Jimars Posted April 8, 2020 Share Posted April 8, 2020 (edited) The III Legion, The Black Stars Cognomen (prior): none, unofficially called the Marauders or the Madmen by their fellow Astartes Homeworld : Skandra Prima Numbers: 150.000 Primarch: Absalom Vaughn Flagship: Antares Combat Doctrine: general warfare, combined arms warfare, tactical preparation and complex strategic planning, decapitation strikes Warcry: May the Stars witness our glory! Colours: Yellow and black. Right pauldron and left kneepad act as company markings Symbol: A black shooting star Notable Domains: The Kingdom of Skandra, comprised of seven planets: Skandra Prima, Antire, Fyressy, Liva-Sar, Talanis, Kestram and Riudal. Antire has since been converted into a Forge World History After the Emperor's Primarchs were scattered by the Ruinous Powers, the III Primarch landed on the planet of Skandra, a fertile and rich world which stood as the capital of a kingdom comprised of 4 planets. The infant primarch was taken in by the royal house of Vaughn and raised as the crown prince, receiving the finest education and martial training the kingdom had to offer and becoming a patron of the arts as well as a gifted duelist, tactician and politician. Over the course of his rule he greatly expanded the kingdom. On his 27th year on the planet the Emperor of Mankind visited the planet and met with his lost son, who recognised him and accepted his role as a general of humanity's armies. He named his legion "the Black Stars" after the legendary warriors of the first King of Skandra, who conquered his enemies and greatly expanded the kingdom Primarch Absalom Vaughn, the Amber King, is a controversial figure among the Primarchs, for where others see a highly skilled man always striving for perfection, fiercely loyal to the Emperor and zealous in his attempts to build a better future for the Imperium, others see a creature of arrogance, uncontrolled ambition and greed. Landing on the feudal world of Skandra, the infant primarch was found by farmers and taken to the King Roland, who adopted the child from the Stars as his son and heir to the throne. Growing up, young Absalom lived in a royal environment of opulence, and was educated by the kingdom's most brilliant scholars and scientists, while renowned fighting teachers, military instructors and generals mentored him in dueling and tactics. Gifted in martial matters, the young Prince became a hero to the people when he led the Skandran armies in defence of the kingdom when they were attacked by an alliance of the hostile planets Antire and Fyressy that had always posed a threat to Skandra. After defeating the invaders, he was crowned King in place of his father who had died during the invasion and orchestrated a counterattack on the enemy planets and conquered each of them in a year. By the 30th year of his life on Skandra, Absalom had become a beloved idol to the people through his charisma and beauty, and the prospects of the young prince ruling the kingdom thrilled the populace. It was then that the Emperor of Mankind came to the world to claim his son. Meeting his true Father for the first time, Absalom was impressed by his majesty and his noble cause, and gladly accepted his duty as a Primarch. Unfortunately for him, the IIId legion was known as one of misfits, unruly warriors that often disobeyed orders and fought more like a rag-tag force of mercenaries than an organised army. As a result, they were held in contempt by the other legions and their combat records were underwhelming. This, along with the fact that he was the youngest Primarch and consequently had significantly less achievements than his other brothers, deeply disturbed the young primarch. Combined with his pampered noble upbringing and, according to some anecdotal accounts, his heated confrontation with some of his brothers, which was sparked by his arrogant boasts and resulted in his rebuke using his and his legion's lack of successes as evidence, created a deep feelings of insufficiency and envy in his heart, and he vowed to lead his legion to greatness, surpassing his brothers in glory and in the favour of the Emperor, who he deeply admired as the ideal ruler. Driven by his ambition, Absalom greatly reformed his legion's command structure, sometimes using brutal methods such as the execution of uncooperative officers, and moved recruitment to Skandra. From that point on the old third died and the Black Stars were born, a legion that can serve as an example of discipline, organisation and martial excellence. As a result, the Stars have rapidly achieved a large number of conquests and other victories that rival or surpass those of other Legions, and they are respected and loved by the Imperium. Absalom's relationships with his brothers are mostly respectful, though he does not boast close relationships with any of them but Theoderaf, who shares his deep loyalty towards the Emperor. Some of his brothers that he deeply dislikes are Alexandros who he envies for his success and the respect he receivesrecieves from the other Legions and the Jade General, not only because, despite being the last Primarch to be found, has had a very successful track record, but also due to rumors that claim the General has authored traitorous treatises that claim the Emperor himself can be replaced Absalom's appearance mirrors that of his planet's natives, with tanned skin and dark brown, almost black hair. His eyes, yellow as the armor of his sons, shine with a spark of cunning which some claim to hide malevolence Greatly alarmed by the disappearance of the Emperor, Absalom fears that without Him guiding the Imperium forward it will collapse, since no one else is fit to rule it in his eyes, and especially Alexandros, who is by many considered the most possible candidate Wargear: Algol: Absalom's mastercrafted mace, forged by the finest smiths of Mars at the request of Fabricator-General Kelbor-Hal as a gift to the Primarch of the IIIrd, who so generously offered one of his worlds to the Mechanicum. The weapon combines functions similar to a thunder hammer, storing a large amount of energy that is unleashed on hit with devastating results, emitting a blast of sound and brilliant light. When the power field is active, a corona of light surrounds the mace's head Serrenlás: A gift of the Skandran people to the Emperor, this exquisite twinblade was crafted on Antire soon after it was reborn as a Forge World. Equipped with a customised power field that coats the blades in a dazzling glow and can cut through the toughest armor, Absalom utilises it in awesome displays of murderous skill Verovaar: A relic of the royal house of Vaughn, this archaotech firearm was claimed as a trophy of the defeated lord of a conquered planet, who was using it as part of his exoskeleton's armaments. Of course, Absalom's size and superhuman strength allows him to wield it as a normal pistol. This mastercrafted energy pistol boasts incredible power and accuracy, and it can also fire its 6 barrels simultaneously in devastating concentrated blasts with reduced range The Maega Mail: Named after the twin suns that shine over his homeworld, Absalom's personal suit of artificer armor trades protection for agility and great freedom of movement. Coloured in the bright yellow and black of his Legion and decorated with a striking engraving of the Twin Suns of Skandra as well as flowing mantles, it is as much an armour as it is a work of art. The Amber King's panoply is fitted with an advanced shield generator that turns any absorbed damage into blinding flashes of light, making the Primarch seem like a pulsar star flashing brilliantly in the battlefield Legion Culture and Combat Doctrine As a result of Absalom's stern leadership, the Black Stars are one of the most disciplined legions. Astartes of the Stars are expected to perform brilliantly in all situations, and to that end their training is a lot harder than standard and aims to prepare each marine to fulfil any possible role in the battlefield. Even before induction, aspirants are submitted to excessive tests of purity and aptitude and then go through additional tests of physical and mental prowess before selection, in order to ensure that only the best of the best make it into the legion. Furthermore, even after their training is completed and aspirants graduate as full fledged marines, Absalom and the legion command cultivate a culture of intense competition among the Battle-brothers in order to motivate them to better themselves constantly. Because of this though the bonds between the marines of the Black Stars are not as strong as those found in other legions, a fact that other legions secretly pity them for. In combat, the legion takes to the field after studying the enemy's army, tactics and positions, having created a plan that will swiftly defeat their foes while leaving them few ways to fight back. The Legion's plans are often unorthodox and sometimes even excessive, evidence of their intention to impress and display their excellence. The IIId makes wide use of tactical and heavy support squads, as well as artillery and armored vehicles, and embrace the use of librarians as a powerful weapon to their arsenal. Specialist formations Ochranic Cavaliers The elite warriors of the Black Stars and the personal guard of the Primarch. Personally selected by Absalom himself, upon ascension they must leave behind all ambition and personal aspiration and dedicate their lives to honing their skills and serving their gene-sire as his blade and shield. Befitting of their rank and prestige, they are outfitted in the finest wargear available to the Black Stars. Each Cavalier is clad in mastercrafted artificer armor forged personally, tailored to his specific needs, and armed with the legendary Khomíte Swordspear. Each weapon a priceless relic, the chosen of Absalom use them to fearsome effect in battle, shredding through opposition like a falling star Valkten Chosen Terminators On the eve of combat, the Ochranic Cavaliers kneel before Absalom, their heads bowed in reverence. Then, he chooses those among them that will serve in the Valkten for the next battle. This selection, although temporary, since it only lasts for a single battle, is viewed as a great honour, an acknowledgement of a Cavalier's skill by their Primarch, who rewards them above all their peers. Adorned in relic Tartaros terminator armor in resplendent black and gold, armed with mastercrafted weapons, they follow Absalom to war, the aftershocks to the Amber King's earthquake. There is also a hidden purpose to this practice; the cultivation of intense competition in the ranks of the Cavaliers, the contest for their Father's fickle favour grueling and never-ending. By using this subtle manipulation, Absalom ensures that his elite warriors will never stop honing their skills and improving. Boetar Penitents In the Black Stars, failure is a crime that is punished harshly. And there is no punishment harsher than joining the Boetar squads, for such a fate means being condemned to death. Forced to relinquish their names, identity and livery, they are equipped with older patterns of power armor painted entirely black, signifying their sins and their grim fate. Their weapons are the result of brilliant, if cruel artifice, twin pistols created based on designs from the Dark Age of Technology, firing deadly projectiles saturated in deadly radiation, causing even a glancing hit to be potentially lethal as the target is exposed to terrible rad-energies. Not even the wielders are safe from their weapons' fearsome effects, and each Penitent is sentenced to die a slow, agonising death as his body falls apart, his cells destroyed by the radiation he employed against the enemies of mankind. For only in death will they have finally atoned for their failures. And when the time comes, and their hearts have stopped beating, the bombs implanted in their chests will explode, making sure they take as many foes as possible to the other side Raitelic Outriders Desiring a fast attack formation to function as the battering ram in offensives, Absalom and his officers formed the Raitelic Outriders, deviating from the standard Legiones Astartes assault bike in favour of a curious, if effective, replacement; the Raitelic charge headlong into enemies formations on cybernetic mounts, horses of iron muscles whose mouths spew deadly promethium. Armed with long power spears, they harass the enemy flanks and break their formations, leaving them easy prey to their fellow warriors Homeworld The Primogenitor of the IIIrd hails from Skandra Prima, a world of sunshine, deep blue seas and lush forests. Fertile and boasting with an ideal climate thanks to the fact that it served as a holiday retreat for the upper classes of the Dark Age of Technology, the planet would be classified as a pleasure world were it not a legion homeworld. The planet, and the kingdom in general is ruled over by the King, or Konaag, as is the title in the skandran language, who is an absolute monarch. Absalom Vaughn holds this title currently after the death of his adoptive father king Roland Vaughn, who died during the invasion. Absalom's brother Gregor holds the title of Viceroy and rules while his demigod brother fights for the future of mankind. A benevolent king, Absalom has gone to great lengths to ensure a good, safe life for his subjects which has earned him their adoration and deep loyalty. The rest of the Kingdom's planets are very similar to Skandra in climate, except of Riudal, whose large distance from the system's stars, irregular trajectory and slow moon cycles have given it very cold temperatures, and Antire, which was handed over to the Mechanicum to become a Forge World, as an act of good faith officially, but rumours claim the true motive behind this "gift" was Antire's continued resistance to Skandran rule and the fact that it was Antiran spies that assassinated killed King Roland Edited September 10, 2020 by Jimars TrajantheGreat 1 Back to top Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted April 8, 2020 Author Share Posted April 8, 2020 (edited) The Black Stars Numeration: III (Third) Cognomen (prior): none Primogenitor: Absalom Vaughn Observed Strategic Tendencies: General Warfare , Combined Arms Warfare , Tactical Preparation and Complex Strategic Planning, Decapitation Strikes Noteworthy Domains: Kingdom of Skandra The brightest light casts the darkest shadows. An old Terran saying that perfectly fits the IIIrd Legion. Spurred by their gene-sire's obsessive urge to prove himself superior to his older brothers, the Black Stars amassed a tally of accolades matched by few of their peers and were known as one of the Imperium's most illustrious defenders. This honour, though, came at the cost of their reputation within the Legiones Astartes, their bonds of brotherhood and, perhaps, their sanity The Marauders Born in the Emperor's gene labs as any other Legion, the IIIrd legion's first recruits came from the children of subjugated raiders of the Caucasus Wastes, strong, hardened people that would serve as an ideal recruiting pool for the Emperor's angels of death. Fate, however, would prove to be cruel to the IIIrd, as a flaw in their geneseed would make their aspirants resistant to psycho-indoctrination. The incomplete conditioning, combined with the inbred violent and impulsive nature of the Caucasian savages, proved to be a destructive combination. In their first deployments, the Astartes of the IIIrd were shown to be significantly more unstable and disobedient than their cousins, disregarding the orders of their superiors and losing themselves in the joy of war. True to their past, these transhuman warriors resembled a gang of pillaging bandits rather than soldiers, earning them a name that would haunt them until the discovery of their Primarch: The Marauder Legion. This behaviour, of course, earned them the displeasure of their peers, their commanders and even the Emperor. However, ever pragmatic, the Master of Mankind realised that a Legion, even defective, is too precious to be discarded. Instead, he elected to deploy them to targets meant for total destruction, where collateral damage and civilian casualties would be of no concern. Brutal, merciless, almost feral, the Marauders would meet their enemies in brutal close combat, annihilating them to the last, giving no quarter to woman, child or elder. Where this was impossible, the legion would apply generous amounts of heavy artillery to destroy their foes. This trend was continued during the majority the Great Crusade, during which the IIIrd was set loose against xenos, corrupted humans or other targets deemed unsalvageable, until one fateful campaign where, under the command of Primarch Caelum Vigilat, the Marauders refused his direct orders and, instead of supporting the Star Lords in the operation, turned on garrisons of new recruits, the kind of easy prey they relished. Lord Vigilat, enraged at their savagery and disobedience, brought the issue to the Emperor's attention, who promptly called recalled the IIIrd back to Terra for the final judgment. It seemed that the bloody story of the Legion had come to an end when, unexpectedly, Absalom Vaughn was discovered and joined his sons The Amber King When the Ruinous Powers scattered the Emperor's twenty Primarchs, the IIIrd Primarch landed on the world of Skandra Prima. The planet, located in the Ultima Segmentum, could be considered a paradise; gifted with warm climate, fertile land, lush forests, the people lived in joy and the industry, however primitive, was thriving. The world served as the centre of a Kingdom spanning 4 planets: Liva-Sar, Talanis, Kestram and Skandra Prima itself, the planets having been conquered countless years prior by the First King of house Vaughn. The infant Primarch landed in the middle of a forest; his arrival hailed as a miraculous event, mirroring the legend that claimed such a star had fallen on the planet in the time of the Grand Conquest. Immediately, King Roland Vaughn dispatched his troops to investigate the crash site, where, instead of a celestial object, they faced a young boy, about 10 years of age, regarding them with curious and playful eyes. Following their lord's orders, they brought the miracle child before the king who, recognising the boy as a superhuman being, adopted him in the royal family, naming him Absalom. Raised as the crown prince, young Absalom received an upbringing worthy of royalty, which, in hindsight, is the most probable cause for his future transgressions. Educated by the finest scholars, trained in sword fighting and martial arts by the kingdom's most renowned tutors and mentored in martial matters such as tactics and strategy by the most skilled officers of the Skandran army. His Primarch nature granted him capabilities far beyond those of ordinary humans, and soon the student surpassed the masters. Aged 19, he was appointed a general of the army, as was customary for the crown prince. He had only served in that position for a year when terrible news reached his homeworld: Antire and Fyressy, neighbouring planets and longtime enemies of Skandra, had forged an alliance and were mounting an invasion. Surprised by the sudden declaration of war, Absalom summoned his fellow officers and assumed command of the defence operations. Rallied by their prince , the defenders were successful in holding back the invaders until reinforcements from the other planets of the Kingdom arrived, though the cost was still terrible. Cities had been destroyed, thousands, if not millions, had died, and King Roland himself had been slain by Antiran spies who had infiltrated the royal guard in preparation for the invasion. The death of his father filled Absalom with fury and conviction. Not wanting to give his enemies a chance to prepare their defences, he ordered an immediate counterattack on the two planets with the united military might of Skandra. In this campaign he first made use of his preferred strategy: studying enemy positions, unit composition and unit structure and using that knowledge against them, creating a detailed battle plan that left the enemy with no way to counter. With these tactics, Fyressy surrendered unconditionally within a month. Antire though, the murderers of his father, would not be so fortunate. The planet was finally conquered after almost a year of brutal fighting and guerilla warfare on Antire's side. The infrastructure was devastated, the losses were grievous, and Absalom, now crowned king, forced the Antirans into a miserable existence of oppression and poverty in a cruel display of his vengeful nature. When the war was over, Absalom returned to his homeworld triumphant, the first king to expand the Skandran dominion in centuries. The people adored him, calling him 'the Amber King' owing to the brilliant colour of his eyes and his official coronation was celebrated by all. Not two years later he expanded his kingdom once again, this time annexing the frigid world of Riudal, not through war, but through politics. He married Princess Kierstenn of Riudal to strengthen the relationship between the planet and the kingdom. After seven years of peaceful rule, a strange fleet arrived to Skandra Prima, hailing the world and claiming to be peaceful. A meeting was arranged between Absalom and the foreign leader. When the two met, Absalom was surprised to see no mortal before him, but a being equal to him, and perhaps above him. The stranger revealed himself to Absalom as the Emperor of Mankind and his true father, and explained to him everything about the Great Crusade and his dream of a unified mankind that ruled the galaxy. Enthralled by the Emperor's noble ideals, Absalom pledged his undying allegiance to the Imperium and to mankind, and immediately left Skandra to reunite with his Legion Birth of Stars Absalom's first meeting with his sons occurred on Terra, and it was far from the glorious moment the Primarch envisioned. Instead of worthy soldiers of Mankind, the Primarch was instead met with a legion of brigands, savages and criminals that would have been purged had he not been discovered on time. Displeased with his deplorable 'sons', he ordered drastic changes in the IIIrd, starting with personally executing the old legion master who allowed this situation to grow rampant. He decreed that all recruits would henceforth be taken from the Kingdom of Skandra and reorganised the organisation system. His efforts bore fruit and within four years his legion had turned into an exemplar of discipline, obedience and organisation, owing no little to the fact that almost all of the Terran recruits had been unofficially purged by means of deployment in brutal missions that wore their numbers down until there were but a hundred left. It was then that he deemed them worthy of a true name, and so he baptised them Black Stars, after the legendary warriors of the First King, who fought at his side in the Grand Conquest His relationships with his brothers were not ideal either, as this is where Absalom's flaws first became apparent. Having a comfortable, royal upbringing in an environment where he was all but worshipped had instilled great arrogance and egotism in the Amber King. These character traits were exacerbated by his Legion's poor prior performance, creating feelings of inadequacy and deep envy in Absalom's soul, as well as his hidden malice, which he had thus far unleashed only on the Antirans. He viewed some of his brothers not as family or even fellow warriors, but as rivals that he had to surpass by all means necessary. It was for this reason that he would push his sons ever forward to the next conquest, so that they may reap all the glory and make another display of their supremacy. The Black Stars espoused the ideals of their gene-sire completely, and thus the Legion's culture became one where personal skill was all that mattered, peak performance was a necessity, and glory was the ultimate goal. Such behaviour of course affected the Legion's reputation among their peers, who regarded them either as brilliant, if vainglorious, warriors or as self-obsessesed glory hounds who put their obsessive quest to prove their superiority above their duties and warrior oaths. Nevertheless, the Black Stars were widely loved by the Imperium as they reinforce the image of the noble defenders against a hostile galaxy, Absalom himself adored as an idol by the people of the Imperium Edited July 8, 2020 by Jimars Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted April 8, 2020 Author Share Posted April 8, 2020 (edited) Black Stars iconography Graf (sergeant) Markus Calantar Edited September 10, 2020 by Jimars Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted April 8, 2020 Author Share Posted April 8, 2020 (edited) Characters of the IIIrd legion Officers Tobiah Stolar, Equerry: Scion of the noble house of Stolar and longtime friend and advisor to Absalom. In their youth on Skandra, Absalom and Tobiah were inseparable, bound by strong friendship and respect. The two young men were trained together in the kingdom's military academy and Tobiah, gifted with a keen intellect and a talent for organisation, swiftly rose up the ranks of the Skandran military, becoming one of the youngest high commanders at the age of 34. It was with him that Absalom orchestrated the counter-invasion to Antire and Fyressy following the joint attack the two planets unleashed on Skandra. After Absalom joined the Emperor in the Great Crusade, he didn't forget about his trusted companion and elected to ascend him to an Astartes through a specialised operation, given that Tobiah was too old to undergo the standard procedure. Now one of the Emperor's Angels of Death, Margrave Tobiah Stolar acts as the Amber Prince's equerry as well as his voice in the legion when the Prince is absent He is also the officer in charge of the selection and training of the Golgwan Infiltrators. An administrator and strategist rather than warrior, Stolar prefers commanding his troops from his command center. When he takes to the field, he does not follow his friend and master's close range fighting style due to his body not being as powerful as that of other Astartes. Instead, armed with a custom sniper rifle, he prefers to snipe foes from a comfortable range, never allowing them to reach him in close range Valtar Laude, Margrave Aerst: The First Captain of the Black Stars and leader of the Ochranic Cavaliers, Laude was one of the earliest Skandran recruits, selected by the legion's Apothecaries after he displayed extraordinary abilities during the selection process. After being elevated into a true battle-brother, he boasted an impressive battle record, proving his skill in a number of battles. Lauded as the embodiment of the excellence the IIIrd legion strived for, he rose to the rank of Margrave of the 2nd Division in 20 terran years. After the High Commander of the 1st Division led his troops into a spectacular failure against an Ork WAAAAGH and was demoted to the Boetar squads, Valtar was chosen by Absalom to lead the 1st Division as well as the Primarch's elite strike force. Uncharacteristically for a son of the IIIrd, Laude is a humble man of few words and stoic demeanour, which makes him one of the most well-liked members of the Black Stars among the rest of the Legiones Astartes. Armed with the mighty lance Gvalad, he is an unstoppable force of death on the battlefield and a superlative duelist, celebrated by some as the finest warrior of the Legiones Astartes. Jacoby Margrol, Primus Medicae: Born on the planet of Liva-Sar, the farthest of the Skandran kingdom, Margrol was selected by the apothecaries of the Stars and eventually became one himself. His skill and medical prowess led to his promotion to Primus Medicae, leader of the Legion's Apothecarion. Now stationed on the Legion's fortress on Skandra, Margrol oversees the arduous selection of new aspirants, making sure only the finest specimens are selected. Cyprian Wiez, Glav Zaubris: Starting his career as yet another newly elevated Astartes, Wiez's fate changed dramatically when, during a campaign against a non-compliant human empire, he was separated by his squad following an explosion and was captured by the enemy. After he was brought to the enemy headquarters for interrogation, Wiez was surprised to discover that he could control the minds of his interrogators, a power bestowed upon him by his newly awakened psychic powers. Using his newfound skill, Wiez escaped and proceeded to single-handedly take out his captors. Needless to say, his comrades were greatly surprised when their assault on the enemy's headquarters was met, instead of enemy resistance, with a single Astartes calmly walking out of the building, the enemy leader obediently following in tow. Following the operation, Wiez joined the Black Star Zaubrisus, where he trained in the psychic arts and especially telepathy. Now leading the Zaubrisus himself, and also serving as the fourth Margrav of the Legion, he is both a telepath of great power and a skilled combatants, wielding his force weapon Vilden and his psychic powers to deadly effect The Disgraced: a mystery among the Legion, the marine who would come to be known as the Disgrace or the Ashamed was once a member of the Boetar squads. However, by some cruel twist of fate, the punished marine would return unharmed from every single mission, never able to earn absolution in death. This went on and on, and all the while rumours ran rampant among the Legion, that the mysterious battle-brother was anything from a ghost that animated his power armor to even one of the lost brothers of their gene-sires, who stole the marine's place and identity and joined the Legion. No matter what the truth may be, the Disgraced is a legend among the IIIrd, feared and respected in equal measure. No one remembers his name or the sound of his voice, though some claim that he is the former Margrave of the 1st Division, Alhen Haes, who earned the Amber Prince's ire after leading his forces to a defeat in a joint operation with the Halcyon Wardens, embarrassing the legion and his gene-sire in the eyes of his rival, Alexandros. He has become the unofficial leader of the Boetar, leading the failed sons of Vaughn to their extreme missions, and destroying his enemies in a hell of phosphex unleashed by his twin phosphex pistols Markus Calantar: A notable member of the Legion's Veteran division, Edler Calantar is held in high regard by his brothers as one of the most skilled veterans of his division. Proving himself in a number of campaigns, he has caught the attention of his Primarchs and he is considered a prime candidate for promotion to the Ochranic Praetors, as well as the de facto successor to Valdar Laude as Margrave of the 1st House Mortal Characters Keirstenn Alkrantz -Vaughn, Queen of Skandra: The third conquest of Absalom Vaughn was not through war or other violent measures. Instead, the world of Riudal peacefully accepted to be annexed to the kingdom. The annexation was sealed with the marriage of Absalom and princess Kierstenn of the royal house Alkrantz. Although purely political at first, the princess was caprivated by Absalom's charisma and romantic gestures while in turn the King grew fond of her intelligence, beauty and strong character. Reknowned across the six worlds for her beauty, she displays the traditional characteristics of the Riudali: alabaster skin, striking red hair and piercing green eyes. Despite her age, her husband has ensured she receives state of the art rejuvenat treatments to maintain her youth and beauty. Instead of remaining idle in the royal palace, she has instead chosen to follow her beloved in his journeys, residing in a luxurious, extremely protected suite in the Antares, Absalom's flagship, watching the Legion's battles from her personal observatory Edited July 8, 2020 by Jimars Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted May 13, 2020 Author Share Posted May 13, 2020 Made some edits, replaced some outdated info, about specialist formations in particular. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted May 13, 2020 Author Share Posted May 13, 2020 (edited) Black Stars Legion Culture Before the discovery of their Primarch, the old IIIrd legion was comprised of brutal warriors with a background of tribal life and violence. It was only natural, as a result, that the legion's culture would mirror that past. "Might makes Right" perfectly sums up their beliefs. Officers were selected not because of their leadership skills or their ability to inspire, but because they had proven themselves stronger than any challenge, often defeating or even killing their predecessor in honour duels. Everyone was allowed to challenge their immediately superiors for their rank. This practice, combined with their powerthirsty attitude, caused the command structure of the IIIrd to be remarkably fluid, with officers rarely lasting for more than a few months before being dethroned by their competitors. Weakness in the legion was looked down upon, and those deemed weak would find themselves the target of their brothers' ridicule, enmity and violence. The same principles applied to the aspirants, who were selected through brutal deathmatches. Over the course of their training and induction they would be subject to great cruelty and abuse by their trainers in order to become "stronger". As a result, aspirants became cruel, brutal and violent themselves, and would inflict the same abuse to future recruits, creating a vicious cycle. As for their relationships with mortals, those they viewed as little more than weaklings, meatbags, in the case of Imperial soldiers, easy prey, in the case of civilians and nuisances, in the case of commanders. They did not concern themselves with minimalizing mortal casualties, instead, they seemed to encourage and enjoy them as proof of their superiority over the human dregs they had left behind on induction. Civilian casualties were of no concern to the IIIrd, and some would claim they even enjoyed them as they mercilessly raided enemy cities for sport. As for Astartes of other Legions, those they viewed with a mix of pity, for they forced strict rules on themselves, distrust of hatred. It was a rare occasion that the Marauders would willingly deploy with other legions, and they only begrudgingly worked together with the Star Lords, since they had been placed under the stewardship of Caelum Vigilat. After their reunion with their primarch, Absalom Vaughn, disgusted with his son's prior behaviour, aggressively burned out all remnants of it in his Black Stars. New aspirants were now claimed exclusively from the Kingdom of Skandra, and new recruits were instilled with great discipline, as well as taught in the ways of proper conduct. Absalom's goal was a legion of noblemen as much as warriors, exemplars of what it means to transcend mankind, to become an Astartes. Aspirants would be screened extensively both mentally and physically, to make sure that only the finest specimens were allowed to join the legion. After the initial tests followed the First Proving, a great test of skills conducted before the primarch's chosen representatives. Candidates who passed this trial would then begin their long training, far more extensive than those of most legions and aiming to teach every future battle-brother all facets of combat. Their training wasn't limited to warfare but also academic studies and art, so the legionaries could be more than mere soldiers, go beyond and embody the values of their gene-sire. Throughout their training, tests were common and strict, so as to ensure the future generations' skills capabilities were nothing short of superb. At the end of their training, only those who passed the Grand Proving, their final trial, with Absalom himself as the judge, were fully inducted in the legion as true Battle-brothers. Astartes of the Black Stats were expected to excel in all battlefield roles. Whether it is piloting, handling heavy weapons of fighting in melee combat, the sons of Absalom's would not be found wanting. Still, improving one's abilities was greatly encouraged in the legion, and martial excellence was indeed the ideal that all legionaries strived towards. Furthermore, astartes of all ranks would regularly go through the Teleotas, regular trials where they proved they remained in an optimal level of skill. Taking place in a virtual environment created by the legion's veterans and Absalom himself, the Teleotas pushes a legionary's skills to their limit. Failure is punished with rebuke, demotion or, in the worst case scenario, with induction to the ranks of the Boetar Penitents, a fate equal to a death sentence. These practices would create a climate of intense competition which was in part cultivated by the legion command, and sometimes created fractures in the relationships between battle-brothers and even other legions, who were often less than keen on tolerating the IIIrd's arrogant tendencies. On the other hand though, a special kind of inter-astartes relationship was born. That of master and apprentice. Certain Black Stars would take it upon themselves to help their brothers hone their skills and realise their full potential. So was the unofficial rank of the Didactes born, those immaculate warriors who gathered a great entourage of followers and apprentice around them. Even though they were not recognised as true officers of the legion, Absalom and his upper command was nevertheless very satisfied with this development. The pursuit of artistic activities is widespread in the IIIrd, with many legionaries being gifted sculptors, painters or singers. Absalom, a reknowned patron of the arts himself, encourages such practices and takes great pride in his sons' skills, occasionally making grant displays of them to the general public and other Legions in the form of art galleries, concerts and intra-legionary contests. However, such extracurricular activities have their limits; a Black Star is only allowed to enjoy them once all his duties have been fulfilled in an adequate manner. In a way, a legionary's pastimes serve as a reward for good performance and an incentive for improvement. Likewise, should an Astartes be found lacking, his extracurricular privileges will be limited until an improvement has been noted. Higher ranking Stars enjoy greater freedom in such activities. The Black Stars' relationships with other legions were mixed, and often mirrored their Primogenitor's relationships with his brothers. They were bound by close friendships with the Red Eyes and the Stalking Leopards, whose Primarchs were Absalom's closest friends, and maintained a friendly rivalry with the Crimson Lions. It was an undisputed fact though that the IIIrd's arrogance placed a big strain on their interactions with their peers, many of which held them in contempt as narcissistic gloryhounds whose loyalties lay only with themselves. As for those legions whose Primarchs were on hostile terms with the Amber King, like the Halcyon Wardens, the Iron Revenants and the Warrior of Peace, the Black Stars refused to fight alongside them unless expressly ordered by the Emperor of Mankind himself. Still, hostilities were practically non-existent between the IIIrd and other legions, as the sons of Vaughn would always strive to be courteous like their father. The same would apply to their relationships with mortals to which they were normally respectful towards. The Black Stars respected the soldiers who fought with them, obeyed the orders of imperial officers and tried to minimise both unnecessary losses and destruction of infrastructure, aiming to leave conquered worlds in the best condition possible. This disposition of theirs towards mortals, paired with Absalom's preternatural charisma and charm, have earned the IIIrd incredible popularity within the Imperium Edited September 10, 2020 by Jimars TrajantheGreat 1 Back to top Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted May 13, 2020 Author Share Posted May 13, 2020 (edited) The Departmento Munitorum headquarters of Hodur sector was a bleak, tall building of steel and concrete, with only the seal of the Imperial Administration as indication of its importance for the sector. Inside, almost a thousand scribes, ciphers and all sorts of adepts worked around the clock, in cramped office spaces, to ensure that the Emperor's armies were adequately supplied to effectively carry out their duties One such Adept, bent over on his cluttered desk, small and furtive, almost completely hidden behind piles of paperwork, stared at the terminal of his monitor with spectacled eyes, cold sweat dripping down his brow. With the press of a button, he was ready to deny a regiment of the Imperial Army of valuable supplies, leave them defenceless against hordes of Greenskins. He knew that what he was about to do was wrong, immoral. That it could lead to his execution and that of his family if discovered. But he also knew that he had to do this, because the alternative was certain death. He thought back to how his predicament had begun, the night before… Walking through the dark, dirty streets of the Hive, he had made his way to the habitation block reserved for the workers of the Administration. The housing was respectable, much better than that of the average citizen, and larger to boot. One of the boons available to the Imperium's loyal servants. The man hoped to rest his body and mind before resuming his duties. Fate was against him however, as, when he opened the door to his apartment, he was met with a shocking sight. He was not alone in the dingy, small room. A stranger, tall and muscular, was sitting on the small couch, his body posture calm, relaxed. He wore what looked like a military uniform, black and unmarked. And worst of all, he was aiming a pistol, glowing a menacing blue, across the room. Right towards the tiny crib of the Adept's son. The intruder broke the silence first. "Mr.Jesse Starric. Please, sit down" he gestured towards a metal stool across the table with his empty hand. His voice was deep, with a fake air of courtesy. It send chills down his spine With unsteady steps, Starric approached the stool and sat down. His seat felt uncomfortable, cold. "If it is money you want, I will give you anything you ask. But, please, don't harm my child…" The stranger smiled at the Adept's pleas, the dim light of a dying lamp casting deep shadow on his face. He looked almost diabolical, and that only served to terrify Starric even more "What I, or better, my lord, desires, is not your money, but your services. I understand that you are an employee of the sector's Departmento Munitorum offices" Starric felt his heart drop at the man's words, realising that the situation was far more grave than he had dared to imagine. "W-What do you want me to do?" "It's very simple really. We want you to prevent the Lacunan Lifewatch regiment currently serving on Endragiga from receiving any supplies. We know that it is possible, even for a low-ranking Adept such as you" Panic started to set in in Starric's soul, as the stranger before him asked of him to commit treason against the Imperium. His mind was suddenly filled with thoughts of arrest, torture and execution, for that was the fate that expected traitors. But the man's voice broke him out of his stupor "If you refuse, i will shoot your son with this plasma pistol. He will be completely vaporised, and nothing will be left of him to mourn" Mortified, the cornered adept's eyes were glued to those of the terrible intruder before him. Any fear of death, or worse, were nulled at the thought of his son being harmed. The child his wife had died bringing to the world. His only hope Lowering his gaze, Starric spoke, his voice weak, barely a whisper "Can you promise that you will leave me and my child alone, if i do this?" The stranger stood up and looked down on the adept's small, cowering form. Putting on his best impress of a friendly smile, he replied "You can rest assured. My lord is a man of his word. Do this for us, and your life will go on in peace" With those words, the intruder walked out the door and was lost in the darkness, leaving adept Jesse Starric to reflect on his decision. …Now, Starric, closing his eyes tight, pressed the button that would doom thousands of brave soldiers of the Imperium. ….. A month later, the Imperium was abuzz with news of the Lacunan Lifewatch's miraculous rescue. Left without supplies or ammunition, their brutal demise at the hands of WAAAAGH Knuckledragga seemed all but assured. However, when the savage armies of the Greenskins were preparing to descend upon the regiment, the forces of the IIIrd Legion, the illustrious Black Stars, came to the rescue of the regiment, striking against the green horde with righteous fury, fighting, bleeding and dying to save their mortal fellow warriors. The Amber King himself, Absalom Vaughn, slew Knuckledragga in glorious single combat, and pict-captures of the Primarch standing victorious over the monstrous xeno warlord had been spread far and wide in the people of the Imperium. This incident only served to bolster the IIIrd's veneration by the people of the Imperium. …. Jesse Starric was sitting in his appartment, dark, dirty and disorganised, as the owner was too busy drowning his guilt in cheap alcohol to care about hygiene. He knew now that he had been used, just a pawn in a Primarch's game of politics. That he was responsible for the deaths of thousands. In his drunken daze, he barely noticed the apartment door opening slowly, and the awfully familiar stranger walking in. Finally, when the man was standing above him pointing a gun to his head, he acknowledged him. "B-But you said… you promised… Your lord is a man of his word…" "He is, Mr.Starric. But he also despises loose ends" A blast of plasma broke the night's deep silence, followed by a baby's wails. Edited July 8, 2020 by Jimars TrajantheGreat 1 Back to top Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted July 8, 2020 Author Share Posted July 8, 2020 (edited) Entering his study, Absalom was greeted with the sight of Tobiah Stolar, still in his Tartaros plate, pristine and well-polished from the formal meeting that had occured just hours ago, where Absalom and Alianaktuk had discussed the creation of a Council to rule over Segmentum Ultima, news that Absalom was less than enthused to receive. Other than Stolar, his wife, Kierstenn was also in the chamber. Beautiful like the breaking dawn, with her auburn hair and piercing green eyes, filled with intellect and a powerful spirit, dressed in a white, long dress that brought out her well-sculptured form, she was a soothing sight for the agitated Primarch. Absalom approached the desk and sank in his chair with a deep sigh. "So, this is how it will go. A council. I will have not just one fool to meddle in my affairs, but several" He slammed his fist on the desk, knocking down a stack of papers, and ran his hands through his hair. Kierstenn moved to his side and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. Tobiah on the other hand, watched his friend's outburst with well-hidden worry. His gene-sire and brotherly friend's behaviour was steadily becoming more erratic. Kierstenn kissed Absalom on the back of his head, and, moving her lips closer to his left ear, said with a voice soft as silk "Why do you concern yourself with trivial matters, my beloved? Why let your brilliant shine die due to problems that can be solved ever so simply?" She got up again, and moved to the glass panel behind the desk, overlooking Viktora, the capital of Skandra Prima. The twin suns of the system, the Maega, were setting in the horizon Absalom stood up as well and approached her, standing behind her and caressing her hair "What do you mean, Kierstenn? What is your plan?" She turned around to face him, and softly touched his cheek, looking into his brilliant amber eyes. "The Horned One asked of you a representative to the council, since your duties to the Reclamation Command prevent you from participating, correct?" "Yes" replied Absalom, curious to his other half's scheme "Then" said Kierstenn with a smile "send me" At that moment, Absalom realised what his queen's plan was. And he only grew more infatuated with her Edited September 10, 2020 by Jimars Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted July 8, 2020 Author Share Posted July 8, 2020 (edited) Black Stars doctrine and organisation After his discovery and reunion with his Legion, Absalom restructured the combat doctrine of the IIIrd to better suit his own views on warfare and to purge the brutality of their origins. During operations, the Black Stars adhere to the dictates of the Principia Bellicosa, and while there is an observed preference to melee warfare, Black Star detachments generally feature a balance of long and close range firepower, in order to maintain maximum tactical flexibility in battle. The Legion's style of war reflects their primogenitor's bombastic nature. Before taking to the field, the officers of the Black Stars, each of them an expert tactician, will analyse the information gathered by scouts and infiltrators and proceed to formulate a detailed battle plan tailored to the enemy's strengths and weaknesses. They rob the foe of any advantage and destroy them in a swift and well-coordinated assault. This kind of warfare requires precise coordination between various units on the field, and as a result independence is not a favourable trait among low ranking officers. As one ascends the ranks however, he is expected to display greater independent thought and initiative, as he bears the burden of planning, coordinating and carrying out ever larger scale operations The organisation structure of the Black Stars has remained relatively unchanged since their pre-primarch days, as Absalom enacted few changes upon it. The most substantial change was the creation of the Grand Chapters, or Domens as they are called in the Legion, which encompass thirteen Chapters. The Domens are led by the Margravi, the most elite Astartes of the Black Stars, who have managed to gain the trust and admiration of Absalom through their superlative feats in combat and their cunning mind. It is those warrior-generals that form the inner circle of the Primarch, standing right below the Primarch in the hierarchy and wielding great authority and prestige in the Legion. More than commanders, they are an example that their brothers would aspire towards. The Margravi are afforded great freedom of action, and often lead thousands of Astartes as well as mortal warriors to combat, carrying out their gene-sire's orders without fail. In an unusual occurrence among the Legiones Astartes, the rank of Fourth Margrav is held by a psyker, Chief Librarian Cyprian Wiez, who is counted amongst Absalom's most favoured sons and, perhaps, the closest to the Primarch in character. While the Black Stars are not an especially psychic legion, the psykers of the IIIrd are not treated with the apprehension or distrust common in many of their peers. Members of the Librarius are viewed as possessing unique and powerful gifts that are invaluable in war, and admired for their dedication to mastering and controlling their gifts and realising their full potential. As a result, the Black Stars boast a sizeable and flourishing Librarius, with a leaning towards the disciplines of telepathy and biomancy To ascend in the ranks of the Third is an arduous task, for aspiring officers need to undergo long and demanding tests to prove they are worthy of the promotion. One must demonstrate both great skill in combat, the tactical acumen required for the demanding warfare of the Legion, as well as obedience to their superiors. Those that have displayed skill with arms that rivals that of all their peers have a chance to ascend to the ranks of the Ochranic Cavaliers and fight side by side with their gene-sire, regardless of former rank or seniority. The ranks of Equerry and Margrav Aerst are separate from the command structure. While the equerry functions as the Primarch's voice in the Legion, the title of margrave aerst is awarded to that Astartes who best exemplifies the virtues of the Black Stars, and he leads the Ochranic Cavaliers to battle. The Margrav Aerst also acts as Absalom's bodyguard and champion. For more than three Terran decades, this rank has been held by Valtar Laude, as no challenger has succeeded in surpassing the genius duelist in skill of arms. Legion Specialist Formations Ochranic Cavaliers The elite warriors of the Black Stars and the personal guard of the Primarch. Personally selected by Absalom himself, upon ascension they must leave behind all ambition and personal aspiration and dedicate their lives to honing their skills and serving their gene-sire as his blade and shield. Befitting of their rank and prestige, they are outfitted in the finest wargear available to the Black Stars. Each Cavalier is clad in mastercrafted artificer armor forged personally, tailored to his specific needs, and armed with the legendary Khomíte Swordspear. Each weapon a priceless relic, the chosen of Absalom use them to fearsome effect in battle, shredding through opposition like a falling star Valkten Chosen Terminators On the eve of combat, the Ochranic Cavaliers kneel before Absalom, their heads bowed in reverence. Then, he chooses those among them that will serve in the Valkten for the next battle. This selection, although temporary, since it only lasts for a single battle, is viewed as a great honour, an acknowledgement of a Cavalier's skill by their Primarch, who rewards them above all their peers. Adorned in relic Tartaros terminator armor in resplendent black and gold, armed with mastercrafted weapons, they follow Absalom to war, the aftershocks to the Amber King's earthquake. There is also a hidden purpose to this practice; the cultivation of intense competition in the ranks of the Cavaliers, the contest for their Father's fickle favour grueling and never-ending. By using this subtle manipulation, Absalom ensures that his elite warriors will never stop honing their skills and improving. Boetar Penitents In the Black Stars, failure is a crime that is punished harshly. And there is no punishment harsher than joining the Boetar squads, for such a fate means being condemned to death. Forced to relinquish their names, identity and livery, they are equipped with older patterns of power armor painted entirely black, signifying their sins and their grim fate. Their weapons are the result of brilliant, if cruel artifice, twin pistols created based on designs from the Dark Age of Technology, firing deadly projectiles saturated in deadly radiation, causing even a glancing hit to be potentially lethal as the target is exposed to terrible rad-energies. Not even the wielders are safe from their weapons' fearsome effects, and each Penitent is sentenced to die a slow, agonising death as his body falls apart, his cells destroyed by the radiation he employed against the enemies of mankind. For only in death will they have finally atoned for their failures. And when the time comes, and their hearts have stopped beating, the bombs implanted in their chests will explode, making sure they take as many foes as possible to the other side Raitelic Outriders Desiring a fast attack formation to function as the battering ram in offensives, Absalom and his officers formed the Raitelic Outriders, deviating from the standard Legiones Astartes assault bike in favour of a curious, if effective, replacement; the Raitelic charge headlong into enemies formations on cybernetic mounts, horses of iron muscles whose mouths spew deadly promethium. Armed with long power spears, they harass the enemy flanks and break their formations, leaving them easy prey to their fellow warriors Dreadnoughts in the Black Stars While the majority of the Legiones Astartes show a great deal of respect to those battle-brothers that have been entombed into a dreadnought chassis, the same does not apply to the Black Stars. Indeed, in a legion infamous for its intolerance of failure and inadequacy, dreadnoughts are viewed as living remnants of one's failures and shortcomings, as well as an undeserved second chance. Thus, they are treated with far less reverence than in other legions. While their utility in battle has dissuaded the IIIrd from outright discarding the practice, entombement is a rare add phenomenon that is only viewed as a way to replenish the legion's supply of said war machines. For the same reasons, dreadnoughts have a much shorter life expectancy in the Black Stars, as they are rarely allowed the rest they need, instead being pushed into battle as often as possible, as punishment for their shameful actions in life Edited September 10, 2020 by Jimars Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted July 8, 2020 Author Share Posted July 8, 2020 House Fioranti Heraldry: White rose crossed with a sword, on green and red background Forge World affiliation: Antire Overview During the Great Crusade, the forces of the Imperium came in contact with many a worlds ruled over by powerful noble houses using the power of mighty engines of war to consolidate their power. Such worlds, named Knight Worlds, have proven indispensable to the imperial military, using their power to facilitate mankind's victories on countless worlds. One such world was Toscania, located in the eastern fringes of Segmentum Ultima, ruled by House Fioranti. First contacted by forces of the Black Stars a decade after the discovery of Absalom Vaughn, the Knights of house Fioranti and the forces of the IIIrd Legion were forced into cooperation in a short but brutal campaign to protect the system from an incoming Ork WAAAAGH!!!! In this conflict, the two forces came to the realisation that their preferred tactics meshed perfectly into a dance of death, the Fioranti Knights charging enemy positions, breaking their ranks and taking out dangerous, high priority targets, leaving surviving foes defenceless to the Legion's swift assault that delivers the finishing strike. This became evident during the final battle of the campaign, when the Knights launched a surprise offensive to the flanks of the Ork army, inflicting grievous losses and corraling them towards the ambush spot pre-ordained by the Black Stars, who then proceeded to decimate the greenskins and slay the Warboss. Over the course of the campaign, deep respect was cultivated between the two allied factions and especially between Absalom and Contessa Anita Fioranti, then head of the House. It was not surprising then, that when Toscania officially joined the Imperium, House Fioranti pledged themselves to the service of the Black Stars, an alliance that has lasted for one and a half century and many believe will last to the end of days House Tactics House Fiorantis values a highly aggressive style of warfare. Instead of focusing on a balance between long and short range combat, they instead show a nearly complete disregard for engagements from afar, viewing them as cowardly and dishonourable. Instead, their expertise lies in close combat assaults, using the swiftness of the Cerastus chassis which they field in significant numbers. Other patterns, such as the Paladin, are piloted by the lower nobility. Additionally, the house employs a modified version of the Cerastus pattern, the Cerastus-Schiavona. Trading the common ranged weapons for another warblade, the Schiavona relies on the princeps' skill and its enhanced ion shielding systems to survive long enough and reach the enemy and wreak havoc While their doctrine is undoubtedly effective, it is not without weaknesses. The House's lack of more heavily armed Knight patterns cripples its ability to offer heavy fire support to allies or even to their own knights, forcing them to rely on allied forces for covering fire Culture The hierarchy of house Fioranti is strict, with the Capodomo, as their head of house is called, being the absolute leader. Their will is respected by all members without exception. According to the succession laws, Knights are inherited by a combination of primogeniture and meritocracy. While generally the rights to the war machines would be awarded to the eldest heir, this must first be approved by the Capodomo and his council. If the council deems the rightful heir by seniority unfit, they have the right to choose a new successor. The Capodomo is replaced either when the predecessor dies or voluntarily steps down, elected by a Conclave of the eldest house members. It is also possible for Capodomo to be forcibly removed if the House find his leadership lacking. Notable Knights Dive Fulmento: This Cerastus-Atrapos Knight is the most prized warmachine of house Fiorantis as well as the most temperamental, for its machine spirit is very selective of the princeps. Indeed, the engine will not allow itself to be piloted by anyone other than a princeps with ambition and brutality deep seated in their hearts, flaws that the machine spirit will endlessly try to exacerbate, causing the princeps to become progressively more unstable, arrogant, self-obsessed and brutal. For these reasons, the princeps of Dive Fulmento is never allowed to serve as Capodomo. Notable Members Anita Fioranti: Former Capodomo, deceased. Died fighting against Drukhari forces Massimo Fioranti: Son of Anita Fioranti, current Capodomo Ducessa Henrietta Fioranti: Current princeps of Dive Fulmento Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted September 10, 2020 Author Share Posted September 10, 2020 (edited) Abel Tsalaev While the vast majority of the old Marauders had been purged once Absalom took control of the Legion, sent to their deaths in hopeless missions and ground to dust, a handful of them were spared from the terrible fate of their brothers owing to their uncharacteristic obedience and a rare display of mercy on Absalom's part. Those remnants of old would keep their lives, but would never be viewed as equals to the Skandran Legionaries, and their progenoid glands would not be harvested but instead destroyed to put an end to the legacy of the feral IIIrd. Chief amongst them was Abel Chalaev, a mere Captain by the time of Absalom's discovery, but a warrior graced by both the savagery of his brethren and the noble spark of his gene-father. Intolerant of excessive violence and brutality, he tried to rein in his charges to the best of his abilities. This saved him from following his brothers to an ignoble death, and as time passed Tsalaev was the only Terran Star to reach the high rank of Company Captain. A figure of controversy in the Legion, he was admired for his wisdom borne from centuries of experience and his temperance and loathed for his radical views. Never one to pursue glory, highly critical of the obsessive compulsion to improvement and the oppressive competition cultivated by his primogenitor, Tsalaev amassed a number of detractors as well as followers. An outspoken critic of Absalom's questionable practices, his concern only increased as he witnessed his father's actions take an insidious turn as well as his brothers' blind acceptance and strove to make a difference, cooperating with Tobiah Stolar to rally like-minded sons of the IIIrd in a secret movement to put an end to Absalom's madness. Their plans, however, never came to fruition as they were discovered by the Spahdien, Absalom's secret operatives led by Cyprian Wiez. Tsalaev took full responsibility for the conspiracy in an effort to cover up Stolar's involvement in the hopes that the Equerry would succeed where they failed. The last Marauder, as well as another ten of his partners, were executed before the Legion, a grim example of the fate that befalls those that betray the Amber King Edited September 10, 2020 by Jimars Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted September 10, 2020 Author Share Posted September 10, 2020 Tobiah Stolar stood amongst hundreds, if not thousands of his brothers before the stage. They had all been summoned urgently to the main hall of the Antares, and when they arrived they found that a grand stage had been set, coupled with recording equipment. As no explanation had been given for the summons, the crowd's surprise and impatience was unsurprising, however the Equerry, having a vague suspicion of the reason, could feel his skin crawl with dread. He knew of the arrests made by Absalom's agents in the past months. Hounds that stepped on their oaths of brotherhood, eager to sacrifice their fellow warriors, blinded by their loyalty. Yet another of Absalom's follies, brought on by his uncontrollable ambition. His fears were confirmed when his lord finally stepped on the stage, regal and dazzling as ever, basking in the thunderous applause of his sons. He was followed by none other than his shadow, Valtar Laude, and Cyprian Wiez. The Chief Librarian had greatly risen in the Amber King's favour for his obedience and willingness to obey the Primarch's ever darker orders. After overseeing the successful indoctrination of the Obsequiarius agents assigned to the Legion, he had been charged with rooting out dissent in the Black Stars themselves, a task that he took great joy in. Raising his hand, Absalom imposed a deafening silence in the hall, and started his speech: "My sons! My precious children! As we all know, we are going through arduous times. The disappearance of the Emperor has sparked a wave of misfortune that tests the limits of our endurance, both physical and mental… And it would seem that some among you have failed this test, and fallen to corruption most foul, even daring to conspire against me! Indeed, these former sons of the IIIrd have been found guilty of treason, and were planning to usurp my rule. The depths of their depravity were such that they would not hesitate to commit patricide to sate their greed!" With that, ten Cavaliers stepped on the stage, dragging along an equal number of Astartes, restrained, beaten and dressed like common criminals. The prisoners were forced to their knees, the Cavaliers' spears pressed on their throats. One of them, visibly the eldest of the group, was forced to kneel before Absalom himself. "And here" Absalom resumed "we have the very masterminds of this treachery! The corrupt beasts that would backstab kin and father!" The crowd, entranced by their gene-sire's words, flew into a terrible rage, throwing threats and insults at their 'traitor' brothers. Tobiah, on the other hand, was holding his breath and watching the charade unfolding before his eyes. "However, there is one of you whose betrayal comes as little surprise; It is you, Abel Tsalaev. To think that I spared one of your kind, thinking that you were somehow better than your mad brothers… I should have put an end to your wretched existence long ago, Marauder". Absalom pulled the Verovaar from its gilded holster and pointed it at Tsalaev's head. "Any last words, traitor?" The old Legionary turned to face his Skandran brothers, his eyes filled with bitter tears. Finally, his gaze caught Tobiah's, and he uttered a silent apology for his failure. Then, he raised his head and stared deep in Absalom's yellow eyes. "If refusing to follow you down the path of madness is treason, then I will accept the title of traitor with pride. For no matter what you dub me, monster, I know what my brothers and I are; True servants of Mankind, true believers in the Emperor's vision. And we'd rather die than see it defiled at your hands." Absalom's eyes narrowed with hatred as he pulled the trigger, vaporizing Tsalaev's head. At the same time, the Cavaliers behind him decapitated their prisoners with inhuman coordination. The crowd cheered as the blood of traitors was spilt and justice was delivered, and the Amber King faced his sons before he stepped off the stage, giving Tobiah a long look, as if warning him. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted September 10, 2020 Author Share Posted September 10, 2020 Graf Aklus walked through the hallways of the Antares, his footsteps heavy, slow, as if the burden in his soul weighed down his physical body. The once familiar corridors, ones he had walked time and time again in his decades of faithful service and knew like the palm of his hand now seemed alien, lifeless, shrouded in a baleful darkness, reaching out with his tendrils to smother him. He was escorted by a pair of Cavaliers. They were his brothers, but they seemed like wardens to him. As they made their way to the upper decks of the ship, Aklus sank deeper into his thoughts, as a way to cope with the reality of his situation, perhaps. However, when he reached the entrance to the Primarch's chambers, the gate's intricate decorations hiding its heavily reinforced nature, he was pulled out of his daydreams. Another two Cavaliers were standing guard beside the door, unnaturally still and silent. As expected of our Father's favourite sons, he mused. Everything is pristine, perfect. As it should be. The guards finally showed a sign of life, as the one positioned to the left turned to face the wall and pressed a black button. A few seconds passed before a soft chime was heard. Having been given permission, the guards opened the door and ushered Aklus in. It was the first time the Legionary had set eyes upon his Father's private chambers; such an honour would never be granted to someone as lowly as him. It was an incredible sight, and for a fleeting moment he forgot all about his predicament, as he took in the sights of the hall with the wonder of a child. The room was decorated with fabled Skandran works of art, ones he had been taught about in school, before he had even completed the first decade of his life. The wall behind the gene-sire's study was adorned with a mural he could only describe as divine, displaying the Amber King during his triumph on Antire, hours after their hated enemy's surrender. To the right, a portrait of Queen Kierstenn, signed by none other than Absalom himself, a testament of his love. "Kneel" The sharp tone of his Father's voice shocked him, and he instinctively fell to his knees in the middle of the room. He dared not look up, but he knew that Absalom stood above him. "You know why you're here, child?" Aklus didn't reply, for he discovered that no voice could leave his lips "Do you?" the tone of his Father's voice was harsher this time, overflowing with impatience and barely hidden disgust. Aklus pushed himself to speak, to embarrass himself no further. "F-ather… I… please" "You plead for what, graf? Forgiveness? You should ask that from the hundred brothers of yours that died because of your oversight!" "We couldn't… we couldn't know they would be there… our information was falsified, it is not our fault…" "No. It is only yours. For the dead bear the fault no longer, and you led your men to their deaths at the hands of mongrels armed with weapons made of scrap metal. You, Aklus Edan, have made a mockery of what it means to be a Black Star. Whereas I raise you all for greatness, some of you are bound to fail. However, even in failure you can still serve… In the Boetar…" Aklus felt his twin hearts skip a beat as he struggled to comprehend what he just heard. Surely, his Father, loving and caring, could not come to a decision so callous. "Father, I implore you, please, do not do this. I will try my hardest, I will become a paragon of your virtues, the finest son of the IIIrd. Please, Father, forgive me." Absalom kneeled and grabbed Aklus' chin, lifting his head up and looking into his eyes; he saw nothing but a miserable dog staring back. He rose and turned his back to his wayward son. "I will forgive you the day you atone in death. Until then, you are my son no longer. You will bear not my emblem, nor my colours. You will have no name. You will live to fight and die in order to aid the duty of your betters. You are now a Boetar. May you find your peace in the afterlife, and may the rest of your stay in this world be filled with regret. Take him away" The Cavaliers grabbed Aklus and carried him to the door, his legs too weak to carry him. In his soul, broken by sorrow and pain, he had realised that he now was nothing but a dead man walking. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TrajantheGreat Posted September 11, 2020 Share Posted September 11, 2020 The Primarch, Absalom Vaughn, the Amber King of Skandra and Primarch of the Black Stars. Darkcommander 1 Back to top Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimars Posted January 25, 2021 Author Share Posted January 25, 2021 Absalom made his way to Caelum's temporary quarters unescorted. He knew that now was the best time to execute his plan, as all traces of greenskin activity had been purged in a hundred mile radius, down to the tiniest, most pathetic squig. Now the Imperial forces on the planet were using the relative peace to regroup and plan their next move. The Black Stars had served alongside their cousins of the Star Lords for the first time in decades, and some in the Eighteenth that had lived long enough to remember the old Marauders had been pleasantly surprised by the Third's rejection of their past brutality. Now, when the fires of battle were dying out, and the fighters were regaining their strength, would be the ideal time for him to meet with his brother. There was a matter of exceptional importance that had to be discussed, something that he had been postponing for far too long. He passed by an improvised hospital on his way, where the wounded soldiers of the Imperium lay, their bodies broken by the brutish might of the Orks; nurses, doctors, and medical servitors scrambling to mend their wounds and keep them alive. A needless sacrifice, he thought to himself, with only the accursed usurpers on Terra to blame. Their incompetence had permitted the vilest of Mankind's foes to encroach on territories they had bled and died to conquer. He knew he could do better than this, better than them. He only had to play his cards right and the way to the Throne would be open. With Father gone, who better to rule the Imperium in his absence but Absalom himself? He eventually reached the entrance of the bunker that served as Caelum's chamber. The entrance was guarded by two of the Eighteenth's High Templars, Caelum's own elite warriors. He observed the two sentries for a fraction of a second He took note of the dented and scratched ceramite of their artificer armor, the silvery coating of paint scraped off to reveal the pale grey metal underneath Their capes, once clearly long and flowing, were now naught but rags and tatters hanging loosely on their shoulders. Yet there was still an aura of strength surrounding the warriors. No matter how harsh a battle they had gone through, they persevered and stood valiant still. He could not but applaud these traits. The Astartes acknowledged the Primarch's presence with a deep, chivalrous bow, and removed themselves from his way so that he may enter their sire's quarters. Absalom announced his entrance with a soft knock to the door, which was met with Caelum's booming voice urging him to come in. The chamber was bare, empty save for a desk and a couple of chairs, appropriately sized for a mortal. Caelum was standing above the desk, concentrating on his work. His bent back did little to hide his incredible musculature, even for a Primarch. The Lord of the Eighteenth raised his head momentarily to gaze upon the intruder, his expression faintly hardening when he was met with Absalom's smile. Caelum knew his younger brother well enough to see that smile for what it truly was; a thin veneer of innocence and good will. "Greetings, brother. What brings you to my quarters at this hour?” Caelum rumbled a greeting. “Certainly not battle plans, for we could have just as easily discussed those at the martial council." Absalom’s eyes narrowed. His brother’s half hearted attempt to hide his disdain was plain to see. "No, I have not come here to discuss the campaign, that is true" Absalom moved to the centre of the chamber, closer to Caelum's desk. He briefly observed the dataslates laying on it, detailing the Greenskin positions in the area, then resumed. "No, what brings me here is more important than the fate of one planet, or the eradication of some Orks.” He settled into position, prepared to say what had to be said. “You see, Caelum, in the years after Father's disappearance I have seen our Imperium suffer in myriads of ways. I seek to change that, step by step…" "Get to the point, Absalom. I have little time for your chatter" "Caelum, what I am prepared to do will bring me at odds with Alex, with the Council. Some of our brothers will stand by me. Others will watch in idle silence. But you, Alex's closest brother, surely cannot let this pass, am I right, brother?" Lord Vigilat's grey eyes looked akin to a storm cloud, his heart filled with fury at his brother's treacherous proclamations. "So you came here to announce your plans to betray the lawfully appointed Regent.” He growled. “You are correct, Absalom, I will not allow this. Be sure that Terra will receive word of your treachery, and you will be judged in accordance to the Imperial Law" "Will I? Really?" Absalom's smile grew wicked as he retrieved a datapad from his belt and handed it over to Caelum. "I believe this is where my little game-changer enters the play. Go ahead, most esteemed brother. Take a good look." "What on the Throne is this? Where did you find this?" muttered Caelum as he browsed through pict captures depicting him and his Eldar associates. He looked up at the Amber King, who saw resignation, confusion, and fear in his eyes. "I have my ways to get what I want, Caelum. “If the object of my desire is concrete proof of you consorting with foul xenos, then my people will ensure that it reaches my hands, no matter the cost." Absalom paused as Caelum, with alarming speed and barely contained anger, threw the desk aside, towards the wall, where it exploded into splinters. He stood before Absalom, towering above him, his dark beard and hair casting a truly fearsome image. Absalom didn't flinch. “Go ahead. Do it, attack me", Absalom taunted him, “If you want to be branded a traitor, that is. Araphel's madness has dealt a serious blow to the Imperium's trust for the Regent. His closest friend and confidant being a xenophile would no doubt prove catastrophic." Caelum turned his back towards Absalom, drawing deep, slow breaths in his struggle to contain his anger. "You might not fear for yourself, but surely you do not want to drag Alex along with you.” Absalom continued to bait him. “Do you brother?" "Leave" Caelum's tone was low yet commanding. "Out of my sight. I do not want to ever see you again." "You never will, so long as you do not meddle in my affairs.” Absalom laughed. “Fare thee well, Caelum." He turned away and left the room, leaving Caelum in quiet solitude. Darkcommander and TrajantheGreat 2 Back to top Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Darkcommander Posted February 27, 2021 Share Posted February 27, 2021 Black Stars - 'Vedas-Moarden' IFV Speaking to the IIIrd Legion's particular ferocity, it was understandable that they would seek out the opportunity to expand their arsenal at the Mechanicum's behest. Though one of the initial Legion's offered the Ajax it was not immediately adopted, taking the Forge-Master Armin Doss's personal battery of tests before accepting it. Even then the Forge-Master had several fundamental changes approved before allowing it to be manufactured en masse for his brethren. But the time it was in legionary hands it had been moulded into a formidable beast, able to cut down droves of the vile, chittering enemies of man that stood before them, before out-manoeuvring them with blinding speed. Design While the main body of the Vedas-Moarden is much the same in configuration as the Martian 'original' it has had it's driver compartment reduced severely, now only able to fit a single legionary as it's driver. The leftover space in the front of the vehicle has been replaced with a whole new engine type to significantly boost speed despite the heavy equipment onboard. The open secondary position of gunner in the rear of the vehicle has been replaced somewhat. Armour now surrounds the gunner as the rear section has been turned into an elevated compartment directly behind the drivers', with it's own reinforced plastek wind shield for further protection. Mounting it' main weaponry on the flanks of the vehicle it has a commanding arc of fire that is augmented even further by the augur array mounted on the rear of the vehicle to help with target acquisition and classification. Created in the Black stars image, the Vedas-Moarden has proven to be a nimble and aggressive foe on the battlefield. Armament With the complete relocation of the weapons systems of the Vedas, the more scout-like aspects of the Ajax chassis have been disregarded in favour of sheer firepower. On either side of the vehicle are a set of mountings for a single heavy weapon, with full articulation and arc of fire that allows them to aim in any direction in a 180° arc on either side. These mounts are traditionally fitted with a pair of Iliastus pattern Assault Cannons normally reserved for those terminator-clad legion veterans. With a pair of these monstrous weapons on either side of the vehicle they can easily be used to chew through hordes of light infantry or dissuade any vehicle fast enough to keep up with them. To feed the appetite of a pair of weapons as hungry as this requires a particularly large storage of ammunition, which partially explains the reason the gunner's seat is positioned where it is. Other than providing a commanding view from which he can work effectively, beneath the gunner's feet in a central section are a pair of large ammo bins for the assault cannons. Compensating for the reduced armour, the ammunition is stored here to use the general mechanisms and armour plating for the driver and gunner as protection for those internally stored rounds as well. Miscellaneous A more subtle improvement, the augur array on the rear of the vehicle is made for identifying several key factors about the enemies around them and passing on their weaknesses to the crew and other Black Stars in the area. Behind the gunner's seat is a large flattened section of the Vedas-Morden's chassis sloped at slight downward angle. Sitting with it's edges flush into this section is a piece of convex metal slowly rotating as it scans, along with a particularly aggressive machine spirit the result is a accurate but overzealous machine that often needs to be reigned in by it's crew. Despite this zealotry it can predict enemy numbers, formation and possible avenues of escape or attack to try and help it's crew as much as possible.in hunting down the enemies of man. Secondary to this system is a array of communications antennae that are attached to rear of the vehicle to allow any data gathered to be relayed to command positions while the infantry fighting vehicle continues it's bloody rampage through enemy lines. These take the form of several-metre-long pieces of corded metal wire that have a tendency to bounce and shake with the vehicle as it encounters rough terrain. It has also been noted that there are several examples of legionaries tying down the ends of the flexible antennae to keep them from snagging on terrain and debris while on the battlefield. Technical Specifications Type: Infantry Fighting Vehicle Vehicle Name: Vedas-Moarden Forge World of Origin: Mars Known Patterns: N/A Crew: 1 Driver, 1 Gunner, Powerplant: Arcanor-24 Combustor Reactor Weight: 6.6 tonnes Length: 6.8m Height: 4.9m Width: 5m Range: 670km Max Speed: On Road: 119km/h (73mph) Off Road: 86km/h (53mph) Main Armament: 2x Assault Cannons Main Ammunition: 4800 rounds Armour: Hull: 50mm Superstructure: 68mm Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TrajantheGreat Posted March 14, 2021 Share Posted March 14, 2021 You have met him as the proud hero of the Great Crusade and the Amber King of Skandra. Now we present to you a changed man, corrupted not by Chaos but by the darkness in his very soul. Absalom Vaughn, the Dark Sun, the Gilded Tyrant. Art by Slaine Cook. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TrajantheGreat Posted June 5, 2021 Share Posted June 5, 2021 The Silenced Voice by Jimars [iNTERCEPTED UNAUTHORISED MESSAGE] [sTART OF MESSAGE] From: [DATA CORRUPTED] To: Koschei Kharkovich, Primarch of the Godslayers Subject: Urgent! Obsequarius in danger Lord Koschei, this is a matter of life and death. The Black Stars are using the powers of the Warp to brainwash your agents into submission. My Primarch's sanity is questionable. I beseech thee to take action as soon as possible [END OF MESSAGE] [VERDICT: MESSAGE DESTROYED. SENDER STILL UNKNOWN] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TrajantheGreat Posted June 5, 2021 Share Posted June 5, 2021 (edited) Lady of Poison by Jimars Entering his study, Absalom was greeted with the sight of Tobiah Stolar, still in his Tartaros plate, pristine and well-polished from the formal meeting that had occurred just hours ago, where Absalom and Ezharion had discussed the creation of a Council to rule over Segmentum Ultima, news that Absalom was less than enthused to receive. Other than Stolar, his wife, Kierstenn was also in the chamber. Beautiful like the breaking dawn, with her golden locks and fierce, piercing green eyes, filled with intellect and a powerful spirit, dressed in a white, long dress that brought out her well-sculptured form, she was a soothing sight for the agitated Primarch. Absalom approached the desk and sank in his chair with a deep sigh. "So, this is how it will go. A council. I will have not just one fool to meddle in my affairs, but several" He slammed his fist on the desk, knocking down a stack of papers, and ran his hands through his hair. Kierstenn moved to his side and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. Tobiah on the other hand, watched his friend's outburst with well-hidden worry. His gene-sire and brotherly friend's behaviour was steadily becoming more erratic. Kierstenn kissed Absalom on the back of his head, and, moving her lips closer to his left ear, said with a voice soft as silk "Why do you concern yourself with trivial matters, my beloved? Why let your brilliant shine die due to problems that can be solved ever so simply?" She got up again, and moved to the glass panel behind the desk, overlooking Viktora, the capital of Skandra Prima. The twin suns of the system, the Maega, were setting in the horizon. Absalom stood up as well and approached her, standing behind her and caressing her hair "What do you mean, Kierstenn? What is your plan?" She turned around to face him, and softly touched his cheek, looking into his brilliant amber eyes. "Kulas asked of you a representative to the council, since your duties to the Reclamation Command prevent you from participating, correct?" "Yes" replied Absalom, curious to his other half's scheme "Then" said Kierstenn with a smile "send me" At that moment, Absalom realised what his queen's plan was. And he only grew more infatuated with her. Edited June 5, 2021 by TrajantheGreat Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TrajantheGreat Posted June 13, 2021 Share Posted June 13, 2021 Ochranic Cavaliers No other formation in the IIIrd Legion holds as much prestige and glory as the famed Ochranic Cavaliers, the illustrious warrior elite of the Black Stars and companions to the Primarch himself. A cadre of consummate fighters handpicked by Absalom himself with no regard to rank, background or seniority, selected instead for their pure skill at arms, the Ochranic march to war at their Master's side, a tide of darkest ebony streaked with gleaming gold, cutting down their inferior opponents in droves or finishing off the survivors of Absalom's own onslaught. Besides their significance in battle, the Ochranic hold great meaning in the culture and organisation of the Legion; their privileged status among the sons of Absalom, being the only ones permitted to wear the Dark Sun's own colours and heraldry, serve as a reminder to Legionaries of the ideal they strive towards, of the end goal in their journey towards perfection and greatness. It provides a powerful incentive that pushes their lower ranking brothers to hone their skills and strive towards ever finer performance in their duties, while simultaneously promoting competition among the Legion. The Ochranic enjoy the great reverence and respect of their inferiors, who view them as beings above the common Astartes, and are forbidden from calling the black-clad warriors their "brothers"; for the difference between a line marine and a Cavalier is so great, that to equate the two would be a most grave insult. In battle, the Cavaliers are armoured in Viter-pattern power armour, each suit handcrafted by the Legion's artificers and created with agility, grace and fluidity of movement in mind, so they can keep up with and emulate their master in combat. Their armament includes their signature Khomíte blades, long weapons that serve as the middle ground between a longsword and a polearm, offering the benefits of both and the drawbacks of neither, as well as the Straum assault bolter and the Ballast plasma caster, weapons which are mounted on the wielder's forearm so they do not obstruct their handling of their close combat weapons. Art by Wilph Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TrajantheGreat Posted July 28, 2021 Share Posted July 28, 2021 Several new pieces of art for Black Stars Praetors. AArt by Antus Art by AlphaLegionary Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TrajantheGreat Posted August 4, 2021 Share Posted August 4, 2021 Ainsad Mantle The Black Stars are infamous in the Imperium for the deeply competitive nature of their culture. In the IIIrd, personal achievements are paramount, and the Legionaries show no hesitation in their quest for success and distinction. Thus, it should come as no surprise that the practice of decorating one's armour and personal equipment as proof of superior status and prowess is prevalent in the Stars, as any veteran Legionary, even more so an officer, is expected to possess numerous medals campaign badges and trophies of significant victories on display. Chief among such practices are the famed Ainsad Mantles, a privilege reserved only for the most accomplished and eminent officers and champions. As their name suggests, the Ainsad are garments, most often cloaks though they can take various forms tailored to the demands of each owner, woven not with ordinary fabric, but instead an elaborate micromesh of precious metals, such as gold, silver, or other materials rarer still. Upon said cloaks are woven the owner's long tallies of triumphs and achievements, epic retellings of their greatest feats. While the volume of the records varies between individuals, the most accomplished sons of Absalom bear mantles whose writing is dense enough to be barely legible, a testament to the virtuosity of the IIIrd Legion's elite. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TrajantheGreat Posted November 1, 2021 Share Posted November 1, 2021 Elzebec Ortennasse The reverence and admiration the Black Stars hold for their Primogenitor is second to no other Legion, often surpassing the limits of rational thought and instead becoming fanatical and obsessive in nature. It is the result of the IIIrd's meticulous indoctrination, aiming at total obedience to and adoration for the Primarch, to ensure that his will is absolute and his orders obeyed to the letter, as well as the culture of Skandra itself, where Absalom is respected and venerated as a near-Messianic figure, which causes recruits to hold their lord in the highest esteem even before joining the Legion. Perhaps the most extreme manifestation of this tendency in the Stars is Elzebec Ortennasse, 11th Margrav of the Black Stars, whose blind obedience and adulation for his Liege has gained him infamy across the Legiones Astartes. Starting his career as an orphan from a newly liberated world that was later inducted into the Kingdom of Skandra, Elzebec's life was saved by none other than Absalom himself, who unearthed the toddler from the rubble of his home, where he had been entombed for 3 days, along with the pulverised corpses of his parents. Unable to overcome this traumatic experience, the young Ortennasse's fractured mind became obsessed with the Dark Sun, believing him a guardian angel, not only for him, but the entirety of Mankind. Hence it became the child's sole purpose in life to prepare for the Astartes trials, and for years he worked endlessly to sharpen his mind and strength his body, until a decade later he was finally accepted to take part in the trials. He succeeded in every single one, if not because of superior strength or skill then because of his iron determination and single-minded focus on his goal. For the first time in his life, his hero, his idol was acknowledging his existence, and Elzebec could not give a performance short of anything but perfect. During the Grand Proving, Elzebec managed to survive and pass the trial at the cost of injuries that caused him to need augmetic replacements for both of his legs. Elzebec has never revealed the nature of his Proving even to his closest associates, and many speculate that it may even have forced the Margrav to face his hero in single combat, to stand against Absalom's sharp blade and even sharper tongue. During his service, Ortennasse distinguished himself as an exemplary soldier and commander, whose unyielding courage and grit, borne of his deep-seated longing for Absalom's attention and praise, made him well-suited for the duties of a Chaplain, an office he held for decades, raising the morale of his brothers with long-winded sermons that praised Absalom, exalting his grandeur. He reminded them of the favour and rewards the Amber King would deliver unto them should they succeed, or how terrible his wrath and punishment would be should they fail. His methods were effective, and he rose through the ranks until, finally, Absalom recognised him as one of his finest sons and raised him to the rank of the Margrav of the 11th Domen. With the advent of the Disappearance and the Ruins, Elzebec has become an instrumental part of Absalom's plots, serving as the Vice-Head of the Spahdien, the IIIrd's secret disciplinary corps, along with Chief Librarian Cyprian Wiez. Where Wiez is the secret, insidious mastermind of the Spahdien, Elzebec is the public, brutal face of the organisation, punishing those Stars that display gross insubordination or are found lacking in morale as an example for the Legion, to remember what happens to those who question Absalom. The soft-spoken Elzebec takes cruel pleasure in his duties, and carries out his executions with a grim, terrible scythe, whose black, wickedly curved blade has culled the heads of friend and foe alike. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TrajantheGreat Posted November 1, 2021 Share Posted November 1, 2021 Valtar Laude The obsessive, never-ending quest for improvement undertaken by every Black Star upon induction in the Legion has led to the IIIrd producing a high quantity of remarkable warriors who are counted among the best of the Legiones Astartes. Absalom's honour guard, the Ochranic Cavaliers, all possess formidable skill, but only one is worthy of the title of Absalom's champion: Valtar Laude, Margrav Aerst of the Black Stars, Glory Incarnate. A legendary duellist renowned across the Imperium, Laude is hailed as one of, if not the greatest mortal warrior of Mankind. Born to the Skandran noble house of Laude, who had fallen out of favour and lost most of its fortune because of a scandal involving the former patriarch, Valtar was the youngest of four brothers. Valtar’s mother passed away due to complications related to his birth, and thus his father was left alone to raise his sons using what few funds the family had left in their vault. The despair and hardships took their toll on his father, making him prone to violent, abusive outbursts directed to his children, first and foremost Valtar, who he held responsible for his wife's death. Over the years, the sons grew, and their father, observing as many other noble families prepared their sons for admission in the King's Legion, decided to follow suit, believing that, should his sons become one of Lord Vaughn's illustrious warriors, his house's reputation could be salvaged and restored to its former splendour. To this end, he hired several instructors meant to undertake the physical and mental preparation of his sons, as well as train them in fencing, sharpshooting and martial arts. The instructors, of course, required generous payments, resulting in the family's funds rapidly depleting, which in turn caused the father to push his sons even harder, punishing them harshly for even the slightest perceived failures. The sons, despite the abuse, took well to the teachings of their instructors, and grew into strong, capable adolescents ripe for selection by the Legion's officials. Only one of them, however, truly set himself apart with his skill and discipline; youngest Valtar had not only embraced the lessons he received, but improved upon them, gaining the favour of his father, who frequently compared his older brothers to him, seeding hatred and envy towards Valtar. His brothers despised and shunned him, and occasionally even abused him, verbally and physically, in place of their father. Eventually, all their efforts bore fruit, and all four siblings were accepted into the Legion. They all passed the trials with exemplary performances, setting themselves apart from their peers, and were inducted as proper Astartes. Their performance continued to be nothing short of marvellous, drawing the attention of the Legion's high command and eventually, Absalom himself took notice of them, ascending them into the ranks of his Ochranic Cavaliers. Following their induction, Valtar once again set himself apart from the crowd, using the freedom allowed to the Ochranic to challenge several senior warriors in single combat, defeating every single one of them, causing awe to the Legion and hateful envy to his biological brothers. It didn't take long for Valtar to finally challenge, and eliminate, the former Legion Champion, claiming his place to the Primarch's side. It was then that his brothers, unable to tolerate what they believed to be Valtar’s scorn and superiority towards them, extended to him an invitation to an unorthodox challenge; the three of them versus Valtar, in the arena, for Absalom and the whole Legion to see and enjoy. Receiving approval from the Primarch for this unprecedented event, Valtar met his brothers in honourable combat, and slew all of them without so much a blink of his eyes. Over the decades, Valtar has met countless warriors who coveted his rank in single combat yet still stands undefeated. His skill unmatched, his name inspiring awe and wonder alike to mortal and Astartes alike. He is the Dark Sun's Chosen, his favoured son and the embodiment of the IIIrd's ideals. While he seems to accept his role with humility and stoicism uncharacteristic of a son of Vaughn, a fact which earns him a great amount of respect by his peers in other Legions, that is all a ruse, a carefully maintained façade which hides his insidious true nature; a narcissistic warrior who takes sadistic glee at defeating those deluded enough to stand in his path. Valtar lives for crushing the hopes and egos of those believing themselves his equal matches, and lives for the thrill of victory. Above all, however, like any other Star, he longs for that favour and praise of his gene-sire, who, despite Valtar’s denial, has become a dark mirror of the Margrav Aerst's mortal life and his deranged biological father. In battle, Valtar is a dark thunder, death clad in black and gold. His strikes are swift and powerful in equal measure, while his weapon, a great lance called Gvalad, can pierce through the most finely wrought armour with minimal effort. Leading at the helm of the Ochranic Cavaliers, Valtar is truly Gloarin Ekoerp. Glory Incarnate. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TrajantheGreat Posted November 7, 2021 Share Posted November 7, 2021 Valtar Laude, Gloarin Ekoerp (Glory Incarnate), Margrav Aerst of the Black Stars, Champion of Absalom Vaughn Art by Wilph Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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