting)

Adepts fear that despite their desperate efforts may

list of all authorised terms and approved methods for

come to pass.

transcribing data The Administratum is often the first organisation Symbols: Double-handed Aquila, Administratum

established when a new planet is recognised. So it was

icon, palms vertical held together then opened like

on Gilead; immediately after the crusade ended, its

a book

adepts began calculating tithes and asserting Imperial control. Soon gigatonnes of food, minerals, and

Heroes: Prefector Scriptus Quintos Galleen, Master

processed materials, along with billions of regimental

of the Scrolls Finnea Caveros, Datavault Rampartus

troops, were extracted in regular, stable operations to

Radeer U’mlo

serve elsewhere in the galaxy.

The Great Storm disrupted all this. Tithes are collected

Relationships

never to leave planetside; most now stagnate in vast

The Administratum has always had a strong working

pools of rotting organics and mountains of decaying

association with the Astra Militarum and Adeptus

resources, such as the infamous Grey Wastes on Ostia.

Ministorum in Gilead. This is more so now, especially

Others are sequestered in hidden vaults, secretly used

with the former’s Lord-Militant acting as system

to ensure loyalty of wavering nobles. Some question

governor. It has less benign connections with those

continuing the old practices, but adept masters insist

who operate outside of its authority, such as Rogue

that any deviation would be an affront to the Emperor’s

Traders, Adeptus Astartes, and to a lesser extent the

Will. With each day, though, long-established order is

Adeptas Sororitas.

breaking down and soon may be too great for Gilead to ever recover.

Training

The Administratum is often the face of the Imperium, and thus it has bitter enemies: insurrectionists, scum, tithe-protestors, and others actively seek ways to

It would be easy to believe the adepts of the

disrupt its practices and destroy precious data. Many

Administratum school themselves only in intellectual

adepts still shudder when recalling the Zeroing of

manners such as record keeping, history, lineages,

Datavault Lamba, or the Fellscriber’s Dawn. One might

bureaucratic processes, tithe assessments, and other

think it had allies to call upon, but this is not the case.

menial but still essential matters. And it is true to a

Few Imperial subjects have any appreciation for its

great degree; the vast majority of these functionaries

efforts; no Guardsman, for example, has ever rejoiced

know little else but such matters and never venture

in the Wargear they are issued. The Administratum’s

outside massive datavaults or transcription opticons.

worst relationships are internal, however. Fierce

Senior adepts, though, must learn to deal with the

debate rages over maintaining the standards that have

Emperor’s subjects through persuasion and cunning –

guided the system for millennia when more flexibility

and also intimidation and deception should those prove

seems the only path that avoids Gilead’s utter collapse

more effective. Anything that ensures Gilead remains

or eradication by xenos or worse.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

functioning is permissible for the Administratum.

Politics

In the past, the Administratum devoted itself to tithe processing, overseeing logistical matters, and overall

ensuring the system operated in concordance with Imperial decrees. Now, the closing of Gilead has meant

Duties & Strictures

the agency has two main goals: maintaining order to

u We must continue to assign tithes to each

prevent the system from falling into lawless barbarism,

world and dominion, even though they

and maximising productivity in a system cut off from

cannot be collected. Failure to do so is

outside support.

failing the Imperium and the Emperor. u Our records must be pristine and without

Still, the Gileadian Administratum wields enormous,

error, for those will be our means of

if not direct, power. It allots resources to the Astra

judgement when the system is freed.

Militarum and many other Imperial agencies. Its adepts

u Similarly, we must ensure all records are

are on every world and in every city, with historical

maintained and updated for when tithes

records and procedures to conduct every facet of

can be properly collected again.

Imperial life. It dominates Ostia, the breadbasket of

u So many things are happening! We do not

Gilead, even as the Ecclesiarchy’s rule over the shrine

fear them, but we fear we cannot properly

world ensures that the populace’s primary loyalty is towards the Ministorum. Its decrees are still followed … for now.

record everything. u All data is Essential, Waste it not. u As it Was, So it Shall Be. u The Letter of the Writ is All.

CRAFTWORLDERS OF UL KHARI Locus of Power: Craftworld Ul-Khari/Trollius

Eons ago, the Aeldari ruled the stars. Now, due to immeasurable hubris, they are only sad echoes, scarce

Acting Figurehead: Farseer Tylanriel Tarnalys

in numbers though still powerful enough to fight and win when they must. Most roam the stars in massive

Important Writings: Scrolls of Ul-Khari, a history

starships known as Craftworlds, seeking new ways to

of the Craftworld stored on sheets of psychoreactive

return their species to its former glory. Those within

wraithbone; Songs of Asuryman, emotion-woven music

Gilead, though, fight for survival against an ancient,

evoking and representing their patron god; Things Yet

thirsting desiring their very souls.

to Be; millennia of prophesies from the exiled Farseer Unnias, now looking to be disturbingly accurate

The isolationist Asuryani of Ul-Khari have avoided

Symbols: Orange glyphs of Ul-Khari icon, Sigil

may be its doom. Lured by psychic traces of ancient

of Asuryman,

Aleldari relics within, the Craftworld spent decades

catastrophe for many millennia, but the Gilead system

here as its peoples laughed at attempts to detect Heroes: Farseer Tamalys, Ranger Kaelitha Nagith,

them. Their arrogance was their undoing, as a world

Storm Guardian Hyrne Olivaste

suddenly appeared out of the void to cripple Ul-Khari, perhaps forever. The tendrils of the Weaver of Fate appear to have arranged this collision, for purposes none may ever know.

The Aeldari have the Webway to travel within the

so, for Greensteel has pledged to defend Ul-Khari to

system and out to other stars, but using it to leave

her last breath. Of lesser reliability are the new pacts

would condemn untold Aeldari souls merged with the

with Varonius. Their goals align but both sides know

Craftworld to Imperial dissection or daemonic thirsts.

this mutually beneficial alliance cannot last forever,

Until Ul-Khari can be repaired, the Asuryani must

especially if the wider Imperium discovers it.

BACKGROUNDS

work alongside lesser species to preserve Gilead from Chaos, for they know She Who Thirsts is ravenously

There are far more enemies in Gilead for the

watching from the storm.

Craftworld’s denizens. Other Imperial Factions wish

Training

only to see them dead, as do most Inquisitors. The Blood Axes battle them over control of the Voidmire.

Though Craftworld Ul-Khari has not gone to war for many decades, its current state means warriors are

Though hopeful rumors whisper through the Webway

needed more than ever. Every Asuryani, no matter

of the awakening of Ynnead and the potential salvation

their path, are combat veterans as all have been called

of their Species, the ever cautious Aeldari of Ul-Khari

upon in the past to defend their home as Guardians.

are confronted by the constant pressures of the Great

Now, once again, they ready shuriken weaponry and

Rift, stranded as they are on their crashed Craftworld.

monoblades. The Farseers know this is not enough,

The ever-present tear in reality itself gazes down

and Aeldari apply their psychic abilities and advanced

mercilessly, and those Aeldari that dare look upon it

technological prowess to protect and repair their home.

can feel the cavernous hunger of She Who Thirsts.

FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Others study the system and its inhabitants, eager to solve the mysteries of unexplained Aeldari ruins scattered across its worlds.

Politics

The eons spent between the stars were mostly quiet ones for the Craftworld. Gilead has changed this. The

Duties & Strictures

safety of the vessel still dominates all thought, and that

u Preserve the Species.

it must first be made voidworthy. To abandon it and

u Trust Not the Alien; their lives are short

seek escape via the Webway would leave thousands of soul stones to the hunger of their eternal nemesis. There have already been several deadly attacks to steal these priceless treasures, and only the timely arrival of Princess Greensteel and Rogue Trader Varonius kept Dark Apostle Maloquence from tearing the Craftworld

and their honour shorter. u Better a million million others die than a single Aeldari be harmed. u Preserve our Craftworld and inhabitants, and restore it to space. u While trapped here, we must continue

in two during the Tide of Red Frosts.

investigating the ruins on Ostia. Though

The Asuryani do still have war machines and elite

could be lost kin somewhere in the system.

warriors at their disposal. Their enemies having

u Varonius hints at an ancient device that

little inkling of their strategic aims is also a benefit;

could fractilise a planet, something stolen

these may have been a dangling lure, there

Asuryani might launch lightning raids on seemingly

from the far side of the galaxy. This could

insignificant targets, such as a minor medicae station

be a way to free our home from the grip

that Farseers identify as the source of a daemonic incursion months from now.

Relationships The Asuryani would normally have no allies in a system ruled by Humans, but the presence of the

of Trollius. u Keep Chaos from erupting even if this means all Humans perish. A system cleansed of Humans is one that is safer for us. u There may be worth in arranging for the

Emerald Princess and her Corsair fleet means the

Space Hulk dubbed Persephone’s Regret

Craftworld Aeldari have powerful allies here. Doubly

to plummet into the Heartworlds, thus decimating both Ork and Human numbers for centuries..

GREENSTEEL CORSAIRS Locus of Power: Verdant Blade, the flagship of the

Not all Aeldari are content to drift aimlessly in Craftworlds.

Corsair Greensteel fleet, usually found in the Voidmire

The Antrathe, or Corsairs, reject complacency for lives of excitement and enrichment, the latter quite literal.

Acting

Figurehead:

Ferianwyr

Greensteel,

the

The Imperium views Corsairs as mere xenos pirates — a

Emerald Princess

simplistic appraisal from a simplistic species. Though

Important Writings: Scrolls of Plunder, a verbose and

within Gilead find the entrapped system to be of such

bombastic list describing great feats of the Greensteel

great sport that few would consider it.

the Webway would allow escape if desired, Corsairs

lineage; Paths of the Emerald Outcast, the colourful writings of the Greensteel leaders designed to tempt

Ferianwyr

Aeldari and Drukhari to their side

Anhrathe, Blade-Mistress and Captain of the Verdant

Greensteel,

Emerald

Princess

the

Blade, was not expecting a Craftworld to venture into Symbols: Greensteel sigil, triangular carved emerald

Gilead. She had been preying upon the system for

gemstones on rings or necklaces

decades, though the excitement had faded and she was ready to move on. The presence of other Aeldari

Heroes:

ace

here piqued her curiosity and so the Corsairs remained.

Nightwing pilot Reslithe the Skykiller, Drukhari

Princess

Ferianwyr,

Felarch

Yellil,

The arrival of a Warp Storm may have trapped lesser

Evalyla Agynille, wych and leader of the First

species in this system. Ferianwyr views this with

Boarding Company

delight as none can escape her predatory attentions.

When Ul-Khari crashed into a planet spat out of the

when their interests align, such as to cull ambitious

storm like some spoiled tidbit, she swore on her name

Rogue Traders. Others, such as pirates and researchers,

to protect it forever. She may have been somewhat

are granted freedom to live so long as they continue

inebriated at the time. Still, she must maintain her vow

to amuse. A few Radical Inquisitors have even sailed

in the midst of new temptations such as defenseless

aboard the Verdant Blade, brokering information for

outposts and desperate transports filled with precious

their mutual benefit.

cargo.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS

Everyone else they call an enemy. The Humans in their

Training

hulking suits of dull metal and primitive laser weapons,

Aeldari of the craftworlds learn the basics of combat,

the mindless Orks and their brutal ways, the disciples

but Corsairs study it with a passion. It isn’t enough to

of Chaos — there can be only death for such as these.

use a blade; a Corsair wields their personalised sword with a passion and aggression that other Aeldari find

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

distasteful. Similarly, they learn to employ ranged weapons to cower their foes. Most become expert pilots of jet bikes and other raiding vehicles, as well as personal jet packs. In battle, their skilled acrobatic manoeuvres inspire both awe and terror. Corsairs also

Duties & Strictures

examine the ways of the lesser alien species, the better

u Our Ships, Our Void, Your Death.

to plunder their wealth.

u She Who Thirsts is waiting. Let her wait,

Politics

u No one is safe from us, no matter where

rewarding way possible. They raid for new plunder and

u As per our Princess’s pledge, we defend

we are busy embracing our lives.

The Greensteel seek to live in the fullest and most exotic discoveries, but also for the sheer exhilaration of the red-coated blade and the thrill of dancing against bolter fire. The Corsairs make their own path. Part

they hide. Ul-Khari and its Aeldari for eternity. u Slay any humans who carry even the slightest essence of She Who Thirsts.

of it means protecting their own species and seeking

u Patrol the Reach, and watch for other

ways to thwart the God of Excess whenever possible

visitations from outside. If they are not of

— and sometimes even when it’s not possible, for any opportunity to harm followers of their hated nemesis is always taken.

the Aeldari, eliminate them. u Let your desires guide you. Let nothing be denied! u Those who amuse us may live longer.

Their prowess is terrifying. Greensteel Corsairs know every route and every asteroid in the Voidmire. It is their playground, and they enjoy playing with all who dare travel through it. Greensteel voidships are the fastest in the system, and by using concealed Webway portals are able to attack anywhere. The Princess especially enjoyed razing an entire regiment of

newly-commissioned

Gravediggers,

torpedoing

their troopship as it was entering orbit. Bloody debris and twisted metal fell on the training grounds for days.

Relationships The Greensteel hold all Aeldari are friends and often join forces with Craftworlds in large actions against common enemies. It is worrisome, though, that none of the Farseers aboard Ul-Khari were able to predict the collision with an entire planet. In Gilead, the Princess has also worked with the Varonius dynasty

DA BLOOD AXES! Locus of Power: The Reach

The brutal Ork species can be found everywhere. They have always been in Gilead, but mostly trapped on

Acting Figurehead: No one … yet

Space Hulks or the like. Their numbers seem to have swelled after the eruption of the Noctis Aeterna, though;

Important Writings: Kaptin Goldteef’s Kollected

some Biologis Tech-Adepts theorise at least one Blood

Kunnin’ Planz, Mekboy Zazbrane’s legendary Oi!

Axe fleet rode the Warp Storm like some gigantic wave

Dat’s Me Gargant!, the fabled lost map of Gilladz

into the system. With new leadership emerging, there

Gillion Teef

may be no way to stop them from overrunning Gilead.

Symbols: Blood Axe glyph, Goldteef’s Double-Axe

Thankfully for other species in Gilead, most Orks in

Jolly Ork banna, Gork and Mork icons

the system are trapped on several Space Hulks in the

Heroes: Kommando Badgrog, Stormboyz Drillboss

in a variety of ramshackle but deadly voidships as well

Reach. An uncomfortable number are not, and operate Rokkitfist, Kaptin Axegrinda Goldteef of the Kill

as from deep within underhive lairs. Many of these are

Kroozer

Blood Axes, slowly being united somehow under the

Gobsmasha,

Deadly Deffgrotz

Runtherd

Murdz

and

his

banner of a Freebooter Kaptin.

Gilead had thought them a standard nuisance, but

Until then, the Blood Axes are an unpredictable power,

then an entire Imperial Navy fleet fell to massed Brute

attacking shipping vessels and naval forces alike

Ram Ship assaults at the Battle of Drifting Fellrock. The

in ambush attacks. They also launch hammerblow

Lord-Militant was forced to reroute much of shipping

strikes almost anywhere, even inner system planets

and treble escorts, and even more painfully call upon

and the bowels of hive cities through their elite

Rogue Trader Varonius for aid. Of course, the rampant

Stormboyz and Kommandos. Like all Orks, they can

destruction sowed by Orks plays no favourites, and

never be fully eradicated and seem to be everywhere

the Imperium have benefitted from their attacks almost

you’re not looking.

as much as they have suffered. Both the Greensteel Corsairs and the forces of Chaos have been tormented

Relationships

by the Blood Axes, and suspiciously, the pirate band

Unlike most Orks, Blood Axes in Gilead have strong

of the traitorous marauder Xarro was almost wiped

allies. Goldteef has mercenary connections with

out by the Orks not long after they began to target

pirates and traitors operating in the system, and of

Varonius’ mercantile vessels.

course has special arrangements with Varonius and

Training

Orks are born essentially knowing all they need to

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

a few other Rogue Traders. That leaves plenty of enemies, especially Adeptus Astartes and Adeptus Militarum forces.

know: how to fight with shoota and choppa, and how to shout real loud. Blood Axes, being the best

The biggest enemies, though, are other Orks. For

clan, aren’t above drilling its members further in

example, there is a horde of priceless teef and ancient

these areas, especially in sneaking about to ambush

artefacts rumoured to be lost somewhere in the system.

enemies — decidedly un-Orky behaviour, but it works

Goldteef knows possession would allow him to unite

and that’s all that matters. Some of the Boyz even fight

all Orks. His ambitious underling Butcha Reddaxe,

like Humies, marching with better discipline than most

though, is willing to stab any back and make any deal

Militarum units. As Blood Axes aren’t above dealing

to get them first.

with Humies as well, these Orks work on being the most cunning around so they can trick their allies first and fastest.

Politics

Blood Axes, like all Orks, live for battle. That leaves little room for politics, even for the cunnin’ Kaptin Goldteef. When the storm hit, this Freebooter found

himself trapped in the system with most of his krew

Duties & Strictures u Kunnin’ over Smartz. But we’z smarta than de’s think, too.

dead. Luckily, there were plenty of Blood Axes in

u Humies are always weak in the end.

need of a leader, and thus the Gobsmasha was back

u We fight like Humies — but better cuz

in action. He still considers himself a Freebooter, but

we’z Orks.

has to admit the Axes make for a much better krew

u Da Reach belongs to us! Gotta smash

and have allowed him to make surprisingly good deals

those pointy-eared gitz. First gotta find

with Rogue Traders and even Radical Inquisitors.

’em though. u Keep fightin’ da purple things in da Space

Goldteef aims to take command of all Orks in the system and proclaim himself Reachboss. His mekboyz are slowly converting a huge asteroid deep in the Reach into a Rok for launching Waaagh! Goldteef into the Heartworlds. Should that happen, the system is likely doomed.

Hulks — it’s makin’ us stronga! u Humies is always gonna try to cheat, so cheat them first. u Gotta get those lost teef! Da Ork who has da most teef is da big boss. u Keep sneakin’ and killin’ in da hives — dat way when we attacks, we attacks from outa da sky and from under da ground! u WAAAAGH!

TRAITORS OF THE RIFT Locus of Power: No single locus, but instead many across the system

Gilead has always been rife with the taint of Chaos. It was there when the Imperium arrived and, though driven into hiding, remained after the invaders

Acting Figurehead: Each group is operating on its

claimed victory. The coming of the Noctis Aeterna has

own. For now.

invigorated numerous cults, many of whom preach

Important Writings: Blood of Gilead, The Book

Rogue Trader Varonious secretly leads them, the better

of Lorgar, The Liberating Storm (an infamous

to sow discord among Imperial lackeys.

that the Emperor is dead. Some spread rumours that

anti-Imperial leaflet), Excesses of the Senses, The True Litanies

The cults of Gilead know their power is ascending, for they only need to look into the sky to see the death of

Symbols: Chaos Star, icons of the four Ruinous

the Imperium. Their numbers are seemingly endless,

Powers, variety of secret finger and hand signals

from the glistening fleshmeisters of Ebon Chalice

unique to each cult

to the cannibalistic mutants of the Scions of Hark. The following are but a few of those who follow the

Heroes: Szarn the Red, famed gladiator of the Ravening Trials; Watto Hasturk, Gilead Prime insurrectionist leader; Shvarre Esquisina, Scentrix of the Perfumed

Orchids; Serrated Cogmaster Arch-Magos Ghelvin; Dark Apostle Maoquence

Ruinous Powers, even if unknowingly.

u Gilead Libertas: A rebellious conspiracy on Ostia

cults have spread rumours that he used blasphemous

seeking to overthrow Imperial rule. They believe

rites and appeasements to the Ruinous Powers to

they act for Gilead’s betterment, but a Daemon

pierce the Rift. The main power of cults, though, is

Prince of Tzeentch wields their puppet strings.

their hidden nature: anyone could secretly belong to one, and could call on other disguised allies at any

u Order of the Serrated Cog: These Hereteks on Avachrus gestate scrap code embedded with plague-litanies to spread the Logic of Decay.

time. Wherever there are Humans, there are cultists, no matter where in Gilead you look.

FACTIONS

Relationships

PATRONS

u The Crimson Spikes: A brutal cult boiling in

Needless to say, all Imperial Factions are anathema to

Enoch’s Ravening Trials, where each gladiator’s

traitors, especially for Chaos Space Marine warbands.

kill becomes an offering to the Blood God.

The Faithful Writ, in particular, are known to seek out Ministorum followers for extended tortures. Possibly

u The Faithful Writ: The most powerful of the Chaos

the only Factions traitor cults hate more than Imperials

Space Marine warbands remaining in the system,

are other cults; the Silken Exsanguination saw an

primarily due to its great numbers of Possessed.

entire hive implode during one clash between rival

These Word Bearers operate from an asteroid deep

sects. Xenos like the Aeldari have little interaction

in the Reach using archaeotech teleporters linked

with traitors, but for secretive reasons these ancient

to hidden beacons scattered across Gilead.

aliens hate some cults more than others.

u The Perfumed Orchids: These Slaaneshi pleasure

CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

The greatest allies of traitors are their fellow outcasts:

cultists permeate several hives on Gilead Primus

mutants, pirates, hive gangers, scum, and others who

and Brassyl. The many nobles who are senior

see little desire for Imperial law. Psykers are perhaps

members ensure none dare question its purpose

the greatest prize and with the loss of the Black Ships,

and are thus able to seduce new adherents with

their numbers are growing. Rumour has it that those

near impunity.

imprisoned within the Ironwatch are sharing their

Training

BACKGROUNDS

pain to form a collective mentality, perhaps generating enough power to directly pierce the Immaterium.

Those who dare stand against Imperial dogma must first hide their ways through stealth and deception. Later, after the secrets of the True Gods and the evils of the False Emperor are imparted, they learn to teach others through cunning and persuasion, and to even intimidate when necessary to achieve their aims. Violence is often employed, especially when a

Duties & Strictures

cult is discovered, so many train their adherents in the

u Death to the False Emperor!

ways of combat and martial arts. Those gifted with

u Trust only your Brethren.

psychic powers may also learn to harness their mental

u Spread the True Word.

blessings, the better to smite the lackeys who would

u After learning of the cult, each initiate either

thwart Humanity future.

Politics

Though their means are as varied as their beliefs, all

joins or dies. There is no middle ground. u Every day, seek to open the eyes of just one person, liberate one mind from the shackles of Imperial screed.

traitors share a common goal: the downfall of Imperial

u Gilead is dead. Do you want to die with it?

rule in Gilead. The embrace of the Eternal Storm means

u Turn from the lost Imperium. The Future

that loyalist cries for help go unanswered; they remain trapped as daemons leer at them from the night skies. It is a moment many cults have waited for centuries to occur. Though political tactics are rare for cults, they do

is Ours! u Blood for the Blood God! Skulls for the Skull Throne! u Find, Recruit, Teach, Revolt.

employ them when beneficial. Many Gileadians do not trust Rogue Trader Varonius, for example, and several

PATRONS The Imperium’s feudal structure still preserves, despite

Most of the Patrons presented in this chapter are

the Gilead System’s isolation. Those at the top of the

citizens of the Imperium, and the major figureheads of

fractured hierarchy determine much of the lives of

specific Factions in the Gilead System. These Patrons

those below. Each has their own plans to battle back

can be split into two major groups: the Heartworld

the Great Rift’s darkness, or use the endless night to

Sovereigns, and the Circlet Council. The remaining

their advantage.

Patrons are Xenos, or Renegades.

The Patrons are presented for Gamemasters to use

Heartworld Sovereigns

to deliver missions to their players, or for players to choose as part of building their Framework. These

In the three years since the emergence of the Great Rift, the sovereign rulers of the Gilead System’s worlds

Patrons drive the political designs of each of the

have publically deferred to Lord-Militant Fylamon,

Factions covered in the previous chapter, in addition

whilst privately pursuing their own goals.

to the two Patrons detailed in the Wrath & Glory Rulebook. There is nothing to stop a party of Agents having more than one Patron, and a Patron wouldn’t

shift to Jakel Varonius — amongst other grim

truly be powerful if they relied on a single party of

happenstance — has left these rulers scrambling for

Agents. The goals of two Patrons may not align, and

power, employing diverse groups that can tackle the

indeed may be in opposition to one another, so the

myriad threats to their precarious positions, and keep

Agents should be careful who they work for, and what

tabs on their Imperial allies.

information they share.

These worlds are their home, and the recent power

The Heartworld Sovereigns are Archdeacon Merramar Clade of the Ecclesiarchy, ruler of the shrine world Enoch, Archdomina Axekra Vakuul of the Adeptus Mechanicus, ruler of the Forge World Avachrus, Master

BACKGROUNDS

Eshgar Quintus Lorae of the Administratum, ruler of the Agri World Ostia, and Lord-Militant Fylamon, ruler of Gilead Primus.

FACTIONS

The Circlet Council

PATRONS

Though all Imperial forces in the Gilead System ostensibly report to Jakel Varonius, the Rogue Trader

CHARACTER OPTIONS

fights against both traditional power structures and the private schemes of the powerful individuals that

ENDEAVOURS

lead other Factions. To that end he has created the Circlet Council, gathering the leaders of Factions in the Gilead System and — when possible — the Heartworld Sovereigns to discuss matters of importance and organise their collaborative actions. Though each of these figures works to aid the Gilead System, they have the undeniable power to do so however they

ARCHDEACON MERRAMAR CLADE

choose, and employ groups that fit their particular mindset to do their bidding.

Achdeacon Merramar Clade has led the Enochian Synod, and therefore served as the preeminent spiritual leader

The Circlet Council is made up of Rogue Trader Jakel

of all Gilead, for more than five decades. Softened by

Varonius, Novator Octavia Omincara, Ordo Malleus

a long life of luxury and the Rejuvenat treatments

Inquisitor Tytrona Dikaisune, Brevet Captain Akahir,

that have prolonged it, Clade’s deep and resounding

and Canoness Jeanne Grace d’Emysa. The Heartworld

voice carries with it the full weight and splendour of

Sovereigns are invited to attend all meetings of the

the Ecclesiarch. He achieved his rank not through faith

Circlet Council.

alone, but also through resilience and cunning. The relationship between the Adeptus Ministorum and the Adeptus Astartes is often strained, but the shrine to Tygranus Dalir provides common holy ground for

Dishonest Patrons

the Enochian Synod and the Absolvers Chapter. In this current age, Clade prioritises this relationship more than ever, for he knows that Enoch’s fanes are tempting

It’s common for Patrons to omit information,

targets for the traitors and heretics who gather in the

conceal the full truth, or even flat-out lie to

Reach, and even bubble up from the system’s fetid

their agents about agendas, risks, and other

underworld. Meanwhile, the Archdeacon takes for

aspects of the tasks and missions they assign.

granted that the Battle Sisters of the Sanctified Shield

Some of the Frameworks in this section

will always remain at his beck and call.

can take this to a pretty extreme level, even obscuring the true identity of the agents’

From the luxurious spires of the Bastion-Basilica of

Patron. As always, it’s a good idea to get

Saint Urchaeus, Merramar Clade looks down about

buy-in from all players before introducing

the heaving and desperate masses. He is not oblivious

any element that might prove frustrating or

to their suffering, but he knows that suffering is

controversial. For groups who have played

cleansing. His public addresses, safely vox-cast from

together for a long time and are comfortable

within the basilica, extort the masses to face their

with the approach, however, concealing such

suffering stoically, for the current challenges are but

a twist from the players, as well as their

a test set by the Emperor. As conditions worsen on

characters, can make for a dramatic reveal.

Enoch, he grows more relentless in calls to despise the weak and faithless.

To his most trusted staff and bishops — often after

Though Merramar Clade can forgive much among

several glasses of amasec — Clade laments that the

capable agents, he has no stomach for overt

greatest test is to himself, that his suffering is the

blasphemy. The occasional flippant comment toward

greatest. After all, his duty is to safeguard the souls of

spiritual matters might earn only a passing rebuke,

all Enoch, indeed of all Gilead. Their tests are his own.

but disrespect for the Ministorum or the Emperor can have more permanent consequences.

Agents of the Ecclesiarchy

The Archdeacon offers his agents the greatest reward

Clade has long required the talents of skilled,

imaginable: service to the Emperor and the blessing

trustworthy and discreet agents, but since the

of the Ecclesiarchy. Still, he sees the benefit in

emergence of Cicatrix Maledictum, this need is greater

providing temporal assets to benefit agents in future

than ever before. Some agents have served Clade for

missions, and so opens up the boundless coffers of

years, and their handiwork invisibly marks the ascent

Enoch to those who serve well. In addition to Wealth,

of his career. Most have come into his service in the

Clade can provide rare Wargear and much-sought-

last few years, since the dark days of Noctis Aeterna.

after ammo secured through his allies within the

Clade prefers always to trust tasks to pious, righteous

Departmento Munitorum.

citizens, but recognises that some deeds are better left to those whose hands are already soiled. For such regrettable missions, Clade tolerates the Scum of the

Framework: Sinful Tools

There are many tasks with which Archdeacon Clade

Imperium, even, on occasion, a scavvy who shows the

cannot afford to sully the proud servants of the

proper remorse and loathing for their sinful existence.

Ministorum and its militant allies; that’s where you

Enoch’s

gleaming Crusaders and bombastic preachers cannot.

Archdeacon Clade has need of versatile, agile groups of

You move subtly among the masses and root out

come in. As easily deniable assets, you go where defenders

are

stretched

thin,

and

agents to secure his interests on Enoch and across the

blasphemers and heretics, perhaps by demonstrating

system. Clade assigns tasks based on the skills and,

your own sinful ways.

more importantly perhaps, reputations of his agents. Crusaders, Adepta Sororitas, and other pious warriors

Whether you subscribe to the notion or not, Clade

— even a handful of somewhat uncomfortable Adeptus

expects you to show remorse for your sinful ways,

Astartes — are tasked with defending Ministorum

treating your missions as penance. Should you be

officials or holdings across the system, or making

captured by Imperial authorities or the enemies of

public examples of heretics and traitors. More discreet

Humanity, you are expected to die for the Emperor

agents might move among Enoch’s pilgrims and

before revealing the Archdeacon’s secrets. In some

fishing communities, watching for signs of heresy and

cases, the Archdeacon prefers members of other

sedition.

Factions, partially to ensure no stain on the reputation of the Ecclesiarchy, partially to ensure he has double

For the most sensitive missions, such as spying

agents in other organisations.

on rivals and suspected blasphemers within the Imperium’s organisations, Clade needs agents he can

Example Missions:

easily disavow in the light of day. With the system isolated, it is more important than ever that Clade

u Earn the respect — and loyalty — of the reclusive

stays aware of the doings of his rivals and potential

Sanguine Rain Death Cult by participating in their

enemies within the halls of power. In particular, the

grisly rites.

Archdeacon fears that the Tech-Priests of Avachrus are taking advantage of the unrest and uncertainty in

the annual cherubim promised by ancient pact.

the delicate balance of power that has existed between

Find out what they are making instead — and

the two Adeptus for so many millennia. Of course, this

destroy it.

means Clade must fight doubly hard to suppress the blasphemous creed of the so-called Omnissiah.

u The Avachran Bio-Forge of Corex has not delivered

Gilead to undermine faith in the Ministorum and upset

LIMITATIONS Must not have the ADEPTUS MINISTORUM Keyword, XENOS Keyword, or CHAOS Keyword; Tier 2 or below.

BACKGROUNDS

WARGEAR

FACTIONS A prayer wafer laced with poison.

PATRONS

BONUS Increase your Determination value by +1.

CHARACTER OPTIONS

Framework: Blessed Exemplars

ENDEAVOURS

Beacons of righteousness and valour, you travel the system enacting the dictates of the Ecclesiarchy and bringing retribution to the Emperor’s enemies.

Wherever you perceive blasphemy, you have the Archdeacon’s blessing to expose and punish it —

ARCHDOMINA AXEKRA VAKUUL

within the constraints of political reality, of course. As his public agents, Archdeacon Clade expects you to

In the power vacuum left by Princeps Ultima Gol

live up to every Imperial ideal and inspire the masses

Bessor’s disappearance, Archdomina Axekra Vakuul

through your glorious deeds.

proclaimed herself regent of all Avachrus. Despite Vakuul’s assurances that she will step down in the

Example Missions:

unlikely event of Bessor’s return, this represented a drastic increase in authority for one who previously

u The blasphemous ravings of someone known as

governed a single foundry-city.

‘the Voice’ are agitating the residents of one of Enoch’s temporary encampments. Root out this

Vakuul is surprisingly young for a Magos of such

heretic and drag them to the pyre.

influence, being a scant four centuries of age. She is nonetheless overwhelmingly cybernetic, with only a

u The masses need a demonstration of Imperial

hint of desiccated skin to betray her fleshly origins. The

might to renew their faith. Travel to the Reach

reasons for this are aspirational as much as practical;

and bring back the helmet of the piratical Heretic

Vakuul knows the flesh to be weak, and she despises

Astartes called Athrakesh the Disemboweler.

weakness. For Vakuul, ambition is a drive second in strength only to the Motive Force that propels her steel

LIMITATIONS

limbs.

Must have the IMPERIUM Keyword. Must not have the SCUM Keyword. Tier 2 or above.

Even before recent events, Axekra Vakuul had a reputation for ambition among the more politically minded Tech-Priests of Avachrus. She is ruthless in

WARGEAR A cherubim or laud-hailer for the group. BONUS +1 Bonus Dice to Persuasion (Fel) Tests against characters with the IMPERIUM Keyword, unless they have the ADEPTUS MECHANICUS Keyword or ADEPTUS ASTARTES Keywords.

the drive for greater efficiency and output. The TechAdepts, and later Magos, serving below her are familiar with her driving maxim: ‘Be ever forging.’ Some fellow Magos Dominus quietly wonder if even ruling over all Avachrus and its satellites is enough to sate Vakuul.

With no prospect of obtaining raw materials and resources from beyond the system, Vakuul has taken actions to further secure the Adeptus Mechanicus’

Agents of the Mechanicus

The Adeptus Mechanicus is famously insular and

(and her own) iron grip on Gilead’s resources. She has

secretive. It provides its own soldiers, war machines,

quietly bolstered the numbers of Tech-Priests servicing

spiritual guidance, and expertise. In effect, the Martian

the smelters and mining equipment of Gilead’s moons

Priesthood is an empire within the Imperium — almost

Anval and Skaelas, while ‘offering’ to overtake

wholly self-sufficient. As a consequence, the Magos

administration of both satellites. Her mechadendrites

of the Mechanicus rarely turn outward from their

are also involved in the establishment of Servo-Farms

own organisation for assistance. Whether due to the

on Ostia, and other efforts to ensure the system’s food

newfound pressures of existence in the Imperium

supply rests in turn on the Adeptus Mechanicus

Nihilus or to her razor-honed ambition, Archdomina

Vakuul recognises Jakel Varonius’s influence in the

Aeterna, Vakuul has increasingly relied on a variety of

system. Perhaps more importantly, she sees that the

servants and mercenaries from outside Avachrus, or

Varonius Dynasty may represent the system’s best

outside the Mechanicus entirely, to accomplish her goals.

Vakuul is an exception. Since the days of the Noctis

chance of re-establishing contact with the Imperium. For this reason, she sees him as key to ensuring

Vakuul’s agents often undertake missions for which

her continued dominance of Avachrus should this

she cannot rely on skitarii squads or other officially

come to pass or — even less likely according to her

sanctioned Adeptus Mechanicus forces. This may be

calculations — should Gol Bessor reappear. However,

to avoid conflict with other Imperial organisations

the Archdomina is far too logical to rely on a Rogue

or even to avoid scrutiny from her fellow Magii. For

Trader’s loyalty to secure her future. Accordingly, she

such purposes, Vakuul prefers to include Tech-Priests,

has begun to covertly investigate Jekal’s activities and

unattached Skitarii, and other members of the Adeptus

the history of the Varonius Dynasty.

Mechanicus among other agents to ensure the job is done efficiently. For sensitive missions, she ensures

To gain Varonius’s favour, Vakuul makes a show

these assets cannot be officially connected to her. For

of providing whatever technological resources or

missions that do not require such clandestine measures,

expertise he requires, while asking for little in return.

Vakuul prefers to rely on proven and trusted Adeptus

It is, she says, for the good of the system. In particular,

Mechanicus’ agents. However, she is open to ‘joint

the Archdomina has gladly provided Tech-Priests and

operations’ with other Imperial operatives, particularly

servitors as part of Varonius’s overtures to the High

when she can be certain of their loyalty. Agents who

King of Nethreus. This serves Vakuul’s interests just

serve well can expect to receive rare and high-quality

as well; it is only right to foster alliance between

weapons, armour, and tools generally available only

Avachrus and the pilots of those sacred war machines

to the Mechanicus. Those who sacrifice their bodies

known as Knights. With the Legio Karuthos absent,

for the mission — or vocally share Vakuul’s views

the Knights could fill an important gap in the Adeptus

on the weakness of flesh — might receive advanced

Mechanicus’ forces in the event of open conflict with

cybernetic replacements. For agents who truly and

enemies from beyond the system — or within.

continuously impress the Archdomina, she may bestow such gifts of technological marvels as only a

Thanks to her eyes and ears across the system, it has

powerful Magos can access.

not escaped the Archdomina’s notice that these times

try the faith of many Imperial citizens, and in this, she

To Axekra Vakuul, her agents are tools. Like any tool,

sees opportunity. The Emperor, in his guise preached by

they may be damaged or lost in the course of their

the Ecclesiarchy, seems more distant than ever, while

use. While she may view all her agents as disposable

the sacred machines of the Omnissiah sustain the lives

to varying degrees, she is preferential to those of

of countless in Gilead each day. While Ministorum

the Adeptus Mechanicus. After all, by virtue of their

Priests laud the Emperor’s divine guidance for bringing

induction into the Martian Priesthood, they are clearly

the Varonius Flotilla safely to Gilead, Vakuul points to

superior specimens. This is not to say, however,

a more tangible divine presence — the Warp engines

that Vakuul throws away capable agents on suicide

and Geller Fields that delivered the mighty ships.

missions, or needlessly abandons them to danger. To do so would be gravely inefficient, an unforgivable sin in the Archdomina’s visual sensors.

Framework: Mechavangelists

Framework: Hammer and/ or Anvil

Archdomina Vakuul employs to achieve clandestine

efficiency, you are a team of cybernetic warriors

aims. You might spy on Adeptus Ministorum and

and specialists tasked with enforcing the will of the

other Imperial operations across the system. While

Omnissiah. Your missions might take you into hostile

the scope and details of your missions vary, your

territory to reclaim archeotech from the depths of the

underlying purpose is to subtly spread the word of the

space hulk Persephone’s Regret or to visit justice on

You are a motley team from disparate origins, which

Hand-picked

for

your

toughness

and

ruthless

Omnissiah across the system, while chipping away at

a heretek cabal of the Voidmire. Within the bounds

the population’s blind faith in the Adeptus Ministorum.

of Gilead, you may be called upon to defend Adeptus Mechanicus holdings from traitorous rebels, invading

Example Missions:

xenos, and even rival Imperial operatives.

u Archdeacon Merramar Clade relies on an anti-

Example Missions:

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

grav rostrum and a network of vox-linked laud hailers to deliver his sermons to Enoch’s faithful.

u Auspex scans of the Space Hulk Persephone’s

To remind both the diocese and the masses of

Regret have been made on behalf of the Absolvers

their reliance on the Omnissiah’s gifts, ensure the

on their mission to purge a xenos infestation. The

machine spirits of these systems refuse to provide

scans revealed a vessel from the Dark Age of

their services on the upcoming holy day known as

Technology intertwined with the Hulk. Infiltrate it

Deliverance.

whilst avoiding the Astartes purge and eliminating any xenos that stand in your path, and retrieve any

u Earn the esteem and trust of Inquisitor Tytrona

archaeotech that remains intact.

Dikaisune so that she brings you into her organisation. It is imperative that Archdomina

u The so-called Harvest Keepers of Ostia have

Vakuul is aware of the Inquisitor’s doings in the

begun chaining themselves to threshers and

system, and that they do not threaten the interests

other machines, and even sabotaging these tools

of Avachrus..

provided by the Omnissiah. Remind these heretics, and their leader, the Harvest Smith, to show

LIMITATIONS

proper reverence.

Must not have the AELDARI or ORK Keywords.

LIMITATIONS

WARGEAR

Must have the ADEPTUS MECHANICUS Keyword.

A servo-skull for the group.

WARGEAR

BONUS

A combat servitor for the group.

+1 bonus die to Persuasion (Fel) Tests against characters with the IMPERIUM Keyword.

BONUS +2 Bonus Dice to Influence Tests made when requisitioning Wargear from the Adeptus Mechanicus.

The Sortium-Lord is largely traditional and reliant on protocol, but he recognises the current situation is unprecedented. Still, he works to ensure operations on Ostia continue as usual as much as possible. Lorae knows full well that any perceived deviation from protocol, no matter how justified, provides a ready weapon for ambitious subordinates hoping to take advantage of the tumultuous era to unseat him.

Agents of the Administratum

Eshgar Quintus Lorae has always relied on the properly appointed Administratum personnel to undertake any task he needed. Ever a patient man, More than once

has Lorae waited years for his requests to be processed — longer, when input was needed from subsectorlevel officials. As much as he adheres to protocol,

MASTER ESHGAR QUINTUS LORAE

Without astropathic communication, certain actions

Master Lorae is a well-fed man of advanced age, his

strain of isolation, Lorae finds himself averse to even

Lorae recognises that the realities of existence in the wake of the Cicatrix Maledictum are unprecedented. simply cannot be done by the hallowed books. And as Gilead’s institutions crack ever more under the

features softened by the Rejuvenat treatment available

relying on the masters of Gilead Primus to approve

to one of his means. His skull is studded with cranial

his activities. It is in these circumstances that Lorae

plugs for interfacing with the ancient machines that

has found himself seeking assistance outside of his

record and collate data pertaining to Ostia’s crop yields.

own organisation, capable and proactive individuals

The Sortium-Lord invariably appears in the somber

who get results unencumbered by the wheels of

grey robes of a senior adept, fastidiously arranged and

bureaucracy — a notion that terrifies many hidebound

in pristine condition. As with everything Lorae does,

Administratum adepts!

this is as much for the sake of his own reputation as to set an example for subordinates.

Despite the change in his outlook in the past few years,

Although beneath the senior prefects of Gilead Primus

views protocol with the spiritual reverence endemic

within the Administratum hierarchy, the master of the

to his organisation. For this reason, he does not

Lorae’s life is dedicated to the Administratum, and he

Sortium has always commanded a remarkable level of

tolerate any violation of Imperial laws or regulations

respect and authority throughout the system due to

among. Wherever possible, he contrives a bureaucratic

the importance of Ostia’s food exports. Since the birth

loophole to allow for the ‘outsourced’ work, even

of the Imperium Nihilus, this importance has only

leaving such matters to the more legal-minded agents

grown, and with it, both the influence and scrutiny

when possible. Other missions exist in a sort of grey

drawn by Lorae.

area between the oft-contradictory regulations and protocols of the Adeptus. Lorae sleeps well having done

Master Lorae feels no pity for Ostia’s labourers. Every

due diligence by submitting a request for clarification

citizen of the Imperium has their place, and it is vital

to the subsector authorities, even if he knows such

for the function of society that each person do their

requests will never reach past the Cicatrix Maledictum.

work diligently and not question that place. To do

otherwise is to doubt the Emperor’s divine plan. To

Lorae’s agents primarily operate on Ostia and its

that end, Lorae treats the nobility of the Agri World

satellites, whether investigating reports of laxity

in much the same manner, as spoilt, primitive children

among agri-labourers or examining discrepancies

beholden to him. He allows them enough of their own

between crop yield and export weight. The continued

tithes to relish positions and power and ensures they

protection of the Crown of Blades is paramount, and

serve His mighty bureaucracy.

the Sortium-Lord treats even the scantest rumour of a

threat to its proper functioning as the highest priority. Because the Sortium relies so much on the Adeptus

LIMITATIONS

Ministorum and Adeptus Mechanicus for the smooth operation of Ostia’s farms, he may assign agents to

Must have the ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM Keyword.

see after the interests of these organisations on Ostia

WARGEAR

and abroad. As

Sortium-Lord

Ostia,

Eshgar

Lorae

has

considerable resources at his disposal. Loyal agents can expect to consistently dine well. Lorae’s pull within the Administratum and his contacts within the Departmento Munitorum can obtain virtually any Wargear in standard use in Gilead for agents who consistently impress him.

BACKGROUNDS

A Symbol of Authority with the ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM Keyword (badge depicting a quill stylised as a sword) for each individual.

FACTIONS

BONUS

PATRONS

+1 Bonus Dice to Scholar (Int) Tests pertaining to the Administratum or bureaucracy. You gain the ADEPTUS ADMINISTRATUM Keyword if you do not already have it.

Framework: Paper Punishers

Framework: Troubleshooters

charged to uncover bureaucratic heresy among the

of Master Lorae, which can take you anywhere on

Sortium and empowered to deal with the perpetrators

Ostia and beyond. These missions often fall outside

Master Lorae has deputised you as auditors extremis,

CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

You undertake a variety of missions at the behest

as you see fit. This includes everything from breaches

the bounds of official Administratum business, and

of protocol to laxity. Even such crimes as theft of

just as often serve to reinforce Lorae’s personal

Imperial property are your purview, as Master Lorae

interests. This could mean gathering information on

prefers not to trouble the Adeptus Arbites with such

a rival Sortium Adept or paying tribute to a Magos

matters during these uncertain times. Though you

of Avachrus.

have the official backing of the Sortium’s master, he expects you to operate with discretion so as not

Example Missions:

to cause undue disruption among the ranks of the Administratum. You may even operate undercover,

u You

are

conduct

unscheduled

and

taking on (or continuing) a role within the bureaucracy

unannounced test of the Crown of Blades’

of the Sortium.

defenses. An unmarked, heavily armoured system

Example Missions:

course, to ensure the validity of the test, you must

patrol craft will be provided for your use. Of hold nothing back in your attempt to breach the u The long-forbidden Nonstandard Form G-33a-

perimeter. The defense crews certainly won’t!

delta Version XIII has mysteriously reentered circulation. Several scribes have already been

u Infiltrate a community under the sway of the

driven mad by its paradoxical filing instructions.

Harvest Keepers and turn them against the

Find the heretic responsible and eliminate them.

heretical ideals of the so-called Harvest Smith.

u Master Lorae has noted an increase in expenditures for common officio materiel — auto-quills, ink, parchment, parchment binders, and so on. He suspects that one or more Adepts may be engaged in the theft and sale of Administratum property. This is akin to stealing from the Emperor’s own hand, and warrants execution should you uncover the culprits.

LIMITATIONS Must have the IMPERIUM Keyword. WARGEAR A sharpened auto-quill with a reservoir of deadly toxin. BONUS +1 Bonus Dice to quen requisitioning Adeptus Administratum.

Influence Wargear

Tests from

made the

only fuelled the rumours, only a handful could say. To speak frankly of the Novator may earn her displeasure, however, which is enough to deter even Jakel Varonius. Those that Omincara deigns to ‘meet’ with inevitably find themselves in the company of one of her many Navigator consuls, all uniformly outfitted with a cathedral-esque vox headset of her own design so that they may relay her commands. As the mistress of House Omincara, Lady Octavia is responsible for its continued survival and success. This remains, as ever, her primary motivation. Even in this dark age, she looks always for opportunities to advance Omincara’s interests, and raise the House’s reputation and influence. In fact, she has become more conniving than ever to ensure House Omincara’s future

NOVATOR OCTAVIA OMINCARA

survival and prosperity. With every passing day the Gilead System remains cut off from the wider Imperium, the importance of Navigators shrinks in the eyes of captains, governors, and generals. With no prospect of Warp travel, it would seem there is little immediate need for Navigators. Lady Octavia is counting on these

While Jakel Varonius claims the mantle of saviour of

assumptions to keep her actions undetected.

the system, it is the Lady Octavia Eceded Omincara, Novator of House Omincara of the Navis Nobilite,

Octavia knows she could not repeat the feat of passing

whose actions allowed for the current political situation

through the Great Rift, and so is quite certain no

in Gilead. Whether any other Navigator could navigate

Navigator within the system could either. Lest they

the Straits of Andraste remains to be seen, but that

waste their lives — or worse, affirm the view that

Lady Octavia accomplished this deed is undeniable.

Navigators are no longer needed — Novator Omincara

Since the Varonius flotilla’s arrival three years ago,

has forbidden the scions of her own House from any

Novator Omincara has been largely content to remain

attempt to travel the Straits of Andraste. She can make

in the background while Jakel Varonius claims brash

no such decree to the Navigators of other Houses, and

deeds and forges alliances across the system. This

instead relies on the telling of her own harrowing

does not mean she is idle.

experience to dissuade them. Still, some Navigators seem determined to attempt the impossible. For these,

Lady Octavia is inhumanly tall and lean, possessed

Octavia must consider other methods.

of a range of motion far beyond that allowed by the

number of joints in the holy Human form. That is,

For Octavia, maintaining the unique privilege of the

at least, according to some stories. Others claim she

Navis Nobilite is of utmost importance, and so she

is soft and sinuous, with gills that process oxygen-

works constantly to remind the rulers of Gilead that

rich nutrient baths the way ordinary folk breathe air.

their only hope for contacting the Imperium (and

The tales all agree that Lady Octavia’s form is deeply

reestablishing the interstellar trade that is so vital to

aberrant from the Human norm, but these are all surely

their own purses and interests) lies in the Navigators.

falsehoods — as a select few members of the Varonius

At the same time, Novator Omincara seeks to elevate

household know, Omincara is certainly Human, yet

her House’s reputation among others. To both ends,

eerily different in an undefinable way. Regardless of

the fact of her successful journey through the Great

the veracity of these stories, it is undeniable that few

Rift serves as a powerful tool. The Novator is quick to

have ever stood in the Novator’s presence, and even

remind other members of the Circlet Council, but seldom

fewer have seen her outside her opaque meditation

has cause to meet with other notables of the system. As

chamber or the navigation blister that hangs above

a notoriously private Navigator, she can scarcely afford

the bridge of the Ducal Circlet. Whether this is due

to look desperate by travelling from world to world for

to her physical form, or her penchant for privacy has

social occasions. Nonetheless, Octavia considers it vital

to maintain good relations between the Navis Nobilite

organisations. For agents operating openly, missions

and the Adeptus Mechanicus and Administratum in

might include favours for other Imperial potentates

the system. The Adeptus Ministorum, unfortunately,

and organizations, whether as part of existing pacts or

she sees as a lost cause; even in the most favorable

to set the foundation for future alliances. None know

conditions, the Ecclesiarchy considers Navigators a

of her clandestine goal to craft her own simulacrum

barely tolerable necessity.

of the Astronomican, though many are engaged in capturing psykers that she might pursue this fools

The suspicion of Navigators is not, in this case,

errand. Ostensibly, she collects powerful individuals

unfounded. Be it through exposure to the malign

linked to the Empyrean both for research and to assist

influence of the Empyrean when travelling through

the Adeptus Astra Telepathica, but few are ever heard

the

from again after they are brought to the Navator of

discommunication from the light of the Astronomican,

House Omincara, who rewards the discretion of her

or a simple lust for power, Omincara is using the unique

psyker hunters well.

Great

Rift,

nervous

breakdown

due

opportunities afforded by the Gilead System’s isolation to mount a grand and arcane scheme. Omincara is

A Navigator House’s fortune is built most importantly

attempting to create a simulacrum of the Emperor’s

on its mastery of the Empyrean tides. Agents might

Astronomican to bring His light to the darkness of

be despatched to vaults secreted deep within the

the Imperium Nihilus, fabricating her own ill-fated

hives of Gilead Primus, or to derelicts trapped within

facsimile of the Golden Throne, and gathering psykers

Persephone’s Regret, to obtain ancient Warp charts

to sacrifice to improve her own psychic capabilities.

or navigational archaeotech. And rumours persist

This misguided mission is certainly doomed to fail, but

that the fabled Cosmolabe Empyrius lies somewhere

the Navigator keeps her plans secret, and wields much

beneath the black stone of Uru.

power from the shadows.

Agents of the Navigator

Framework: In Plain Sight

Omincara requires trustworthy and capable agents

Omincara, undertaking myriad visible tasks for

To safeguard the interests of her House, Novator

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

You are respectable vassals and allies of House

to enact her will beyond the confines of her Sanctum

Lady Octavia. Your missions often take you to the

Navis. As the matriarch of an ancient House of the

outskirts of the system, as Navigators begin the long,

Navis Nobilite, Lady Octavia possesses access to vast

arduous, and dangerous task of studying the Great

resources, including any number of servants, guards,

Rift or attempting to map the Straits of Andraste. You

and other official staff. Beyond this, she often requires

might be called upon to serve for a lengthy term in the

operatives for tasks both overt and discreet.

retinue of a House Omincara Navigator as bodyguards, advisors, and diplomats. Your personal reputations

Novator Omincara treats most of her agents with polite

are as important as your work, as your every action

distance. Only her most trusted agents can expect to

reflects on the Navis Nobilite.

receive their instructions from Lady Octavia directly, and even then, probably from the vox units mounted

Example Missions:

outside the velvet curtains of her isolation pod. Most agents receive their tasks from intermediaries, possibly

u Owing to a matter of honor, Argo Omincara has

scribed on dataslates or spoken in hushed voices,

challenged Caliope Taliandru to that most rare and

depending on the sensitivity of the work at hand. It is

ancient practice of the Navigator’s duel. Protect

a common belief among her servants that the Novator

Argo before the duel and ensure the duplicitous

sees much that happens outside her presence, and so

Taliandru do not try to gain any unfair advantage.

they are dutifully obedient at all times, and urge her agents to do the same.

u The Magos of Avachrus have provided House Omincara with the use of a survey vessel,

Lady Octavia calls upon her agents for all manner of

possessed of rare and ancient instruments to

missions intended to bolster House Omincara. Those

monitor the flux of the Warp. Accompany and

with a knack for stealth might be tasked with gathering

protect Hera Omincara as she probes the Straits

information on or stealing secrets from rival Navigator

of Andraste.

houses, such as Taliandru, and other Imperial

LIMITATIONS Any character with the IMPERIUM Keyword. WARGEAR One Rare item for each individual (the item must be something worn openly and visibly). BONUS Gain the NAVIS NOBILITE Keyword.

Framework: Third Eye, Blind

Unseen and unacknowledged, you perform the tasks

ORDO MALLEUS INQUISITOR TYTRONA DIKAISUNE Inquisitor Tytrona Dikaisune is tall and imposing, and all who meet her feel the intense weight of her presence. She has spent several lifetimes battling the archenemy, a fact that none would deny when met with her withering gaze, though extensive Rejuvenat treatments and the highest quality augmetics disguise her many scars.

She seldom appears without her

ornate, heavy carapace armour and the sacred weapon

that would sully the hands of the Omincara Navigators

that symbolises her Ordo Malleus’s membership — a

and scandalise the system. Espionage, sabotage,

mighty Nemesis Daemon Hammer.

and wetwork are your trade, and your targets range from the heights of Imperial society to the heretics

Dikaisune is an experienced daemon hunter of the

of the Voidmire. You are as likely to steal secrets

Ordo Malleus, and ranged far across the sector before

and technology from rivals as to safeguard House

her arrival in Gilead not long before the opening of the

Omincara’s secrets. Your missions often have you

Great Rift. She speaks little of the matter that originally

silencing critics of the House, or those who dismiss the

brought her to Gilead, saying only that it is resolved.

importance of Navigators in the Imperium Nihilus. The

Although some wonder if this is true or she has

Novator expects your utter loyalty and any sacrifice

unfinished business in the system, none dare question

necessary to complete your tasks.

the matter further. The worthies of the system largely treat her with (justified) apprehension, but few would

Example Missions:

deny that her presence in the system is a blessing. After all, anyone who would deny the benefit of an

u The Navigator Gravin Taliandru is set on an attempt to breach the Straights of Andraste.

Ordo Malleus Inquisitor at a time when daemons walk the galaxy is surely a heretic of the worst sort.

Deter him from this foolish course of action. If it becomes necessary to confine Taliandru to House

The Inquisitor’s attentions are focused on the Cicatrix

Omincara’s dungeons — for his own good — then

Maledictum and its consequences. Cut off from the

so be it.

support of her peers and the wider Imperium, Dikaisune cannot hope to heal this great wound in reality, only to

u Jakel Varonius has been in private talks with

staunch the bleeding. Few of the Imperium’s warriors

an emissary of House Narcissus. Whatever the

are prepared to combat the daemonic, and yet to do

content of these meetings, ensure the emissary

so has become a necessity on an unprecedented scale.

does not live to continue them.

Inquisitor Dikaisune speeds from one warzone or incursion point to another, bolstering Imperial forces

LIMITATIONS Must have the IMPERIUM Keyword, Tier 3 or above. WARGEAR Any limbs or organs you lose in the course of your duties are replaced with an augmetic enhancement at the expense of House Omincara. BONUS

+1 Bonus Dice to Deception (Fel) Tests against characters with the IMPERIUM Keyword.

with her abilities and leaving what wisdom she can. In times past, Dikaisune would never countenance sharing lore so freely — mere knowledge of the daemonic was grounds for execution for most citizens. In the Gilead System, on the border of the Great Rift itself, the immediacy of the threat prohibits discretion. Tytrona Dikaisune projects an air of suspicion toward all she meets, and her actions and words usually indicate the same. She is not subtle in her scrutiny, asking pointed questions and challenging motivations.

Even longstanding allies are not immune to her

With the myriad threats facing the Gilead System,

probing queries. Tytrona intends for her presence

Inquisitor Dikaisune is forced to rely on networks of

to make those around her feel nervous, in order to

agents more than ever before. Some arrived in the

cause the guilty to slip up and reveal themself. If the

system with her, but the majority she has recruited,

occasional innocent is so thrown by Dikaisune as to

whether directly or through senior agents, since the

commit a damning mistake, that is a small price to

isolation of Gilead began. Her agents are varied in their

pay. This air of fear is compounded by Dikaisune’s

origins and approaches; any Imperial who impresses

very public and ongoing presence in the system. It is

her with their capabilities and dedication is a potential

something that none of Gilead’s leaders, even Jakel

recruit. Indeed, the line between hired mercenary

Varonius, have experience with. Most Inquisitors

and acolyte is thin. Some agents might not be sure

operate in secret, revealing themselves to the local

themselves if they are a part of the Inquisition or

authorities only at the culmination of an investigation,

merely working in the employ of Inquisitor Dikaisune.

if at all. Those Inquisitors famed and feared for their public pogroms and expurgations rarely stay in one

With their access to the wider Imperium cut off, like-

place long, always moving on to terrify and purify the

minded Inquisitors of the Imperium Nihilus must

next system or sector.

share resources more than ever. Although there are

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

only a handful of Inquisitors in the system, at most,

Agents of the InquisitorLord

working with cells that report to other Inquisitors.

Dikaisune’s agents might sometimes find themselves

The Inquisitor largely operates overtly herself, but relies on discreet acolytes to pursue investigations

Inquisitor Dikaisune is staunchly Puritanical, and

unseen and unrecorded. In this way, she commands

tolerates no deviance among her agents. Even in

the awe and respect of important personages and

these desperate times, she believes that to use the

common citizens alike, encouraging them to provide

tools of the enemy is to become the enemy. However,

her with information and suspicions. At the same time,

Dikaisune draws a clear line between the heretical

covert acolytes monitor these same cooperative citizens

and the merely illicit (to the chagrin of certain allies).

for signs of treachery. Depending on the nature of the

Certain of Dikaisune’s agents use proscribed combat

threat they uncover, Dikaisune may expect her agents

chems including, according to rumour, those dreaded

to deal with it personally, alert her, or call upon local

substances believed to be the sole purview of the

forces for backup.

Officio Assassinorum. For Inquisitor Dikaisune’s agents, the ends justify any means — save those that flirt with the corruption of Chaos.

Framework: Shadow Warriors

Framework: Kill-Team

You are an elite Kill-Team assembled by Inquisitor

As Inquisitor Dikaisune’s agents, you undertake investigations

root

out

heresy

within

Dikaisune to deal with the threats that local authorities

the

and even ordinary military forces cannot. You may

Heartworlds of Gilead. How you do this is largely

have been selected for your specialised and extensive

left to your discretion, although you cannot rely on

(and likely forbidden) knowledge or for your skill

your mistress’s name or authority. When you are not

at arms. If you have been given a mission, it means

pursuing a lead at the behest of the Inquisitor or an

that the enemy is either extraordinarily powerful or

intermediary, you are expected to proactively seek

containment measures have failed — a potent Chaos

out suspicious activity. There is no rest for a servant

sorcerer, a daemonic incursion, or a xenophile cult

of the Eye That Sleepeth Not. Although Dikaisune is

supported by alien abominations.

of the Ordo Malleus, neither she nor you can afford to discriminate in the threats you pursue. Any sign

Example Missions:

of witchcraft, the daemonic, or the xenos deserves your attention.

u Acolytes have determined Deacon Horatio Vanor of the Enochian Synod is possessed by a daemon

She expects you to judge which threats you can purge

of the Warp. Banish the unholy being and destroy

on your own, and which require the support of local

all evidence, no matter the cost, lest the terrible

authorities. For truly apocalyptic threats, you know

truth unleash calamity among the masses.

the vox frequencies, astropathic ducts, and clearance ciphers to call in an Inquisition Kill-Team. You also

u An informant has revealed the presence of an

know that abusing this privilege might see you heaped

ancient weapon of great power, the Soul Lance,

on the pyre as well as your foes.

secreted within a vault on Avachrus. Retrieve this archeotech artefact or, if necessary, destroy it lest

LIMITATIONS Must not have the CHAOS or ORK Keywords, Tier 2 or below. WARGEAR None. BONUS +1 Bonus Dice on Deception (Fel) Tests against characters with the IMPERIUM Keyword.

Example Missions:

any other lay claim.

LIMITATIONS Must have the IMPERIUM Keyword, Tier 3 or above. WARGEAR A Symbol of Authority with the INQUISITION Keyword for each member of the group. BONUS +1 Bonus Dice on Tests against characters with the CHAOS Keyword

u A series of grisly deaths in the lower reaches of Hive Ammon on Gilead Primus requires investigation. The local enforcers, already stretched thin, attribute the mutilated bodies to gang war, but the consistency of the violence is the hallmark

Summon the Kill-Team

of ritual murder. Determine if some malefic cult is

The groups of Shadow Warriors Dikaisune

behind the deeds, and to what ends.

employs

are

each

gifted

the

necessary

clearance ciphers to summon one of her Kill-

u Rumours speak of individuals gathering at the

Teams when needed. This does not necessarily

strange xenos ruins of Ostia under the dark of

mean the GM will be running the Kill-Team as

night to enact profane rites. Discover if this is a

a group of NPCs — if your group are feeling

divergent custom of the local religion, a xenophile

creative, you might like to create an entirely

cult, or something even worse.

new party of higher Tier characters and play as the Kill-Team yourselves!

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

BREVET CAPTAIN AKAHIR

Akahir has shown a greater knack for diplomacy than many of his Battle-Brothers. He tolerates much of the politicking and debate of the Circlet Council with stony

Though he stands barely over 7-ft tall, Brevet

silence before voicing his opinion with both tact and

Captain Akahir looms large among the Astartes of

finality. Still, relations between the Absolvers and the

the Absolvers Chapter. The inscrutable ritual scarring

Varonius Dynasty are tense. Absolvers are known for

popular amongst the Absolvers intermingles with

their inflexibility, and Akahir must constantly struggle

the twisted scars Akahir earned through battling

to cope with the evanescent whims of the humans on

daemons, attesting to the violence of his three years

the Circlet Council. If he discovered that Jakel consorts

of service. His dark skin has been stretched thin over

with xenos, it would certainly end their cooperation,

his enhanced transhuman form since he became an

and may even lead to bloodshed. Akahir does find

Astartes, his only imperfection a patchwork augmetic

some common ground with the cold efficiency of

eye installed midway through the battle for Villum

Archdomina Vakuul, and the turmoil of the current

Fundus.

age has strengthened bonds between the Absolvers and Avachrus. It is vital for Akahir to maintain and

Captain Akahir and Jakel Varonius are linked by

bolster this relationship, as the Absolvers rely on

the infamous distress signal sent by the Absolvers’

the Forge World to bolster their limited supply of

missing Chapter Command. The two never discuss

ammunition. Further, Avachrus provides the only path

the matter in earshot of others, and no one can say

to properly train new Tech-Marines, whose expertise

if Varonius has shared its contents with Akahir, or if

is the only hope of maintaining the Chapter’s Wargear

the Astartes Captain already knows the truth. Other

and vehicles should their isolation continue into the

council members note a certain tension between the

future — and Akahir knows optimism is a weakness.

two, but whether the cause is a shared and unspoken burden or a deep mistrust, they could not say.

Even with the Astartes as a priority, the Forge World’s production capacity is taxed to its limits and beyond in

In the absence of the Chapter Master and with the

these times. Out of necessity — and in preparation for

anarchy of Noctis Aeterna bearing down on the

the possibility of more difficult times ahead — Akahir

system, the Absolvers within Gilead had grave need

has ordered an increased emphasis on melee combat

of leadership. It was Chaplain Heractis who took it

throughout the Chapter. This affects the training

upon himself to anoint Akahir as Brevet Captain and

regimens taught by Scout Sergeants as much as the

acting commander of the Absolvers, in recognition of

daily drills of all Battle-Brothers. This extends even to

Akahir’s early success in rallying the system’s mortal

the war machines of the Absolvers; the Tech-Marines

defenders. In privacy, Heractis spoke also of a prophecy

fit Predator tanks and Rhino transports with serrated

from the forgotten annals of the Chapter’s history, and

dozer blades, while anointing massive power fists for

the role he foresaw for Akahir.

the day that the Chapter’s Dreadnoughts rouse for war.

Agents of the Astartes Captain

the mortals of the council. As a result, has begun to consider the importance of staying aware of the other

Although Astartes Chapters are largely self-sufficient,

Factions’ activities, in the interest of security. Only the

they often rely on the Imperium’s intelligence and

Absolvers can be above suspicion, and it is their duty

communication networks

to punish treachery wherever it appears in the system.

to learn of prime targets

and worlds that need their defense. Although their confinement to a single system might seem to narrow

The Captain looks back with fondness on his own

the possible battlefields, in truth, the overwhelming

experience as a Scout leading a team of motley

threats facing the Gilead make it more important than

Imperial agents. Not only does he strongly support

ever for the Absolvers to deploy their limited forces

this unusual Chapter tradition, but he is more inclined

perfectly. Furthermore, the isolation of the system and

to trust the competence of hand-picked mortal agents.

turmoil within the usual chains of communication

The agents Akahir chooses must be truly dedicated

have led Akahir to pursue his own investigations of

to the protection of Gilead above all other concerns.

traitors within the system. Akahir has begun to rely

Akahir has no tolerance for failure, while viewing

on hand-picked agents, Astartes and mortal, outside

nearly any level of collateral damage and civilian

of the Codex-approved chain of command to act as his

casualties as acceptable if it gets the job done. Agents

eyes, ears, and blades across the system.

must be satisfied with the pride of serving the Emperor,

Akahir’s need for reliable, flexible non-Astartes agents

reward. While ceremonial recognition is common for

stems in part from his misgivings for the methods

Astartes, very few commendations are available to

as Akahir has little conception of wealth or personal

of many Imperial organisations. He distrusts the

Humans. The rewards he offers are eminently practical,

Inquisitors’ freedom and underhanded methods, and

such as weapons, armour, and battlefield tools.

truly looks poorly upon the Ministorum. He sees the ranking priests of the Ecclesiarchy as soft and hypocritical, exhorting their followers to sacrifice for the Emperor while they enjoy a life of relative luxury. Whereas Space Marines fight on the front lines their whole lives, no matter the rank, many clerics who attain rank step away from battle and indulge in lives

Dux Mortalium

of soft comfort. Although some Space Marines are

The Absolvers rarely stray from the teachings

critical of relying on mortals, Akahir recognises that

of the Codex Astartes, but the Chapter are

Humans can operate in ways and places where the

loath to abandon their sworn traditions. One

overtness and awe-inspiring reputation of Astartes

such oddity is the Dux Mortalium, in which

would be a hindrance. Although relatively open

an aspirational Scout is tasked with leading a

minded for a Space Marine, Akahir has absolutely no

Kill-Team of mortal Imperial warriors to prove

tolerance for mutants and xenos.

they are worthy to become a fully-fledged battle brother. The rare scholars with any

Like all Absolvers, Captain Akahir prizes his vows

knowledge of the Absolvers Chapter history

among all else, and he expects the same of his agents.

speculate that the long-forgotten Chapter

In the same vein, he despises weakness and excuses.

Master Behanzin swore an oath to improve

Undertaking a mission is a promise to succeed, and

the Astartes’ relationship with the mortals

excuses for failure only undermine the breach of this

they were bound to protect, following the

vow. Still, Akahir is aware of the difficulty he has

huge loss of life in several tragic battles with

relating to mortals, and tries to compensate for this

traitorous regiments of the Astra Militarum

with effusive praise and wilful patience. His attempts

during the Age of Apostasy. This led to the

to make Humans feel at ease can, in fact, be quite

Dux Mortalium, though weather the tradition

awkward, though Akahir has yet to realise it.

has improved relations or cemented the idea

Captain Akahir’s focus remains on defending against

Absolvers is up for debate.

that mortals are weak in the minds of fledgling the militant threats to the Imperium, but he has

been infected by the suspicions that run through

Framework: Eye, Ear, and Blade

Framework: Angels of Death

society of Gilead, Captain Akahir relies on trusted

despatched into warzones and other deadly locales

Humans, sometimes led by a Space Marine Scout.

to accomplish the missions no one else can. Akahir

As such a group, your missions focus on gathering

expects victory no matter the odds, even if you must

intelligence and completing covert tasks — and

sacrifice your body or life to achieve it. Whether you

fighting desperately when there is no time to wait for

are Astartes or one of the rare mortals skilled enough

To uncover threats hidden among the Imperial

Astartes reinforcements.

As proven agents of Captain Akahir, you are regularly

to fight alongside the Space Marines, few in Gilead are your equal in war.

Example Missions: Your missions are essentially special operations, in u Orks have ambushed several Astra Militarum

which Akahir tasks you to complete some vital objective

supply ships in recent months, and Captain Akahir

on the battlefield, behind enemy lines, or in the most

suspects — as unlikely as it seems — a traitor

deadly environments of Gilead. You take the fight to

within the Departmento Munitorum or the Gilead

the xenos and traitors of the Reach and the Voidmire,

Gravediggers command structure. Find out how

and turn the tide in battles on Gilead’s worlds.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

the Orks are predicting the shipping schedules; the Absolvers face battles enough without stepping in

Example Missions:

to bolster unsupplied Guardsmen across the system. u The time has come to purge the Space Hulk u Jakel Varonius has made a number of secretive

Perephone’s Regret, and you are to fight in the

visits to a large asteroid at the boundary between

vanguard. Expect to face overwhelming numbers

the Reach and the Voidmire. Discover the reason

of Orks and Genestealers. In addition, the Space

for this, without alerting the Rogue Trader to your

Hulk’s time in the Warp has surely left it steeped

intentions or Akahir’s involvement.

in corruption; beware moral threats and anticipate the traitor-warriors of Chaos.

LIMITATIONS Must have the IMPERIUM Keyword, Tier 2 or below. WARGEAR A vox bead for each individual. BONUS +1 Bonus Dice to Resolve Tests.

u A massive force of Orks have assaulted Ostia, threatening the food supply of the entire system. Join the Absolvers strike force targeting the Warboss leading the Orks. Unconfirmed reports speak of Aeldari fighting against the Orks; as always, know that all xenos are your enemies. LIMITATIONS Must have the IMPERIUM Keyword, Tier 3 or above. WARGEAR Each member receives 1 Ammo Point at the beginning of each mission. BONUS +1 Bonus Dice to attacks targeting Mobs.

Jeanne Grace d’Emysa continues the Order’s centurieslong mission of monitoring the Ecclesiarchy leaders of Gilead to ensure the heresies of the Age of Apostasy never repeat. The situation on Enoch takes up much of her time and attention. Not only must she coordinate the Sororitas’ defenses of major shrines and Ministorum holdings, but she grows ever more concerned by Archdeacon Merramar Clade’s handling of the situation. In her eyes, it is the duty of the Sororitas to battle heretics and traitors, and desperate pilgrims do not these enemies make. In private, candlelit meetings with her most trusted Sisters, d’Emysa makes arrangements for the day — which she prays never comes — that she must remove the Ministorum’s leaders from their positions.

Agents of the Sororitas

CANONESS JEANNE GRACE D’EMYSA

Canoness d’Emysa has traditionally relied on

the

Sacred Shield and the nonmilitant orders present in the system to accomplish almost any mission she deems necessary under her purview. With the Sororitas stretched thin by the anarchy on Enoch, and the many other threats facing Gilead, she has had to broaden her

The Canoness Jeanne Grace d’Emysa has led the Order

approaches for the good of the system. She still prefers

of the Sanctified Shield for more than four decades,

Sororitas and proven members of the Ecclesiarchy,

and bears the scars of battle to show it. She stands

but she might accept any pious and reliable Imperial

tall on her two fully bionic legs, lost during her time as

citizen into her service.

a Veteran Sister Superior in a near-fatal battle with a Chaos Space Marine. Her cropped white hair frames a

The Canoness has little appetite for espionage and

serene but severe face.

skulduggery. Nonetheless, she accepts the need for some degree of such in order to monitor other Imperial

Jeanne Grace d’Emysa rose steadily through the

institutions and the noble families of the system for

ranks of the Order thanks to her skill in battle, her

signs of apostasy and heresy. It is for missions such

conviction, and the passion she inspires in the Sisters

as these that d’Emysa is particularly open to non-

under her command. As ever, her primary goal is the

Sororitas agents. After all, few Sisters outside of the

protection of the Imperium and the destruction of the

Orders Famulous are suited for such covert matters.

God-Emperor’s enemies. Her faith remains steadfast

d’Emysa fears that the isolation of the system could

as ever, and the wavering faith of those who say the

spur decadence and heresy among the various

Emperor has abandoned Gilead disgusts her. Those

branches of the Adeptus Terra in the system, and sees

citizens who have been witness to the Sanctified Shield

the utility of employing those who belong to such

in battle and the miraculous feats they accomplish on

organisations or have experience with them to monitor

the field nearly find their faith bolstered.

for signs of apostasy.

To ensure the Order stands ready to defend against or

Less subtle missions for d’Emysa’s agents are often

preempt any threat to the system, Canoness d’Emysa

more militant in nature, with a focus on defending

cultivates good relations with other Imperial Factions.

Imperial assets. These include acting as bodyguards

In the past, she has largely relied on the diplomats of the

to preachers and missionaries travelling the system, or

Ecclesiarchy and on the Sisters Dialogus of the Order

defending shrines and other holy sites from xenos and

Censura. In view of the uncertainty wrought by the

heretics. More proactive missions might find agents

Great Rift, the Canoness takes a more personal hand to

battling their way through infested ruins to recover

remind the leaders of Gilead that the Sisterhood of the

lost relics, or launching pre-emptive strikes on the

Sanctified Shield ceaselessly defends them.

traitors and xenos of the Reach.

Canoness d’Emysa tolerates no blasphemy or even

Framework: Holy Warriors

the merest whiff of heresy. Even for agents who are

Whether a soldier of the Adepta Sororitas, a battle-

not formally of the Ministorum, she expects the same

preacher of the Ministorum, or a pious volunteer,

piety as she does of any servant of the God-Emperor.

Canoness d’Emysa counts on you to battle the enemies

However, she accepts that individuals demonstrate

of the Emperor wherever they show themselves. While

their faith in different ways, and some are less overt

the bulk of the Order of the Sanctified Shield stands

than others. For potential agents who are not openly

guard over the shrines of Enoch, you undertake special

zealous, d’Emysa takes time to speak personally so as

operations across the system. You might plunge into

to gauge the depth of their devotion.

Framework: Lay Servants

the depths of Gilead Primus’s hive cities to purge rebellious mutant bands, or strike out into the Reach to destroy xenos enclaves. If you truly impress the

Although you may not have formal station within

Canoness with your deeds, she might even despatch

the Ecclesiarchy, your piety and zeal have impressed

you to battle the traitorous Heretic Astartes lurking in

Canoness d’Emysa. She trusts you to accomplish a

the Voidmire.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

variety of missions that fall outside the militant duties of the Order of the Sanctified Shield. Your tasks include

Example Missions:

information-gathering, rooting out apostasy with the ranks of the Adeptus Terra, and bolstering the faith

u The unthinkable has happened: the prisoners of

of the countless citizens of Gilead, from the lowliest

the psyker prison Ironwatch have broken their

helot to the noble lords and ladies of the system. The

shackles. Only the most blessed and faithful of

Canoness is particularly interested in verifying and

the Emperor’s warriors can hope to prevail against

documenting alleged miracles in Gilead. The Emperor’s

such unfettered sorcerous hordes.

people must be shown He is still with them! u Tensions between Astra Militarum security forces Example Missions:

and the hungry pilgrims of the encampment known as Mercytown have come to a boil, and it seems

u Investigate rumours of gluttony, sloth, and even

a massacre is imminent. Defuse the situation or,

more sinful practices among the leading priests

failing that, determine who the faithful are and

of Theocropolis Extol. Use secrecy and stealth, for

protect them.

you shall receive no overt support, and particularly not should violence ensue. u A labourer on Gilead Primus, blinded in an industrial accident, claims that the light of the Emperor lets her see. Ingratiate yourself with this would-be prophet and determine if her claims are genuine, hoax, or even a trick of the Dark Gods. LIMITATIONS

LIMITATIONS Must have the ADEPTUS MINISTORUM Keyword, Rank 3 or above. WARGEAR Symbol of Authority MINISTORUM Keyword.

with

the

ADEPTUS

BONUS +1 Bonus Dice to Corruption Tests.

Must have the IMPERIUM Keyword. WARGEAR A purity seal for each member of the group. BONUS +1 Bonus Dice to Resolve Tests.

the act, and among the Craftworld’s warrior-citizens, there is much consternation and confusion regarding the alliance. Ul-Khari has isolated itself from the galaxy for many centuries, and adapting to the new situation is difficult in spite of such entrenched practices. Taranlys maintains it is necessary for the good of the Craftworld, even as he advises the Asuryani against trusting any Mon-Keigh. Ultimately, the alliance is simple pragmatism; though it breaks with tradition, the Craftworld is trapped in one place for the first time in its history. In light of this unprecedented situation, an alliance with Imperial forces — however onesided or fleeting — reduces the enemies threatening the Craftworld. Outside of the Varonius Dynasty, relations between

FARSEER LANRIEL TARANLYS

Ul-Khari and the Imperials of Gilead are all but nonexistent. With the Orks and Chaos worshipers of the region, there is only overt hostility. Taranlys has found a dedicated ally in Ferianwyr Greensteel, thanks to her oath to protect the Craftworld. Aside from these, the Craftworld seems to have nothing but enemies

Tall, graceful, and possessed of an ethereal beauty,

surrounding it in its imprisoned state. Consequently,

Lanriel Taranlys shows all the hallmarks of his species.

Taranlys is open to consider help from any corner, if he

The set of his features is permanently a display of

is certain he can trust — or use — those offering.

determination and melancholy, and his head is bare except for a single long braid. Taranlys is normally clad in rune armour in the orange of Ul-Khari when meeting on matters of import or business, particularly if non-Asuryani are present.

Agents of the Craftworld A stranded Craftworld is a singular event, and so Farseer Lanriel Taranlys has a singular need of capable agents. The Farseer’s abilities guide him to those who can help, just as they guide those individuals to him,

Farseer Taranlys carries himself with the air of

along myriad routes.

confidence and mysticism common to Aeldari following the Path of the Seer. When preparing for battle or

Taranyls readily accepts help from any Aeldari who

treating with Humans, Lanriel usually hides his visage

offers it. Rumours persist that he has even considered

behind a full helm of ornate crest. He is formal and

working with the Drukhari, though it would be a

exacting in speech; urgency leads to mistakes, which

great indiscretion to mention this in his presence. It is

Lanriel abhors.

common in these times for Ferianwyr of the Greensteel Warriors to offer her Corsairs’ services for an ongoing

As the preeminent Farseer of Ul-Khari, Taranlys feels

term, and these Corsairs might take their missions

he has failed the Craftworld by not predicting the

directly from Taranlys. The unusual nature of the

emergence of Trollius. This is a burden and sorrow

Craftworld’s situation gives rise to unusual necessities,

he bears alone, as the only way the Craftworld can

and a group of agents serving the Farseer might

survive is by relying on his abilities, and so he cannot

consist of Aeldari from several Factions, and even

admit to such a lapse. Still, his most trusted friends

Humans alongside.

and allies suspect that Taranlys blames himself for this tragic situation befalling the Craftworld

Farseer Taranlys has particular need of Humans in order to uncover the secrets of Trollius. The emotional

While Taranlys has the respect and esteem of all

resonance in the ice responds uniquely to the presence

Ul-Khari, there remains tension within the Craftworld

of Mon-Keigh, and Taranlys believes this must hold

owing to his decision to ally with Jakel Varonius. Not all

the key to overcoming the hostile environment and

Farseers and Warlocks on the Seer Council supported

freeing the Craftworld. Of course, Taranlys prefers

that trusted Aeldari accompany the Humans on any missions to explore the ice-world that serves as prison to Ul-Khari. While he acknowledges the necessity of relying on Humans, trust is another matter entirely. The Farseer has other uses for Humans willing to serve him — knowingly or not. As long as the Ul-Khari Craftworld remains trapped by the ice of Trollius, it behooves the Farseer to keep apprised of Imperial activities in the system. Although the Farseer’s

LIMITATIONS Must not have the CHAOS or ORK Keywords. WARGEAR None.

FACTIONS

BONUS

PATRONS +1 Bonus Dice to Insight (Fel) Tests.

oracular abilities are potent, they are not limitless — and they are often put to better use than monitoring

the Craftworld in the near future. Either ensure his

the actions of Mon-Keigh. For these reasons, Taranlys

attention is turned elsewhere or eliminate him.

employs the service of Human agents within Imperial

BACKGROUNDS

society. Some know not who they serve, perhaps

Framework: Rooks and Bishops

assuming their true employer to be a crime lord, a rebel,

The important missions to secure Ul-Khari’s future can

or even an Inquisitor. Unwitting agents receive their

only be trusted to Aeldari. Whether you are a native of

instructions via circumspect Rangers who conceal their

the Craftworld or have come to its aid in recent times,

alien features with heavy garb and decades of practice

Farseer Taranlys entrusts you with missions of utmost

moving unnoticed among Humanity. Those who

import. These often include sabotaging Imperial

willingly serve a xenos might receive psychic visions,

installations for long-term strategic purposes, and just

wraithstone tablets via deadrop, and — very rarely —

as often include attacking the servants of Chaos for

meet with the Farseer himself in some isolated location.

more direct benefits. Your overriding directive is to

The payment or rewards for those who serve depend

you to do so even in the rare event that he has not

on if they know the truth or not. Witting allies

predicted the threat you uncover.

CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

defend the Craftworld at all costs, and Taranlys expects

receive Wargear of Aeldari make, or other items that have come into the Craftworld’s possession over the

Example Missions:

millennia. Deceived tools are likely to receive caches of local currency or salable valuables in line with the

u Orks of the Evil Sunz clan have begun converting

cover story used by their handlers.

a large asteroid of the Reach into a ‘Rok’ that, if

Framework: Pawns and Knights

Fight your way to its heart and sabotage the crude

Whether unwitting Human or subtle Aeldari, you

reactors in order to destroy it entirely, and ensure

serve the interests of the Ul-Khari Craftworld within

the Big Mek responsible does not survive.

finished, will one day pose a great threat to Ul-Khari.

the Imperial worlds of the Gilead System. Your missions often involve espionage or sabotage of

u Mon-Keigh looters under the leadership of Rogue

Imperial Factions and installations, with the purpose

Trader Varonius hope to profit from the Craftworld’s

of safeguarding the Craftworld and its interests. The

tragedy. Intercept the scavengers and ensure they

visions of Farseer Taranlys range over vast gulfs of

lay claim to not even a single shard of Wraithbone.

space and time, and so the reasons for your missions are seldom clear.

LIMITATIONS

Example Missions:

Must have the AELDARI Keyword.

u Sabotage Imperial facilities and sow discord on

WARGEAR

Ostia. If it is a Maiden World, the time will come soon to reclaim it.

One Rare item of Aeldari Wargear. BONUS

u Taranlys has foreseen that the Astra Militarum officer known as Colonel Felden poses a threat to

+2 Bonus Dice to Resolve Tests when defending Craftworld Ul-Khari.

and overtake their prey. There is no standing against the blade skill and point-blank accuracy of the Corsairs, and Ferianwyr is the best by far. The only Humans to have seen her and lived either impressed or amused her — and they are usually at a loss as to how. Although cruel and callous by human standards, Ferianwyr treats her crew well and commands their respect. She does have her own kind of honour, though it is all but indecipherable to a Human mind. Many Corsairs have served under Ferianwyr for decades, respecting her joie de vivre as much as her tactical mind and prowess with a blade.

Agents of the Coterie

The Emerald Princess welcomes Aeldari of any background to join her. Even those unwilling to forgo

FERIANWYR, THE EMERALD PRINCESS The Aeldari Ferianwyr, the Emerald Princess, has

their existing allegiance are welcome guests and she happily accepts their aid in piracy or for more unusual tasks. Humans, however, she sees as little more than animals fit only to amuse her. Alliances and truces, such as with Jakel Varonius, are transitory. When it suits her whim, Ferianwyr accepts willing

led the Corsair Coterie known, in Low Gothic, as the

Humans as agents, perhaps even concealing her

Greensteel Warriors for many centuries. She and

contempt for them for a time. Of course, she cares

her Coterie came to Gilead decades ago, and have

nothing for their safety, and might give them missions

remained after the birth of the Cicatrix Maledictum,

that almost guarantee their death, simply for her

though they could leave at any time via the Webway

entertainment and that of her crew. She has no

paths they know well. Although the Imperial Navy

tolerance for those who truck with Chaos, viewing all

and shipping interests of Gilead have come to fear her

such as enemies. Orks, she finds utterly detestable,

name for generations, the entire experience has been

though not significantly more so than Humans. In both

but a dalliance in the Aeldari lifespan.

cases, certain individuals might impress her with their vivacity, or determination. Orks that amuse her are

Ferianwyr is somewhat short for an Aeldari, though

invariably slain, though some Humans are kept alive,

she still stands above most humans. Her long, black

and manipulated to esoteric ends.

hair is often pulled back, and contrasts with her pale skin. Her large eyes are expressive, though most

Whatever form they take, agents serve the Emerald

Humans would find it difficult to get past their white-

Princess in a number of ways. She might suggest a

in-white blankness. The Emerald Princess fully lives

prime target for piracy when she is otherwise engaged

the life of a Corsair, and so her whims are as fickle

defending the Ul-Khari Craftworld. Conversely, if a

and fierce as the tempests of the Warp. To a Human,

target is simply too tempting for Ferianwyr to resist,

she seems unpredictable and erratic, but Aeldari

she may ask reliable agents to keep an eye on things

understand this transient behaviour. Ferianwyr has

on Trollius. Based on the information she learns during

sworn to protect the Ul-Khari Craftworld, a goal readily

her endeavours, the Corsair Princess tasks her agents

conceivable by both Aeldari and Human. Humans and

with hunting down and destroying the adherents of

other aliens who threaten the Craftworld can expect no

Chaos, particularly followers of She Who Thirsts.

quarter or mercy from the Greensteel Warriors.

Other missions include sabotaging Imperial defenses,

Amongst the merchant fleet and system defense

groundwork for future piracy. Ferianwyr rewards

scouting potential targets, and otherwise laying the

forces of Gilead, the Emerald Princess is a terrifying

successful agents with select items from her vast trove.

legend. Experienced voiders tell of her cruelty and the

At times, these seem perfectly tailored to the interests

suddenness with which the Emerald Warriors appear

of the recipient; at others, they seem entirely random.

Payment might include a bottle of vintage spirits from an extinct civilisation, an Aeldari-crafted sabre, or a trunk of corpse starch rations originating from the Armageddon system. In the case of Human agents, gifts are much more likely to seem inappropriate, but whether this is due to disdain or misunderstanding is difficult to tell. In addition to discrete rewards, the Emerald Princess permits her agents to keep most of the spoils from

LIMITATIONS Must have the AELDARI Keyword. WARGEAR An Aeldari sword inlaid with green gems for each individual.

+1 Bonus Dice to Athletics Tests made in zero gravity.

to heed this unspoken rule find themselves tasked with

Framework: A Motley Crew Perhaps you are the sole survivor of a ship that fell

— or possibly challenged to a duel, depending on

to the Greensteel Warriors, held your own against a

Ferianwyr’s mood.

Chaos onslaught, or simply said the right things to

Framework: The Elders

One way or another, you’ve impressed — or at least intrigued — the Emerald Princess, Ferianwyr, and

themselves. Regardless of your particular background,

now find yourself working for her. Your diverse group

trusted

agents

ENDEAVOURS

a mysterious stranger in a voidport watering hole. Aeldari

most

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS

increasingly dangerous and foolhardy assignments

Ferianwyr’s

FACTIONS

BONUS

their own missions. Of course, she expects appropriate tribute in recognition of her authority. Agents who fail

BACKGROUNDS

are

this shared heritage earns some measure of esteem

performs tasks independently of the bulk of the Corsair

and camaraderie. Your missions often mean fighting

fleet. The missions are often rather bizarre, and the

alongside Ferianwyr, and you are effectively an

reasons for them unclear. At times, they seem almost

honorary Greensteel Warrior even if your first allegiance

designed to test your abilities and limits rather than

is to your Craftworld, Cabal, or otherwise. In addition

to achieve any real benefit for the Greensteel Warriors.

to boarding actions and void battles, Ferianwyr relies on you to uncover or assault the bastions of Chaos in

Example Missions:

the Voidmire. Your missions may be dangerous, but the Emerald Princess respects and values you enough

u The Human captain Jakel Varonius has not been

to provide every scrap of information she can, and

showing the proper respect to the Emerald Princess.

even the tools you need to prepare.

Leave this green-steel dagger on his pillow as a ‘gift,’ to remind him of Ferianwyr’s generosity.

Example Missions:

Do what you need to for success, but do not harm Varonius.

u On Gilead Primus’s moon of Imperia, a group of Human nobility engage in worship of She Who

u This armsman from the merchant vessel Beneficent

Thirsts. Since the Mon-Keigh have not kept their

Tide fought well enough to impress Ferianwyr —

own house clean, you shall demonstrate how the

and died valiantly. Deliver his corpse to his family,

Greensteel Warriors deal with those who would

whoever and wherever they are, as a show of the

succor our Great Enemy. Of course, kill any other

Emerald Princess’s mercy.

Humans who get in your way. u The time draws near (Has it really been a century already?) for the Steel Circus, that event in which

LIMITATIONS Must not have the CHAOS Keyword.

the Greensteel Warriors compete to prove who is the best swordmaster — other than Ferianwyr herself. The Emerald Princess invites you to fight with her favour, and to turn down such an honor would be unthinkable.

WARGEAR None. BONUS +1 Bonus Dice to Awareness (Int) Tests you make while in an enclosed space (such as the corridors of a ship or hive city).

Orkness based on this practice, but only time will tell if Vazdrok’s ideas are too radical. He thinks this will give him exactly the edge he needs to smash Kaptin Goldteef and unite all the Blood Axes of Gilead under his banner. As part of his plan to isolate Goldteef, Vazdrok works to forge his own alliances with mercenaries, pirates, and other scum of the Reach — at the cost of their business with Goldteef, when possible. Indeed, Vazdrok has something of a knack for negotiating with Humans.

Agents of the WAAAGH!

Like any Ork Warboss, Vazdrok Spikey-Smasha is

utterly self-reliant and doesn’t need any help — he just delegates a lot of things that he can’t be bothered to

WARBOSS VAZDROK SPIKEY-SMASHA

do himself. Considering Vazdrok’s particularly kunnin’ approach to warfare, this means he actually has quite a lot of work for subordinates, and even for non-Orks willing to take the job. Orks make up the vast majority of the Warboss’ forces,

The Warboss known as Vazdrok Spikey-Smasha is a

and though he has occasionally forced ‘Humies’ to

particularly ‘kunning’ Ork of the Blood Axes Clan. He

do his violent bidding, he doesn’t trust Aeldari for

makes his warcamp on a drifting asteroid in the Reach,

anything, seeing them as weak, cowardly, deceitful,

from which he launches raids across the system. While

and treacherous. The rare and exceptional Humans

Kaptin Goldteef and his fleet carve a bloody path

Vazdrok chooses to tyrannise rather than kill either

across the void, Vazdrok plays a longer game and not-

die swiftly, or become hardened by their experiences,

so-silently commends himself for his shrewdness.

making them absolute outcasts amongst Imperial society, and even more satisfying foes for the Warboss

Though stooped as any Orkoid, Vazdrok is taller and

to crush when the time comes.

leaner than the typical specimen of his body mass. His (relatively) wiry muscles pack tremendous strength,

Vazdrok earned the moniker ‘Spikey-Smasha’ for

and he has gotten where he is by crumping plenty of

targeting the toughest of Chaos Space Marines, and

challengers who underestimated him. Vazdrok views

growing in strength through defeating many of their

Kaptin Goldteef as another such rival, knowing that

number in hard-fought (and thoroughly enjoyed)

ultimately only one Ork can claim dominion over the

battles across the Gilead System. Though the Warboss

united Blood Axes of this system. In anticipation of

has an Orky knack for identifying the strong, Vazdrok

the inevitable conflict, Vazdrok seeks to undermine

cares little for the fineries of philosophical beliefs.

the alliances that have bolstered Goldteef’s power,

Vazdrok can’t distinguish between run-of-the-mill

including those with Imperials such as Jakel Varonius.

Scum and Chaos-worshipping heretics. He draws Human agents from the ranks of Reach pirates, hive

Vazdrok’s most innovative and unusual practice was

gangers, Astra Militarum deserters, and others with

adopting the humie concept of ‘inteli-gitz.’ As he

no loyalty to the Imperium. In the case of Chaos

explains to his underlings, ‘dem’s da gitz wot got

adherents, they are likely using Vazdrok for their own

all da intelz. And da intelz is knowin’ where da best

ends as well.Vazdrok uses his agents to gather intel,

smashin’ and fightin’ is.’ Put into practice, this has

sabotage enemies, and undermine rival bosses. As one

entailed extensive use of Kommandos to reconnoitre

might expect, all of these tasks tend to involve a lot

enemy sites and movements, but Vazdrok has even

of violence.

gone far enough as to employ non-Ork spies. So far,

Vazdrok has brutally and decisively dealt with any underlings who question his leadership or general

Although Vazdrok has a certain amount of subtlety

u Infiltrate the Ducal Circlet and find out where Jakel

in mind when he recruits any Human agent, he really

Varonius keeps his best ‘jet,’ then steal it and bring

doesn’t care how a group gets the job done, as long as

it back for the Warboss’s Meks to improve on.

they do. Vazdrok has no patience for failure, weakness, or anything that requires much patience, really. Despite

LIMITATIONS

all his cunning, Vazdrok, like all Orks, is focused on

Must not have the AELDARI Keyword (or at least must wear something that hides the ears).

the here-and-now, and the visceral. Vazdrok figured out early in his dealings with Humans that they have little interest in Teef, for some reason. Happy to keep those for himself anyway, Vazdrok instead rewards Humie agents with weapons, vehicles, and the chance to live another day. Minor rewards consist of Wargear looted directly from the battlefield, while those who impress the Warboss receive kustom jobs. Unfortunately, these ‘Orkified’ items tend to

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS

WARGEAR A ‘suicide capsule’ that is actually just a bullet. BONUS +1 Bonus Dice to Stealth (A) Tests when the action is clearly a risky idea.

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Framework: Da ’Ard Boyz

malfunction or simply fall apart once in the hands of

Oi! You’s a ded ’ard Boy workin’ for da Warboss

Humans, and so Vazdrok’s favourite Human agents

Vazdrok Spikey-Smasha. ’E’s da toughest boss in

often end up with little to show for their deeds. For

dis ’ol Gillad place, an’ he wants you smashin’ and

Orks, the benefits of Vazdrok’s patronage also include

krumpin’ right dere wif ’im.

a degree of protection from their rivals. In Ork society, the value of even one less rival trying to bash you

Unless he wants ya smashin’ and krumpin’ somewhere

cannot be overestimated.

else. ’E’s got lotsa plans, ’cause he’s real kunnin’, so

Framework: Da Inteli-Gitz

you gotta fight allover da place. Just be ready’d krump, OK?

Somehow, you’ve gotten mixed up with an Ork Warboss. Whether or not you have met Vazdrok personally,

Ezample Mishunns:

he’s got the idea that he can rely on you to conduct clandestine business. Regardless of your agreement

u Oi! Dere’s a new kinda Beakie wot’s bigger an’

to this arrangement, you understand that failure to

’arder’n before, an’ ain’t got no beak! Da Boss

complete his missions will result in ‘a good krumpin’

wantzta know if dey’s really so tuff. Go find some

for you. Your group likely receives its instructions

an’ have a right good rumble! An’ bring back dere

from an intermediary, probably one of the diminutive

’elmuts for da Boss Pole.

Orkoids known as Gretchin. Vazdrok figures that to be less intimidating than a proper Ork Boy. And if he

u ’Ere we go! It’s da time wot send dat Kaptin Goldteef

wants to conceal from your group that you are working

a message! You’ze gotta draw up a fake treasure

for an Ork, your handler might instead be two Gretchin

map and slip it to ‘is boyz. Den when dey get to da

wearing a long coat and hat.

place, ya jump ’em! HA!

Your mission briefs tend to be blunt and confusing, but mostly entail information-gathering or sabotage. The targets range from Imperial institutions to pirates and criminals to Ork rivals of the Warboss. Vazdrok clearly gives little thought to the feasibility of your missions, and the difficulty ranges from laughably trivial to suicidal, if not downright impossible. Example Missions: u Take this small(ish) Squig and hide it in the personal offices of Lord-Militant Taleria Fylamon. Don’t let it eat you first!

LIMITATIONS Must not have the CHAOS Keyword. WARGEAR None. BONUS +1 Bonus Dice to Awareness (Int) Tests you make while in an enclosed space (such as the corridors of a ship or hive city).

CHAOS LORD MALOQUENCE

dramatically since the opening of the Great Rift. Just

Heavily altered by the Gifts of the Gods and clad in

Daemons of all kinds gladly answer Maloquence’s

ancient and baroque Power Armor, the Dark Apostle

summons, and easily pass into the bodies of the

known as Maloquence is held in awe by the Human

willing, walking among the worlds of Gilead until such

renegades of the Voidmire and fearful respect by his

time as their physical host is destroyed.

of Possessed within The Faithful Writ have grown as daemons can walk manifest from the Cicatrix Maledictum and cavort along its borders, the frayed and weakened veil is more porous than it was before.

fellow Traitor Marines. Most believe him to hail from the time of the Great Heresy, yet each time he speaks

While his greatest contempt is for the Imperium that

of that period, the details differ. Whether this is due to

wronged him, Maloquence has no shortage of hate

Warp-addled memory or deceit, few dare to question.

for the xenos to be found in the Gilead System. He despises the weak and decadent Aeldari, and views

Maloquence’s ultimate goal is nothing less than the

their destruction as an ideal means to grow his favour

utter destruction of Imperial order within Gilead. He

with the Dark Prince. He showed little surprise at

will not rest until every Human in the system sings

the fate of Craftworld Ul-Khari, and has made it his

the praises of the Chaos Gods or lies dead. Equally

personal mission to wrench forth the souls within

important, however, is that the Gods, his followers,

its Infinity Circuit. The Orks, Maloquence sees as a

and his victims recognise Maloquence as the architect

dangerous vermin. He loathes their stupidity, and sees

of these great deeds. Faith without glory, so he says,

little for them to offer the Dark Gods, even as their

is for the weak.

unpredictable blundering around the system has the potential to upset the best laid plans.

The Dark Apostle leads the warband known as The Faithful Writ. This distressingly large Chaos warband seems to consist of those originally from the Word Bearers, but no doubt contains defectors from other

Agents of the Traitor

The Heretic Astartes are mighty, but Maloquence sees great utility in cultivating mortal followers throughout

traitor Legions or worse, renegade members of formally

the system. It is impractical for a being of his dark

loyal chapters. A high number of the Chaos Marines

magnificence to visit Imperial worlds without good

in the warband are daemonically possessed, thanks

cause, so instructions are often carried through a chain

in no small part to Maloquence’s gift for summoning

of intermediaries, received in dreams and visions, or in

the denizens of the Warp. This gift and the number

other esoteric ways.

Some agents may not even realise the true nature of their patron or the full extent of the heresy, at least

LIMITATIONS

at first. For these agents, whom Maloquence views

None — Maloquence uses any tool that might serve his Dark Gods.

as useful, if not ready or dedicated enough for the truth, missions are more likely to appear simply illegal. The details of the tasks, as well as the personas of the intermediaries providing instruction, give the appearance of merely committing illicit acts for an ordinary criminal cartel. Only the most favoured agents see firsthand the fastness of the Faithful Writ, concealed within

WARGEAR None — make do with what you have to prove yourself.

+1 Bonus Dice on Deception (F) Tests to conceal your heretical ways from Imperials.

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS

Framework: Slaves to Darkness

true purpose is lost to time, the facility is certainly

You are among Dark Apostle Maloquence’s favored

ancient beyond Administratum records. The decay of

servants. Whether Astartes, mortal, or mutated

millennia has damaged much of the facility and its

beyond definition, you have proved yourself as a true

contents beyond use or even recognition, yet a number

enemy of the Imperium and a devoted vassal of Chaos.

of marvels remain. So far, Maloquence’s hereteks have

Maloquence often tasks you to act as a vanguard for

secured the use of the teleportation platform and its

the Faithful Writ, clearing landing zones, assassinating

child devices scattered throughout the system. This

prime targets, and otherwise preparing the way for a

is a huge boon for the warband, allowing it to strike

full assault. At other times, you fight by his side in

deep in the heart of Gilead. Should they unlock further

the thick of battle, whether on the Imperial worlds

archeotech secrets, it could spell doom for the system.

of Gilead or against other traitors of the Voidmire, in

Maloquence fosters numerous covens, cells, and cabals

FACTIONS

BONUS

an asteroid deep within the Reach. Although its

Framework: Lost and Damned

BACKGROUNDS

ENDEAVOURS

order to prove the supremacy of The Faithful Writ. Example Missions:

across the system in order to extend his reach. These consist of true devotees, useful maniacs, and whoever

u The so-called Archdeacon Merramar Clade leads

else can be trusted to further the aims of the Faithful

the church of the Corpse-Emperor in this system.

Writ without compunction or remorse. Little more

Cast his corpse down from the highest spire on

than disposable pawns at first, who might not know

Enoch to show these fools that their dead Emperor

whom they truly serve, these agents nonetheless have

offers no protection.

the opportunity to grow in power and favour should they succeed in their appointed tasks. Typical missions

u An ancient weapon of great power, known as the

include sabotaging Imperial organisations, laying the

Soul Lance, lies in the vaults of Avachrus. Retrieve

groundwork for summoning rituals, and gathering

it for your master, and slaughter any fool Tech-

intel on prime targets for the warband. Many of these

Priests who oppose you.

missions are a virtual death sentence, but those who defy death certainly have the favour of the Dark Gods.

LIMITATIONS

Example Missions:

Must not have the AELDARI or ORK Keywords, Tier 3 or above.

u Assassinate Subprefect Kels Morchid of the Adeptus Administratum on Gilead Primus and bring back a flask of his blood. Dare not ask why. u Travel to Gilead Primaris and infiltrate the hive city of Ramoth. At each of the four cardinal points of

WARGEAR An icon of the eight-pointed star, hammered from corroded metal or fashioned from human bone. BONUS Gain +1 Bonus Dice to Corruption Tests.

the hive, inscribe a ritual summoning glyph. Then travel to the centre of the hive and perform the ritual to call forth our allies from the Warp.

CHARACTER OPTIONS The Gilead System is a microcosm of the 41st

Ogryns and Ratlings are essentially mutated strains

Millennium’s brutal and diverse galaxy. Xenos,

of the Human Species. As they are genetically stable,

daemons, and the bold heroes of the Imperium that

they are known as abhumans, and their existence is

battle against them are found in an endlessly diverse

not illegal in the Imperium. Despite differing from the

variety. This Chapter presents three playable Species

purity of the Human form, their specific biologies can

and twenty Archetypes for you to use when creating

serve the Emperor’s will in uniquely useful ways.

characters. The Wargear employed by these Archetypes and the Librarius Psychic Discipline are detailed at the

Because abhumans exist in a grey area between

end of this Chapter.

mutants and true Humanity, their treatment in the Imperium is as varied as its population. Staunch

SPECIES

puritans of the Ecclesiarchy preach the adage ‘suffer not the mutant to live’, and though they may not be actively violent against them, the Death Cults that listen to them take those words literally. In contrast,

When you make your character, you may choose to

the Astra Militarum troopers that frequently fight

play an Ogryn, a Ratling, or a Kroot. Archetypes for

alongside Ogryns and Ratlings know the value of

these Species are available on page 92.

Abhuman allies that may have saved their lives.

Species & Communication

By default, abhumans suffer a +1 DN penalty to any

As a Xenos Species, the Kroot are feared and hated by

social Test with a Human target, modified by the

almost all Imperials. Because of this, they suffer the

target’s Keywords.

usual minimum penalty of +2 DN to any social Test with a target of another Species.

Psychic Species

by other Species. Though Kroot Shapers would prefer

There are no recorded instances of either Ratlings or

to evolve a tougher, scalier hide through consuming

Ogryns with psychic abilities. Ratlings and Ogyrns

resilient foes than design some new form of protection,

cannot have the PSYKER Keyword.

many Kroot Mercenaries wear makeshift armour plating that affords some small defence from arms fire

Species & Equipment

without prohibiting movement.

lauded almost as much as all other Species are reviled.

Kroot cannot wear armour that they do not share a

In the Imperium, the purity of the Human form is

FACTIONS

This creates problems when abnormal — or abhuman

Keyword with. Additionally, if a Kroot wears armour

— biologies try to acquire equipment. Most Imperial

with an AR of 4 or more, the DN of all Tests using the

equipment is mass produced to fit a range of average

Strength, Agility, or Initiative Attribute increase by an

Human body types, and though the Astra Militarum and

amount equal to the AR of the armour.

the Inquisition know the effectiveness of occasionally

BACKGROUNDS

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

employing abhumans and Xenos, acquiring custom

Weapons for Kroot

equipment for them is a difficult (and sometimes

For melee combat, the Kroot prefer their own brand

politically dangerous) task. The Adeptus Mechanicus

of primitive firearms festooned with blades, but can

and the Administratum sneer at squandering material

adapt to almost any kind of weaponry given enough

on these forces, ensuring they are low in availability

time.

and often customised to fit, but still available to those who look hard enough.

Kroot can wield any weapon, but if the weapon does

Armour for Abhumans

with the Kroot, the weapon is treated as having the

For abhumans such as Ratlings and Ogryns, the Rarity

Unwieldy (2) Weapon Trait.

not have the PRIMITIVE Keyword or share a Keyword

of any Armour is increased by +1.

Weapons for Ogryns The prodigious size of an Ogryn’s hands and digits

ATTRIBUTE RATING MAXIMUMS BY SPECIES

means they are unable to wield most ranged weapons

Attritbute

Human

Ogryn

Ratling

Kroot

as they cannot pull the trigger. This does not preclude

Strength

Toughness

Agility

Initiative

conceivably hold, though they treat any weapon

Willpower

designed for someone of a smaller size as having the

Intellect

Fellowship

Speed

them from using any ranged weapon as a club, which deals the same damage as an Unarmed Strike (page 183 of the Wrath & Glory Rulebook) +2 ED. An Ogryn can wield any melee weapon they can

Unwieldy (3) Weapon Trait.

Weapons for Ratlings The dextrous Ratlings can wield most Human-sized weapons without too much difficulty, though the size and weight of such bulky technology may cause them to have the Unwieldy (2) Weapon Trait at the GM’s discretion.

Armour for Kroot Kroot biology is anathema to most forms of armour. Their strange proportions and digitigrade legs make sizing difficult, and their reliance on fieldcraft forces them to eschew the bulky protective plates employed

OGRYN Standing larger even than the Adeptus Astartes with

Employed on the frontlines — often simply to shield the troopers behind them — Ogryns ignore wounds

gargantuan, overly-muscled frames, Ogryns are a

that would slay most other mortals. Many Ogryns

mutant subspecies of Humanity. Thought to be a result

desire above all else to become a Bone’ead, promoted

of adaptation to harsh, high-gravity worlds, Ogryns

through displays of uncharacteristic intelligence and

are incredibly strong, highly resilient, and instinctively

augmented to further raise their brain function.

violent. This adaptation came at a cost — Ogryn physiology is so focused on strength their minds have

Ogryn populations considered too far from Astra

simplified over millennia, resulting in a universally

Militarum recruitment stations or too dull-witted to

unintelligent Species bright enough only to ensure

serve are employed as heavy laborers and bodyguards.

they can focus their primeval violence on threats

Their powerful frames make them prime candidates

to their survival. However, small minds are easier

for lobotomization and transformation into servitors,

to mold, and the Imperum has found the ignorant

negating the impact of their low intelligence. Of course,

Ogryns take simple orders well, making them excellent

the Imperium is rife with ignorance, and many zealous

shock troops. Ogryns are easily filled with faith in the

souls view Ogryns as oversized monsters — some are

Emperor and happily wage war in His name.

murdered by mobs, others ostracised and driven into the welcoming arms of the archenemy.

Though mutants are unsanctioned in the Imperium, exceptions are made for abhumans such as Ogryns

The Gilead System has long accepted the Ogryn

due to their usefulness in fighting the Emperor’s

communities of Skealas and vat-grown on Avachrus,

uncountable wars. The Militarum Auxilla employ them

supplementing guards on the prison moon and proving

as brutally efficient shock troops; their commanders

effective warriors in the Gilead Gravediggers. Though

simply point them toward the enemy and watch as

many particularly zealous priests on holy Enoch

they are obliterated by an avalanche of dumb muscle.

preach the destruction of Ogryns, multiple high priests take to the Theocropolis streets on planquains borne by pious abhumans.

Ogryn Names Ogryn

names

are

invariably

short

and

easily pronounced in the broken Low Gothic characteristic of the dull-witted abhumans. Harsh, plosive-filled, monosyllabic names that can be yelled over the din of battle are common in the Gilead System and beyond: Ank, Brok, Berta, Chukka, Dent, Frug, Grok, Hak, Igor, Jab, Karg, Kront, Lokk, Munt, Nork, Okka, Orod, Punt, Rakka, Smasha, Tock, Tug, Urok, Vohn, Wakka, Yarp.

OGRYN SPECIES XP Cost

Atributes

Skills

Speed

Size

Special Abilities

Strength 5

Survival 2

Large

Avalanche of Muscle

Toughness 5

When you Charge you gain an additional +Rank Bonus Dice to your melee attack Test.

BACKGROUNDS

Claustrophobic Whenever you enter an enclosed area you must make a Fear Test (default DN 2). Additionally, whenever you roll a Complication in an enclosed space, the GM can spend 1 Ruin to force you to repeat this Fear Test.

FACTIONS PATRONS

Simple Loyalty Whenever an ally with the IMPERIUM Keyword makes a Leadership Test targeting an Ogryn they gain Bonus Dice equal to the Ogryn’s Rank.

CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

OGRYN BACKGROUNDS d3

Origin

Gain +1

Cloned: You are a vat-grown replicae, created to serve the Imperium. Your conscious life may have only begun very recently, and you are eager to fulfill your purpose.

Max Shock

High Gravity: World A harsh life of survival is all you have known, and you’ve fought for everything you’ve ever had. Imperial society is a strange but not unwelcome world.

Determination

Legion Born: War in the Emperor’s name is an Ogryn’s purpose — that’s what everyone tells you, and you have no reason to disagree. The Militarum Auxilla is your home, and the Emperor protects!

Resolve

Accomplishment

Gain +1

Followed Orders: You executed a series of suicidal orders with unflinching loyalty, surviving against the odds. Your mental and physical fortitude are unquestionable.

Conviction

Body Shield: Your tremendous bulk protected a superior officer from a deadly blow (this may have been accidental). Your reputation for being almost impenetrable to bullets is well earned.

Max Wounds

Sanctioned Creativity: Shocking your peers and superiors, you experienced a rare moment of creativity. The strange story of your brief higher function has spread and precedes you.

Influence

Goal

Promotion: You want to get to the top — be it status, proof of your prowess, or to earn a Bone’ead augmetic, your goal is to be promoted.

Influence

Medal: You’ve seen other soldiers get shiny medals, and you want one too! Accruing wealth and other shiny things in the pursuit of commendation has become your obsession.

Wealth

Ward-bound: There is someone you must protect, an individual you value above all others. You may not even have met them yet, but you know your life’s purpose is to defend your ward.

Conviction

Gain +1

OGRYN OBJECTIVES d6 Roll

Objective

Follow a superior’s orders to the letter.

Use your tremendous bulk to dominate a social situation.

Display the strength found in ignorance.

Apply your unique understanding of the Emperor’s will to the current situation.

Solve a problem through the judicious application of brute force.

Charge the enemies of the Imperium!

RATLING

Ratlings have gained a reputation for a rapacious

Diminutive, dextrous, and duplicitous, Ratlings do

hunger that far exceeds their size, and are well

not differ dramatically from their baseline Human

known for exploiting their naturally sly movement

counterparts.

to steal food supplies. Though Imperial society sees

Ratlings

hail

from

the

miniscule

percentage of Agri Worlds that are free from horrific

them as greedy, Ratlings claim the Administratum

danger, and fully suitable for Human habitation.

have simply never allocated them enough food, either

According to the propagandists that spread anti-

due to their small size or the widespread rejection

abhuman rhetoric, the Ratling form adapted to these

of abhuman subspecies. Magos Biologis that have

conditions. Over time, their forms supposedly strayed

studied the abhuman strain simply state they have a

from the ideal Human due to the safety of their

high propensity to kleptomania. The fact that many

environment, becoming short, squat, and indolent,

Imperials will simply ignore the presence of their

living social lives where all their needs were met. The

Ratling lessers makes thievery even easier.

soft, loamy soil of their homeworlds even removed the necessity of footwear, leaving Ratlings with large,

Ratlings work wherever nimble-fingered skill is

overly hairy, toughened feet. These worlds have all

needed more than raw strength. Many are employed

been lost, destroyed, or systematically stripped of their

in manufactorums or on Forge Worlds to crawl into

resources, but the ever-fertile Ratlings have spread

sewers or the inner workings of machinery, and expire

across the galaxy.

in industrial accidents or are simply forgotten in these inaccessible places. Others lean into the guileful fast-

Though weaker and less resilient than Humans,

talk that comes so naturally to their Species, assisting

Ratlings have well established places in Imperial

traders or thriving in shady underworlds.

society as sharpshooters and skilled stealth experts. The greatest of their ilk serve in the Militarum Auxilla, formed into close-knit units of Ratling Snipers that strike unseen at the enemies of the Imperium from almost impossible distances. Their small size has

Ratling Names

helped them perfect the art of stealth, a necessity as they cannot hope to face the horrors of close combat.

Ratling names are as diverse as, and often derived from, Human names. Most collect names

during

their

lifetimes,

switching

between them depending on their company or the crimes of which they are accused. The following names are common amongst Ratlings in the Gilead System. Arble, Bigby, Chansey, Doc, Edegar, Fingers, Gormo,

Helli,

Irma,

Jolli,

Kelli,

Kurds,

Lobe, Malgoy, Merrin, Norm, Obbs, Pietra, Rally, Stumper, Talia, Ulto, Vinn, Wanda, Wisp, Yanush.

RATLING SPECIES XP Cost

Atributes

Skills

Speed

Size

Special Abilities

Agility 2

Awareness 2 Ballistic Skill 1

Small

Gourmand

Fel 2

+Double Rank Bonus Dice to any Test made to prepare food.

Cunning 1 Deception 2

BACKGROUNDS

Prepared food can be used during a Regroup to recover +Rank Shock.

Stealth 2

FACTIONS

RATLING BACKGROUNDS

PATRONS

Origin

Gain +1

Penal Legionnaire: Your sharp eye and sly movements served you well as a thief, but now — after only a modicum of torture — they will serve you as a soldier.

Max Shock

Miniature Technician: You used to spend days at a time trapped in coffin-like chambers to ensure machinery you didn’t understand kept working. You proved your value and got out — now you’re eager to see the galaxy.

Resolve

Fast Talker: You’ve talked, tricked, and bamboozled your way out of (and into) more scrapes than you care to count. You’ve earned a reputation for charm and deviousness, and are eager to put it to good use.

Influence

Accomplishment

Big Score: Be it a cache of armaments, a prized collection of relics, or the stock of an entire manufactorum, you managed to liquidate someone else’s assets — let’s hope it never comes back to haunt you.

Wealth

Sharp Shot: You assassinated an important enemy at improbable range or under difficult conditions. News of a deadeye Ratling spread quickly, and you’re likely to be in high demand.

Influence

Unnoticeable: You managed to survive a hopeless mission that martyred the remainder of your regiment — you managed to hide and survive. Some laud you as a hero, others a coward.

Conviction

Goal

Fame & Fortune: You’ve got the skills to be a hero of the Imperium, and you intend to be well rewarded for using them. Rise through the ranks and take what is due.

Determination

The Good Life: Land, food, and friendship — what else could you possibly want? You intend to survive everything the galaxy has to throw at you, then find a way to discreetly abandon your post and get back to basics.

Conviction

Acceptance: You’re sick of Humans looking down on you. You want to ensure Ratlings are accepted, building elite units and industrial efforts that serve the Emperor and prove your peoples’ worth.

Resolve

CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Gain +1

RATLING OBJECTIVES d6 Roll

Objective

Fill your stomach with some high-quality grub.

Redirect imperial resources to your own advantage.

Loot supplies from your ignoble enemies.

Show the advantages of a smaller size.

Avoid danger using your natural stealth.

Use your precise eyesight to aid the party (or yourself).

KROOT Strange and savage xenos hailing from the fringes

The warrior culture of the Kroot revolves around their unique physiology. Every Kroot belongs to a tribal

of the galaxy, the inscrutable Kroot are known for

kindred of carnivores led by a Shaper, a shamanic leader

serving many Species as mercenaries. Their primitive

who instinctively senses which prey are suitable to their

warrior culture is intertwined with a unique quirk of

kin. Shapers lead their kindred, directing them to battle

their biology — the Kroot devour the corpses of their

and devour creatures to spontaneously guide their

defeated foes and absorb their genetic traits, evolving

evolutionary path. Kindreds have spread far from their

through consumption. Kroot that fight and feast on

homeworld of Pech, a primitive backwater subsumed

the brutish Orks have enhanced muscle mass, whilst

into the technologically advanced T’au Empire. Some

those that devour the elegant Aeldari become more

elder Shapers have sworn to fight exclusively for the

lithe and agile. Because of this, one Kroot can differ

T’au, but the Kroot do not hold themselves beholden to

wildly in appearance and ability to another depending

this agreement as a Species — each Shaper is focused

on the creatures they have consumed, with differing

only on empowering their kindred, with many leaving

muscle mass, limb structure, and biological quirks, but

Pech on ancient voidships known as warspheres to

their forms are stable enough to ensure the Species

pursue mercenary engagements.

can be easily identified. Believed to be descended from the avian creatures of their homeworld Pech, the wiry,

There are but a handful of kindreds of Kroot in the

muscular frame of a Kroot is typically far taller than

Gilead System, each operating individually in search

a Human. Their appearance is undeniably alien, with

of strong prey. Some have already lost their Shaper to

beaked jaws and long, sensitive quills instead of hair.

insurgent daemons or wars against the other fearful Species of the System, but none can deny that strong foes to fight and eat abound.

Kroot Names As only the Kroot are physically capable of speaking their language they adopt Low Gothic names when negotiating mercenary contracts with other Species. These names are usually little more than a few easily recognisable guttural sounds strung together. Kroot in the Gilead System are known to have used the following names: Anghkor, Braztyk, Cechkala, Dahyak, Enghok, Fenya, Gorok, Harbyx, Ixilla, Jiynko, Khort, Lucu, Meyzek, Nhatalla, Ortazk, Pechallai, Quon, Razick, Senghak, Tovrick, Ula, Vhey, Wihn, Xala, Yulu, Zhorick.

KROOT SPECIES XP Cost Kroot

Atributes

Skills

Athletics 1

Speed

Awareness 1 Stealth 2 Survival 2

Size

Special Abilities

Average

Kroot Mutations You have a number of Kroot Mutations equal to your Tier, and may gain additional Kroot Mutations as part of Ascension.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS

Weapon Skill 2

PATRONS KROOT BACKGROUNDS

CHARACTER OPTIONS

Origin

Gain +1

Pech Native: Raised amongst the jungles of the Kroot homeworld Pech, you are accustomed to a primitive life, and may have fought alongside the enigmatic T’au.

Max Wounds

Void Born: Born aboard a warsphere, your nomadic life has been one of constant excursions on strange worlds and bizarre meals. You have met (and devoured) many minor Species, and now little surprises you.

Max Shock

Prodigal Carnivore: Mercenary work has been lucrative and has offered many opportunities to improve yourself, though you long for the day you can return to your kindred and pass on the rich genetic traits you have gained.

Wealth

Accomplishment

Primitive Victor: Relying on your mutations, you managed to defeat a more technologically advanced foe. You are staunch in your beliefs that biological strength far outweighs any mechanical advantage.

Determination

Sole Survivor: Through caution, courage, cowardice, or simple luck, you survived when the rest of your kindred was slain. You have been made strong by survival and are now free to consume any prey you find.

Resolve

Contract Secured: Through shrewd diplomacy (and likely a little intimidation) you negotiated a deal that allowed you to fight alongside another Species against powerful foes.

Influence

Goal

Return Home: Though you have learned much and consumed many foes on your sojourn from your homeworld, you long to return to Pech, and will stop at nothing to do so.

Conviction

Become Strong: You have the utmost respect for the goals of your Species. You will journey to any location and fight any foe in your quest to become stronger.

Max Wounds

Discovery: You have had a small taste of the vastness of the galaxy, and believe that there are secrets still hidden that could further advance the Kroot — you will be the one to discover them.

Determination

ENDEAVOURS

Gain +1

KROOT OBJECTIVES d6 Roll

Objective

Speculate on how you could evolve to better cope with the current situation.

Point out how the advanced technology of another Species has made them weak.

Relate the wisdom of your Shaper to the current situation.

Use the environment to put yourself in a more advantageous situation.

Make an evaluation on how someone you meet would taste.

Consume the flesh of the strong.

Kroot Mutations

The Kroot are unique amongst the Species of the galaxy in that they can advance their evolution individually

Kroot Language

by absorbing the traits of the living creatures they eat. This practice is tied to the primitive spirituality of each Kroot kindred, ‘burying’ the warrior spirits they defeat

The multi-faceted biology of the Kroot has led

by consuming them and inheriting their powers, but is

to them developing many different methods

functionally a biological occurrence — when a Kroot

of communication. Xenobiologists speculate

eats the strong, they become stronger.

that the pervasive, shifting scent of the viscous sweat that covers a Kroot’s body can

A Kroot character starts play with a number of Kroot

be controlled, allowing them to clandestinely

Mutations equal to their Tier, so if you start playing

communicate through scent. When the Kroot

at Tier 1 with a Kroot character, you may select a

communicate audibly, they do so with a

single Kroot Mutation to represent the prey they have

rattling of their quills and a system of whistles

consumed before your adventures begin. Some Kroot

and clicks through their beaked mouths.

Mutations may not be suitable for starting characters, and are marked with an asterisk. You may gain an

The few who have had non-combative contact

additional Kroot Mutation as part of Ascension —

with the Species have noted that they tend

work with your GM to determine which Mutation is

to mimic other Species, capable of discerning

most applicable based on the prey you have consumed

meaning through tone, posture, and possibly

in the course of your adventures.

even pheromones. As a possible side effect of their own mutable nature, Kroot pick up new

A Matter of Taste

languages quickly and easily.

A Kroot cannot consume any target with the CHAOS or TYRANID Keywords. The reality-mutating powers

Whenever a Kroot makes a Test to understand

of the Warp and the ever-shifting, extra-galactic

a spoken language, they gain +Rank Bonus

molecular makeup of Tyranid bioforms are both too

Dice.

unstable for a Kroot’s strange genetic osmosis. Kroot also can’t eat mechanical constructs, such as Necrons, Wraithguard, or the augmetics of Skitarii.

KROOT MUTATIONS Kroot Mutation

Prey Consumed

Description

Effect

Maneater

Humans

Humans offer little evolutionary benefit to the Kroot.

+1 to your lowest Attribute (your choice if the Attributes are equal).

Astartes Eater*

Astartes

Astartes are genetically enhanced to be greater than other mortal Species in almost every way. Their amplified DNA can offer many benefits to Kroot biology.

+2 to any Attribute of your choice.

Aeldari Eater

Aeldari

Kroot that consume the lithe and psychically attuned Aeldari either adopt their otherworldly grace and agility or steel their minds.

+1 to Agility or Willpower.

KROOT MUTATIONS Kroot Mutation Ork Eater

Prey Consumed

Description

Effect

Orks

Kroot that consume the brutal Orks are more suited for brazen battle, becoming larger, tougher, stronger, and greener.

+1 to Strength or Toughness.

BACKGROUNDS

Armoured Hide

Any creature with toughened skin (such as Ambull or Grox).

The number of sturdy quills in your skin steadily increases as your flesh thickens into a rugged hide.

You gain +Rank to your Base Resilience.

Bioluminescence

Any bioluminescent creature.

Light-emitting molecules bloom in the quills that cover your body, allowing you to glow with bioluminescence at will.

You may cause any part of your body to glow with light. If your entire body is emitting light, it sheds enough light to see in a 10m radius.

Camouflage

Any creature with the ability to manipulate its appearance.

You gain a measure of control over the pigmentation of your skin, allowing you to blend into your environment.

As a Simple Action you can control the appearance of your hide, with the same effects as a Cameleoline Cloak (Wrath & Glory Rulebook page 237).

Facultative

Any quadruped.

Your body lengthens and hunches, exploiting your digitigrade legs and extended arms to allow you to run like a quadruped when needed.

You may Sprint twice as fast as normal and make Athletics (S) Tests to jump or climb with +Double Rank Bonus Dice.

Any creature with enhanced senses (such as Clawed Fiends or Ambulls).

The sensitive quills emerging from your skull become even more receptive to movement in your environment, sensing subtle vibrations and disturbances in the air.

Your quills act as an Auspex (page 236 of the Wrath & Glory Rulebook) with a range of 30 metres.

Wings

Any winged creature (such as Razorwings or Wyvach).

Over many months of agonising pain your biology transforms, recalling the ancestral morphology of the ancient Kroothawk to produce a pair of light, leathery wings.

You can Fly at Speed 7.

Weaponised

Any creature with natural weapons (such as Clawed Fiends or Catachan Devils).

Your four-fingered claws evolve into fully fledged weapons. Depending on the savage creature you have consumed they may harden, sharpen, secrete venom, or extend into functional blades.

Your Unarmed Strikes deal (S)+4 Damage / +3 ED, and have one of the following Traits:

Bipedalism

Hypersensitive Quills

Biology

FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Brutal Rending (Rank) Inflict (Poison (Rank)) Parry

SISTER REPENTIA See me and do not see me. Know me and know fear, for I have no face but this Adepta Sororitas

one. I stand before you a Sister Repentia, until absolution finds me. —Excerpt from the Oath of the Penitent

You are a self-flagellating zealot, condemned by

Sisters from any Militant or non-Militant Order can

your sins to seek a martyr’s death or exoneration

become Repentia, and some even volunteer. They are

upon the field of battle.

guilt-ridden figures, obsessing over the failings that

The vows of the Adepta Sororitas are numerous and

Though outcasts to their fellow Sisters, they are also

condemned them in masochistic rituals of purgation. inviolable, so it is easy for even pious Sisters to lapse.

figures of awe, the ultimate expression of devoted

Grievous sins, such as cowardice, disobedience, or

self-sacrifice.

failure, are only forgiven by swearing the Oath of the Penitent. Unarmoured, and armed only with her

Though Repentia usually serve beside a Superior tasked

ceremonial eviscerator, the Sister Repentia seeks death

with her spiritual rehabilitation, she may be moved by

in battle to atone for her transgressions.

the Emperor’s Will to seek her own absolution. Many Repentia find martyrdom in the darkest corners of the Gilead System, with a rare few even returning with sins washed clean.

SISTER REPENTIA TIER

SPECIES Human

XP Cost

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MINISTORUM, ADEPTA SORORITAS, [ORDER]

ATTRIBUTES: Strength 3, Toughness 3, Agility 3, Willpower 3

SKILLS: Ballistic Skill 2, Scholar 1, Weapon Skill 3 ABILITY: Solace in Anguish You crave redemption or martyrdom, fighting harder when closest to death. You ignore DN penalties for being Wounded, and instead gain +Rank Bonus Dice to all melee Attack Tests whilst Wounded. When you are Dying, this bonus applies for all Tests — you do not fall Prone, and are not restricted in which actions you can take. You gain +Double Rank bonus dice to any Test to resist the effects of a Psychic Power.

WARGEAR: Eviscerator, Rags, Purity Seals, copy of the Rule of the Sororitas

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Athletics 2, Ballistic Skill 2, Intimidation 1, Scholar 3, Weapon Skill 5

SUGGESTED TALENTS

100

Flagellant, Frenzy, Furious Charge

DIALOGUS Assuming I couldn’t speak Aeldari? Your first mistake. Insulting the pure form Adepta Sororitas

of Humanity? Your second mistake. I assure you, ambassador, that allowing this ‘Mon-Keigh’ within striking range shall be your final error. —Dialogus-Superior Malintzin, Order of the Blessed Texts

BACKGROUNDS A master of language and translation, you

Though typically reclusive and scholarly, Sisters

are a codebreaker, public speaker and stirring

Dialogus understand well the power of the spoken

religious orator.

word and may transform themselves into charismatic speakers. Religious scripture is their specialty, but

After ten thousand years ruling a million worlds, the

assistance in negotiations, interrogations and decoding

Imperium has seen billions of local dialects rise and fall,

enemy communications is equally valuable. Often their

with no single language adopted by all its subjects. The

duties take them to the battlefield, where they inspire

Sisters of the Order Dialogus study all of these tongues,

their comrades with litanies of faith — punctuated

along with manufactured ciphers, oral histories,

precisely with shots from their bolt pistol.

FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

rhetorical techniques, and even xenos languages. The Order of the Blessed Texts, a small Dialogus Order, is based on the Shrine World of Enoch, its

SISTER DIALOGUS TIER

SPECIES Human

XP Cost

146

Archive Sanctorum of translated texts protected by the Militant Order of the Sanctified Shield. As more missions require the Sisters Dialogus to travel far from

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MINISTORUM, ADEPTA SORORITAS, [ORDER]

their Archive, they are increasingly responsible for

ATTRIBUTES: Strength 3, Toughness 3,

protecting themselves.

Agility 3, Willpower 4 Intellect 4

SKILLS: Ballistic Skill 2, Investigation 3, Leadership 2, Persuasion 2, Scholar 4, Weapon Skill 2

ABILITY: Polyglot Superior You are a master of written and spoken language, recording your companions’ speeches and interesting discoveries for later recital. When you speak aloud another person’s words (for example, translating xenos text, distributing an officer’s orders, repeating another agent’s inspiring oration, reciting scripture), gain +Rank Bonus Dice to any corresponding Test. Half any DN penalties for interacting with an unfamiliar species or culture.

WARGEAR: Sororitas Power Armour, Bolt Pistol, Dialogus Staff, Laud Hailer, a copy of the Rule of the Sororitas, numerous books on linguistics and the Imperial Creed.

INFLUENCE: +2

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Athletics 2, Awareness 2, Ballistic Skill 4, Insight 2, Investigation 4, Leadership 2, Persuasion 4, Scholar 4, Weapon Skill 2

SUGGESTED TALENTS Deductive, Lip Reader, Repent!

101

IMAGIFIER Saint Coretta was the inspiration, not me. Adepta Sororitas

—Battle-Sister Emmeline, heroine of the Battle of Iphor Beta, Imagifier of Saint Coretta

You bear the image of a martyred Sister as a

An Imagifier must prove herself worthy of this honour,

battle standard, loudly extolling her virtues as an

not only with martial prowess and faith, but with

inspiration to follow.

encyclopaedic knowledge of her patron saint’s life, death, and greatest miracles. Imagifiers are bombastic

When a Sister dies a martyr’s death imbued with

figures, loudly extolling their heroine’s virtues,

extraordinary religious significance, she is honoured

whether on the battlefield or not. All would rather die

by the Orders Pronatus with a holy relic crafted in her

than permit the loss of their sacred artefact.

likeness. This Simulacrum Imperialis is affixed to a tall stanchion, and borne to war by an Imagifier, a veteran Sister who acts as exponent for the martyr’s deeds.

The Great Rift has tested the faith of all citizens of the Gilead System, but where Imagifiers are dispatched to shore up that faith, beacons of devotion are ignited, and new victories of the Adepta Sororitas are mythologised.

SISTER IMAGIFIER TIER

SPECIES Human

XP Cost

146

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MINISTORUM, ADEPTA SORORITAS, [ORDER]

ATTRIBUTES: Strength 3, Toughness 3, Agility 3, Willpower 4 Fellowship 4

SKILLS: Ballistic Skill 2, Intimidation 2, Leadership 4, Persuasion 3, Scholar 2, Weapon Skill 2

ABILITY: Litany of Deeds When you carry or are adjacent to your Simulacrum Imperialis, you and any allies faithful to the Imperial Cult within hearing distance gain +1 Strength. In addition, as a Combat Action, you can plant your Simulacrum in place. Until you next move, you and any allies faithful to the Imperial Cult within 5m gain +Rank Determination.

WARGEAR: Sororitas Power Armour, Bolt Pistol, Boltgun, 3 Frag Grenades, 3 Krak Grenades, Simulacrum Imperialis, complete records of your martyr, a copy of the Rule of the Sororitas.

INFLUENCE: +2

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Athletics 2, Awareness 3, Ballistic Skill 4, Intimidation 2, Leadership 4, Persuasion 4, Scholar 3, Weapon Skill 2

SUGGESTED TALENTS

102

Orthopraxy, Bolstering Purity, In His Name

SERAPHIM Heretics, look to the sky and rejoice! Your deliverance has arrived. Adepta Sororitas

—Sister Vesperia, Order of the Sacred Rose

Borne upon angelic wings of fire, you provide

The Seraphim’s reputation for rescuing beleaguered

salvation to your allies with aerial hit-and-

units, before departing as swiftly as they arrived,

run attacks.

has earned them the undying adoration of Imperial allies.

Some

Sisters

disclaim

this

honour

for

Seraphim are the Orders Militant’s elite strike teams,

the sake of modesty, whilst others master their

descending from above upon San Leor-patten jump

influence over others, galvanising devotees to acts of

packs stylised as angel wings. Unlike most Imperial

battlefield heroism.

jump pack troops, Seraphim specialise in short-range firefights over sustained melee assaults, devastating

As rapid-response specialists, the Order of the

enemy formations with paired-pistol fusillades, before

Sanctified Shield’s Seraphim are often the first Sisters

withdrawing to the next engagement.

deployed from Enoch to new fronts. These fierce Sisters

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

are a sight to behold as they flare up in the Gilead System. With the visage of an avenging angel and the combat instincts of a veteran Sister, Seraphim provide both urgent reinforcement and divine inspiration.

SERAPHIM TIER

SPECIES Human

XP Cost

118

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MINISTORUM, ADEPTA SORORITAS, [ORDER]

ATTRIBUTES: Strength 3, Toughness 3, Agility 4, Willpower 3 Intellect 3

SKILLS: Ballistic Skill 3, Pilot 3, Scholar 1, Weapon Skill 3

ABILITY: Angelic Presence You and any allies within 15m faithful to the Imperial Cult gain +Rank Bonus Dice to Resolve Tests. In addition, when you use a jump pack to move away from Engagement, enemies cannot make Reflexive Attacks against you.

WARGEAR: Sororitas Power Armour, San Leor-patten jump pack, 3 Frag Grenades, 3 Krak Grenades, a copy of the Rule of the Sororitas. 2 Bolt Pistols or 2 Hand Flamers or 2 Inferno Pistols

INFLUENCE: +2

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Athletics 2, Awareness 1, Ballistic Skill 4, Insight 1, Leadership 1, Pilot 4, Scholar 2, Weapon Skill 4

SUGGESTED TALENTS Dual Wield, Inspired Blessing, Shield of Faith

103

CANONESS Your weapon is your boltgun. My weapon is my Sisterhood. Adepta Sororitas

You are a senior officer of the Orders Militant,

—Canoness Jeanne Grace D’Emysa

Only experienced and fearless warriors achieve this

leading the faithful by example in acts of worship

rank, required to master military strategy and issue

and warfare.

orders without doubt. Wielding supreme authority often isolates a Canoness from the Sisters whose

A Sister of Battle who excels as a commander

lives she expends, and many can depend only on the

and beacon of piety will eventually be promoted

Emperor as their confidante.

to Canoness, a position bestowing authority over hundreds of Sisters. These living legends coordinate

Canoness always lead from the front, and whilst they

the Ministorum’s Wars of Faith, and mastermind the

usually command armies of Battle Sisters, adversity

defence of an Order’s convent and parish.

within the Gilead System has forged more diverse coalitions, united by faith. Whether pledged to the service of the Ordo Hereticus, or bound by honour pacts with the Adeptus Astartes, duty may force a Canoness to sometimes rely less on her Order’s resources, and more on personal skill-at-arms. CANONESS TIER

SPECIES Human

XP Cost

249

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MINISTORUM, ADEPTA SORORITAS, [ORDER]

ATTRIBUTES: Strength 3, Toughness 4, Agility 4, Initiative 4, Willpower 6, Intellect 3, Fellowship 4

SKILLS: Ballistic Skill 3, Leadership 4, Scholar 4, Weapon Skill 3

ABILITY: Lead the Righteous You are an inspiring warleader and walking miracle both. You gain +Rank Faith (see page142 of Wrath & Glory Rulebook). Whenever you deal a Wound, you may spend 1 Faith to gain +1 Glory as a Free Action.

WARGEAR: Sororitas Power Armour, Rosarius, Chaplet Ecclesiasticus, Sororitas Vestments, a copy of the Rule of the Sororitas. A Condemnor Boltgun, or a Boltgun with the Combi Weapon upgrade combined with a Flamer, Meltagun or Plasma Gun. A Blessed Blade or a Chainsword or an Eviscerator or a Power Sword. A Bolt Pistol or a Plasma Pistol or an Inferno Pistol. A Brazier of Holy Fire or a Null Rod.

INFLUENCE: +3

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Athletics 2, Awareness 3, Ballistic Skill 5, Insight 3, Intimidation 2, Investigation 2, Leadership 4, Persuasion 3, Scholar 4, Weapon Skill 5

SUGGESTED TALENTS

104

Bolstering Purity, Repent!, Righteous Wrath

ASTARTES APOTHECARY Son of Russ, I will mend you without regard to your Chapter. I am not bound Adeptus Astartes

to inherit the grievances of the past. I serve only our future. —Brother Malabiel, Dark Angels Apothecary

You are an expert combat medic specialising in

There are few Apothecaries in the Gilead System, and

Astartes physiology and the retrieval of precious

without hope of reinforcement, the Absolvers Chapter

genetic material.

are desperate enough to call upon Apothecaries in

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS

other Chapters to help replenish their ranks with new Astartes with an instinct for scientific inquiry receive

Astartes. Other Apothecaries pursue cures for the

medical instruction from their Chapter’s Apothecarion,

plagues emanating from Vulkaris, for if anyone has

studying the hallowed secrets of Astartes gene-seed

the ingenuity and superhuman physique to combat the

implantation, and monitoring other Brothers for

gifts of Nurgle, it is they.

genetic deviances. In combat, Apothecaries restore wounded comrades to fighting strength, and recover

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

deceased Astartes’ progenoid glands — the implant that reproduces gene-seed for the next generation of Neophytes. Though more academically-minded then their brethren, Apothecaries are no less gifted warriors. Some are haunted by personally attending the deaths of so many Battle-Brothers, whilst others are buoyed by their direct role in preserving the future of their Chapter.

ASTARTES APOTHECARY TIER

SPECIES Adeptus Astartes XP Cost

357

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS ASTARTES, [CHAPTER]

ATTRIBUTES: Strength 5, Toughness 5, Agility 5, Initiative 5, Willpower 4, Intellect 5

SKILLS: Athletics 3, Awareness 3, Ballistic Skill 5, Leadership 1, Medicae 5, Scholar 1, Stealth 3, Survival 1, Weapon Skill 5

ABILITY: Prime Helix Your duty to your injured battle brothers is second only to your duty to the fallen. When you succeed on a Medicae Test to heal a target’s Wounds, they recover +Rank additional Wounds.

WARGEAR: Mark VII Power Armour, Bolt Pistol, Chainsword, 3 Frag Grenades, 3 Krak Grenades, Narthecium, Reductor.

INFLUENCE: +2

105

ASTARTES CHAPLAIN ‘The Emperor Protects’? Well, that’s one theory. But, as a counterpoint, let me paraphrase Adeptus Astartes

the creed of the sons of Leman Russ — ‘The best protection is sustained aggression.’ —Absolvers Chaplain Kydomios

You are the mouthpiece of your Chapter’s spiritual

Most Space Marines Chapters do not recognise the

beliefs, tending to the psychological well-being of

Emperor as a god, but instead subscribe to ideology

your comrades.

combining pre-Heresy Imperial Truth, teachings of their founding Primarch, and the culture of their homeworld. This cult is embodied by the Chapter’s Chaplains, zealous skull-masked preachers who inspire their Brothers to greater acts of valour. Chaplains are mentors, counselling troubled Astartes, overseeing Neophyte training, and leading departed Brothers’ funerary rites. Their duties may also include protecting the secrets of their Chapter’s history, and sometimes monitoring physical as well as mental health. The Absolvers Chaplains are a walking record of their Chapter’s most sacred vows, ensuring their fulfilment — no matter the cost. In a system as beleaguered as Gilead, the Chaplains are pillars of conviction, rousing their charges with the stirring rhetoric of a warrior’s creed. Indeed, Enoch’s jealous theocrats are increasingly paranoid that those mortals that swear themselves to the Astartes might emerge as a challenge to their power…

ASTARTES CHAPLAIN TIER

SPECIES Adeptus Astartes XP Cost

392

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS ASTARTES, [CHAPTER]

ATTRIBUTES: Strength 5, Toughness 5, Agility 5, Initiative 5, Willpower 5, Intellect 3, Fellowship 5

SKILLS: Athletics 3, Awareness 3, Ballistic Skill 5, Insight 3, Leadership 3, Scholar 4, Stealth 3, Survival 1, Weapon Skill 5

ABILITY: Chapter Cult You gain 1 Faith, and can purchase Faith Talents available to characters with the ADEPTUS MINISTORUM Keyword. As a Combat Action, you may spend 1 Faith to give an ally within hearing distance your [CHAPTER] Keyword for the rest of the scene, with all corresponding effects except those with the Tradition or Gene-seed title, or that provide equipment. In addition, any allies within 5xRank metres who share your [CHAPTER] Keyword gain +Rank to Resolve Tests.

WARGEAR: Mark VII Power Armour, Skull Helm, Crozius Arcanum, Bolt Pistol, Rosarius, 3 Frag Grenades, 3 Frak Grenades

106

INFLUENCE: +2

ASTARTES LIBRARIAN I don’t need powers of astral divination to foresee your complete eradication. Adeptus Astartes

—Codicier Pandemos of the Flesh Tearers Chapter

You are a battle-psyker of the Adeptus Astartes,

Amongst the many powers of an Absolvers Librarian

a terrifying combination of inhuman might and

is the crafting of unbreakable vows that destroy any

Warp-endowed power.

who attempt to violate their promise. This assurance of allegiance has helped forge unity throughout

If an Astartes aspirant is discovered to possess psychic

the Gilead System, albeit through the threat of

potential, they are seconded to their Chapter’s Librarius,

psychic obliteration.

where they undergo even more gruelling instruction. Those who overcome the trials with their mind, body and soul intact become Librarians. They prophecise future conflicts, facilitate the Chapter’s astrotelepathic communications, and unleash deadly magics against

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

enemy formations. The Warp’s constant temptations transform Librarians into somber, even sinister, figures. As chroniclers of their Chapter’s history, their powers often manifest in sympathy with their brotherhood’s traditions — for example, the psychic blast of a Salamanders Librarian might appear as the fiery breath of a dragon from Nocturne, the Salamanders’ homeworld.

ASTARTES LIBRARIAN TIER

SPECIES Adeptus Astartes XP Cost

359

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS ASTARTES, [CHAPTER]

ATTRIBUTES: Strength 5, Toughness 5, Agility 5, Initiative 5, Willpower 6, Intellect 3

SKILLS: Athletics 3, Awareness 3, Ballistic Skill 5, Psychic Mastery 4, Scholar 2, Stealth 3, Survival 1, Weapon Skill 5

ABILITY: Chapter Cult You have the PSYKER Keyword, and are a psyker. You know the Universal Psyker Abilities Wrath & Glory Rulebook, p.267, and the Smite psychic power. You know the Librarius Discipline and one power from that Discipline of your choice, and may choose one other Psychic Discipline to learn powers from as described in Chapter 11 of the Rulebook.

WARGEAR: Mk VII Astartes Power Armour, Psychic Hood, Bolt Pistol, Force Stave, 3 Frag Grenades, 3 Krak Grenades.

INFLUENCE: +2

107

PRIMARIS REIVER Do not be deterred by resistance. We are here whether our Chapter accepts us or Adeptus Astartes

not. We do our best work when the target is kicking and screaming. —Battle-Brother Hardan, Reiver of the Absolvers Chapter

You are an infiltrator, saboteur and guerilla fighter,

A Reiver’s commitment to mastering psychological

unleashing your full Primaris strength in carefully

warfare

coordinated terror attacks.

personalities. Away from a warzone, they may be

breeds

unpleasant,

sometimes

unstable,

withdrawn and sullen, only enlivened by the discovery As

systems

across

the

Dark

Imperium

are

of a new target to utterly dismantle.

overwhelmed, elite warriors are needed who can excel whilst operating behind enemy lines. Primaris Reivers

Whilst Primaris Absolvers have struggled to find

fulfil this niche, utilising silent Mark X Phobos Power

acceptance amongst their Firstborn Astartes Battle-

Armour, and other stealth technology to dismantle

Brothers, the Reivers of the Absolvers seem least

whole armies without a return shot fired. When the

troubled by this ostracisation. They care less for the

Reivers finally reveal their presence, a shocking

observing Chapter rites on the Vow of Absolution than

display of unstoppable force crushes panicked enemies

they do for terrorising the Imperium’s enemies. The

with contemptuous ease.

Gilead System offers plenty of opportunities to satisfy this obsession.

PRIMARIS REIVER TIER

SPECIES Primaris Astartes XP Cost

288

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS ASTARTES, PRIMARIS, [CHAPTER]

ATTRIBUTES: Strength 5, Toughness 5, Agility 4, Initiative 5, Willpower 5, Intellect 3

SKILLS: Athletics 3, Awareness 3, Ballistic Skill 4, Intimidation 3, Stealth 3, Weapon Skill 4

ABILITY: Terror Tactics When your Stealth Score is reduced to 0 or you Ambush a Threat, you can choose for all enemies who can see or hear you to take a Terror Test, with a DN equal to 1 + Rank.

WARGEAR: Mark X Phobos Reiver Power Armour, Bolt Carbine, Heavy Bolt Pistol, Astartes Combat Knife, 3 Frag Grenades, 3 Krak Grenades, 3 Shock Grenades

INFLUENCE: +1

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

108

XP Cost

Athletics 3, Awareness 3, Ballistic Skill 4, Intimidation 5, Stealth 4, Weapon Skill 4

XP Cost

TECH-ADEPT Have you attempted the Rituals of Slumber and Reanimation? Adeptus Mechanicus

—Tech-Adept Servilia, attendant to Inquisitor Lord Atlar

You are a technical operator in service of the

The essential role Tech-Adepts play in maintaining

Priesthood of Mars, skilled at navigating and

Imperial technology is easily overlooked, and many

compiling digital systems.

find this invisibility a useful asset when enacting personal ambitions. Their agendas may be petty, or in

The gargantuan industry of the Adeptus Mechanicus

service of a higher power, but are invariably coloured

is fuelled by physical labour of indentured workers

by the indoctrination of the Cult Mechanicus.

and Servitors, the incomprehensible calculations of Machine Spirits, and the judgement of Tech-Adepts

As the Gilead System’s resources dwindle, Tech-Adepts

overseeing both. Whilst a Tech-Adept’s duties are often

are forced to rely on increasingly creative solutions

highly specialised — monitoring a single machine, or

to fulfil their duties. Adaptation is not their order’s

recording a single data output — all ultimately play a

strongest suit, but the most gifted Tech-Adepts have

small role in furthering the Quest for Knowledge.

distinguished themselves with an unusual flair for

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

initiative, and in rarer cases, invention, skirting the border of tech-heresy.

TECH ADEPT TIER

SPECIES Human

XP Cost

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MECHANICUS, [FORGE WORLD]

ATTRIBUTES: Intellect 2 SKILLS: Scholar 2, Tech 3 ABILITY: Admin Access Your purpose is to commune with Machine Spirits and catalogue their wisdom, to further the Quest for Knowledge. When you commune with a Machine Spirit as part of a Test, you gain Icons equal to your Rank.

WARGEAR: Laspistol, Adepts Robes (Clothing), Combi-Tool, DataSlate, Sacred Machine Oil, any Augmetic Enhancement.

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Awareness 2, Ballistic Skill 1, Investigation 2, Medicae 1, Pilot 1, Scholar 2, Tech 4, Weapon Skill 1

SUGGESTED TALENTS Augmetic, Binary Chatter, Deductive

109

SICARIAN INFILTRATOR If he doesn’t want to talk to me or my Excruciator, he can have a conversation with Adeptus Mechanicus

my dome-headed friend instead. Just give me a few minutes to find my earbuds. —Interrogator Caprice Valentino

You are a mechanical soldier broadcasting a wavelength

neurostatic,

inducing

sensory

overload in all creatures nearby.

With such awesome power at their command, it is tempting for Sicarian Infiltrators to employ their neurostatic off the battlefield, against uncooperative Imperial citizens. This escalation often leads to

Sicarians

are

barely-human

warrior

constructs,

unnecessary complications, and Infiltrators must

painfully fabricated from the critically injured remains

struggle to reconnect with their dwindling shreds of

of the Machine Cult’s living soldiers. The Sicarian

Humanity and discover less direct ways to achieve

Infiltrators are specialist hunter units, penetrating

their aims.

enemy lines with direct sensory assault. Their domehelms emit a noise that overwhelms sight, hearing,

The Tech-Priests of Avachrus despatch Infiltrators

and other senses with agonising static. Though

to gather intelligence and retrieve valuable cargo in

sentries know they are under attack, identifying their

the best-guarded, least-accessible parts of the Gilead

enemy is impossible, as their eyes, ears, and mouth all

System. Cooperating agents equip themselves with

fill with blood.

implanted or removable broadcasters that counteract the Infiltrator’s neurostatic effects.

SICARIAN INFILTRATOR TIER

SPECIES Human

XP Cost

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MECHANICUS, [FORGE WORLD]

ATTRIBUTES: Toughness 3, Agility 3, Intellect 2 SKILLS: Ballistic Skill 4, Intimidation 2, Weapon Skill 2 ABILITY: Neurostatic Aura You are immune to Bleeding. As a Combat Action, you may choose a number up to your Rank, and inflict that many Hindered Conditions on all characters within 10m that don’t have this ability or null-code audio inputs.

WARGEAR: Sicarian Battle Armour, Augmetic Legs, Infiltrator Headpiece. Flechette Blaster and Taser Goad or Stubcarbine and Power Sword

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Athletics 2, Awareness 3, Ballistic Skill 4, Insight 2, Intimidation 4, Investigation 1, Leadership 1, Medicae 1, Stealth 2, Survival 2, Tech 3, Weapon Skill 2

SUGGESTED TALENTS

110

Augmetic, Disturbing Voice, Lobotomised Efficiency

SICARIAN RUSTSTALKER An error has been detected. Activating countermeasures. Error purge Adeptus Mechanicus

in process. Error purge in process. Error purge in process. —Princeps Omicron-900 at the Battle of Kran’s Blunder

You are a mechanical assassin, carving through the

Most Sicarians are constructed from fallen Skitarii’s

defences of your target with a flurry of shrieking

mortally wounded bodies. It’s a traumatic and

transonic blades.

painful transformation that unravels the recipient’s

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS

psychological stability. Ruststalkers are often chosen Sicarian Ruststalkers are cyber-commandos employed

from those who recovered worst — lost and desperate

to execute the fleeing enemies of Mars. Surgical

souls, grateful for sanction to unleash their violent

instruments of the Tech-Priesthood’s vengeance,

rage in service of the Machine God.

their distinctive transonic weapons hum and shiver as they reverberate from armoured defences, before

No corner of the Gilead System is beyond the reach

their frequency adjusts to phase through protections

of a Sicarian Ruststalker, once the Tech-Priests of

with a follow-up attack. To tune their blades quickly,

Avachrus have authorised their use. Invariably, their

Ruststalkers attack in a murderous frenzy, paying

mission is to assassinate a priority target, with any

little regard to their own protection.

other parametres a secondary concern.

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

SICARIAN RUSTSTALKER TIER

SPECIES Human

XP Cost

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MECHANICUS, [FORGE WORLD]

ATTRIBUTES: Toughness 3, Agility 3, Initiative 2 SKILLS: Athletics 2, Stealth 2, Weapon Skill 4 ABILITY: Transonic Assassin You are a hunter-killer operative, delivering a hail of transonic blows until you find the perfect armour-shredding frequency. You are immune to BLEEDING. In addition, you gain +Rank bonus dice when Charging or making All-Out Attacks whilst wielding a weapon with the TRANSONIC Keyword.

WARGEAR: Sicarian Battle Armour, Augmetic Legs, 2 Transonic Blades or a Transonic Razor and a Chordclaw

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

116

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Athletics 2, Awareness 3, Ballistic Skill 1, Deception 2, Intimidation 1, Investigation 1, Medicae 1, Stealth 4, Tech 3, Weapon Skill 4

SUGGESTED TALENTS Armourbane, Augmetic, Eliminator

111

TECH-PRIEST DOMINUS I am Skitarius. I am Sicarian. I am the data-tether that connects them. The gunsights they

Adeptus Mechanicus

aim down. The eyes and ears of every unit in this Battle Congregation. The orbital lances that precede their advance. My name is legion, and I am the destroyer of worlds. —Coaltadel the Omnipresent, Tech-Priest Dominus

You are a commander of the Adeptus Mechanicus’

politics often force Domini to depend upon their own

military

skills and firepower first and foremost.

forces,

effortlessly

splitting

your

consciousness between multiple technical interfaces. Since the departure of the Legio Karuthos and its Tech-Priests with a gift for waging war will eventually

Fabricator General, the ruling Domini of each foundry-

attain the rank of Dominus, receiving the deadliest

forge on Avachrus have jockeyed for pre-eminence.

weapons of the Forge Worlds, and command over an

Currently, Archdomina Aexekra Vakuul of Belaxia has

army of the Machine God. They devour masses of data

emerged as successor, but without support from other

transmitted by subordinates, processing optimum

Domini she will not remain so for long.

solutions, and relaying instructions with instinctive pulses of thought-dissemination. To the laity, they seem in multiple places at once.

TECH-PRIEST DOMINUS TIER

SPECIES Human

XP Cost

The obsessive creed of the Cult Mechanicus nurtures

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS

bizarre ‘special interests’ amongst its Priesthood.

MECHANICUS, [FORGE WORLD]

Domini are no exception: most do not hesitate to abuse their position, directing whole legions to satisfy their Quest for Knowledge. But cut-throat Mechanicus

113

ATTRIBUTES: Intellect 5 SKILLS: Ballistic Skill 2, Scholar 2, Tech 5, Weapon Skill 2

ABILITY: Lord of the Machine Cult You are unbound by the tethers of your biological form, automatically interfacing with nearby technology. As a Simple Action, you can Help all allies within 10m that have the ADEPTUS MECHANICUS Keyword, or are utilising equipment with a Machine Spirit (including guns and non-basic melee weapons), granting +Rank Bonus Dice to their Tests.

WARGEAR: Omnissian Axe, Volkite Blaster or Eradication Ray, Macrostubber or Phosphor Serpenta. Light Power Armour, Refractor Field, One Mechadendrite Any 3 Augmetics Combi-Tool Omnissian Sigil (Symbol of Authority) Sacred Machine Oil

INFLUENCE: +2

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

119

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Awareness 3, Ballistic Skill 5, Investigation 3, Leadership 2, Medicae 1, Pilot 3, Scholar 3, Tech 5, Weapons Skill 5

SUGGESTED TALENTS

112

Devotees, Rite of Magnometrics, Rite of Pure Thought

CONFESSOR Your sins have condemned you. The price of His forgiveness is your life. Rejoice! Adepta Ministorum

Upon this battlefield, you shall not wait long for your return to grace. —Confessor Gerrich Tharagard

You are a firebrand preacher of the Imperial Cult,

Confessors are irrepressible and bellicose, rarely

compelling your flock to admit their failings with

inclined to temper their zealotry. Most feel responsible

force of personality alone.

for their followers, even if their stay in a parish is brief.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS

Encouraging believers to inform on their neighbours Every Imperial citizen is guilty of something —

is an excellent source of local knowledge. In times of

from mortal vices of treachery and heresy, to

need, fanatical militia can be incensed to visit mob

unacceptable love of family above one’s love to His

justice upon the Emperor’s enemies.

Imperium. Confessors root out these secrets with fire-and-brimstone sermons that terrify superstitious

Confessors are found pronouncing His word wherever

congregations into pleading forgiveness. By devising

they sense the faith of His servants is lacking. In practice,

an appropriate (and often painful) punishment, a

this is everywhere, and Confessors have become

Confessor can direct the rededicated faithful however

common sights across the Gilead System, defying the

they choose.

corruption of the Great Rift with their passion.

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

CONFESSOR TIER

SPECIES Human

XP Cost

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MINISTORUM

ATTRIBUTES: Willpower 4, Intellect 3 SKILLS: Insight 2, Intimidation 2, Medicae 3, Scholar 4, Weapon Skill 2

ABILITY: Spiritual Administration When you Test to discover the sins of another character (by coercion, investigation, or instinct), gain +Rank Bonus Dice. In addition, during a Regroup, you can choose one character faithful to the Imperial Cult to regain all Shock.

WARGEAR: Ministorum Robes, Rosarius, Missionary Kit, Power Maul, Laspistol, Torture Kit, Ministorum Tomes, Portable Lectern.

INFLUENCE: +1

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Awareness 1, Insight 4, Intimidation 2, Investigation 2, Medicae 3, Scholar 4, Tech 1, Weapon Skill 2

SUGGESTED TALENTS In His Name, Repent!, The Passion

113

RATLING SNIPER Never heard of a ‘Sarvus Veknironth’, Colonel. But if I see him, or your Astra Militarum

vintage amasec, I promise you’ll be the first to know. —Sarvus Veknironth, Ratling Sniper

You are small and elusive, enlisted in the Astra

Militarum

sharpshooter

and

Experience on the battlefield sharpens a Ratling’s natural stealth and sticky-fingered survivalist skills.

infiltration specialist.

Troopers who treat their shorter comrades with respect

Though Ratlings are not renowned for their strength or

wargear. Those who insult the Ratlings’ stature instead

discipline, their accuracy and keen instincts for good

find their personal effects mysteriously disappear.

can acquire extra rations, intoxicants, and specialist

hiding places makes them excellent snipers. They usually deploy at long range, eliminating targets of

Ratlings are native to the Agri World of Ostia. They are

opportunity whilst minimising return fire. Occasionally

specifically targeted by the Lord-Militant’s press-gangs

they are retasked as saboteurs, breaking in and out of

over the planet’s taller, more agriculturally-productive

supposedly impenetrable defences undetected.

Human population. Many of these conscripts desert, fleeing to the Reach and other lawless places where they adapt to a criminal lifestyle.

RATLING TIER

SPECIES Ratling

XP Cost

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ASTRA MILITARUM, [REGIMENT], ABHUMAN, MILITARUM AUXILLA

ATTRIBUTES: Toughness 2, Agility 2, Fellowship 2 SKILLS: Awareness 2, Ballistic Skill 3, Cunning 2, Deception 2, Stealth 3

ABILITY: Shoot Sharp and Scarper When using a weapon with the Sniper Weapon Trait, increase the weapon’s Sniper rating by +Rank. In addition, when you make a successful ranged Attack Test, you may immediately move up to your Speed as a Reflexive Action.

WARGEAR: Ratling Rifle or Sniper Rifle or Long Las, Knife, Flak Armour, 5 Rations (2 stolen), Ratling Keepsakes

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Awareness 2, Ballistic Skill 3, Cunning 2, Deception 2, Insight 1, Persuasion 1, Stealth 3

SUGGESTED TALENTS

114

Deadshot, Eliminator, Silent

OGRYN WARRIOR Der mishunn is to run across dat field and make all dem green fings dead. Any kweschuns? Astra Militarum

—Bone’ead Kopp, Ogryn tactician

You are a muscular titan of war, unleashed by the

includes most structures designed for smaller Humans.

Astra Militarum as a blunt instrument.

Devotion to the Emperor comes easily, their faith seldom

BACKGROUNDS

complicated by doubts or other conflicting thoughts. Ogryns’ incredible bulk and physical strength make them ideal shock troops for the Astra Militarum.

FACTIONS Ogryns were the original inhabitants of Skaelas, Gilead

Their simple minds favour the most direct route to

Primus’s high-gravity prison moon. Ogryn communities

destroying their enemies. The Militarum Auxilla

have served as penal guards there for centuries, but

equips them with robust weaponry, designed to hold

as the Astra Militarum’s need for overwhelming brute

up no matter how many times it’s swung as a club into

force grows, their numbers dwindle.

armoured enemies.

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Ogryns are loyal and warm-hearted by inclination, though they struggle to calm once enraged. All have an instinctive phobia of confined spaces, which

OGRYN WARRIOR TIER

SPECIES Ogryn

XP Cost

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ASTRA MILITARUM, MILITARUM AUXILLA, [REGIMENT],

ABHUMAN ATTRIBUTES: Strength 5, Toughness 5, Willpower 2 SKILLS: Ballistic Skill 1, Survival 2, Weapon Skill 2 ABILITY: Let It Rip Your approach to combat is simple, direct, and expends plenty of ammunition. When you Charge and have a ranged weapon, you can fire it wildly as a Free Action. This is treated as a Salvo Option that awards Bonus Dice to your Melee Attack Test equal to your weapon’s Salvo rating.

WARGEAR: Flak Armour, Ripper Gun (with bayonet), 3 Frag Bombs

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Athletics 2, Awareness 1, Ballistic Skill 2, Intimidation 1, Survival 3, Weapon Skill 5

SUGGESTED TALENTS Augmetic, Brutalist, Duty Until Death

115

BULLGRYN A shrieker cannon? Throne damn those Aeldari scum! Send in the Bullgryn, Astra Militarum

either they’ll run out of ammo or he’ll smash them to dust. —Astra Militarum Sergeant Mathilde Gorr

You are a walking wall of heavy armour and close-

BULLGRYN

assault weaponry, first into battle, with an army of comrades sheltering behind you. When Ogryn muscle is insufficient to bulldoze an enemy defence, Astra Militarum commanders instruct their charges to armour themselves with tank treads and heavy shields, and exchange their guns for close assault weaponry. The result is unsubtle even by Ogryn standards — a slow but unstoppable charge, bludgeoning through any opposition, a living shield

TIER

SPECIES Ogryn

172

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, ASTRA MILITARUM, MILITARUM AUXILLA, [REGIMENT],

ABHUMAN ATTRIBUTES: Strength 6, Toughness 6, Agility 2, Initiative 2, Willpower 2

SKILLS: Athletics 2, Ballistic Skill 2, Survival 2, Weapon Skill 3

for the second wave advancing behind them.

ABILITY: Shieldwall

Bullgryns understand smaller friends depend on

You provide your allies with a mobile defence line formed of carapace, tank tracks and Abhuman muscle. If an attack is made against an ally within 3m, that ally can add your Shield’s Armour Rating to their Armour Rating.

them for protection, a duty they take extremely seriously. They constantly rehearse marching at a pace shorter-legged companions can keep up with, until remembering to hold their shields up becomes second nature. The miserable thought of failing to defend their allies troubles them far more than dying, resulting in incredible courage under fire. Bullgryns are selected from veteran warriors, emerging wherever the Astra Militarum’s progress has faltered. Lord-Militant Fylamon is marshalling them for a strike against the Voidmire and Membrane Worlds, a potent reminder of the incredible power at the Imperium’s disposal.

WARGEAR: Bullgryn Plate, 3 Frag Bombs, A Slabshield and Grenadier Gauntlet or a Bullgryn Maul and Brute Shield

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Athletics 2, Awareness 3, Ballistic Skill 3, Leadership 1, Survival 3, Weapon Skill 6

SUGGESTED TALENTS Brutalist, Die Hard, Fear

116

XP Cost

LEXMECHANIC 86,403 confirmed casualties. Success rate decreased to 16%. I will Inquisition

calculate a new plan, and Omnissiah willing, we shall prevail. —Lexmechanic Shohreh the Exacting

You are a walking source of information and

Lexmechanics tend to be humourless and literally-

calculation, devising mathematical solutions for

minded, always precise in their work, and hungry for

any problems you encounter.

more information. Unlike their Tech-Priest masters,

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS

they naturally defer to a supporting role. They are The forges of the Adeptus Mechanicus contain

often seconded to other organisations, especially the

vast halls of cogitator-banks, their Machine Spirits

Ordos of the Inquisition, who find their polymathic

processing production quotas, statistical analysis

knowledge exceptionally useful in their investigations.

and battle reports. When more mobile evaluation is required, the Tech-Priests dispatch the Lexmechanics,

Though Lexmechanics are found anywhere in the

their advanced mechanical brains providing in-the-

Gilead System where there is confounding data to

field instructions on topics as diverse as body-language

interpret, most return to Avachrus when they can.

interpretation and artillery trajectories.

Ostensibly, this is to upgrade processing capacity with

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

additional augmetics, but mostly it is an opportunity to download their experiences to the Mechanicus’ cogitators, preserving a back-up in event of their untimely demise. LEXMECHANIC TIER

SPECIES Human

XP Cost

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, INQUISITION, [ORDO], ADEPTUS MECHANICUS, [FORGE WORLD]

ATTRIBUTES: Intellect 3 SKILLS: 3 ABILITY: Statistical Certainty The assistance you provide your allies comes with the benefit of exacting mathematical analysis, to remove all possibility of ill-fortune or doubt. When you Help an ally, you may reduce the amount of Bonus Dice you provide by an amount equal up to your Rank. For every die removed, your ally gains an extra Icon on their Test result.

WARGEAR: Laspistol, Adepts Robes (Clothing), Auspex, Auto-Quill, Combi-Tool, Data Slate, any 2 Augmetics, Sacred Machine Oil, Symbol of Authority (Adeptus Mechanicus and Inquisition)

INFLUENCE: +1

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Awareness 2, Ballistic Skill 1, Cunning 1, Insight 2, Investigation 2, Medicae 1, Persuasion 1, Pilot 1, Scholar 3, Tech 3, Weapon Skill 1

SUGGESTED TALENTS Augmetic, Deductive, Rite of Pure Thought

117

INTERROGATOR Why should you help me, General? In five years’ time, I’ll be an Inquisitor, and you won’t. Inquisition

You are an apprentice Inquisitor, beginning your

—Interrogator Caprice Valentino

To be accepted as an Interrogator, an acolyte must

training by learning to coerce information from

catch an Inquisitor’s eye by being exceptional in some

unwilling subjects.

way, but their training always involves diversifying

Any Inquisitor undergoes a lengthy apprenticeship

emphasised skill — including torture — but cultivating

their

capabilities.

Interrogation

the

most

before they are worthy to receive the title, learning to

a network of informants across Imperial Factions is

unravel conspiracies, and testing their soul against

equally important.

Humanity’s most perilous enemies. By intention, many Interrogators do not survive these trials, ensuring only

Interrogators sometimes enjoy direct tuition at their

the most hardened and iron-willed are bestowed an

master’s side, but since the coming of the Great Rift,

Inquisitorial Rosette.

most have been stranded in the Gilead System and forced to rely on their own instincts. They engage with the manifold adversities forsaking the System with relish, believing each catastrophe is another chance to prove readiness for high office.

INTERROGATOR TIER

SPECIES Human

XP Cost

KEYWORDS: IMPERIUM, INQUISITION, [ORDO], [ANY]

ATTRIBUTES: Willpower 3, Intellect 4 SKILLS: Insight 2, Medicae 3, Scholar 1, Tech 1, Weapon Skill 1

ABILITY: Extract the Truth To earn an Inquisitorial Rosette, the first skill you must master is to lay bare the sinful hearts of Human and xenos. When you succeed on a Test to acquire information from an individual, you gain free Shifts equal to your Rank.

WARGEAR: Symbol of Authority, Excruciator, Neural Whip. Any three pieces of Wargear with the IMPERIUM Keyword of a rarity or Rare or less.

INFLUENCE: +1

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

Awareness 2, Ballistic Skill 1, Cunning 1, Insight 3, Intimidation 2, Investigation 2, Medicae 3, Scholar 2, Survival 1, Scholar Tech 2, Weapon Skill 2

SUGGESTED TALENTS

118

Deductive, Ever Vigilant, Fear

KROOT MERCENARY You have nothing to fear from me, Sergeant. I only eat the strong. T’au Empire

—Trokah the Scaleskin, Kroot Mercenary

You are an alien sell-sword, seeking out mighty

KROOT MERCENARY

foes to devour, absorbing their strength. TIER

Kroot are notoriously unconcerned who or what they fight for. Their true reward is the flesh of powerful enemies they defeat in battle — though they demand payment in local currency, exchanging it for specialist wargear and basic survival needs. This is why the Kroot secretly defy their exclusivity contract with the

SPECIES Kroot

BACKGROUNDS XP Cost

FACTIONS

KEYWORDS: KROOT ATTRIBUTES: Strength 3,

PATRONS

Toughness 2, Agility 3, Initiative 2

SKILLS: Athletics 1, Awareness 1,

CHARACTER OPTIONS

Stealth 2, Survival 3, Weapon Skill 3

T’au Empire. Only by battling beyond T’au spheres of

ABILITY: Adaptive Loyalty

influence can their species sample sufficient genetic

You scour the galaxy seeking strong prey to consume, working as a mercenary to fund your travels.

diversity to truly thrive. A Kroot Mercenary’s personality is coloured by their employment history and diet, but in general they are pragmatic and unemotional. They practise the tribal customs of their homeworld Pech wherever they go, and adapt easily to new technology and languages as they travel the breadth of the galaxy in search of strong foes to slay and consume. Despite the Imperium’s notorious hatred of xenos species, small groups of Kroot Mercenaries have

ENDEAVOURS

You gain the [ANY] Keyword, which should be substituted for the Faction that currently commands your allegiance. At the GM’s discretion, you may swap this Keyword out for a different one when your loyalties shift in play.

WARGEAR: Kroot Rifle, Kroot Armour

SUGGESTED ATTRIBUTES

XP Cost

ATTRIBUTE

Wil

Int

Fel

RATING

SUGGESTED SKILLS

XP Cost

secretly operated in the Gilead System for generations. The Kroot Warsphere Howl Maroak, hidden within the Voidmire, acts as their headquarters, offering services

Athletics 1, Awareness 1, Ballistic Skill 1, Insight 3, Stealth 2, Survival 3, Weapon Skill 3

to the Varonius Flotilla, Greensteel Warriors, and other paying parties without discrimination.

119

WEAPON TRAITS

A Dialogus Staff functions as a weapon, a Symbol of

Blessed (X)

Laud-Hailer (p.126).

Anointed by the priests of the Ecclesiarchy, or

Authority (p.240, Wrath & Glory Rulebook), and a

hexagrammicly warded against the foul forces of the

Power Maul

archenemy, these weapons are particularly effective

A simple mace enhanced by a power field, these weapons

against the foul beings spawned by the Immaterium,

are valued for their utility. As the power field covers a

and those tainted by its power. Blessed weapons gain

smaller area of the weapon, its intensity can be adjusted,

+ED equal to their rating when you use them to attack

allowing it to deliver blows that can impact power armour

a target with the PSYKER or DAEMON Keywords.

or non-lethal warning taps to a Human skull.

MELEE WEAPONS

Adeptus Mechanicus Melee Weapons

Kroot Rifle (Melee)

Taser Goad

All Kroot weapons have incorporated blades, an echo

A Taser Goad is a long, sword-like weapon that

of the fighting staves of their ancestors. Most favor

crackles with the Motive Force it steals from the air.

long-barrelled slug throwers customized with blades

When a Taser Goad impacts its target it releases the

scavenged from mercenary engagements, allowing

caged electricity in a precise paroxysm, imparting the

them to charge their foes with the bestial fury and

Omnissah’s deadly wrath.

swift, two-handed blows their Species are known for.

Imperium Melee Weapons Blessed Blade

Transonic Blade These resonant blades hum with a hostile sonic field, churning the stomachs of all that hear it. When adjusted to the correct resonance, a transonic blade

Rarely, an Imperial Saint will bless a weapon, imbuing

cuts through air and armour alike with the same

it with a modicum of the holy power of unshakable

disturbing swiftness.

faith in the God-Emperor. These weapons are closely guarded relics of the Ecclesiarchy, valued for their

Transonic Razor

ability to strike down daemonic foes and granted only

Shorter and easier to wield than a transonic blade,

to its greatest warriors.

a transonic razor is perfect for slipping through an

Crozius Arcanum

with their eyeball-rattling sonic field.

To an Astartes Chaplain, the purest method of worshipping the Emperor is through slaying His foes in glorious battle. Fittingly, the Crozius Arcanum wielded by each Chaplain is both a badge of office and

enemies’ defenses and slicing through their armour

Ogryn Melee Weapons Bullgryn Maul

a deadly weapon: a mace with a head shaped into a

Little more than a huge slab of metal shaped into a

sacred symbol, crackling with the energy of a lethal

crude club and fitted with an oversized, Ogryn-suited

power field.

handle, a Bullgryn Maul is as blunt and efficient. Almost as tall as a Human, the monstrous size and

A Crozius Arcanum functions as both a weapon and a Symbol of Authority (p.240, Wrath & Glory

120

weight of a Bullgryn Maul are its only boons in combat.

Rulebook).

Ripper Gun Bayonet

Dialogus Staff

bayonets were originally installed on Ogryn ripper

These solidly built staves serve three purposes: the

guns so that their slow-witted wielders would know

uniquely carved shape marks its bearer as a Sister

which part of the weapon to point at the enemy. In

Members of the Departmento Munitorum joke that

Dialogus, the built in Laud-Hailer carries her stirring

truth, an Ogryn charge is made that much more lethal

rhetoric over the din of battle, and its sturdy build

by these large sharpened slabs of metal.

makes it a potent melee weapon when paired with strength or Sororitas Power Armour.

MELEE WEAPONS Name

Damage

Range

Kroot Rifle (melee)

(S) +4

–

Traits

Value

Rarity

Keywords 2-HANDED, BLADE, KROOT, PRIMITIVE

BACKGROUNDS

IMPERIUM MELEE WEAPONS Name Blessed Blade

Crozius

Damage

(S) +5

-3

(S) +5

-2

Range –

–

Traits

Value

Blessed (3), Parry, Rending (1)

Brutal

Rarity 3

FACTIONS

BLADE, IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MINISTORUM

PATRONS

ADEPTA SORORITAS 3

EXOTIC, ADEPTA

CHARACTER OPTIONS

SORORITAS

Arcanum Dialogus

Keywords

(S) +3

–

Reliable

ADEPTA SORORITAS

(S) +5

–

Brutal

POWER FIELD, IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS ASTARTES, ADEPTUS MINISTORUM

ENDEAVOURS

Staff Power Maul

ADEPTUS MECHANICUS MELEE WEAPONS Name

Damage

Range

Taser Goad

(S) +5

–

Agonising

ADEPTUS MECHANICUS

Transonic

(S) +5

–

Parry, Rending (5)

BLADE, TRANSONIC, ADEPTUS MECHANICUS

(S) +3

–

Rending (4)

BLADE, TRANSONIC, ADEPTUS MECHANICUS

Blade Transonic

Traits

Value

Rarity

Razor

Keywords

OGRYN MELEE WEAPONS Name Bullgryn

Damage

Range

Traits

Value

Rarity

(S) +4

-1

–

Brutal

IMPERIUM, ASTRA MILITARUM, MILITARUM AUXILLA

(S) +3

-1

–

Reliable

BLADE, IMPERIUM, ASTRA MILITARUM, MILITARUM AUXILLA

Maul Ripper Gun Bayonet

Keywords

121

RANGED WEAPONS

Militarum Auxilla Ranged Weapons

Kroot Rifle The Kroot created primitive, chemically-propelled slug-

Grenadier Gauntlet

throwers centuries ago, and since being exposed to the

These Ogryn-sized grenade launchers are built to be

T’au and other advanced Species they have altered and

incredibly stable, and can be safely used as massive

improved their weapons much as they modify their

bludgeons without risking accidental detonations.

own biology.

Using the same simple firing mechanism as the Ripper Gun, Bullgryns use Grenadier Gauntlets to assault

Adeptus Mechanicus Ranged Weapons

slabshield walls.

Eradication Ray

Ratling Rifle

Rare relics of the Dark Age of Technology, the merciless

Though built to a slightly smaller scale to other

machinery that powers the Eradication Ray is little

Imperial weaponry, the long barrel of these sniper

foes with mass explosives from behind impenetrable

understood in the 41st Millennium, though its effects

rifles stretches beyond a Ratling’s height. Though

are undeniable. Anything caught in the sickly beam

Ratling Rifles are almost universally simple slug

produced by an Eradication Ray is disassembled atom

throwers, they are deadly in the hands of their sharp-

by atom and unwritten from reality.

eyed Species.

Flechette Blaster

Ripper Gun

Spewing a fusillade of micro-darts at short range,

Big, sturdy, and basic, the Ripper Gun is purpose-built

Flechette Blasters are the standard sidearm of Sicarian

to be wielded by Ogryns. Because of this, its size and

Infiltrators, easily wielded in one hand whilst stalking

solid construction ensure it is as useful as a club as

prey. The flechette ammunition utilises advanced

a firearm. The typical stupidity and inaccuracy of an

bioelectric technology to hone in on the wielder’s

Ogryn shaped the design of the Ripper Gun, resulting

target, ensuring those struck by a single bolt are then

in a custom trigger mechanism activated by squeezing

felled by a thousand more cuts.

the handle to fire a burst of shot. A burst limiter is hard wired into every Ripper Gun to ensure an excited

Macrostubber Far

removed

from

Ogryn does not expend an entire clip the first time they simpler

slug-throwers,

each

Macrostubber is a highly advanced relic capable of unleashing a hail of bullets. Macrostubbers utilise auto-loading and cooling technologies to ensure the

Bolt Weapons

firearm does not buckle or melt despite the intense

Bolt Carbine

heat generated by the withering torrent of bullets.

A compact variant of the Primaris Bolt Rifle, the Bolt

Phosphor Serpenta A chemical sidearm of antique design, a Phosphex Serpenta fires searing incendiary bolts that cause

Carbine has an additional hand-grip mounted at the front of the weapon for enhanced close combat accuracy.

toxic conflagrations. Those struck by a slavo of vile

Condemnor Boltgun

phosphor burn quickly as it sizzles through flesh and

A rare weapon that combines the raw power of a Bolter

armour, and those that survive soon find the bright

with the Warp-repulsing theurgy of the Emperor’s

explosive burst makes them an easier target for

faithful, a Boltgun is combined with an archaic

follow-up shots.

Stubcarbine Combining the advanced machinery of the Mechanicus with the reliability of traditional slug-throwing firearms, the Stubcarbine can unleash a torrent of

122

squeeze the weapon’s handle.

bullets comparable to a Heavy Stubber despite being small enough to be wielded by a Skitarii.

crossbow which fires silver stakes inscribed with sacred sigils of Warp disruption that twist a psyker’s vile gifts against them to inflict perilous wounds.

RANGED WEAPONS Name Kroot Rifle

Bolt

Damage

—

Range S

Salv 2

Carbine

Traits Rapid Fire (1)

Assault,

Value Rarity Keywords 3

Brutal, Rapid Fire (2)

Condemnor

—

Boltgun

Assault,

Brutal,

2 HANDED, PROJECTILE, KROOT BOLT, IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS ASTARTES, PRIMARIS BOLT, IMPERIUM, ADEPTA SORORITAS

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS

Rapid Fire (2)

ENDEAVOURS

ADEPTUS MECHANICUS RANGED WEAPONS Name Eradication

Damage 13

—2

Range S

Salv 1

Ray Flechette

—

Blaster Macrostubber

Phosphor

—1

Serpenta Stubcarbine

Traits

Value Rarity Keywords

Heavy (5), Rending (3)

Pistol, Rapid Fire (4)

Pistol, Rapid Fire (3)

Assault,

MECHANICUS 1

—

Pistol

PROJECTILE, ADEPTUS, MECHANICUS

PHOSPHEX, ADEPTUS, MECHANICUS

Melta 10

ADEPTUS

PROJECTILE, ADEPTUS, MECHANICUS

MILITARUM AUXILLA RANGED WEAPONS Name Grenadier

Damage

—

Range S

Salv 1

Gauntlet

Traits Assault, Blast (2), Heavy (5)

Value Rarity Keywords 6

EXPLOSIVE, ASTRA MILITARUM, MILITARUM AUXILLA

Ratling Rifle

—

Sniper (3),

PROJECTILE, IMPERIUM, ASTRA MILITARUM,

Reliable

MILITARUM AUXILLA Ripper Gun

—

Assault, Brutal, Heavy (5)

PROJECTILE, IMPERIUM, ASTRA MILITARUM, MILITARUM AUXILLA

123

GRENADES Name

Damage

Frag Bomb

Melta Bomb

Mindscrambler

4 4

-4 -

Grenade Shock Grenade

3 (Shock)

Range S

Salv

S) x2m or as Launcher

(S) x2m or as Launcher

(S) x4m or as Launcher

Traits

Value

Blast (8)

Rarity

Keywords EXPLOSIVE, IMPERIUM

Blast (4)

EXPLOSIVE, IMPERIUM

Agonising, Arc (4), Blast (6)

Blast (6), Inflict (Blinded 1,

EXPLOSIVE, ADEPTUS MECHANICUS

EXPLOSIVE, IMPERIUM

Vulnerable 1)

Grenades

A Shock Grenade deals Shock Damage to targets

Frag Bomb

target suffers any Shock Damage, they also suffer

caught in the Blast radius instead of Wounds. If the

Purpose-built for the oversized hands of Ogryns, Frag

the Blinded and Vulnerable Conditions. Targets in

Bombs are simply upscaled frag grenades simplified

the Blast radius of a Shock Grenade can attempt to

for use by blunt minds. A Frag Bomb causes a larger,

use the normal rules for dodging area effect attacks

more deadly explosion of shrapnel, though pressure

(W&G Rulebook page186).

plates must be engineered into every bomb in the eventuality that an Ogryn forgets to throw after pulling the pin.

ARMOUR

Melta Bombs

Kroot Armour

By compressing sub-molecular technology, a Melta

Little more than scraps of metal strung together to

Bomb provides the sunburst intensity of a Melta in a

protect the few vulnerable parts of Kroot biology, this

horrifying hand thrown explosion. These explosives

armour is cobbled together with care to ensure it does

can reduce even the thickest of voidship hulls to

not inhibit movement.

melting slag in seconds.

Mindscrambler Grenade

A variant of Mark 10 Tacticus Power Armour optimised

Discharging wild surges of bio-electricity into circuitry

for stealth and mobility, Phobos Armour features

and nervous systems alike, Mindscrambler Grenades

reengineered servo-motors to ensure silent movement.

are equally deadly when used against organic or

Through use of smaller ceramite plates, Phobos

mechanical foes. A rare instance of ancient Biologis

Armour maximises the wearer’s mobility but sacrifices

studies being applied directly to weaponry, each

a small amount of protection.

grenade contains the replicae organs of a xenos creature capable of producing high current electrical

Sicarian Battle Armour

discharges.

Installed onto the heavily augmented bodies of

Shock Grenade

the few biological parts of a killcade without limiting

Bursting in a deafening explosion of blinding light,

their crucial mobility.

Shock Grenades are used to disorient and terrify the unfortunate targets of Primaris Reivers to ensure a

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Mark X Phobos Power Armour

devastating charge.

Sicarians, this thin, flexible armour perfectly protects

ARMOUR Name

Traits

Value

Kroot Armour

—

Mk X Phobos Power Armour

Powered (3)

Sicarian Battle Armour

Power Field

Rarity 1

Keywords

BACKGROUNDS

LIGHT, PRIMITIVE, KROOT

FACTIONS 9 6

3 2

POWERED, IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS ASTARTES, PRIMARIS IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MECHANICUS, SKITARII

MILITARUM AUXILLA ARMOUR Name

Traits

Value

Bullgryn Plate

—

HEAVY, IMPERIUM, ASTRA MILITARUM, MILITARUM AUXILLA

Brute Shield

Shield

HEAVY, IMPERIUM, ASTRA MILITARUM, MILITARUM AUXILLA

Slabshield

Cumbersome,

HEAVY, IMPERIUM, ASTRA MILITARUM, MILITARUM AUXILLA

Keywords

Militarum Auxilla Armour

EQUIPMENT

This armour is designed for Ogryns. Average-sized

Brazier of Holy Fire

characters cannot wear Ogryn armour, and treat Ogryn

Value: 5

shields as having the Bulk (2) Trait.

Keywords:

Brute Shield

Rarity: 4 IMPERIUM ADEPTUS

MINISTORUMADEPTA SORORITAS Effect: Anyone can attempt to light a Brazier of Holy

Bullgryns most suited to close combat are equipped

Fire as a Combat Action. When lit, the Brazier sheds

with Brute Shields, thick slabs of plasteel incorporating

bright light for 6 metres. If a character with at least

a refractor field to ensure they reach the frontlines

one Faith point wields the Brazier of Holy Fire, any

even under heavy artillery fire.

character with the DAEMON Keyword touched by its

Bullgryn Plate

light is Hindered. A character wielding a Brazier of Holy Fire can spend 1 Faith point to unleash the holy

The Departmento Munitorum discovered long ago that

flames as a Reflexive Action. This attack functions

Ogryns were strong enough to wear recycled vehicle

in the same way as a Hand Flamer (Wrath & Glory

armour, and have since used any surplus to outfit

Rulebook, p.219) but has +3 ED. If the target of this

Bullgryns in what is known as Bullgryn Plate.

attack has the DAEMON Keyword, the attack has +6

Slabshield

CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Shield

Rarity

PATRONS

ED instead.

These thick slabs of reinforced plasteel require the

The blazing zeal of the Ecclesiarchy rendered real

strength of an Ogryn to lift, and are used by Bullgryns

in sacred flame, ensconced in iron wrought with the

to form impassible shield walls. The bottom is spiked

aches of priests, a Brazier of Holy Fire can only be lit

to be planted in the ground, and the sides are notched

by a true devotee of the Emperor, and its light bears

so that they can slot together. The viewport at the

a modicum of His magnificent power.

front is a design necessity, as most Ogryns lack the coordination required to walk forward whilst blocking their own vision.

125

Diagnostor Helmet

Grapnel Launcher

Value: 5

Value: 4

Keywords:

Rarity: 3 IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS ASTARTES

Keywords:

Rarity: 1 IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS ASTARTES,

Effect: +1 Bonus Dice to Medicae (Int) Tests to

PRIMARIS

detect and diagnose diseases, injuries, and ailments,

Effect: The grapnel launcher has a medium range of

and to determine cause of death. If your target is the

30 metres, and can be fired as a Combat Action like

Adeptus Astartes or Primaris Astartes Species, this

a normal Ranged Weapon into any surface with a

bonus increases to +2 Bonus Dice.

default DN of 3. If successfully fired into a surface, the grapnel latches on, and can be retracted to pull

The auto-senses installed in a suit of Astartes

you up to that surface as a Free Action.

Power Armour are perfectly optimised for battle, but those worn by Apothecaries are retuned to focus on

A simple tool utilised by deep-striking Primaris

medical aid.

forces, a grapnel launcher can quietly pull the full weight of a Primaris Astartes to an advantageous

Excrutiator Value: 3 Keywords:

vertical position in seconds. Rarity: 2

ADEPTUS MINISTORUM

Infravisor

INQUISITION

Value: 5

Effect: You may apply an Excrutiator to a target

Keywords:

Rarity: 3

as a Combat Action. If the target is capable of

Effect: An Infravisor functions as Preysense

resisting and chooses to do so, you must succeed

Goggles (Wrath & Glory Rulebook, p.239), and

on an Opposed Test (typically Strength, Agility or

also allows you to detect high levels of radiation in

Initiative) to inflict the Excrutiator on them. The

your immediate environment.

IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MECHANICUS

Excrutiator deals 1 Shock Damage and Hindered 1 when applied to a target. The Excrutiator may be

An advanced technological visor often installed

applied repeatedly, dealing an additional 1 Shock

into the augers and augmetic eyes of the Adeptus

Damage and increasing the Hindered Condition by

Mechanicus, the Infravisor allows its user to see into

+1 every time it is used. At the GM’s discretion, it

a wide range of spectra simultaneously, including

may also alter the target’s emotions.

several the Mechanicus do not truly understand.

Hundreds of wires labelled with the inscrutable hexagrammic symbols of the Inquisition protrude from this compact black cube. Each wire, when correctly applied to the flesh of an individual, infiltrates their nervous system and manipulates their synaptic responses, triggering emotions, mood, and crucially, pain. The Inquisition and Confessors

Hearing Range

of the Ecclesiarchy use these portable torture

Some Talents and Abilities in Wrath & Glory

devices when they are away from their more well-

use a character’s voice, and so are limited by

equipped facilities.

how far the sound can carry. If you want to measure this with more specificity, you can

Laud-Hailer Value: 3 Keywords:

Rarity: 0 [ANY]

Effect: A portable Laud-Hailer makes your voice audible at double the normal range. If you have a Talent or Ability that uses your voice, its range is doubled.

use this optional rule. Audio Conditions Perfect Conditions

80m

A hive tunnel-street, a mega-acreage

40m

being farmed, the deck of a voidship. The din of battle, a loud manufactorum

Using modified vox technology, a Laud-Hailer can

126

amplify a voice to make it audible to an entire crowd.

Range

floor, the sea in a storm.

20m

Narthecium Value: 5 Keywords:

Psychic Hood Rarity: 2

IMPERIUM ADEPTUS ASTARTES

Value: 5 Keywords:

Rarity: 3 IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS ASTARTES

Effect: You can make Medicae (Int) Tests to perform

Effect: +1 bonus dice to Psychic Master (Wil) Tests.

surgeries and heal others without suffering any DN

Whenever you use the Deny the Witch psychic

penalties related to the current situation. When you

power, the DN is equal to 1 + the DN of the psychic

make a Medicae (Int) Test using a Narthecium as

power you are trying to deny.

part of a Multi-Action in combat, the DN penalty is decreased by 2. Most Nartheciums incorporate a

Often incorporated into an Astartes Librarian’s

Reductor, which allows gene-seed to be recovered

power armour, a Psychic Hood is wired directly into

from a dead Astartes with a Simple Action.

the masterful mind of its wearer. Utilising arcane psychoactive crystalline technology, the Psychic

Performing first aid on a power-armoured Space

Hood enhances the wearer’s ability to exert their

Marine in the heat of battle is difficult even for

influence over the Warp without exposing unduly

the gifted Astartes Apothecaries. To this end, each

them to its myriad evils, even improving their ability

Apothecary customizes their own Narthecium,

to nullify the warpcraft of others.

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

a wrist-mounted array of medical tools. Though each is unique, most Nartheciums share certain tools: a biometric link to the user’s auto-senses, a

Simulacrum Imperialis

set of telescoping syringes, and the twin terrors of

Value: 5

chainblade and Apothecarian drill to pierce armour,

Keywords:

flesh, and bone. Most crucial of all is the Reductor,

ADEPTA SORORITAS

a device that can quickly recover gene-seed from a

Effect:As long as you heft the Simulacrum Imperialis

fallen Astartes and safely store it in stasis, ensuring

with at least one hand, you and any allies that are

the perpetuation of that Chapter’s numbers.

faithful to the Imperial Cult within 15 metres gain +2

Rarity: 4 IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS MINISTORUM,

Bonus Dice to any Corruption Tests.

Null Rod Value: 5 Keywords:

Often incorporating the bones of saints or carved Rarity: 2

statues of their hallowed likeness, a Simulacrum

IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS ASTARTES

Imperialis is held aloft over the field of battle,

Effect: Whilst you wield a Null Rod in one hand, any

inspiring the devout to feats of heroism.

Psychic Mastery (Wil) Tests made within 18 metres of you suffer a DN penalty of +3.

Skull Helm

Forged from inscrutable obsidian, a Null Rod has the

Value: 4

highly prized ability to limit the insidious influence

Keywords:

of the Warp in a small area.

Effect: Whilst wearing a Skull Helm you gain +1 Bonus Dice to all Leadership (Wil) Tests made against

Purity Seal Value: 2 Keywords:

Rarity: 3 IMPERIUM, ADEPTUS ASTARTES

targets with the ADEPTUS ASTARTES Keyword. Rarity: 2

IMPERIUM

The leering Skull Helm of a Chaplain is a fearsome

Effect: As long as you do not have any points of

memento memori, striking fear into the hearts of

Corruption, you gain +1 bonus dice to any Corruption

the hapless enemies of the Adeptus Astartes and

Test for each Purity Seal you have.

reminding those faithful to the Imperium of both the Emperor’s divine sacrifice and their own mortality

The prayers and litanies of the Imperial Cult are

owed to Him.

written on simple vellum, then sealed with wax onto the holy weapons and armour of His warriors. These purity seals are awarded to heroic warriors and the purest of the faithful, protecting their bearer from the foul taint of Chaos.

127

AUGMETICS Abeyant

The scalpel fingers of a Chordclaw are known to

Value: 8 Keywords:

Rarity: 4

disassemble a body with the soulless efficiency typical

ADEPTUS MECHANICUS

to the Adeptus Mechanicus. The three needle-sharp

Requirements: Four other Augmetics.

digits of a Chordclaw move with unnerving speed,

Effect: Allows you to hover up to 3 metres off the

quickened further by the stomach-turning sonic

ground and move at your Speed. If you are falling,

resonance of all transonic weapons.

the Abeyant slows your fall so that you land safely.

Enhanced Ballistic Mechadendrite

Taking the form of an ornate throne, pulpit, or

Value: 5 + Weapon Value

lectern, an Abeyant is directly integrated into its

Keywords:

owner’s augmetics and uses anti-gravitic levitation

Requirements: The weapon you want to integrate

technology to convey them over battlefields to

into the Enhanced Ballistic Mechadendrite.

survey the troops they command. Merging machine

Effect: When you fire your Enhanced Ballistic

and body in such an extensive way is a sign of

Mechadendrite as part of a Multi-Action or Multi-

status as much as a representative of dedication to

Attack, the DN penalty is decreased by 2. The

the Machine Cult.

weapon never needs to be reloaded, but when you use a Salvo Option with your Enhanced Ballistic

B.O.N.E

Mechadendrite you suffer Shock equal to the

Value: 4 Keywords:

Rarity: 3

IMPERIUM ADEPTUS MECHANICUS

Rarity: 1

weapon’s Salvo rating.

IMPERIUM MILITARUM AUXILLA

Requirements: Ogryn Species, Leadership 1, Rank 3

Tech-Priests that serve the Omnissiah through

Effect: Raises your Maximum Intellect to 3 and

glorious

increases your Intellect by 1.

often incorporate advanced weaponry into their

combat

against

ignorant

enemies

mechadendrites, allowing them to simultaneously Though Ogryns are undeniably unintelligent as a

lead their forces, perform righteous rites of repair,

Species, some are smarter than others. These few

and blast their enemies with arane technology.

bright sparks that can count above three, display consistent object permanence, or can even handle

Infiltrator Headpiece

basic problem solving, are marked out as suitable

Value:

for the Biochemical Ogryn Neural Enhancement

Keywords:

procedure, further improving their intelligence.

Effect: Your Passive Awareness is increased by

These Ogryns are known as Bone’eads, utilising

+Rank.

Rarity:

IMPERIUM ADEPTUS MECHANICUS

the boosted intelligence afforded by their cerebral implants to lead others in battle.

Originally designed to amplify the neurostatic aura of a Sicarian Infiltrator, the auto-senses of these

Chordclaw

domed headpieces are prized amongst scouts and

Value: 5 Keywords:

Rarity: 3

sentries for extending their vision across multiple

IMPERIUM ADEPTUS MECHANICUS

spectra.

Effect: Your hand is replaced by a Chordclaw. Your Chordclaw hand functions as a normal hand, but also replaces your Unarmed Strike with the weapon profile below.

CHORDCLAW Name Chordclaw

128

Damage

Range

(S) +3

Traits Agonising, Rending (6)

Value

Rarity

Keywords BLADE, TRANSONIC, ADEPTUS MECHANICUS

LIBRARIUS DISCIPLINE

Multiple Mechadendrites The high Magos of the Adeptus Mechanicus

Millennia of research into the esoteric madness of

BACKGROUNDS

the Emperuean are contained in every Librarius. Amongst the thousands of scrolls recording battles

FACTIONS

with daemons and mutant cleansing rituals are

are amongst the most intelligent individuals

tomes detailing the safest and most stable ways to

in the Imperium, capable of splitting their

manipulate the nightmarish tides of the Warp to best

focus and consciousness between multiple

serve the Emperor in battle. This is the purpose of the

Mechadendrites, abandoning their flawed

Librarius Discipline: empowering an Astartes without

biology to fully remake themselves in the

unduly risking exposure to Chaos, and ensuring they

image of their multi-limbed Machine God.

fulfill their duty to battle His enemies.

If you choose to use this optional rule, the

The Librarius Discipline can only be mastered by

number of Mechadendrites you can install and

psykers with the ADEPTUS ASTARTES Keyword.

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

efficiently manage is determined by your Tech (Int)dicepool:

Veil of Time

Tech (Int)

Maximum Number

XP Cost: 20

Dice Pool

of Mechadendrites

Activation:

Action

Range:

Duration:

Sustained

Multi-target: Yes

1-10

Keywords:

DN: 8 20m

PSYCHIC

Effect: You channel the Warp to twist the flow of 11-14

time, unnaturally stretching a single moment.

17-18

For as long as you Sustain this power, your target may take two Turns in each Round.

19-20

Might of Heroes XP Cost: 15 Activation:

Princeps Limb Rig Value: 5 Keywords:

Rarity: 3

Duration: Keywords:

DN: 7 Action

Range:

Sustained

Multi-target: No

15m

PSYCHIC

Effect: Summoning the labyrinthine lore of your

IMPERIUM ADEPTUS MECHANICUS

Librarius, you bestow the martial might of ancestral

Effect: You gain an additional limb that can operate

Astartes brethren unto your ally, siphoning the

simple equipment or wield a melee weapon. During

Warp to empower their form.

combat, you can use your additional limb to make

Potency: [3] Your target gains an additional +1

a Tech (Int) Test, use a piece of Wargear, or make

Strength, Toughness, and Initiative.

a melee attack if you have a spare melee weapon. When you use your additional limb as part of a

Your target gains +1 Strength, Toughness, and

Multi-Action or Multi-Attack, the DN penalty is

Initiative until the start of your next Turn.

decreased by 1. Awarded to the most logically ruthless and callously effective leaders of Sicarian killcades, a Princeps Limb Rig further enhances its beneficiary’s combat abilities whilst allowing their Mechanicus masters to track them closely.

129

Psychic Scourge XP Cost: 20

Psychic Fortress

DN: Target’s Willpower

Activation:

Action

Range:

Duration:

Instant

Multi-target: Yes

Keywords:

PSYCHIC

20m

XP Cost: 15

DN: 6

Activation:

Sustained

Range:

Duration:

Instant

Multi-target: Yes

Keywords:

PSYCHIC

20m

Effect: You perforate your target’s mind, stripping

Effect: You fortify your target’s mind with multiple

it of information in an incredibly painful and

mental hexagrammic wards, protecting it from the

frightening way.

predations of the Warp and bolstering their bravery.

Potency: [3]+1 Mortal Wound Your target becomes immune to the Fear and Terror To activate this power, you must win an Opposed

Conditions for as long as you Sustain this power.

Willpower Test with your target. If you succeed, you

Your target also gains Bonus Dice equal to your

deal 1d3 Mortal Wounds and the target suffers the

Willpower Attribute when they roll Determination

Fear Condition.

against damage caused by a Psychic Power, and may roll Determination against Mortal Wounds caused

Fury of the Ancients XP Cost: 15

by Psychic Powers for as long as you sustain this DN: 10

power.

Activation:

Action

Range:

Duration:

Instant

Multi-target: No

Keywords:

PSYCHIC

14m

Null Zone XP Cost: 15

DN: 7

Effect: Consulting the legendarium of your Librarius,

Activation:

Action

Range:

you manifest a monstrosity fought in your Chapter’s history and unleash the Warp-borne terror on your

Duration:

Instant

Multi-target: No

Keywords:

PSYCHIC

enemies.

Effect: Drawing on the Emperor’s own purity, you

Potency: [1] +7m Range. [2] +1 Mortal Wound.

twist the power of the Warp to temporarily expel its

20m

malign influence from a specific area. If you successfully activate this power, the Fury of

Potency: [1] +10m Range. [2] Double the radius of

the Ancients travels in a straight line for 14m in a

the null zone.

direction you choose. All enemies on that line suffer 2d3 Mortal Wounds.

When you successfully activate this power, select a point or target in range. You create a null zone with a 6m radius centered on that point or target until the start of your next Turn. The DN of all Psychic Mastery (Wil) Tests made within the null zone is increased by your Willpower Rating. The Invulnerable Armour Trait has no effect inside the null zone.

130

ENDEAVOURS Your character may live in a galaxy rife with horrors and unending conflict, but the perilous scenarios they face will eventually come to an end. This chapter provides tools to quickly detail what happens in the downtime before your next adventure. You may take Endeavours between adventures, activities that may help to further your character’s goals or provide mechanical bonuses to use in your next adventure. If you have downtime, you can always take one Endeavour, and your GM may allow you to take a maximum of three Endeavours depending on the length of your downtime. The Endeavours presented here are broken down into General Endeavours, which can be attempted by any character, and Faction Endeavours, which can only be instigated if you belong to the specified Faction. The Endeavours presented here are only intended for characters with the IMPERIUM Keyword.

Optional Rule: Personal Time What your character does between their adventures is entirely up to you and your GM. All of the rules in this chapter are optional — some may enjoy the bonuses, or the simple explanations for what happens to their characters between adventures. Others may see these as inspiration for player-driven adventures in themselves. As always, it’s your game, so play it your way!

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PERFORMING ENDEAVOURS Endeavours can be performed in three ways:

Verdis-80’s group are called upon to investigate the source of mass dissent amongst the workers of Hive Sano on Gilead Primus. After purging the ringleaders, Verdis-80 decides to attempt the Discovery Endeavour to find an expert on Genestealer Cults, believing the vile xenos were the true source of the insurrection.

Skill Tests

Verdis-80’s research embroils their group in another

Most Endeavours can be completed with a Skill Test.

adventure tracking down and destroying a Genestealer

Endeavours that can be completed with a Skill Test

Patriarch.

list associated Skills that can be used to perform that Endeavour. The DN for these Skill Tests is typically

After their successful campaign, Verdis-80 has more

assumed to be DN 5, unless otherwise determined

downtime, and returns to Avachrus to complete work

by your GM based on the conditions. As Endeavours

on their Meltagun. They make another Tech (Int) Test

occur outside of adventuring, you cannot use Wrath or

as part of the Multi-Stage Endeavour and roll 5 Icons.

Glory on these Tests.

As the DN for the Multi-Stage Endeavour was 4 after

Multi-Stage Endeavours

Meltagun.

than one Text, or have a DN that may seem impossible

Simple Tests

Some Endeavours might require you to make more

to achieve with a single Test. These are known as Multi-Stage Endeavours, which can’t be completed

the first Test, they have successfully completed their

Some Endeavours can be completed using a Simple

Test, which represents leaving the Endeavour to fate,

using a Simple Test and often require specific Skills

faith, or blind luck. To make a Simple Test, roll 1d6.

to complete.

A 1 is a Complication, a 2-5 is a success, and a 6 is a Wrath Critical.

To attempt a Multi-Stage Endeavour, make the associated Skill Test. Regardless of the result, you do not fail, and every Icon you roll reduces the DN of the Multi-Stage Endeavour by 1. When the DN reaches 0, the Multi-Stage Endeavour is complete. This will likely take more than one Skill Test across several Endeavours. Unless otherwise stated, a Multi-Stage Endeavour can be put on hold while you undertake other Endeavours.

Multi-Session Adventures These rules are designed to be used at the table before or after an adventure, or between gaming sessions. Some sessions might end

Example: Verdis-80 the Lexmechanic is tired of the

at a point that doesn’t naturally transition

Munitorum denying their requests for a Meltagun,

into downtime or Endeavours. If a session

and has resolved to construct their own. After an

ends whilst your group are exploring an Ork-

adventure battling the Faceless Creed, Verdis-80

infested Space Hulk, there isn’t much chance

has some downtime and decides to start the Craft

you’d be able to socialise with another Faction

Equipment Endeavour, using his connections with the

or engage in some meditation. In these

Machine Cults of Avachrus to acquire the necessary

situations, the GM may allow you to continue

raw materials and equipment.

your next session with the benefit gained

As a Meltagun is Uncommon, the DN of the Test to

ongoing effect. If your selected Endeavour is

from your last Endeavour if it provides an create a Meltagun is 10. Verdis-80 makes a Tech (Int) Test and rolls 6 Icons, reducing the DN of the MultiStage Endeavour to 4. The GM rules that Verdis-80 has completed most of the firing mechanism of the Meltagun, but there is still much work left to be done.

132

a one-time bonus that you’ve already used, or reliant on a Test you previously failed, then you continue without the bonuses of that Endeavour.

EVENTS

21-22: Recruitment Drive

At the start of downtime, the GM will decide if an event

of the Imperial Creed, or a vile cult of heretics opposed

Be it an Astra Militarum Regiment, a derivative sect

occurs. Either:

to the Imperium, a specific group is recruiting. This interferes with the day-to-day operations of the local

u The GM determines a single event that will affect

area in obvious or subtle ways.

the entire party. The event will be of their own

FACTIONS

invention, or determined by rolling d66 and

If you succeed at a DN 4 Deception (Fel), Intimidation

consulting the list below.

(Wil), or Persuasion (Fel) Skill Test, you manage to evade the predations of whichever organisation

u Each player determines a single event that affects

attempting to inculcate you. Otherwise, you lose your

their character by rolling d66 and consulting the

Endeavour escaping the machinations or ministrations

list below.

of their indoctrination.

11-12: Haunted Past

23-24: The Emperor’s Due

An event or person from your past appears to complicate

The tithes of the Administratum are as undeniable as

your life. This comes at the most inopportune moment,

a violent death in the 41st Millenium, and none know

possibly

when either will come for them.

preventing

you

from

completing

your

BACKGROUNDS

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Endeavour. The prodigal acquaintance may be friendly, or have dishonest intentions.

The Administratum request a tithe of Wealth equal

If you choose to take a Simple Test, then you subtract 1

of equal or greater value. If you do not want to pay

from the result of your d6 roll. If you make a Skill Test,

the tithe, you are free to try to negotiate with the

it results in a Complication regardless of the result on

Administratum, perhaps assisting them in their tithe

to your Tier. You may also pay the tithe with Wargear

the Wrath Die.

13-14: Atmospheric Pressure

collection — how this plays out is up to you and your GM.

You encounter a bout of bad weather typical to the

25-26: Returning Heroes

41st Millenium. Acrid acid rain falls, industrial effluent

A proud parade of military might is held in honour of

fills city streets with smog, or the void itself roils with

heroes — or what remains of them — returning from

Warp Storms.

the frontlines. The populace flock to this procession of somber coffins and powerful war machines.

The DN of any social Tests to complete Endeavours increases by +1, as everyone is either in a foul mood

You have been summoned for mandatory attendance,

or sheltering from the weather. The GM may determine

but this does not interfere with your Endeavours. It

that these environmental conditions persist into your

is up to your group if they are inspired by the bravery

next adventure.

15-16: Ghost in the Machine Be it through sabotage, mechanical complication, a machine curse, or an aggressive string of scrapcode,

of these heroes of the Imperium, or enraged by the damage wrought by the foul foes of Humanity. u Inspired: +1 Glory for the group at the start of your next adventure.

your technology — and all technology around you — is malfunctioning.

u Enraged: +1 Wrath for each character at the start of your next adventure.

Unless you take the Maintain Equipment Endeavour, you suffer a Complication the next time you make a

31-32: Under Suspicion

Ballistic Skill (A), Pilot (A), or Tech (Int) Test. This

Someone is taking notice of you. Be it the Confessors

event may have additional narrative effects as

of the Ecclesiarchy monitoring your piety, the local

determined by the GM.

Hive Enforcers cracking down on crime, or even an Inquisitor suspicious of your motives, your higher-ups have cast their sight down.

133

You cannot select the Irregular Acquisition Endeavour

If you are travelling in a voidship, you cannot attempt

and the DN for the Antagonise Endeavour increases by

an Endeavour due to the empyric disturbances. If

2. If you have the SCUM Keyword, you can ignore his

you are a psyker, you must perform the Puritanical

effect as you’ve learned how to evade the law.

Conditioning Endeavour, otherwise you must manifest

33-34: Space Hulk

Transcendent level. The GM may decide that a number

Without warning a Space Hulk emerges from the Great

of NPCs become psykers due to Warp exposure, and

all your psychic powers in the next adventure at the

Rift. This new arrival causes a scramble of action as all

allow players to hunt them down using the Toil

Factions make hasty preparations to investigate.

Endeavour.

To ensure that their agents can reach the site first,

44-46: Rampant Illness

the Duties & Responsibilities for all Factions are

Sickness has overrun whatever place you find yourself

temporarily rescinded, and you can choose to perform

in. The masses are plagued by this affliction, making

any General Endeavour without suffering a Faction-

accessing resources difficult.

based penalty. Exactly what is on the Space Hulk is left to the GM, and may become the focal point for a

You must make a DN 1 Toughness Test to resist the

new adventure.

sickness, otherwise you lose one Endeavour whilst

35-36: Pious Parade

increases by 3 due to the spreading sickness, and

recovering. The DN of all Endeavour Skill Tests

The Ecclesiarchy has stoked the faith of the populace,

the rolled result of any Simple Test is reduced by 2.

prompting them into extended celebrations that fill

You can counteract these effects by succeeding at a

streets and voidships with throngs of faithful. Whether

DN 5 Medicae (Int) Test, with success earning you 1

they are united in hymn, in penitent flagellation, or

Influence for your noble actions.

blazing the trail of a witch hunt is up to the GM.

51-52: Arguing Allies

Increase the DN of all Endeavour-related Skill Tests by

Though unrelated to your current activities, two of

2 due to these disruptions. If you belong to the Adepta

your acquaintances have had a falling out. The GM

Sororitas or Adeptus Ministorum you find yourself

decides which two NPCs (possibly important to your

swept up in these events and lose one Endeavour. If

ongoing adventures, potentially even your Patrons!)

you have any Faith Talents, the first Faith Talent you

have come to dislike one another.

use in your next adventure costs no Faith points.

41-42: Labors Lost

You can choose to forgo your Endeavour to attempt a DN 5 Deception (Fel) or Persuasion (Fel) Skill Test

Be it through mass deaths in an industrial accident,

to repair the relationship. If you decide not to do this

the collapse of a colossal worker’s hab unit, or an

or fail in the attempt, then the relationship falls apart

aggressive recruitment drive by the penal legions of

entirely and the ramifications are left up to the GM.

the Astra Militarum, there are simply less laborers to fulfill the needs of the Imperium.

53-54: Unexpected Rage Blood boils, aggression rages, and tensions run high.

Due to reduced personnel, all Skill Tests as part of an

Whether through the malign influence of the Blood

Endeavour suffer a +1 DN penalty. If you choose to

God seeping through the Warp, or the simple stress of

make a Simple Test on an Endeavour, you roll 2d6 and

everyday life in the harsh Imperium, you feel yourself

use the lowest result.

become agitated and irritable.

42-43: Psychic Awakening

You can calm this rage by performing either the Hone

The Empyrean churns with the cackling of primordial

Skill or Toil Endeavour using a Skill based on Strength,

powers that seek to break their way into the Materium.

Toughness, Agility or Initiative. If you do not complete

Thousands of mortals cry out in pain as the Warp

either of these Endeavours, the GM may spend 1 Ruin

infects their souls.

to cause you to become Frenzied whenever you roll a Complication in your next adventure.

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55-56: Beset On All Sides

Every Faction has a list of Duty-Bound Endeavours. If

The myriad enemies of the Humanity strike jealously

you perform an Endeavour outside of your Faction’s

at the mighty Imperium; raiding Orks or Aeldari

prescribed list of Duty-Bound Endeavours, you lose 1

attack outposts and undefended voidships, while cults

Influence. Additionally, the DN of any social Skill Tests

devoted to Chaos or Genestealer masters emerge from

made against other members of your Faction increases

the shadowy corners of hive cities.

by +1 until you succeed on a Toil Endeavour.

Your GM will decide what form this minor threat to the

Adepta Sororitas

Imperium takes. You can choose to engage this threat head on, or ignore it entirely.

FACTIONS

Raised through the Schola Progenium to serve the Emperor with every aspect of their lives, the Adepta Sororitas spend every moment away from the

u If you choose to engage, decide with the GM how you can assist in eliminating your enemies; this

battlefield in prayer or preparation for war.

could involve simply fighting the threat, or could

Duty-Bound Endeavours

be researching, setting up a trap, or sniping a key

u Devotional Worship

enemy leader.

u Hone Skill

BACKGROUNDS

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

u Maintain Equipment u If you choose to ignore this call to action, you lose 1 Influence, but gain an additional Endeavour as

u Preach u Toil

other Imperials scramble to rebuff the threat. Toil Examples: Tending to the spiritual and faithful

61-62: Thieving Scum!

wounds of the unwashed masses. Laboring to construct

Something has been stolen from you! You may

a church, shrine, cathedral, or other structure of the

choose to lose 1 Wealth, 1 Ammo, or a random piece

faithful. Time spent in penance for the sins of others.

of Wargear. You can use the Discovery Endeavour to to find the thief and confront them.

Adeptus Astra Telepathica

63-64: The Emperor Protects

expected to perform any duties beyond their specific

make a DN 3 Cunning (Fel) or Investigation (Int) Test

Psykers of the Adeptus Astra Telepathica are not

He who sits resplendent on the Golden Throne has

calling, provided they submit to regular examinations

seen your exploits even through the darkness of the

by a local governing power to ensure they maintain

Great Rift, and has judged you a worthy servant of His will. If you choose a Simple Test on an Endeavour, you count as having rolled a Wrath Critical. If you choose a Skill Test you can re-roll it as though you had spent a Wrath Die.

Beyond The Imperium Aeldari, Orks and the Renegades of Chaos

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

don’t have the same duties or responsibilities as those in the Imperium, but also can’t take Endeavours. Aeldari commonly spend their downtime returning to their people. Orks never let-up in their ‘adventuring’, and what

The Factions of the Imperium are demanding — every

would be considered downtime for an Ork

Imperial owes their life to the Emperor, and His realm

would be strenuous activities for Imperial

is sustained through labor and bloodshed. Certain

servants. Finally, the servants of the Ruinous

Factions expect their members to perform certain acts

Powers often retreat into their Warp-sheathed

even when they aren’t serving them on the battlefield

strongholds to perform profane acts. Future

or on missions.

products

will

detail

alternative

available to these groups.

options

135

the appropriate levels of faith in the Emperor and

Duty-Bound Endeavours

control of their powers.

u Antagonise u Hone Skill

Adeptus Mechanicus

u Discovery

Every member of the Adeptus Mechanicus must uphold

u Socialise

both their sacred duties to the Omnissiah and preserve

u Proscribed Studies

their link between the Tech-Priesthood of Mars and

u Toil

the Imperium of Mankind. Its members spend their time away from the battlefield collecting and collating

Toil Examples: File in-depth and exacting reports

the holy knowledge of the Machine God, repairing and

on your findings to your Ordo. Perform surveillance

building the technology of the Imperium, and ensuring

on suspicious targets. Attend to the needs of a higher

the sacred Machine Spirits are appeased.

ranking member of your Ordo. Organise the purging of an unthreatening cell. Recruit new members to your

Duty-Bound Endeavours

Ordo.

u Discovery

Rogue Trader Dynasties

u Maintain Equipment u Craft Equipment

Perhaps the most free of all Imperial citizens, Rogue

u Toil

Traders may do whatever they like in their downtime — though those that are part of Dynasties may find

Toil

Examples:

Maintaining

and

fixing

local

keeping up with the family a profitable diversion.

technology. Performing rites for nearby Machine Spirits. Ensuring a manufactorum is operating at peak

A Rogue Trader always rolls for an Event when

efficiency.

performing an Endeavour, regardless of the Endeavour

Adeptus Ministorum

The priests of the Ecclesiarchy exult the Emperor with

they select.

Scum

their every breath, their very existence devoted to His

The lowest level of the Imperial Bureaucracy has no

worship. That said, their labyrinthine organisation

duties or responsibilities beyond themselves.

hold such power and prestige that its members are largely left to pursue their own goals, provided they serve the God-Emperor in some way.

Adeptus Astartes

The Emperor’s Angels of Death are utterly dedicated to battle in his name, and spend their elongated lives

Astra Militarum

either waging, studying, or preparing for war.

conscripted to battle the myriad foes of the Imperium,

Duty-Bound Endeavours

they fulfill most of their duties naturally, though both

u Astartes Meditation

the Militarum and Munitorum demand regular reports

u Maintain Equipment

on their activities and that every soldier maintains their

u Toil

As most members of the Astra Militarum are

training — their dangerous life means they would be foolish not to.

Toil Examples: Perform the rites and initiations on

The Inquisition

and Initiates. Write and review combat reports to

The hidden work of the Holy Ordos of the Inquisition is never done. Humanity is assailed at every corner, and in the Gilead System, there are no reinforcements. Each member of the Inquisition is only as powerful as their information and their reputation, and so each individual must contribute to both to fuel their endless shadow war.

136

the behalf of their Chapter. Instruct and train Serfs bolster the Chapter’s knowledge of warfare.

GENERAL ENDEAVOURS The following list details the Endeavours any character

tithes from businesses you’re affiliated with, or it could represent you taking part in smaller activities between missions that earn you some form of commendation from communities.

BACKGROUNDS

may undertake between adventures. Despite their

Simple Test

accessible nature, your Faction may still frown on

On a Complication, your efforts are in vain and you

you selecting one of these Endeavours (see Duties &

gain no additional Wealth through your actions. On a

Responsibilities). Unless otherwise stated, all General

success, you manage to increase your Wealth by 1. On

Endeavours last until they are expended, or until the

a Wrath Critical, you instead increase your Wealth by

next time you can undertake an Endeavour.

1 + Rank.

Skill Test You can typically use the Skills listed below for this

Complications Endeavours are intended to be narrative tools

FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Endeavour. On a success you increase your Wealth by 1. u Athletics (S) to profit from physical labor.

that provide a minor mechanical bonus by either making a Simple Test or a standard Skill Test.

u Cunning (Fel) to exploit your underworld contacts.

Simple Tests already include a default failure mechanic if you roll a 1, but what happens if

u Deception (Fel) to swindle resources from others.

you make a Skill Test and roll a Complication on the Wrath Die? The answer is to work with

u Intimidation (Wil) to extort with threats.

your GM to figure out a compelling narrative! u Investigation (Int) to track down items of value. Depending on the Endeavour, a Complication could mean that you end up having to spend

u Leadership (Wil) to command a workforce.

Wealth in order to get all the benefits. A particularly dangerous Endeavour that results

u Medicae (Int) to work as a doctor or augmeticist.

in a Complication could even result in you losing Influence for making a scene, angering

u Persuasion (Fel) to make business deals.

a Faction who could hold a grudge, or even finding some forbidden knowledge that might

u Pilot (A) to transport goods or people.

result in a Corruption Test. Work with your GM to determine exactly what works best for your

u Scholar (Int) to aid others with your knowledge.

ongoing story. u Tech (Int) to perform private repairs or maintenance.

Accrue Wealth

Antagonise

You can spend your downtime working to undermine

You’ve established means of gaining material wealth

and/or upset an organization or group, possibly even

from numerous sources. This may be based on your

antagonizing one group against another. When you

ability to help locals with trade skills or through your

use this Endeavour, select a single target NPC, a group,

ability to make deals or call in favours with other

or a Keyword to antagonise. You may also decide on

elements. The Accrue Wealth Endeavour allows you

a target for that group’s ire, which, if you succeed

to gain more Wealth from whatever narrative elements

on the Skill Test, the GM may work into the ongoing

you wish to pull from. This could involve exacting

narrative of the campaign. If you select a group or Keyword to antagonise, then this becomes a MultiStage Endeavour.

137

Simple Test

daemonic tome. Depending on the specific target or

On a Complication, your efforts backfire and the GM

goal of your research, the GM may determine this to

gains 1 Ruin at the start of the next adventure. On a

be a Multi-Stage Endeavour. Discerning the hierarchy

success, you succeed and the GM must spend 2 Ruin

in a local gang and how to exploit it would be the goal

points for any Ruin action taken by the target of this

of a single Endeavour, while uncovering the most

Endeavour. On a Wrath Critical, your efforts disrupt

basic information on a sector-wide conspiracy may

your foes and reduce the GM’s total Ruin by 1 at the

require several different Skill Tests as part of a Multi-

start of the next adventure.

Stage Endeavour.

Skill Test

Simple Test

You can typically use Cunning (F), Deception (F),

On a Complication, your research fails. On a success,

Intimidation (Wil), Leadership (Wil) or Persuasion (F)

you manage to consult with an expert or find some

for this Endeavour. On a success the GM must spend

piece of important information that relates to the

2 Ruin points for any Ruin action taken by the target

goal of your discovery. On a Wrath Critical, you not

of this Endeavour.

only learn a piece of important information, but you

Multi-Stage

subject of your discovery that is not specific to what

If you decide to target a group or Keyword with this

you were investigating.

also learn a useful piece of information related to the

Endeavour, then the DN increases to 8 for a specific group and 15 for a specific Keyword. Once you

Skill Test

complete this Multi-Stage Endeavour, you’ve set-up

You can typically use Cunning (F), Investigation (Int),

a network of contacts and contingencies that you can

or Scholar (Int) for this Endeavour. On a success, you

easily activate to assist you against your chosen target.

find some piece of important information that relates

As a result, you can activate it at the start of any scene

to the goal of your discovery.

involving your targeted group. For the remainder of the adventure, the GM must spend 2 Ruin points for

Multi-Stage

any Ruin action taken by the target group or Keyword

At the GM’s discretion, more in depth goals may

of this Endeavour.

require

you

make

Multi-Stage

Discovery

Endeavour composed of different Skill Tests. In these

Discovery

circumstances, the GM can determine the appropriate

Between adventures, you may decide to research a

Skill Tests to attempt, typically each with a DN no lower

specific topic. Finding a discovery could be related

than 8. Researching a lost Exorcist-Class Grand Cruiser

to investigating an old crime scene, meticulously

belonging to a martyred Rogue Trader may begin with

researching in a decrepit Mechanicus data crypt,

a Cunning (Fel) Test to locate the sole survivor of the

finding an expert on hidden lore, or locating a

vessel, and then that survivor may need a Persuasion (Fel) Test to be convinced to part with the information, or the NPC may even send the Agents on a whole

DISCOVERY DN

138

Discovery

adventure before they’re willing to assist.

Hone Skill

While you have trained in a variety of different skills,

Learn about a notorious gang in an Imperium settlement.an Imperium settlement.

Uncover an intentional Administratum filing error that has been occurring for centuries by a departmento from a prominent Hive World.

for a mission related to the campaign, or as part of

Learn the identity of major members of an organization at the heart of a secretive sector-wide conspiracy.

reasoning, you should come up with a narrative on

Discover the name of the specific Aeldari farseer who has been meddling in your affairs since before you were even born.

sometimes you focus your downtime on practicing a certain expertise. This practice may be to prepare preparation for a personal goal (including potential avenues to eventual Ascension). Regardless of your how you practice the specific skill, which could vary wildly depending on the specific skill and what you’re training for.

There is no Simple or Skill Test to use this Endeavour. When you use the Hone Skill Endeavour, select a single

Maintain Equipment This

Endeavour

represents

you

spending

time

Skill that you have at least a Skill Rating of 1 or more

maintaining and upkeeping your equipment. You

in. For your next session, whenever you spend Glory

might perform expanded maintenance and disassembly,

to increase dice pool for that skill, you gain two Bonus

applying ritual cleansing and sacred unguents, or use

Dice instead of one. This cannot be used on Ballistic

the equipment as part of a holy rite to fortify it against

Skill or Weapon Skill.

heretical forces.

Irregular Acquisition

FACTIONS

Skill Test: You can typically use Ballistic Skill (A),

While it is possible to spend time during adventures

Weapon Skill (I), or Tech (Int) for this Endeavour,

making an Influence Test to try to acquire new

depending

Wargear,

Endeavour

maintaining and what would be most appropriate.

the

Irregular

Acquisition

the

type

equipment

you’re

represents you spending time between adventures

The DN of this check is equal to the Rarity modifier of

working to procure important items you would have

the selected Wargrear. On a success, you can ignore

difficulty normally accessing. You may be a Rogue

all Complications related to that piece of Wargear in a

Trader looking to acquire a specific xenos weapon and

scene of your choice.

engage with smugglers from the Reach, a follower of the Ministorum seeking to find a long-lost relic you wish to use to consecrate an important site against the

PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Socialise

You spend your downtime working to gain favor

Empyrean, or an Inquisitor seeking the armor of a lost

and improve your reputation with a specific group

hero of Imperium to use as your bulwark against the

or Faction. Select a single target NPC, a group, or a

unclean masses of heretics arrayed against you.

BACKGROUNDS

Keyword to try to socialise and befriend. If you select a group or Keyword to target with this Endeavour, then

When you use the Irregular Acquisition Endeavour, select a single piece of Wargear that you want to

this becomes a Multi-Stage Endeavour.

acquire. Unlike the normal rules for Requisitioning

Simple Test

Wargear, you can select a piece of Wargear that you

On a Complication, your efforts backfire and the DN

don’t share at least one Keyword with. If the item has

of all (Fel) and (Wil) based Tests against the target

a rarity of Very Rare or Unique, then this becomes a

increase by 2. On a success, you gain +Rank bonus

Multi-Stage Endeavour.

dice to all (Fel) and (Wil) based Tests against the target

Skill Test

for your next adventure. On a Wrath Critical, you gain the benefits of a success and can also choose to make

You must attempt a Cunning (Fel) Test. On a success,

a single re-roll a (Fel) or (Wil) based Test in a scene of

you find an individual or organization willing to trade

your choice against the target in your next adventure.

for the desired Wargear. You then make an Influence Test as normal to acquire the item, following all the

Skill Test

normal rules for Requisitioning Wargear (see page

You can typically use Deception (Fel), Intimidation

205 of the Wrath & Glory Rulebook) and can spend

(Wil), Leadership (Wil) or Persuasion (Fel) for this

Wealth to earn additional Icons. However, if you roll

Endeavour. On a success, you gain +Rank bonus dice

a Complication on this test, you do not lose Wealth.

to all (Fel) and (Wil) based Tests against the target for

Instead, if you roll a Complication, your attempts to

your next adventure.

acquire your desired item have earned the ire of one or more organisations.

Multi-Stage

Endeavour, then the DN increases to 8 for a specific

For items with Very Rare or Unique rarity, the DN for

group and 15 for a specific Keyword. Once you

the Cunning (Fel) Test to discover a broker for the item

complete this Multi-Stage Endeavour, you can activate

increases to 16 for Very Rare or 20 for Unique items.

If you decide to target a group or Keyword with this

it at the start of any adventure. For the duration of the encounter, you gain +Rank Bonus Dice to all (Fel) and (Wil) based Tests against the target.

139

Toil

Skill Test

From the priests of the Ecclesiarchy that perform

The Skill Test for this Endeavour should match

rituals to the Emperor, to the data scrubbing of the

your specific method of toil. If you’re working on

Adetus Mechanicus, or even the regular reports

constructing a building for your Faction, the check

required by members of the Inquisition, every Faction

could be Athletics (S). Alternatively, if you’re vetting

has some form of routine duty to perform. Your Toil

new trainees, then you may end up making an Insight

may represent the normal duties of your Archetype,

(Fel) or Leadership (Wil) Test. Work with your GM to

such as a Sister Dialogus breaking the coded

decide on an appropriate Skill Test to make for your

communications of the enemies of the Imperium or an

specific form of toil. On a success, you gain 1 Influence.

Astartes Chaplain overseeing the spiritual ministration of Chapter Neophytes. Examples: Eulogia the Sister Dialogus and Kydomios the Astartes Chaplain have just completed a lengthy campaign leading a strike force on the frontlines of a

FACTION ENDEAVOURS

daemonic incursion on Gilead Primus. Both decide to

Faction Endeavours are locked to specific Factions and

pay their due to the Emperor during their downtime,

you can only perform them if you have the matching

and choose to Toil for their two Endeavours.

Keyword. Many of these Endeavours work best as part of your ongoing story, especially relating to plans you

As a Sister Dialogus of the Order of the Sanctified

may have for Ascension. Unless otherwise stated, all

Shield, Eulogia has duties to both the Inquisition

General Endeavours last until they are expended, or

and Ecclesiarchy. She spends her first Toil Endeavour

until the next time you can undertake an Endeavour.

working with the Inquisition, breaking the codes used in enemy communicae to ensure other Imperial warriors can purge vile xenos and heretics alike.

Astartes Meditation Faction: Adeptus Astartes

Her second Toil Endeavour is spent preaching to the masses, using her skilled oration to rouse their zeal to

The Emperor’s Angels deliver His justice to the enemies

ensure they serve the Emperor.

of Mankind. They rarely spend time outside of the strict requirements for battle. They perform intense battle

As a Chaplain, Kydomis has a duty to spiritually

preparation and meditation that fortifies their body and

ministrate the Astartes of his Chapter, and spends

soul for combating the numerous threats to the Imperium.

considerable time empowering the will of the Absolvers Chapter Neophytes gathered to replace the many lost

You do not need to make any Test to use this Endeavour.

in the daemonic war. For his second Toil Endeavour,

During your next adventure, you may spend Glory

Kydomis tends to the venerable relics ensconced on

after you roll to add +1 Icon to your result, per Glory.

the Vow of Absolution — this is not only his duty, but in his mind, an essential preparation for further engagements with the foul creatures of the Warp.

Craft Equipment Faction: Adeptus Mechanicus

Simple Test

Only the servants of sacred Mars know the secrets

On a Complication, you fail and nothing happens. On

of the Imperium’s technology in this Dark Millenium.

a success, you gain +1 Influence. On a Wrath Critical,

Your induction into the lore of Mars grants you

you gain +1 Influence and begin the next adventure

knowledge on not only maintaining equipment, but the

with an additional point of Glory.

fundamentals necessary to craft new equipment when necessary. Others may rely on your skills at crafting, or you may be driven by the need to craft yourself a masterpiece of equipment to show your superiors as part of your Ascension plan. This Endeavour is always a Multi-Stage Endeavour.

140

Multi-Stage Using the Construct Equipment Endeavour requires

Family Matters

Faction: Rogue Trader Dynasties

you to decide on a piece of Wargear to create and possess a workplace and tools in which to work. If

The lineages of Rogue Trader families are spiderweb

you do not have a permanent location to perform your

constructs built upon constantly shifting agreements

crafting in, you must first succeed a DN 8 Cunning

and allegiances. Perhaps more than any other Faction,

(F) check to requisition such a location, as well as

members of Rogue Trader Dynasties have to tend to

the necessary tools. You must then select a piece of

their familial matters or suffer massive consequences.

Wargear to construct that must have the Imperium

Unlike

and/or Adeptus Mechanicus Keyword and cannot be

Endeavour can represent a whole host of different

other

Endeavours,

the

Family

Matters

Unique in Rarity. You must then succeed at a Tech (Int)

circumstances that occur during a Rogue Trader’s

Test equal to the item’s Rarity modifier x5 + 5.

career. When performing this Endeavour, you must

Incomplete work can be continued on subsequent

event ties into the ongoing affairs of your dynasty.

first roll an Event. The GM then decides on how this Endeavours, assuming the conditions allow for it. For smaller and less intricate items, such as ammo and

Skill Test

grenades, your GM may determine that a partially

The GM determines what Skill is most appropriate to

completed Endeavour results in immediately gaining

the challenge presented to you. As long as you succeed,

less than the 3 assumed units than would be generated.

you gain Wealth equal to your Tier.

Devotional Worship

Puritanical Conditioning

Faction: Adepta Sororitas

BACKGROUNDS FACTIONS PATRONS CHARACTER OPTIONS ENDEAVOURS

Faction: Adeptus Astra Telepathica

Only through devout prayer can you prepare for the battles to come. You may decide that reciting ancient

The howls of the Empyrean constantly assail your

hymns to the Emperor while fasting for days on

mind, and anytime you channel the raw power of

end is enough, or you may choose the route of self-

the Warp you risk breaking the veil between realities.

flagellation in His name to prove your loyalty to the

While others may relax in their downtime, you must

Golden Throne. Regardless of your specific choice, you

steel yourself against the horrors of the beyond in

steel yourself through sheer devotion.

hopes of better controlling your abilities. Whether with rote mantras or painful self-excruciation rituals,

Simple Test

you perform meditative rites meant to better protect

On a Complication, the Emperor fails to hear your

yourself and others when you use our psychic abilities.

prayers and this Endeavour has no effect. On a success, you can select one of the two Abilities listed below to

Simple Test

use for the next adventure. On a Wrath Critical, you

On a Complication, your control of your psychic

can use each of the Abilities listed below once in the

powers falters. The next time you use your psychic

next adventure.

powers, you must use the Unbound Power Level and continue to use that Power Level for the remainder

u Unquenchable Faith: Spend 1 Glory as a

of the encounter. On a success, anytime during your

Free Action to become Immune to Fear and

next session that you roll a Perils of the Warp, you

Terror for a number of Rounds equal to your

can spend 1 Glory to modify the result of the Perils of

Willpower Attribute.

the Warp by selecting any of the Results adjacent to the Result rolled. For example, if you roll the Miasma

u Emperor’s Wrath: Spend 1 Glory as part of an attack roll against a target with the Chaos, Daemon,

of Decay result, you can change it to The Watching or Banshee Scream.

or Heretic Keyword to deal additional damage equal to your Willpower Attribute.

On a Wrath Critical, you can use the previous option once without expending Glory (though you can spend Glory to adjust subsequent Perils of the Warp rolls for the adventure).

141

Skill Test You can use Psychic Mastery (Wil) for this Endeavour.

Preach

Factions: Adepta Sororitas, Adeptus Ministorum

On a success, you gain the success result listed in the Simple Test.

Training Regime Faction: Astra Militarum

The most devoted servants of the God Emperor not only dedicate their lives to service in His name, but also strive to ensure that others can channel their faith through communal worship. Whether a pious Sister of Battle who finds herself on a world bereft of the Emperor’s

As a member of the Emperor’s Finest, the Astra

teachings or a fanatical preacher who believes only a

Militarum, you’ve received some varying degree

new edifice of faith can quell the heretical seeds found

of military training to keep you alive in the face of

on a Hive World, you dedicate your time to spreading the

the galaxy’s many threats. Between missions, you

faith of the God Emperor of Mankind. This Endeavour

may find yourself referencing your trusty Imperial

can represent different actions, and it is best decided on

Infantryman’s Uplifting Primer or performing regular

in conjunction with your GM. You may decide that this

drill with colleagues or just with your trusty weapon.

represents your time preaching among the masses of a

Every Regiment has different practices, and you may

Hive World, or that it could be you founding a church in

find yourself forced to improvise on your specific

the lower levels of a Rogue Trader’s voidship.

training activities depending on our environment and current situation.

Skill Test The Skill Test operates like the Toil Endeavour,

There is no Simple or Skill Test to use this Endeavour.

though Preaching means works best with Skills like

When you use the Training Regime Endeavour, select

Leadership (Wil) or Persuasion (F). On a success, you

either Ballistic Skill or Weapon Skill. For your next

gain +1 Influence. Additionally, you gain a +2 Bonus

session, whenever you spend Glory to increase dice

Dice on all Corruption Tests made for the following

pool for that Skill, you gain two Bonus Dice instead

adventure, as your faithful service steels you to the

of one.

depredations of Chaos.

Proscribed Studies

Survival Supplies

From the lowliest acolyte to the most unchecked lord,

Others may spend their time dawdling or working

Faction: The Inquisition

the members of the Emperor’s Holy Inquisition are

towards great goals, but you focus on the most

known for their diligence in pursuing Humanity’s

important thing: survival. You may spend time avoiding

many foes. You spend your time between missions

fights in the lower decks of a voidship or avoiding the

homing in on those enemies, diligently researching

strange creatures that live in the depths of a hive sump.

the threats arrayed against you and your companions.

Alternatively, you might spend time meticulously

Though your research may be targeted at a specific foe,

studying your teammates and cataloguing their

the benefits of it can apply to those around you, as you

respective weaknesses—though they may not approve

can provide guidance in the heat of battle.

of your actions (and constant berating) they will come

Skill Test

spend your time scrounging materials to keep yourself

Choose Daemon, Heretic, or Xenos and then make a

and your allies safe from harm.

Scholar (Int) Test. If you succeed, you learn something

142

Faction: Scum

around when you save them in a critical moment! You

about your targeted foe, as though had succeeded

Skill Test

the Discovery Endeavour. Additionally, for your next

This Endeavour typically relies on Awareness (Int),

adventure, whenever you spend a Glory on a Test that

Cunning (Fel), Deception (Fel), Stealth (A) or Survival

targets your selected Keyword, you gain +Rank bonus

(Wil). On a success you can put together a small kit of

dice on the check in addition to the regular Bonus Dice.

pilfered medical supplies and technological items that

Allies within 10m of you can also gain this bonus when

can be used to keep you and your allies surviving for

spending Glory, as you provide them with important

another day. Once during the next session when you

information in the midst of combat.

or an ally within 3m is Dying, you can activate this kit and have you or your target regain 1d3 Wounds.

INDEX A

Dishonest Patrons ............... 65

Lexmechanic...................... 117

Rebels In The Knight............ 13

Abeyant............................. 128

Disturbing The Dead............ 22

Librarius Discipline ........... 129

Recruitment Drive ............. 133

Accrue Wealth.................... 137

Duties & Responsibilities .. 135

Lost And Damned................ 89

Refinery Reanimated............ 36

Adepta Sororitas................. 135

Duties & Strictures.. 41, 43, 45,

Luddite Strike ...................... 18

Returning Heroes .............. 133

Adeptus Astartes ............... 136

47, 51, 53, 55, 57, 61, 63

Ripper Gun......................... 122

Adeptus Astra Telepathica.. 135

Duty-Bound Endeavours..........

Macrostubber..................... 122

Rogue Trader Dynasties ..... 136

Adeptus Mechanicus.......... 136

135-136

Maintain Equipment........... 139

Adeptus Ministorum........... 136

Dux Mortalium .................... 78

Maintenance Undercrofts...... 25

Scum.................................. 136

Angels Of Death................... 79

Master Eshgar Quintus......... 70

Seraphim............................ 103

Antagonise......................... 137

Enhanced Ballistic

Mechavangelists................... 69

Shadow Warriors.................. 76

Archdeacon Merramar Clade.65

Mechadendrite.................... 128

Melee Weapons...........120-121

Shadows Of The Saint.......... 27

Archdomina Axekra Vakuul .67

Eradication Ray.................. 122

Melta Bombs...................... 124

Shock Grenade................... 124

Arguing Allies.................... 134

Excrutiator ........................ 126

Might Of Heroes ................ 129

Sicarian Battle Armour....... 124

Armour ................91, 124-125

Mindscrambler Grenade...... 124

Sicarian Infiltrator.............. 110

Astartes Apothecary........... 105

Faction Endeavours ........... 140

Multiple Mechadendrites.... 129

Sicarian Ruststalker........... 111

Astartes Chaplain............... 106

Fallen Guardians.................. 15

Multi-Session Adventures.. 132

Sieves In The Iron................ 37

Astartes Librarian.............. 107

Family Matters................... 141

Multi-Stage Endeavours .... 132

Simulacrum Imperialis........ 127

Astartes Meditation............ 140

Farseer Lanriel Taranlys....... 82

Mutated Meals...................... 19

Sister Dialogus................... 101

Astra Militarum.................. 136

Ferianwyr,

Sister Imagifier................... 102

Atmospheric Pressure ........ 133

Princess................................ 84

Narthecium......................... 127

Sister Repentia................... 100

Attribute Rating Maximums By

Flechette Blaster ................ 122

Nethreus.............................. 12

Skull Helm......................... 127

Species................................. 91

Frag Bomb.......................... 124

Nine Blasphemies................. 28

Slabshield........................... 125

Augmetics ......................... 128

Frameworks....................66-89

Novator Octavia Omincara.... 72

Slaves To Darkness.............. 89

Avachrus................................ 5

Fury Of The Ancients ........ 130

Null Rod............................. 127

Space Hulk......................... 134

Null Zone........................... 130

Species & Communication.... 90

Beatification Beacons........... 26

General Endeavours ......... 137

Species & Equipment............ 91

Beyond The Imperium........ 135

Ghost Hunters...................... 20

Ogryn Warrior ................... 115

Stubcarbine ....................... 122

Blessed............................... 120

Grapnel Launcher .............. 126

Ogryns............................92-93

Survival Supplies................ 142

Blessed Exemplars............... 67

Grenades............................ 124

Bolt Weapons..................... 122

Grenadier Gauntlet............. 122

Paper Punishers................... 71

Taser Goad......................... 120

Brazier Of Holy Fire............ 125

Pawns And Knights.............. 83

Tech Adept......................... 109

Brevet Captain Akahir ......... 77

Hammer And/Or Anvil......... 69

Performing Endeavours ..... 132

Tech-Priest Dominus.......... 112

Brute Shield....................... 125

Haunted Past ..................... 133

Phosphor Serpenta............. 122

The Circlet Council................ 65

Bullgryn............................. 116

Hearing Range................... 126

Pious Parade ..................... 134

The Elders............................ 85

Bullgryn Maul.................... 120

Heartworld Sovereigns......... 64

Power Maul........................ 120

Toil..................................... 140

Bullgryn Plate..................... 125

Hidden In The Harvest......... 20

Preach................................ 142

Transonic Blade.................. 120

Holy Warriors....................... 81

Primaris Reiver................... 108

Transonic Razor ................ 120

Canoness............................ 104

Hone Skill.......................... 138

Princeps Limb Rig ............. 129

Chaos Lord Maloquence ....... 88

Prophet Of The Stars............ 32

Weapons, Kroot.................... 91

Chordclaw.......................... 128

In Plain Sight........................ 73

Proscribed Studies.............. 142

Weapons, Ogryn................... 91

Complications..................... 137

Industry... 7, 13, 17, 23, 28, 35

Psychic Awakening ........... 134

Weapons, Ratling................. 91

Condemnor Boltgun ........... 122

Infiltrator Headpiece........... 128

Psychic Fortress ................ 130

Confessor........................... 113

Infravisor........................... 126

Psychic Hood...................... 127

Craft Equipment................. 140

Interrogator........................ 118

Psychic Scourge ................. 130

Crozius Arcanum................ 120

Is Possible ........................... 17

Psychic Species .................... 91

Puritanical Conditioning .... 141

Da ’Ard Boyz........................ 87

Kill-Team.............................. 76

Purity Seal.......................... 127

Da Inteli-Gitz........................ 87

Kroot ..............................96-98

Damage...............121, 123-124

Kroot Mercenary ................ 119

Quarantine Extremis............ 29

Devotional Worship............ 141

Diagnostor Helmet.............. 126

Labors Lost ....................... 134

Rampant Illness ................. 134

Dialogus Staff..................... 120

Laud-Hailer........................ 126

Ranged Weapons.........122-123

Discovery........................... 138

Lay Servants........................ 81

Ratling......................... 94, 114

The

Emerald

143

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Wrath &amp; Glory Forsaken System Player&#x27;s Guide - PDFCOFFEE.COM (2025)

Wrath & Glory Forsaken System Player's Guide - PDFCOFFEE.COM (2025)