CaptainLNH Posted March 28, 2012 Share Posted March 28, 2012 This is all the written information I have on the Chapter I created for my personal use, some of it may be years older than other parts, so please forgive any discrepencies and kindly inform me of them. Litany of Departure (recited after meetings and chapel services) Born in darkness, a dream given life, Holy warriors to bring forth the light. Armed with zeal, armoured with faith, Lords of battle at the fore of the fight. Swords of the Emperor, shields of mankind, Destined for war, fated for death. Protectors of the weak, slayers of evil, We fight til we draw our last dying breath Our Honor demands that we give our all There is no retreat, there is no surrender, Our hate of the foe drives us eternally on While aliens live, while heresy festers, There can be no peace until the last war is won. Strengthen your heart harden your soul, Think of Honor and act with Valor, Launch yourself gladly into death's hungry maw. There is no time for peace, no respite, no forgiveness, There is only war..... http://dl.dropbox.com/u/24398740/lightning_warriors_badge.png (The Chapter Symbol) Lightning Warriors The Lightning Warriors are the most honorable of the Space Marines. They hold their honor above their lives, willing to sacrifice themselves for those they are charged to protect. Loyal to the end, there is no one better to have at your side, or call friend, and few worse as an enemy. Though they hold to a code of honor, do not make the mistake of believing that this makes them weak. The opposite is true. Their pursuit of honor makes them fierce and formidable warriors, this combined with their shared sense of honor defines the actions of the Lightning Warriors on and off the battle field. “Honor and Valor,” this is the motto of the Lightning Warriors, and is the only phrase from their secret honor code heard by outsiders. There is but one thing that haunts these warriors, a mysterious insanity linked to that of the “Blood Angels” and their successors. Because of their genetic lineage, the Lightning Warriors have adopted the combat tactics and vehicles of the “Blood Angels,” in favor of the regular tactics of the “Codex Astartes.” While utilizing the tactics and technology of there blood brothers, the Lightning Warriors have become experts at fighting the vile Orks and the horror of the galaxy, the Tyranids. These skills make them very valuable to Imperial commanders fighting these aliens, and a priceless battlefield asset in a dire situation. In these dark times, the chapter is lead to victory by Fingon the Valiant and aided by the mysterious Angel of Valor. The Lightning Warriors like all of the “Adeptus Astartes” stand as a beacon of hope that mankind will survive the tides of aliens and heretics that beset the Imperium from all sides. So long as the Lightning Warriors fight, the galaxy will yet know hope. Chapter Information- The Chapter colors of the Lightning Warriors do not follow the Codex. The magortity of the armour is yellow, but the shoulder pad rim color is not denotive of company affiliation. The rim color displays primary role, blue-tactical, turquiose-devastator, black-assault, silver- first veteran/command (not including sargeants), pilots, crews, sargeants, and techmarines utilise the color that is their prefered role beyond their specialty. The Lightning Warriors are also divergent from the Codex in their chapter organization. They have eight companies insted of ten, 1st is veteran, 2-4th are main battle companies, 5th is scout company, and the 6-8th are each assigned to support a battle company. The 9th and 10th companies whereabouts are not recorded, but it is rumored that they were sent on a secret mission and have not yet returned to the chapter. The only references to their existence is that there are rooms enough for two more companies at the chapter fortress that have remained unused for at least two centuries. And a suit of armour and weapons in the Chapter archive labeled as having belonged to Brother Sergeant Feanor of the 10th Company. It is not well know, but the Lightning Warriors are indeed successors of the Blood Angels. Records claim that the Lightning Warriors were created in the 24th founding, and that an attempt was made to fix the defect in the Blood Angels gene-seed that caused the dreaded Black Rage. The attempt was to fix the defect, but it seems that it has only lengthend the time that the Rage manifests itself. So instead of suddenly falling on the eve of battle, Brothers slowly begin to show signs over months or in some cases years. While this might seem like a more agonizing experience, it actually allows the affected Brothers to have a greater chance of dying in Honorable battle. If however the Brother believes he is near the point of no return, he will submit himself for the Forlorn Hope, the LW's Death Company Squads. From there he will seek to die honorably before succoming to such insanity that he is nolonger himself. (This is some chapter information, designed to look like someone is looking the chapter up in an archive) +Request information... Input+ +...Adeptus Astartes... Authorization....... Accepted+ +..Chapter.... Lightning Warriors........ Warning Restricted Materials...+ +..Homeworld.. Location.... Classified........... Inquisitorial Overide accepted...+ +..Location ... -Expunged- ... Terrain report... Section one access succesful...+ + ...The Homeworld of the Lightning Warriors Chapter of the Adeptus Astartes, called Cabeden-Me'urra (Leaping Lightning), is a curious planet. Located in the Northern most tip of the Segmentum Ultima of the Imperium within the Forvandor Sector, in the Aelin-unial sub-sector and the Lond en'Megil system. The space surrounding the planet and the vicinity of the Londmegil system is home to approximatley 224 "voids" in the warp. These holes make warp travel withing the system extremely hazardous, and therefore all vessels must approach under standard drive systems. The exact nature of these holes remains a mystery. The Imperial Frigate "Rapid Death" enterd one of the 'voids' while traveling the Warp, and the resultant incident was recorded by an array on a nearby moon. The recording shows the frigate exploding, inploding, bending and twisting, simeltaniously upon contact with the void. After the first recovery vessel was slowly destablaized at eh molecular level just near the hole, further attempts to explore the nature of the 'voids' were abandoned. +...Input... skip to section 3... accepted...+ +... The terrain of the planet itself is also unusual, and no other planet like it is recorded in the archives of the Imperium. From space, the planet looks live a dark rock glittering with strange patterns of light. The surface is a massive labyrinth of mountains, crags, and forests of plants classified by the Adeptus Biologis as Carbon-Nitrogen Life forms. The temperature varies accross the planet, with a high of 93 and a low of -24 degrees. The dominant feature that exists accross the entire surface of the planet however, is crystals. Crystals of every shape, form, color, density, substance, exist on this planet in vast quantities. So many in fact that the Administratum has had workers cataloggin them for generations, and has barely scratched the surface. The most interesting forms of crystals however, are believed to contribute to the planet's predominate weather pattern. Since their is little soil, and the planet's main weather feature is intense lightning storms, researchers have speculated that some of the crystals are positive or negative charged, intensifying ground to cloud lightning. This as you can imagine make the planet very dangerous for unadapted life forms. Including humanity, although there is another report that discuses the unique relationship between the Chapter, it's homeworld, and the recruiting world of the chapter...+ +...The Lightning Warrior's recruiting world is not the same as their homeworld. They call it Cormir but the planet's real name is Palurin-eska. Classified as a feudal world, the constant warfare between states and their armies provides perfect recruits for the Chapter. However, there is a body that governs the whole planet run by those aspirants who passed the Rites of Honor and Valor, but who were unable to become Astartes. This body that is known as the Namo, enforces the code of the Rochben (or the code of the knights). They bring any dishonorable ruler to justice, and then are responsible for replacing him, and all states respect their judgment on matters. However they restrict their intervention to when the code is broken. Members of this body also aid the Chapter's Chaplains to test the aspirants on the annual day of Lennor. This is when the most worthy from all the states come to the Sarn Maethor, the stone of warriors. There they will partake in the Rites of Honor and Valor, and those who pass the tests are declared Astaldo and are taken away by the Chapter's Chaplains. Though warfare on Cormir is fought with sword and bow, it only serves to help the aspirants become Astartes, and many Lightning Warriors prefer to use sword like blades rather than axes or maces. The peoples of Cormir are all taught of the Lightning Warriors, and the Chapter is careful to make sure that they are not viewed as gods. They are known as the supreme followers of the codes and the embodiement of Astaldo. It is also taught that to join them means to fight forever, and acceptance of this is a trait looked for in the trials. However, the population and the Lightning Warriors themselves have the same language which they jealosly guard and never teach outsiders, and the Chapter Runes are the language of the people. Then although the meaning is not fully understood, the peoples of Cormir worship and venerate 'Neled Fea'. Due to the language barrier, I am unable to provied the meaning or significance of this, especially since visual representation of this results in ones death, therefore worshiping images seems to be the worst crime on Cormir. +.....+ +...The fortress that serves as the base for the Namo is more like a giant tower, and sits atop the second highest mountain on the planet. At the base of the massive drawbridge leading to the tower is the largest shrine to the Emperor on the Planet, and at the end of the bridge stands an imposing guardian. A Contemptor class Dreadnought, who speaks to anyone who approaches, and has quere manners. One always leaves with good advice, although sometimes this advice is not fully understood. And when asked what his name is, he identifies himself as 'Yanta Heru' but whether it is his name or title I am not sure. Most people do not speak to him, and seem to think him some kind of great knight of the Emperor, which is partially true. The shrines to the Emperor are one of the places where outsiders are welcome, this may have something to do with the culture that has developed, few Astates Chapters have such close contact or allow the populace to know of thier existence. The only other example similar to this that I know of is the Realm of Ultramar where everything seems to revolve around the Ultramarines. It may be the respect in which those who pass to knighthood in the service to the Emperor are held by the populace, combined with some ancient decree by the Chapter to the people to not trust outsiders. ...+ Chapter Organization The Lightning Warriors do not follow the “Codex Astartes” when it comes to their Chapter organization. While the “Codex” calls for ten companies, the Lightning Warriors have eight companies. Like the “Codex” the first company consists of the Chapter’s veterans, however their fifth company is the scout company not the tenth like the “Codex.” The Lightning Warriors second, third, and fourth companies are battle companies. The sixth, seventh, and eighth companies, act as support units for the battle companies. Chapter Command The overall command is the responsibility of the Grand Master, and in his absence the Captains, Chief Librarian, Chief Apothecary, Reclusiarch, Master of the Forge, and the oldest of the Dreadnoughts, form a council to make decisions. The Venerable Dreadnought, Fingolfin the Honorable, is often looked to for guidance in the absence of the Grand Master. For at one thousand nine hundred and ninety three he is the oldest of the Chapter’s Dreadnoughts and the council never ignores his experienced advice. Chapter Command Grand Master—Fingon the Valiant 22 Flame Guardians (Sanguinary Guard) 40 Honor Guard—(each Captain has an Honor Guard Squad) L.W. Armory Master of the Forge —Thrandoren— 93 Techmarines 18 Support-Predators 12 Assault-Predators 14 Vindicators 8 Whirlwinds 5 Landraiders 5 Crusaders 5 Redeemers 5 Decimators 48 Landspeeders Chapter Support Chief Apothecary -Rumil the Healer- 35 Apothecaries Reclusiarch-Thonas 24 Chaplains Chief Librarian —Manwe— 10 Librarians 3 Librarian- Dreadnoughts Chaplain Ordo-Of the Forlorn Hope 993 Forlorn Hope (Death.Company.)(In Stasis) Fleet Command 9 Strike Cruisers 24 Escort Frigates 3 Battle Barges (Fearless, Ice Blade, Angel’s Fire) 24 Thunderhawk Gunships 48 Storm Raven Gunships 1st Company Captain-Feanaro 60 Vanguard 40 Sternguard 6 Assault Dreadnoughts (4 Stormraven) (Gunships) 2nd Company Captain-Thingol 4Tactical Squads 4 Assault Squads 2 Devastator Sq. 4 Dreadnoughts (8 Stormraven) (Gunships) 3rd Company Captain-Haldir 4Tactical Squads 4 Assault Squads 2 Devastator Sq. 2 Dreadnoughts (8 Stormraven) (Gunships) 4th Company Captain-Gorthol 4Tactical Squads 4 Assault Squads 2 Devastator Sq. 3 Dreadnoughts (8 Stormraven) (Gunships) 5th Company Captain-Beleg 12 Scout Squads 20 Scout Bikers 36 Unassigned Initiates (2 Stormraven) (Gunships) 6th Company Captain-Aranwe 3Tactical Squads 2 Assault Squads 1 Devastator Sq. 1 Dreadnoughts (6 Stormraven) (Gunships) 7th Company Captain-Lomion 2Tactical Squads 2 Assault Squads 3 Devastator Sq. 2 Dreadnoughts (7 Stormraven) (Gunships) 8th Company Captain-Neithan 1Tactical Squads 3 Assault Squads 1 Devastator Sq. 4 Dreadnoughts (5 Stormraven) (Gunships) I hope to post pictures of my models in the near future. 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CaptainLNH Posted March 28, 2012 Author Share Posted March 28, 2012 Here are some images of models representing the Lightning Warriors Chapter. http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/th_IMG_0020.jpgLW Tactical Marines Tactical Marines http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/th_IMG_0023.jpgLW Devestator Marines Devestator Marines http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/th_IMG_0025.jpgLW Command Squad Captain w/ Command Squad http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/th_IMG_0048.jpgLW Forlorn Hope (D.C.) Death Company http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/th_IMG_0057.jpgLW Vindicator tank Vindicator battle tank http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/th_IMG_0063.jpgLW Stormraven Gunship Stormraven Gunship Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainLNH Posted March 29, 2012 Author Share Posted March 29, 2012 Just realized that the pics were too small, the links to a better version are next to the pic. Feel free to comment, I am looking for feedback. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainLNH Posted March 29, 2012 Author Share Posted March 29, 2012 Here are some more pics. http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/th_IMG_0053.jpgAssault Predator (Baal) http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/th_IMG_0031.jpgFlame Guardians (Sanguinary Guard) http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/th_IMG_0038.jpgVanguard Veterans 1 http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/th_IMG_0037.jpgVanguard Veterans 2 http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/th_IMG_0077.jpgDrop Pod (open) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
War Angel Posted March 29, 2012 Share Posted March 29, 2012 i like youre archived inquisitorial database story, though i feel like you overlooked something. all of the information about the homeworlds location has been expunged, But you gave the location a very distinct feature. it seems like 224 voids in the warp would be very unique and would narrow down where the chapter is located, and someone could at least figure out a general location of the planet. just a small thing, aside from that, i really like the color of the chapter. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Andrew J Posted March 29, 2012 Share Posted March 29, 2012 You have some distinct ideas here. I like the crystals idea though I was confused for a moment about whether that was the homeworld or the recruiting planet. You have put an over all good deal of thought into the chapter and I commend you on your thoroughness. My only major critique would be the distinction of the 2 worlds, Cormir and the crystal world. I wonder if you really even need the crystal world or the 224 voids piece as I feel it did not contribute to the overall feel of your chapter. I like your color scheme and am impressed you have painted so much yellow! It is easily one of the hardest colors to paint and you ahve done well. I would recommend basing them and giving the base a dark grey or brown color as that will help attract the eye to the marine more. It looks as though you have done some minor weathering too and I think you could give that some more depth as the bright silver almost blends in with the armor. Maybe paint a dark grey line at the bottom edge of them? Or go back and use a darker metal over the lighter while leaving a little on the edges to give it some more depth. Hope that helps. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainLNH Posted March 29, 2012 Author Share Posted March 29, 2012 Thanks Brothers, I will look at what you have said, and I am not supprised by some confusion, i have been playing for about 5 yrs now and I have been slowly devloping this material throughout that time. To answere some of your queries though, I did not decide where the Chapter would be located, becasue I am not sure where other chapters are and I would not want to impose on any fluff that already exists. If you could direct me to some kind of Galaxy map with all the offical chapter locations i would be greatful. And the models look much better in person, I need to take better pics but I haven't gotten to it yet, they are also the product of years of work, so forgive some minor discrepencies. I will post some of my other pics when I have a chance. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Taz Posted March 30, 2012 Share Posted March 30, 2012 There's an extensive galactic map of the Imperium on page 116/117 of the big 5th ed hardcover rulebook, with the layout of the different Segmentums, as well as major landmarks like Ultramar, the Maelstrom, the Eye, Baal, Ghoul Stars, etc.. It also has info about the Tyranid invasion, the general location of Craftworld Iyanden and the Tau Empire. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Andrew J Posted March 30, 2012 Share Posted March 30, 2012 40k Map I dont think you can go wrong with anywhere really. Certain areas apparently have different threats, like Eye of Terror = Chaos, etc. You can also find those in the DIY Guide at the top of the Liber page. I would recommend picking a random segmentum. The galaxy is large enough that you wont be stepping on any toes of another chapter. You could easily make up your own sector they defend. On another note I do like how you have written your IA as though from the point of view of an imperial scribe. Makes for interesting reading. If you have any other questions Liberites are usually very well informed or will direct you in the area that you might want to go. EDIT: Also if you have the 5th edition SM Codex it has a 2 page color map with multiple planets of chapters on it. That is a good source if you havent looked already Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainLNH Posted March 30, 2012 Author Share Posted March 30, 2012 I see now, does anyone have a suggested area taking in mind that my chapter often fights Tyranids, Orks, and Necrons. I was thinking somewhere in the north-east quadrant of the galaxy. Perhaps at the farthest North tip of the 'Segmentum Ultima'? North of 'Baal' and the 'Storm of the Emperor's Wrath,' and West of the 'Ghoul Stars'. What do you think of that? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Andrew J Posted March 30, 2012 Share Posted March 30, 2012 I would go with northeast Ultima Segmentum. This is straight out of the DIY Guide and is very helpful. Though be careful mentioning Tyranids and Necron as those are both very new on the timeline only in the last couple hundred years of M41. So I would say those are the most recent threats they have been dealing with. The next step is of course to choose where your chapter bases its recruitment or has its home world. The 40K galaxy is divided into five Segmenta. Segmentum Solar is central, located around Terra. Then there’s Segmentum Obscurus in the North, Segmentum Ultima in the East, Segmentum Tempestus in the South and Segmentum Pacificus in the West. Each area of the galaxy has different threats. The Segmentum Solar has pirates, Tyranids of Hive Fleet Leviathan, and Orks. Orks are all over the galaxy. Eldar craftworlds, since they’re mobile, also wander through occasionally (Eldar are all over the galaxy as well, but that’s because craftworlds move). The massive forces defending Terra make the Segmentum Solar the most secure in the Imperium. Nonetheless, it was home to the Wars for Armageddon, so there would seem to be enough action to keep a Space Marine chapter busy. The Segmentum Obscurus holds the Eye of Terror - the prime concern here is Chaos. Eldar are a minor worry, and (as previously mentioned) Orks are everywhere. Still, if you’re in the Segmentum Obscurus, you’re going to spend all of your time worrying about Chaos, and most of your time fighting it. There are no ‘Nids or T’au, though, so if you’d prefer to pretend the little grey devils didn’t exist, this is an excellent place to be. The Segmentum Ultima is home to the Ultramarines, but it’s big enough you can avoid them if you want to. It’s home to T’au (the only place they are found), the Chaotic raiders of the Maelstrom, Orks and Tyranids. These threats are somewhat concentrated toward the Southern end of the Segmentum, the Northern end being mostly the domain of the ubiquitous Orks, and pirates. The Segmentum Tempestus is famous for its Warp Storms - and not much else. It is to the south of the Segmentum Solar. The chief concern here is Orks. And more Orks. And then some Orks. There’s also Tyranids of Hive Fleet Leviathan. The Segmentum Pacificus is relatively calm and stable - though it’s close enough to the Eye of Terror to see some Chaos activity, and there are the obligatory Orks. There are no Tyranids or T’au here. In the grim darkness of the Segmentum Pacificus there is only relative peace. Choosing a region for your home world based on the enemies your chapter regularly fights can be a good idea. Alternately, choosing a region you like can be just as satisfying. Never choosing a region at all can work just as easily. This is certainly the most optional aspect of choosing a home world, and plenty of official chapters get by without every really clarifying where exactly they are in the galaxy. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainLNH Posted March 30, 2012 Author Share Posted March 30, 2012 Location and names regarding location have been updated. And I will continue to specify more about why the chapter is where it is when I can. Thanks to Andrew J, Taz, and War Angel for your help. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainLNH Posted April 2, 2012 Author Share Posted April 2, 2012 More pics. http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/IMG_0021.jpg Tacticals http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/IMG_0055.jpg Razorback http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/IMG_0058.jpg Vinicator (2) http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/IMG_0033.jpg Assault Dread (Furioso) http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/IMG_0035.jpg Force Weapon http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/IMG_0036.jpg Frag Cannon http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/IMG_0041.jpg Librarian w/JP http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/IMG_0059.jpg Stormraven front http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/IMG_0060.jpg Stormraven side http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l638/darrenbogus/Lightning%20Warriors/IMG_0045.jpg Thonas the Grim (Astorath) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainLNH Posted May 18, 2012 Author Share Posted May 18, 2012 I thought I should use the site painter to show my baseline color scheme, so here it is. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainLNH Posted June 24, 2012 Author Share Posted June 24, 2012 +... I have been granted the great privilege of furthering my predecessor's work, although my position with the Inquisition grants me or access than he...+ +.... This is a record of my discoveries during my time with the "Lightning Warriors" chapter, and is garnered from experiences over two decades. My extensive research made possible by my superior's generous allowance of much of the Inquisition's database has revealed very interesting things about this Chapter of the Emperor's Angels of Death. Though it is very likely that few will ever read this report or understand all the significance of it, I believe it is my duty to pass on what I have learned, for so much is forgotten ...+ +..... My first challenge was the chapter rune system, which is also the linguistic base of their recruiting world's language. Through exhaustive searching and careful questioning, I have not only learned enough of it to converse roughly and understand readily, but I made the astonishing discovery that it originated in an ancient Terran language, and that it has only deviated 10% from the original. Remarkable considering how many millennium have passed. What I gathered tells me that the most common place to find this language was once from a set of five lofty tomes, said to contain legends that ancient Terrans read about. If this is so than the chapter uses a system that was already ancient when humanity became civilized, remarkable. I regret that I have been unable to gather any significant data at all about these tomes, save that some of their stories are still told as parts of the heritage of the people...+ +.... Next I set about learning of the chapter's special orders, known in other chapters as the Librarium, the Reclusiam, and the Tech Adepts. To my astonishment, I learned that the 'black ships' which come to all planets of the Great Imperium, visit Cormir with but a single vessel. Something in the genetic heritage of the planet's population means that there is a significantly low percentage of psykers. Those that are capable, are sought out by the Namo and then taken to a mountainside monastery designed to safely house the adepts until the "black ship" arrives for it's due. This is also where the Chapter's Librarians come to seek out candidates for their chapter, those chosen participate in the rites of initiation with the others, but are then separated and trained for their role as future Librarians. An interesting note is that Lightning Warrior's Librarians have their armour painted a deep dark blue, almost obsidian color, covered in tiny runic script, rather than the traditional blue hue of most chapters. The reason for this remains a mystery to me....+ +... There is very little I can say about the chapter's Reclusiam, save that they do not allow their members to serve in the Ordo Xenos militant arm know as the Deathwatch, this is strange as many of the chapter are encouraged to serve at least one vigil. The most interesting discovery I made and the only other one I can share, is that they differ very strongly from almost every other Chapter. Whereas chaplains wear black armour and cover themselves in reminders of grisly mortality, such as skulls and chains, frequently skull helms, these chaplains seem to abhor those practices. They have unnaturally clean armour of deep dark grey, with multiple accents of the chapter yellow. In fact, I once saw one of their Chaplains after battle, and while the armour of the other men was covered in battle damage and grit, the Chaplain was almost spooky clean, as though is armor rejected filth. The grim nature and appearance of most chaplains gives me a sense of fear, yet I find myself uneasy and disturbed on an entirely different level in the presence of these men....+ +..... Now I treat the Techmarines of the chapter. Like all others, they go to the Techpriests of Mars for their training, yet when they return, they seem to go through even further training by the fully fledged Chapter Techmarines. While in some chapters, they are treated with suspicion or distrust for their dual loyalties, there is a strange sense of camaraderie between them and the rest of their brethren. It seems that their shared sense of honor rules out any possible distrust. I have also noticed that every battle brother is trained by the Techmarines to care for his personal armor and weapons, albeit unless there is serious damage. The Techmarines also have the duty of mediating with the forge worlds that supply the chapter with the materials for it's war gear and vehicles.....+ +.....I shall cover more in the next section of my report...+ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Andrew J Posted June 26, 2012 Share Posted June 26, 2012 Love the new additions. Really like the descriptions of each special order. Once again love how you have done it as though someone is reporting it to the High Lords or something. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainLNH Posted July 7, 2012 Author Share Posted July 7, 2012 (I have moved the section on the chapter heros to this section, as is has changed and this is where it belongs, please let me know of any discrepancies so I can correct them. I have tried to be very careful with dates and with where companies are given the speed of warp travel and the time needed for recovering of losses.) +..This section of my report is a collection of the most recent of important chapter battles that I was able to learn of or access through additional means, and I must confess that some of the events here are not of the Imperial or Inquisition records. They are translated to the best of my meager abilities from my personal attendance of a Chapter ritual in which they recount the battles of the past and the Honor therein. I was finally allowed access to this after 12 years among them. Anything marked in () is my thoughts or notes of relevance...+.+ 850.M41- first recorded battle with the Necron menace, they named them the "Din'tinc", (though the true meaning escapes me, something about silent metal)- 858.M41- The 2nd and 6th companies aid the Silver Skulls in their final battles against the Necrons in the Lazar system- 875.M41- The 3rd and 7th companies win a costly victory over the Atun Dynasty's forces during the Revictus Secondus campaign- 926.M41- The 4th and 8th companies participate in the battles against the Necron Worldengine, though half a company of men are lost during one of the doomed Drop pod assaults- 952.M41- Captain Turgon of the 7th dies during the battle of Vinyamar Rift, though his sacrifice utterly defeats the Chaos Heretics, the battle group is seriously understrength- 976.M41- A full battle force of the 2nd, 6th, and half of the 1st company blunts the an serious offensive move by the Arch-Killa of Chrisos and his ork hordes- 980.M41- The 4th and 8th, having recovered from battle with the Worldengine, aid the defence of the Bakka shipyards, until a sudden strike by the Grey Knights forces the Red Corsairs to withdrawl- 983.M41- Captain Feanaro with most of the first company wins a great victory against the Blood Bringaz clan, and they are less troublesome for almost a decade- 988.M41- The brothers who traveled with the Blood Angels to fight in the Damocles Gulf Crusade return to the chapter with tales of battling the alien Tau- 990.M41- The 4th and 8th arrive to aid the world of Gloriam, that was under assault by Ork Warlord Nobgrok, they arrive to find that there is little to do, the orks have all been slain by Astartes weapons, though no evidence of the weapons or wielders is found except the damage to the ork bodies..... (Inquisition reports claim that this is another intervention by the "Legion of the Damned") 991.M41- Skirmishes against the first elements of what later is known as Hive Fleet Jormungadr occur across the sectors where the chapter operates, almost all are a victory for the Chapter - 993.M41- Captain Haldir of the 3rd company halts the "Time of Bounty" declared by the Oroskh Dynasty, and embarasses the their leader, the Lord of the "Bone Kingdom of Drazak," and his legions of flayed ones on the world of Ussavrian- 994.M41- And Offensive against roaming Hive Fleet of Jormungadr sees victory at a high cost to the already depleted 7th company - 995.M41- The 2nd and 6th fight at the Battle of Black Nebula- (called "Mor'elen'win", something about black star spray, which seems to make sense) which sees to the destruction of the main fleet of Hive Fleet Jormungandr, a great victory for the chapter- 997.M41- Necrons of the Atun Dynasty are defeated during the Haxoni Rift Campaign by the 1st, 2nd,3rd, 8th,- 998.M41- The 4th company is dispatched to aid in the Third war for Armageddon, (which is still ongoing at the time of this report)- 999.M41- What remains of the 6th, depleted after Black Nebula, travel with the Silver Skulls to aid in Captain Sicarius in the Zeist Campaign against the Tau- +..I have also discovered that the Lightning Warriors have aided the following Chapters which all operate within range of each other, Novamarines, Iron Crusaders, Doom Legion, [expunged],Crimsom Castellans, Silver Skulls, and their parent chapter the Blood Angels...+ +.....+ And now due to it's relevance with the previous information, I shall recount those of the famous amongst the Chapter that I was able to discern from the accounts. Anything marked in () is my thoughts or notes of relevance...+ Veteran Brother Ordolus, Techmarine, piloted the Stormraven known as "Celebtuilin" durring the Revictus Secondus Campaign, and was decorated for his numerous Necron fighter kills, Promoted to veteran status after killing a Necron Cryptek singlehandedly, and now serves the Deathwatch in the Jericho Reach. Venerable Brother Rumil, destroyed an ork power plant on Arfinor and led his squad to safety after the sargeant was killed, served in the Deathwatch for two decades, participated in the first chapter battle with the Tyranids upon his return, was interred in Dreadnought armor following the War on Ussavrian. Brother Captain Feanaro, numerous successful encounters against Tyranids, Tau, Necrons, and Orks, earned a place in the Vanguard of the first company after slaying a Tyranid Prime singlehandedly, Promoted to Captain of the first after 224 yrs. of Service, Most decorated Captian in Chapter Records, served in the Deathwatch at an unknown time in his career. Brother Thrandoren, served as a Devastator for 159 yrs, recieved honors during battle with the Arch-Killa of Chrisos and accounted for 58 ork craft and a Stompa, died honorably during the final battle of the Haxoni Rift campaign against the Necron legions of the Atun Dynasty- Brother Nolarius, Served honorably in the third company assault squads for 125 yrs before promotion to Vanguard of the 1st company, fought in 15 major engagements against the Tyranid menace, died honorably during a boarding action against a Hive ship buying time for the Captain's team to severe the Hive brain connections and allow the Imperial fleet to destroy the swarm. Brother Sargeant Cuthalion, honored for his many marksmanship feats, including Ork Warbosses, Eldar leaders, and Hive Synapse beasts, Fought in multiple battles against Necrons during the Haxoni Rift Campaign before his death at the hands of a Deathmark squad. Brother Captain Turgon, rose to the rank of captain of the 7th company through valorous actions over 300 yrs. of service, fought in at least 30 major campaigns, recipient of the Iron Halo, fell at the battle of the Vinyamar Rift when he commanded his badly damaged Strike Cruiser too ram the Chaos flagship and detonate the reactor, victory followed in the destruction of the two vessels. +..As my time with the Chapter goes on, I feel a connection to it. Though I am incredibly slow and not well versed in their language, they are patient with me, and even help me on occasion. Though I had to take an oath to not tell it to any outsider, I feel honored that they have come to trust me, and I trust them perhaps even more...+ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainLNH Posted August 10, 2012 Author Share Posted August 10, 2012 (this section is an extract from the more personal files of the previous author, continuing with his reports) +...... revarification of identity required......+ +..access..... denied....data only available with clearance from a High Lord of Terra.....+ +...... new code accepted..... access granted..... Read with the Emperor's blessing.....+ +..... I have been working with the chapter for almost 15 standard Terran years now. In all that time, only this most recent experience has unnerved me. In the studies of other chapters of astartes required for my position, I have read about and seen bizarre things. Strange cultural rituals, zeal of almost fanatical devotion, reverence of ancestors taken to the extreme, ceremonies that make the participants hatred of the unclean become manifest...... but this is something unique. I was studying several reports I have been working on about chapter tactics and organization, when someone knocked on the door to my quarters. I opened it and was met by one of the Chapter Librarians, dressed in his obsidian battle plate and a black cowl inscribed with runes that hid his eyes. He bade me prepare for a journey, and when he returned a few minutes later, he led me to the docking bay and we boarded a Thunderhawk. I thought that we were simply returning to the Cormir, as some of the members of the chapter had bade me see vistas or cultural events. But never before had a Librarian wished to show me anything. I was understandably interested, and this only further increased when the Thunderhawk ran into turbulence after entering the atmosphere. I had not recalled ever witnessing a major storm on Cormir. As we landed, the physical buffeting of the storm decreased but the sound did not. When I followed the Librarian off the ramp, I was met by a startling sight. I was on the chapter homeworld, on a landing pad high on the chapter fortress. Before me stretched a vast jagged landscape of strange rock formations and mountains, all decorated with amazing crystalline formations, and lit by a ten thousand lightning strikes. After a few moments I realized my jaw was almost to the floor, and I turned to look at the fortress itself. Though I have filed what I know of the defenses and structure of it in a separate report, I will say that while not one of the mightiest fortresses in the Imperium, this one was unique and put with the frightening natural weather it was impressive and intimidating. The Librarian spoke only once before bidding me follow him, he said "Maetol na Rond'orod," welcome to Vault Mountain.....+ +...The Librarian led me throughout the fortress, and there I saw many things that my following words will never come close to fully describing. A hangar filled with craft of war, under constant maintenance by serfs, servitors, and Techmarines. Hallways etched with the names of every serf of the chapter, cells of the Battle Brothers, only decorated with the trophies of their most glorious battles. A forge of magnificent design where the Techmarines hone their craft and maintain the chapter's wargear, and armoury filled with gleaming racks of boltguns, pistols, chainswords, combat blades, and many others. Attached to a further armoury of valor where the chapter's power swords, axes, spears, hammers, fists, and lightning claws, awaiting their lord's command that they be bestowed on an individual of worth. And last of these, the hall that leads to the chapter master's quarters. The "Tham Claur," the Hall of Glory. More of a circular room than a hall, it contains the chapter relics, those weapons and armor of such craftsmanship that only the Chapter Master, Captains, and Honor Guard are granted permission to use them. Two Members of the Honor Guard always stand guard over this hall, both in artificier armor, and carrying strange two handed swords with long handles and curved blades. Of the many items under their charge, including the many blades and strange guns of types I do not recognize, one thing in particular stood out. Like some long lost sentinel of history, a single suit of Terminator armor stands, humming with power despite having no wearer. I learned later that this is one of 12 suits of blessed Terminator plate the chapter possesses, and the only MK IV (also known as Tartaros pattern) Terminator suit they have. Passing on from that great place, my journey only became greater. The Librarian led me to the Chapter's great Chapel. To enter, I first passed along the "Tham Gorn," the Hall of Valor. Here, I passed through hundreds of columns, they were etched with the names of all who attained the rank of Battle Brother in the Chapter, from first to last, here they were all equals. The Librarian explained that part of the right of passage for a Brother was to write his own name on one of the columns, and that the chapter legends say that the last member of the chapter will write his name in the last slot on the final column. A strange view, but also very interesting. Having just walked the history of the chapter, I stood before the doors of the chapel. Standing at least 9 meters tall, they were the largest doors I have seen within the fortress. He approached the doors, and drew his hand before several of the many runes etched into the surface, and the doors opened. The sight within haunts me and fascinates me at the same time, a curious sensation. The chapel was more like a reclusiam, large enough to hold every member of the Chapter within, including the Dreadnoughts. Massive pillars carved from the rock of the planet reach from floor to ceiling, each hanging with faded banners from the chapter's history. At the base of each pillar stood a figure, clad in MK IV artificier plate with jump packs, each bore a glaive of shining blue metal, and in place of a specialty shoulder pad, they each had a shoulder plate that resembled a pair of wings brought together, with glowing blue feathers. Past them at the far end of the room stood an altar, each of the supports bearing a strange shield, and on the altar was a giant book. Backing this was a massive stain glass window depicting some unknown figure in yellow armor bearing a great sword with which he smote xenos of all kinds. But the strangest thing was the flames. Blue fire drifted about the altar, and the room itself. It rested above the heads of the guard, and swirled about the pillars. As the Librarian passed the threshold, a flicker of flame drifted over from one of the pillars and rested above his head. As I began to move forward, having been awstruck at the sights, he turned and held out his hand to stop me. "Avo minna!" do not enter. It was then that I finally saw his eyes, as they now glowed with a soft and flowing light. He walked back to me, and the flames flew back to the pillar as the door closed. He led me by the shoulder back the way we had come, and explained to me that only an Astartes can enter the "Uiaun ivren'than," (something about Reclusiam of Crystal flames) and live. For the "Lach'fae" (leaping flame spirits) will destroy the impure of soul....+ +.... It has bothered me to this day that I cannot explain what happened, there, and what these Lach'fae really are. My only rational explanation is that they are part of some ancient device of guarding that lets the machine spirits manifest in holy fire, and only those of right mind are recognized as friendly. I have been given new quarters here at the fortress, and I shall be studying the planet in more detail in my next reports.....+ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainLNH Posted September 3, 2012 Author Share Posted September 3, 2012 Wrote a short story involving a member of the Lightning Warriors, who serves in the Deathwatch of the Ordo Xenos. Brotherhood- A Deathwatch Story Questions and comments wanted. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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