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- "The pain doesn’t end, but it’s diminished when knowing there are many looking to the stars hoping for their rescue, remember those saved, and even those lost, but most of all remember and honour those who sacrificed for YOU, as you were ready to for them. And when the pain is great, hold that thought close to your hearts, and push ever forward brothers."
- —Arslanor Voidblade, The Lord Wayfarer after the Liberation of Lethona Prime
The Astral Vanguards are a semi-Codex-compliant Chapter of Space Marines, with their gene lineage originally being shrouded in mystery. It wasn't until the Era Indomitus when upon receiving their Primaris Reinforcements that it was confirmed that they were indeed a Successor Chapter of the renowned Salamanders. They were created during the 23rd "Sentinel" Founding; tasked with the protection of the Ancalodon Sector against all manner of Chaos and Xenos forces that wish to bring nothing but ruin to the sector. The Chapter also shares their parent chapters values of brotherhood, sacrifice, and loyalty into their very own culture. The Chapter also conducts war through the combination of adaptive warfare, the Chapter looks down upon rigidity as they feel it limits their potential for victory against their enemies.
From the very beginning, the Chapter was forged by hardship. The Chapter was originally given the Feudal World of Tenras to watch over, with the addition of patrolling the wild and untamed Ancalodon Sector in the Segmentum Ultima, the Chapter has often fought for the safeguarding and liberation of worlds suffering Xenos invasions or Chaos incursions of all kinds. The Salamanders geneseed was chosen for the Chapter to due their forbearers resilience and their unwavering dedication to humanity.
Chapter History
Founding, (Late M37)
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The Fall of Tenras, (915.M38)
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The War for Zelkara, (589.M39)
Centuries after the fall of their homeworld Tenras, the Chapter had lost nearly half of their numbers. After the death of Khazani, the Great Warrior Sage during the fall of Tenras, the Chapter is now led by Rakym, the Blade Master. During this time under his rule, the Astral Vanguards had spent most of their time finding recruits to rebuild as much of their numbers as possible, but this proved to be more difficult, as more of their aspirants proved to be failures; many succumbing to the trials of recruitment, while those who did survive had very little experience in combat. These failures weighed heavy on the Blade Master, as he struggled to see his Chapter is such a battered state. While patrolling the sub-sector Sentinel's Hold, they had intercepted a distorted distress call from a nearby world. It was from the Knight World of Zelkara, a world known for producing some of the most brave and esteemed Imperial Knight pilots to serve the Imperium. House Radrios is also known for their chivalric sense of brotherhood and martial prowess. The noble house had no shortage of proud and disciplined Knight Scions as well, with each bound to ancient oaths of service to the Master of Mankind and his domain. The High King Mathias Radrios, calling for Imperial aid as his planet was being beset by the Drukhari and their mutant creations. The Drukhari had hailed from an unknown Kabal, yet their numbers had ranged in the untold millions; alongside the hundreds of thousands of mutant pain engines that had fallen upon the planet and its people. Upon hearing the plea of the High King, Rakym, and each of the company War Chiefs had held a council to ponder on what the Chapter will do next upon hearing the message. Rakym and his War Chiefs had debated on the message, with many of the War Chiefs wanting to focus on replenishing their own numbers, while the rest felt it was their duty to respond to their plea for aid. Deep in his hearts, Rakym knew his Chapter were still in need of more time to fully recuperate from the devastating loss of Tenras. At the same time, he knew that if the fires of Zelkara were not snuffed here and now, the inferno would eventually grow so large that it would consume everything in its path within the Ancalodon Sector. After a long period of reflection on the matter, Rakym decided to mobilize the Chapter's fleet and had their ship's navigators chart a course to Zelkara to aid the noble house in their time of need.
When the Astral Vanguards entered back into real-space, the sight of the Knight World was grim. The once thought impenetrable citadels and grand monuments that displayed the world's honor and resilience had all be reduced to ruin; the planet's once bright blue skies now darkened by the Drukhari vessels looming over the once proud realm of House Radrios. Drukhari raiding parties would swarm devastated cities in search of survivors to abduct for their own sick amusement, while also slaughtering any and all who still had the strength to resist. There was no time for hesitation, it was time for these sons of Tenras to descend onto the ravaged planet to cast these vile Xenos marauders back into the shadows they came from. The Xenos saw the Space Marines make planetfall and would rally their forces to the Astartes locations as they would make their advance to the Fortress of House Radrios. The dark kin of Commorragh were as ruthless as they were rabid in their assault against the Astartes; defensive squads mowing down swaths of Kabalite Warriors, Raiders, and Wyches. All while assault squads would in engage the enemy glorious close-quarter combat against the elite Wracks and Incubi warriors of the Kabal; bathing their blades with the blood of the warped cousins of the Asuryani. The Chapter came to this world as brothers-at-arms for House Radrios; now they would become the executioners to these file Xenos raiders.
The Astral Vanguards did not waver in their advance to the fortress of House Radrios. Before The Blade Master and his forces were hordes of bloodthirsty Drukhari who were eager to repay the Chapters display of bloodshed against the Kabal with their own flavor of savagery. For every Battle-Brother who'd fall, they would take a thousand Drukhari lives as payment. Eventually they had made their way to the Knight Houses fortress to provide aid in fortifying the last remaining bastion of Zelkara where House Radrios men-at-arms and Knight Scions met with the Astartes and aided in the slaughter of the Xenos. Upon entering the fortress, the High King Mathias Radrios, met with Rakym feeling a sense of relief and sorrow at the sight of the Chapter Master and his Astartes brothers. Both men and their senior officers would convene in the fortress war room to strategize a plan of attack to drive the Drukhari offworld. This Kabal was different than the ones previously documented in Imperial records; they were highly organized and utilized a vast number of mutated abominations to bolster their military might. These Drukhari call themselves the Kabal of the Flayed Sun, until this conflict, no real sighting of them was documented. It was clear that the allied forces were facing a threat that far exceeded their expectations; nonetheless, they would not be deterred in their pursuit for victory.
Squads of Marines would stay to hold the line against the unending advance of the Drukhari alongside the Knight Scions and men-at-arms of House Radrios, while a 5-man reconnaissance squad led by War Chief Talas of the Chapters 5th Battle Company, would infiltrate deep into enemy lines to obtain information regarding the enemy's command structure. The squad pressed forward into the ruins of the once-proud cities of Zelkara, now reduced to hunting grounds for the Drukhari; the air thick with the stench of blood and scorched metal. The mission still remained clear: infiltrate the enemy's lines, uncover the command structure of the Xenos forces, and if possible, identify the identity and whereabouts of the Overlord leading the Kabal. The Drukhari of this Kabal were uncharacteristically well-organized and disciplined compared to those the Chapter fought in the past. Their pain engines different from those of other Kabals and Covens as they weren't just created from unfortunate human test subjects; they were made from other Xenos races as well, some known like the Orks, and others that can no longer be traced back to their origin race due to the severity of the mutations that were forced upon them. Their ability to wage a prolonged war suggested something far more sinister was at play. Talas and his squad had abandoned the main roads and instead chose to venture deep into the vast tunnel systems of the planet to avoid enemy patrols. The War Chief and his squad ventured deep through the dark network of tunnels for several days until they finally made their way topside once more; outside of the city ruins and into the wastelands of Zelkara. The War Chief and his squad moved cautiously through the desolation, keeping to the shadows. The landscape before them was an abattoir of Imperial suffering. The remains of once mighty Imperial Knights rent asunder; the corpses of once proud Zelkarans who had tried to flee from the city and Battle-Brothers of the Chapter who had fought and died trying to save the citizens were scattered across the ashen plains. The sight of this tragedy only fuel the squads resolve to press ever forward. Ahead, a patrol of Kabalite warriors were spotted several kilometers away, dragging captured slaves, with many of them being Knight Scions, into caged prison transports. Despite what they felt was their duty, they could not intervene-not yet. They watched from cover as the Xenos hauled away the prisoners, the War Chief gesturing his squad to follow them. They stalked the Drukhari from the outskirts of the wastelands ruins, keeping low and unseen, following their trail towards the Kabals stronghold. In the middle of the ashen plains stood a towering spire with a portal above pouring out reinforcements from the Dark City. Below were several structures housing the prisoners, their screams of agony echoing across the wastelands as the vile Xenos were exacting their unholy rituals of torture to stave off She Who Thirsts. Before the reconnaissance squad could fall back and make their way back to the House Radrios fortress, something had stopped them cold. From the tallest point of the spire, a lone figure had emerged, draped in the same faded amber and black armor as his kin with his jet black cloak, and his helmet adorn with a crown of polished bone. This was the mastermind behind the suffering and brutalization of this once might Knight World, the Overlord of the Kabal of the Flayed Sun, Vharryx. His gaze swept across the vast ruins to bask in the glory of his triumph; reveling in the pain and suffering his kin as brought to the Zelkarans, and what they will continue to bring to this world until they are stopped.
War Chief Talas ordered his squad to make their back to the ally fortress; retracing their path through the ruined cityscape, making their way through the same tunnel system they used to reach the wastelands. However, the War Chief and his squad were not alone, the Overlord had known the Astartes were tracking his troops for weeks and had sent forth some of the most deadly warriors to ever come out of the vile pits of the Dark City, a trio of Incubi warriors would descend upon the Astartes. The tunnels became a battleground for the Space Marines and Incubi warriors with the sounds of clashing blades and the shrieking of chainswords echoing throughout the tunnels. The first of the squad members fell almost instantly, his head severed clean as the klaive sliced through the ceramite like it was parchment. Another member of the squad began to fire into the chest plate of the Incubus, but the warrior was too quick, having dodged the attacks before the rounds could even make contact. The Incubus proceeded to hurl his klaive like a javelin straight into the chest of the marine, resulting in a killing blow. With three marines remaining from the reconnaissance squad, each had fought like beasts against the attackers. Talas had met blades with the Klaivex leading the Incubi, while the remaining two marines, Brother Yavin and Batyrion engaging the other two themselves. Batyrion struck first, but his chainsword was deflected which left him open to attack. Before the killing blow was struck, Yavin had charged the Incubus and pinned him to the ground, driving his chainsword into the face of the Drukhari warrior. As Yavin turned to his fellow Battle-Brother, he was struck from behind; the blade slicing through the back of his chest and into both of his hearts, killing him instantly. Enraged by this cowardly act of felling his brother from behind, Batyrion emptied his bolt pistol into the attacks helmet, staggering the Incubus. He then bisected the Incubus with his chainsword, now bathed in Xenos blood. Now it was two against one, Talas and Batyrion against the remaining Klaivex. Both Astartes gave the Xenos no chance to strategize his next moves and charged him from both sides one at a time, each delivering one heavy blow after another. With a quick and decisive blow, Batyrion disarmed the Klaivex, leaving vulnerable to attack. Talas drove his power sword into the gut of their assailant, watching as the once confident warrior writhing in the same pain and agony his kind inflicted onto the people of this world. The War Chief knelt down beside his opponent used the ability derived from his omophagea to gain the memories of the Klaviex. The information gained from this newfound knowledge was worse than the War Chief could've imagined. The Kabal of the Flayed Sun not only sought to transform this once proud Knight World into a permanent hunting ground to have an endless supply of human lives to torture, but there was something hidden deep within the planet; an ancient stasis chamber said to be housing their most revered figure that the Kabal sought to free from their endless slumber; the very being that inspired his followers to form the Kabal of the Flayed Sun. The Kabal would drown Zelkara in the blood of its own citizens to free them if it required such an act to do so. Legends spoken of this warrior, whose name was long lost to the sands of time, only referred to as The Flayer of Suns; though the tales of his legendary feats of brutality echoes within the hearts and minds of his worshippers. Should the Kabal successfully awaken such a being, this would result in the total annihilation of the planet. Without hesitation, the two remaining Astartes had made haste back to the House Radrios fortress to regroup with their chapter and allies.
Through the ravaged wastes of Zelkara, War Chief Talas and Brother Batyrion moved with the Emperor's swiftness, their bodies aching from the wounds sustained from their battle against the Incubi. The weight of their fallen brothers pressed upon them, but there was no time grieve, for the horrors that were revealed to them proved too great to falter and demanded action. By the time they had reached the fortress of House Radrios, the final bastion of resistance for the Imperial forces, their armor was caked in blood and dust, their steps heavy, yet unwavering. Within the war room, both Blade Master and High King Mathias Radrios listened in grim silence as the War Chief recounted the memories of the Klaivex; revealing the truth behind all this suffering. This war had already cost both the Astral Vanguards and House Radrios dearly, but now the full gravity of the enemy's intent was made clear as day. The Kabal of the Flayed Sun had come to awaken their long lost idol, and the Overlord would be the one to do so. It was then decided that all remaining allied forces would begin to mobilize. The main fighting force, led by Rakym and Mathias Radrios would lead a massive assault upon the Blighted Spire, while a smaller force led by War Chief Talas would venture deep into the catacombs of Zelkara alongside the men-at-arms of House Radrios and slay the Dark Muse while he still slumbers.
The throne room of the Blighted Spire began to tremble as just beyond the threshold of the chamber, Imperial and Drukhari forces clashed at the lower levels of the Blighted Spire. Scions of House Radrios piloting their mighty Imperial Knights engaging the enemies pain engines and other mutant monstrosities, while the Battle-Brothers led by Rakym alongside the men-at-arms of House Radrios engaged the Kabals forces on the ground. A cacophony of bolter fire and splinter rounds echoed across the battlefield; the soil of the earth drenched in the blood of humans and Xenos alike. High King Mathias, his Imperial Knights, and men-at-arms began to hold off the endless tide of Xenos and mutant horrors, allowing The Blade Master and his forces make their way to the entrance of the Blighted Spire. One by one, the Drukhari were cut down by The Blade Master and his brothers; the more they pushed to the upper levels of the Blighted Spire, more Battle-Brothers fell to the Kabalite and Incubi warriors who guarded the throne room of the Overlord. Eventually, it was Rakym alone who made it to the Overlords lair. Standing before the Astartes was Vharryx the Adorned, a mighty Drukhari warrior clad in baroque armor, with a necklace made with the severed trophies of his fallen enemies. With a twisted smile across this face; he charged the Chapter Master head on, unleashing a flurry of strikes against the Astartes. The unyielding Chapter Master of the Astral Vanguards did not relent in his defense against the Overlords barrage of attacks, Vharryx was like a phantom, yet fought like a daemon. The sheer speed and ferocity of the Xenos Overlord proved to be way more than Rakym had anticipated as Vharryx was able to find gaps within the Astartes' defenses; taking full advantage of the openings. In a blurr, Vharryx drove his blade deep within the gaps in Rakym armor, slicing deep into his side. For a moment, the Chapter Master staggered, blood dripping onto the obsidian floor of the Overlords throne room, yet he did not fall.
As the allied forces began their assault upon the Blighted Spire, War Chief Talas alongside Brother Batyrion and the rest of his Battle-Brothers and men-at-arms fought against the forces of the Haemonculi Covens and their mutant abominations deep within the catacombs of Zelkara. Bolter fire and the revving of chainswords roared in the darkness; the ancient stasis chamber of the Kabals revered Dark Muse made the air within the catacombs thick with something unnatural and unnerving, yet the Astartes did not relent in their advance through the dark depths. Hoards of Wracks descended upon the Space Marines and their human allies, tearing into the men-at-arms of House Radrios. The ancient catacombs became a killing ground, bolter rounds tore into the Wracks and mutant horrors, yet they still kept coming. Talas fought like a rabid animal, butchering any and all Xenos that laid before him, even instilling fear into the mutant creatures themselves, their fear only fueled his hatred more. His power sword hummed with energy as it sliced and butchered the Drukhari forces, as the remaining Astartes ventured deeper into the catacombs, the aura of their surroundings became enveloped in the darkness emanating from the chamber which held the slumbering Flayer of Suns. The Dark Muse was waking from his ancient slumber, the Haemonculi shrieked with manic joy as their dark prophet was close to awakening. However, there would be no triumph for the Xenos this day. Talas charged forward into the surrounding Xenos, cutting each of the Haemonculi down one by one, giving time for Batyrion and the remaining Battle-Brothers time to plant and arm the melta charges upon the stasis chamber. As they made their approach, more of the Covens Wracks and mutant creations swarmed the Space Marines. A grotesque barreled into Talas, slamming him to the stone floor. Batyrion and his fellow marines managed to successfully plant and arm the melta charges onto the stasis chamber of the Dark Muse. Talas drove his blade into the throat of the creature, killing it instantly. However, the War Chiefs fate was sealed as the beast as struck his remaining function heart with its blade. The melta charges detonated, ripping the doors to the chamber apart, leaving the dark prophet open for attack. In his final moments, the War Chief watched with pride as he witnessed Batyrion drive his chainsword deep into the Flayer of Sun, killing him before the being could fully regain consciousness. The War Chief died with a smile on his face, proud of his brothers, and proud of the Astral Vangurds. The few remaining Haemonculi squealed in horror and sorrow as they witnessed hundreds of thousands of years worth of planning taken away from them in an instant, before being put down by Batyrion and his brothers. The Flayer of Suns would die as a forgotten prophet deep beneath the surface of Zelkara.
Within the Blighted Spire, Rakym and Overlord Vharryx remained locked in a bloody duel to decide the fate of Zelkara. Despite his wounds, Rakym fought with the fury of a dying star, his blade cutting arcs of bright blue light through the darkness. His armor was battered and rent asunder, caked with his own blood. Yet, The Blade Master did not relent in his fight against the vile Xenos Overlord. Every strike landed was filled with purpose: vengeance for his fallen brothers, for the people of Zelkara, and for every human life the Kabal had stolen to satiate their hunger for inflicting pain and suffering onto others. However, Vharryx was impossibly fast-inhuman, even by Astartes standards. One moment, he was still, locked in on his prey, and within an instant would be upon Rakym, his twin blades carving into the armor and flesh of the Astartes. Every strike landed on the Chapter Master would be enough to kill a man in an instant, but Rakym was no mere man, he was one of the Emperor's Angels. Rakym, barely hanging on by a thread, parried and blocked the flurry of strikes sent forth by the Overlord. The first series of attacks struck the Astartes with the force of lighting, shattering more of his ceramite armors plating, the second strike came low, aimed at his legs, he managed to dodge the lower attack before it could connect, sparks flying as the metal shrieked in protest. Vharrys, growing restless of the battle, lunged at the Chapter Master like a rabid animal, striking again and again, forcing Rakym back. His movements went from being calculated to sporadic, while Rakyms wounds were starting to get the better of him. Unbeknownst to him, the blades of the Overlord was laced with malicious flesh eating toxins that were birthed from the depraved laboratories of the Kabals Haemonculi allies. Gritting his teeth, Rakym pressed forward through the pain, not letting his injuries deter him from his duty, began his advance towards his enemy. Rakym unleashed one heavy blow after another upon the Overlord, send him flying him the stone columns of the throne room. Angered by the Astartes second wind, he charged the Chapter Master at an incredible speed, but Rakym had anticipated the attack, landing a heavy blow right into the midsection of the Drukhari, sending him hurling into the air. Readying his blade, Rakym was readying to skewer the Xenos upon his blade once and for all, however, Vharryx was able to evade the blow midair, but fumbled onto the ground, still reeling from the previous blow he suffered. Broken, battered, and bloodied, both warriors locked in on one another, readying themselves for the climax of their duel. With one final surge, both warriors charged headlong into one another, trading one final series of blows after the next with each other. Both warriors were at their breaking point, yet persisted nonetheless. In one final motion, Vharryx arched his blades and lunged straight into Rakym. Before the final blow could connect with its target, Rakym dodged the attack right before the moment of contact, and swung his blade, severing both arms of the Overloard. Vharryx fell to his knees, processing what had just transpired, the victory that was right in from of him, stolen within an instant. Dragging his body towards his enemy to deliver the final strike, looked to his enemy, starring him dead in the eyes. The defeated Overlord sneered and spat slurs at the Astartes, cursing him and his Chapter. Before the wretched Xenos could finish spewing his profanities, Rakym had grabbed the broken warlord by the throat and lifted him above the ground, slowly choking the life from the arrogant Xenos Overlord, watching him trying to break free from his iron grasp, Rakym broke the aliens neck. The throne room of the Blight Spire had fallen silent. Outside the Blight Spire, the forces of House Radrios had decimated the remaining mutant monstrosities and their masters, with the rest of the Drukhari fleeing back into the Webway. The war for Zelkara was finally over, and the Xenos were driven out once and for all.
The Kabal of the Flayed Sun was broken, fleeing back to their Dark City. The Blighted Spire was reduced to rubble by the Imperial Knights of House Radrios. The bodies of Astartes, Knight Scions, and men-at-arms of House Radrios lay across the battlefield, their armor broken and stained with their own blood and that of the Xenos. Among them, War Chief Talas, who had given his life in the catacombs of Zelkara to enure the Dark Muse, the Flayer of Suns, would remain a forgotten figure in the annals of time. His sacrifice, and that of so many other brave souls, saved this world from oblivion. Kneeling beside the body of the fallen Talas was Brother Batyrion, who was reciting prayers to honor his fallen War Chief and brothers. Rakym, his body broken and bloodied, remained unbroken. As his vision began to blur, he saw High King Mathias Radrios standing over him, victorious but with a solemn look on his face. He understood what the Chapter Master was feeling, despite the Astartes not showing any physical emotion, the true cost of this victory. The eyes of both men were heavy with the weight of their shared loss, yet were determined to pull from the well of strength brought about by this tragedy.
When the smoke finally cleared, the survivors gathered within the ruined halls of House Radrios' fortress, the banners of both the Imperial Knights and Astral Vanguards were raised high. The fallen were laid before the great fortress to be honored by those who would be left standing. The Imperial Knights of House Radrios and the Space Marines of the Astral Vanguards Chapter stood together, shoulder to shoulder, as a ceremony of remembrance began. It was here, before the gathered warriors, that High King Mathias Radrios stepped forth, a sword in his hand, and turned to Rakym, who despite the wounds inflicted upon him by Vharryx, stood tall before the High King. Mathias knelt before the Chapter Master, planting his blade into the scorched earth. He had sworn an oath to the Chapter Master and his brothers, that they would stand side-by-side with the Astral Vanguards whenever and wherever they would require their aid, and Rakym with the last bit of strength he had, unsheathed his own blade and drove it into the same earth. He swore that his Chapter would heed the call of House Radrios and the Zelkaran people whenever and wherever they need them.
The Knights of House Radrios carried their to their final resting place within the tomb of the House Radrios fortress. The Astral Vanguards, as was their tradition, gathered their slain brothers and cremated their bodies, and released their ashes into the void, as their creed demands of them. The souls of their fallen brothers would lead the Chapter to glory through the vastness of space for as long as the stars burn bright within the Emperors domain. The names of all the fallen marines were inscribed into the Tome of Remembrance, among them being Talas, whose deeds were etched into the legacy of the Chapter. The Knights of House Radrios honored him as well, forging a custom pattern Knight Armor for the Radrios lineage named after him, the Knight Talas. It was here that Batyrion, who through unshakeable will and resolve, felled the dark prophet of the Kabal of the Flayed Sun and took up his predecessors rank as War Chief of the 5th Battle Company with the moniker of Valorflame.
Though the Knight World of Zelkara bore the scars of war, it and the people endured; strengthened by the pain of their loss. For the Astral Vanguards and House Radrios, the war had changed them both forever. The Astartes came to the world as allies, and left as brothers-at-arms. Should the people of Zelkara and of House Radrios ever wage war, the Astral Vanguards were not far behind. Should the Chapter require aid in their war against the alien and heretic, House Radrios and their might Imperial Knights would be right behind them, charging headlong into the fires of war with their comrades. Despite the great victory that was achieved, the pain of loss still weighs heavily upon the Chapter; not just for the brothers who gave their lives, but of the loss of Tenras even centuries after its fall. Deep within his hearts, Rakym knew the road to redemption would require countless other victories in order for the Chapter to regain their honor. In time, their reunion with the nightmares who stole their home would be met with the fire of zeal burning bright within their hearts and steel in hand.
The Shadow Wars
[THIS SECTION IS STILL BEING WORKED ON]
Era Indomitus
During this time, the Astral Vanguards have built a reputation for aiding in the protection of the Emperors domain. Being regarded as honorable allies by both their Imperial allies and by some of their fellow Adeptus Astartes. They have waged wars against threats such as Tyranid splinter fleets, Chaos warbands, Ork Waaaghs!, and against the enigmatic T'au. They conduct their campaigns with a shared focus on precious and adaptability; allowing them to save as many civilians as possible while also decimating the enemies of mankind.
The Chapters very first encounter with the Salamanders was during the Liberation of Lethona Prime. This was a forge world that came under siege by the blasphemous Thousand Sons. The Astral Vanguards launched swift and precise boarding assaults against the Chaos warships, breaking the siege just as the Salamanders arrived to reinforce the Chapter and the planetary defense forces of Lethona Prime. The Salamanders were astonished by their successors ferocity in battle and commended their courage to protect the loyal subjects of the Emperor. The Salamanders embraced their fellow sons of Vulkan as brothers of the forge, both tempered by the flames of war.
[THIS SECTION IS STILL BEING WORKED ON]
Notable Campaigns & Events
Time of War, M38-40
- The Liberation of Mythral (175.M38): The Shrine World of Mythral was invaded by the Warboss Skardok and his Ork Waaagh!, with the Greenskins severely overwhelming the planetary defense forces, the fall of Mythral seemed to be inevitable. This would all change however with the arrival of the Astral Vanguards. The Chapter had arrived as the Shrine Worlds last hope, committing the full might of their fleet and companies to aid the in PDFs desperate counteroffensive. During the early days of the conflict, the Chapter relied heavily on hit-and-run tactics; striking at enemy supply chains, command structures, and other key Ork strongholds in an effort to slow the advance of the Waaagh!. However, this strategy proved to be tragically ineffective as the Orks did not break, did not falter, and only became more relentless in their destruction. The Chapter began to suffer heavy casualties with entire squads being butchered and cutdown by the Orks and their sheer numbers and their brutal war machines of Skardok's Mekboyz. Every lost battle resulted in more fallen brothers, and Veteran squads being reduced to merely a few survivors. The tide of this war began to instill a sense of dread within the Chapter as victory seemed farther from their grasp with every new defeat. It was during these dark days that Khazanai, the Great Warrior Sage, the first Chapter Master of the Astral Vanguards, would be the beacon of hope that would light the path to victory against the darkness brought about by the green tide. Given how the use of hit-and-run tactics alone proved to be highly ineffective against this Waaagh!, the Great Warrior Sage had devised a new strategy that would not only minimize causalities, but will also maximize on crippling enemy forces. He would go on to force the Chapters new philosophy of war-one that demands that every Battle-Brother becomes both an unbreakable shield and an unrelenting blade. Thus, the Path of The Sword and Shield was born, a doctrine that would allow the Chapter to adopt and implement aspects from multiple forms of war to decimate their enemies. As a result of this change in philosophy, Khazanai would restructure the Chapter's deployments during the conflict, forming devastator squads to fortify civilian populated zones to keep the Xenos out. In tandem, he would mobilize assault squads-fast striking warriors who would exploit the chinks in the enemy's armor; severing Ork leadership and striking deep into enemy lines to sow absolute fear into the heart of their enemies. For weeks, waves after waves of Orks were crushed against the defensive lines of the Chapter and the combined might and fury of the Astartes and the now emboldened Planetary defense troops. It was from this point onward, that the Astral Vanguards counteroffensive would start to make great strides in turning the tide of the war in the Imperium's favor. With the Orks finally on the brink of defeat, the Astral Vanguards seized their opportunity and enacted the final phase of their plan-an all-out assault on Skardok's final bastion, a city-sized stronghold made from the wreckage of Imperial Voidships. Spearheading the attack himself, Khazanai would lead his warriors and the PDF forces deep into the heart of the beast, cutting down every greenskin in sight. Eventually, Khazanai would come face to face with the Tyrant of Mythral and the two would engage in a fearsome duel that would decide the fate of the planet and its people. The Great Warrior Sage wielding his warp flame imbued blade would face off against the colossal Warboss, whose power klaw could shear tanks in two. The two clashed in the very heart of the stronghold, sending shockwaves throughout the fortress. Each strike the Chapter Master made was with deadly precision and purpose carving into the Warbosses crude Mega-armor, while the Ork attacked with primal fury and bloodlust that would test the Astartes champions very endurance. However, Khazanai was an immensly powerful Psyker as well. Having channeled the powers of the Immaterium through his blade, he struck one final, cataclysmic blow into the Warboss, igniting Skardok's very form in a raging inferno of psychic flame. The creature had let out one final roar filled with pain and agony as his armor glowed molten-red, before finally being reduced into nothing but smoldering ash. With the Tyrant of Mythral slain, the remaining Orks were broken and scattered, with eventually all being hunted down to the last greenskin.
Time of Ending, M41
Era Indomitus, M42
- The Liberation of Lethona Prime (013. M42) - During the Chaos siege of Lethona Prime, a vital forge world under attack by the Thousand Sons, the Astral Vanguards made their first recorded encounter with their parent Chapter, the Salamanders. The Astral Vanguards launched a decisive void assault, crippling the Chaos fleet through precise boarding actions and forcing the heretics into a ground conflict. Once planetside, the Astral Vanguards joined the Salamanders in a grueling campaign to purge the Thousand Sons and their cultist forces from the planet. While the Salamanders admired the Astral Vanguards’ ferocity and precision in battle, they were struck by their successors’ resolve as they worked tirelessly to evacuate and protect Lethona Prime’s surviving populace. The Salamanders viewed their younger siblings burden with a mix of respect and sorrow, recognizing the sacrifices the Astral Vanguards will continue to make in their endless crusade. The campaign forged a bond of mutual respect between the two Chapters, though it also underscored the differences in their philosophies and ways of war.
- The Shadow Uprising of Chyrex VII (Unspecified Date. M42) - The Astral Vanguards uncovered a Genestealer Cult infestation on Chyrex VII, a mining world vital to the Imperium’s war efforts. The cult, calling themselves the Veil of Ascension, had infiltrated the planet’s ruling class and military. The Chapter deployed in surgical precision, with marines infiltrating the cult’s lairs to destroy their Patriarch, with squads of marines securing vital mining infrastructure. The battle culminated in a massive underground assault on the cult’s main hideout, where the Patriarch was slain in brutal combat. Chyrex VII was saved, but the Chapter purged tens of thousands of compromised citizens, leaving the population traumatized but loyal to the Imperium.
- The Reclamation of Giliad IV (Unspecified Date. M42) - On the shrine world of Giliad IV, the Astral Vanguards clashed with the Word Bearers, who sought to desecrate the planet’s holy relics. Landing amidst a sea of cultists and daemonic reinforcements, the Chapter coordinated with local Ecclesiarchy forces to protect sacred sites. Marines held defensive positions around the planet’s central cathedrum, while others launched daring strikes against Chaos sorcerers fueling the daemonic incursions. In the climactic battle, Chapter Master Arslanor Voidblade personally slew the Chaos Lord commanding the heretic forces, wielding his relic power sword Infinitus Ira (Infinite Wrath) to butcher the pawns of the Dark Gods. Despite the heavy toll, Giliad IV was saved, and the Word Bearers’ plans were thwarted.
- The Battle for Xhyranos Spire (Unspecified Date. M42) - On the tomb world of Xhyranos, the Astral Vanguards clashed with the Szeraketh Dynasty of the Necrons, who sought to reclaim the world’s ancient spire, believed to hold vital data for awakening other tomb worlds. Despite facing relentless waves of Necron constructs, the Chapter’s units established unyielding defensive lines around the spire, while squads struck deep into enemy lines to sever Necron leadership and disrupt their resurrection protocols. The battle ended when War Chief Kaedros Vynn destroyed the Overlord’s command barge, forcing the dynasty into retreat. Though victorious, the Chapter departed before fully securing the world, wary of further Necron reinforcements.
- The Defiance of Orrenhal (Unspecified Date. M42) - On the agri-world of Orrenhal the Astral Vanguards faced forces of the T’au Vior’la Sept, who sought to conquer the planet under the guise of providing aid. Initially outnumbered, the Chapter coordinated with Imperial Guard forces, using gravis squads to fortify key settlements while Chapter forces executed precision strikes on T’au supply lines and cadre commanders. The turning point came when Chapter Master Arslanor Voidblade led an orbital assault on the T’au command center, personally slaying the commander leading the campaign while the Chapter decimates the xenos forces. Crippled by this defeat, the T’au forces retreated, leaving Orrenhal in Imperial hands.
Chapter Homeworld: Tenras
[THIS SECTION IS STILL BEING WORKED ON]
Chapter Beliefs & Traditions
Beliefs
The Chapter does not view the Emperor of Mankind as a god, but instead view him as the shining example of what humanity can achieve and overcome against insurmountable odds. The Chapter also views their wandering across the void as a test to measure their resolve and reforge their souls within the fires of battle. The Astral Vanguards follow similar teachings that of the Promethean Cult, albeit with differences that better suit their voidfaring ways of life and their philosophy of war. The Chapter embraces their eternal voyage across the unending expanse of the void as a pledge to themselves, which they refer to as The Vanguards Creed. The Vanguards Creed is the guiding philosophy of the Chapter, which encapsulates the Chapters unwavering commitment to root out the enemies of Mankind, no matter where they reside in the Galaxy. This philosophy is both a literal and spiritual concept, which represents their crusade to safeguard the loyal subjects of the Master of Mankind. To accept the Vanguards Creed is to embrace the void as your as your home, shedding who you once were in order to follow the path to becoming something far greater than what you once were. The Chapter views themselves as wandering guardians of humanity, fighting to ensure that no corner of the Ancalodon Sector is left unguarded, and that no world meets the same fate befell Tenras.
The Chapter used to recruit from the many different clans on Tenras, but now they recruit from the worlds they save. Despite this change, they still look for the same qualities in their aspirants; those who exhibit a great deal of strength, courage, and devotion to mankind. The Chapter seeks individuals such as these out the most as they believe that the more pain a soul has endured, the more hardened it is. Every single individual is a blade waiting to be honed, sharpened upon the whetstone that is pain. Another thing of note is that the Astral Vanguards inherited their progenitors craftmanship, with their creations reflecting the Chapters void-faring identity; each weapon forged by the marine tells an individual story of either triumph or loss. Although some institutions in the Imperium will view this as tech heresy, weapon modification is something that is very common within the Chapter. These weapons are also designed to be durable in order to endure the harsh conditions of a variety of different worlds the Chapter will find themselves in as well as modular too.
Core Tenets of the Vanguards Creed
The core principles of the Vanguards Creed is divided into 7 core Tenets. These Tenets serve as the very foundation that forges one into an Astral Vanguard, shaping his mindset, his actions, and his place within the Chapter. Embracing these Tenets as extensions of oneself is the very definition of what it means to be an Astral Vanguard - a nomadic guardian, an unbreakable shield, and a relentless blade. These Tenets aren't to be merely cited as scripture, but they are meant to be lived.
- 1st Tenet - Honor through Struggle: Strength is forged when faced with adversity; it is only through hardship and perseverance that a warrior can prove his worth in life. The Astral Vanguards understand this, for the Chapter knows that to live without struggle is to live weak. To them, war is a test, and every scar gained on the battlefield is a lesson to be learned, to endure pain is to live a worthy existence. Every single marine in the Chapter is a tool to be used for humanity's survival; blade and shield to be wielding against the vile alien and treacherous heretic; tempered like steel in the fires of battle. Every warrior must be ready to give their lives to humanity's survival against the horrors of the Arch Enemy and Xenos so that others beneath them can endure one more day.
- 2nd Tenet - Strength through Sacrifice: To the Astral Vanguards, sacrifice leads to strength, and through death, humanity survives. For the Astral Vanguards, death is the only end they will face. With the enemies of mankind as numerous as the stars during across the expanse of the void, every Battle-Brother will meet their brutal end in service to the Imperium. However, even the most gruesome end can have purpose. Each death serves as fuel to the dying pyre that is humanity, and every Astral Vanguard will gladly sacrifice their very own lives upon the altar of duty, even if it means that the spark of mankind can burn brighter for yet another moment against the encroaching darkness.
- 3rd Tenet - Adaptability brings forth Versatility: The Galaxy is ever-changing, allies fall every day, and new enemies rise from what remains. A warrior who cannot adapt is already a dead man, it is those who embrace this truth with fire and zeal burning in their hearts that will master the battlefield both in front of them and within their own selves. This is reflected in the modifications the chapter will perform on their own weapons.
- 4th Tenet - Shield the Helpless: Not only is the main duty of the Chapter to destroy the enemies of mankind wherever they may hide, but it also falls upon them to ensure that the subjects of the Emperor are protected. The Emperor's domain is vast, with many worlds and their people abandoned or outright forgotten. The Astral Vanguards stand as guardians for those without defenders, ensuring that no mortal under their watch is left to the horrors of the galaxy; even going as far as laying down their very own lives to push back against the enemies of mankind. To the Astral Vanguards, bearing the weight of others' survival upon their shoulders is the truest sign of dedication to the Vanguards Creed. Never will they turn away those who sought their aid, nor will they abandon the loyal and the faithful.
- 5th Tenet - The Enemy is to be met with Fury: Hesitation in face of the enemy always leads to a gruesome demise. For when the Chapter goes to war, they do not falter - they strike with an unrelating hatred for their foe. Should their enemy seek to see the Imperium and mankind burn, the Chapter will remind them of the rage and fury the Emperor's Angels of Death are known for.
- 6th Tenet - Weakness is to be purged with Zeal: Despite the inherited compassion of their forbearers, the Chapter has also inherited their fiery zeal as well. There is no redemption to those who turn their backs on the Imperium and humanity or to those who show cowardice in the face of the enemy; only retribution awaits these unfortunate souls by the very hands of the Chapter. From the taint of Chaos to false promises of Xenos, betrayal and treachery must be purged before the cancer spreads deeper.
- 7th Tenet - Death is the Next Journey: For a battle-brother of the Astral Vanguard to fall in battle, is to start one's final service to the Master of Mankind. Every battle-brother of the Chapter understands that they will eventually meet their end in battle one way or another, and they should welcome it. The ashes of the deceased will be given back to the void where they were reborn, to continue guiding the Chapter and their brothers throughout the stars. Even in death, the deceased still fuel the will of the Chapter with their legacy, being forever part of their brothers endless crusade through the infinite darkness.
Relationship With Civilians
Before losing their homeworld, the Astral Vanguards had a very close bond with the Tenrasi people. The Chapter viewed the people of Tenras with a great deal of respect. It was common place to find a member of the Chapter within the local circle of elders amongst the old Tenrasi clans. The Tenrasi viewed the Astartes as honorable and ancestral guardians, while the Astral Vanguards drew strength from the people's resilience, traditions, and their unwavering loyalty. The Tenrasi smiths, warriors, and storytellers often worked with the Chapter to teach them their ways. One such tradition that was shared with the Chapter was the act of forging and gifting relics to ones allies, a core tradition that the Chapter adopted. These helped forged the Astral Vanguards into the Chapter that they are now. After the fall of Tenras, the Astral Vanguards were left reeling from the pain of losing their homeworld, and failing to protect its people.
Now, due to their drifting nature, they rarely ever linger too long in one place; always seeking out the enemies of the Imperium, wherever they may reside. Following the Vanguards Creed, the Chapter will strive to inspire bravery and courage to battle stricken civilians and guardsmen. The Chapter will also gift the worlds they save with relics which are hand crafted within the forges of their ships to inspire strength amongst the people. This act is known within the Chapter as The Nomads Gift, a tradition that was once shared with them by the nomadic clans of Tenras. For the Astral Vanguards, compassion is not measured by the mere weight of words, but it is in action and sacrifice that it is so. They do not remain long enough to bask in their glory as their creed demands they move ever forward; venturing farther into the darkest corners of the void to bring the light of judgment to the enemies of mankind, or to heed the call of the Emperor's loyal subjects for aid. Each of these forged heirlooms are a testament to the blood spilled and the lives saved. This serves as a symbol of resilience and strength bestowed unto the people by the Chapter. They also claim to offer sanctuary to those whose homeworlds have been laid to waste from conflict. When in actuality, this is a means to find recruitment for potential aspirants and serfs even from those who've fallen victim to devastation. The Creedwardens of the chapter along with a few squads of marines and well trusted serfs will examine each civilian that will be chosen to be taken aboard their fleet. This is to ensure no Xenos, Chaos, or mutant taint makes it aboard their vessels, and should a civilian show even the slightest glint of these aforementioned afflictions, they will be quickly dealt with and made into an example for fellow potential conspirators to see. The Chapter are proud of their roles as protectors of humanity, but as many Astartes would, they will take the necessary measures to insure that the purity of mankind is protected and preserved no matter the cost.
However, the salvation they bring often comes with a hefty price. To repay their deliverance from annihilation, the Chapter extracts a tithe from the worlds they liberate and from the survivors of devastated worlds. Those saved by these wandering giants will provide the Chapter with not only supplies for their crusade across the Sector, but they will also give up their male youth to the Chapter. Those who exhibit exception strength, resilience, and mental fortitude will be amongst those who will be chosen to become aspirants of the Astral Vanguards. Those who are unfit for the trials will be used as Chapter serfs. Amongst those who have passed the initial inspection and who have sought refuge amongst the Chapters fleet, if they have no aspirants to offer or lack the physical capability of serving as Chapter serfs, these individuals will then be subject to servitorization. Those who do serve the Chapter as serfs are treated with a fair deal of respect by the Astartes. Despite their roles as protectors, the Chapter will also carry out the role as executioners as well. In dire cases where an Imperial world has fallen to Xenos or Chaos corruption, the Astral Vanguards will grant the world and its people the Emperor's mercy by cleansing the planet of all its corruption, leaving no survivors in their path as those who are willing to betray humanity to side with the nefarious forces of Chaos or the conniving Xenos swift deserve punishment by the hands of the Emperor's Angels.
Traditions
The Nomads Gift
Part of their tradition is to bestow forged relics or gifts crafted within the Chapter’s foundries to the people of the worlds they save for them to remember the Astral Vanguards by. This tradition honors their compassion for humanity while acknowledging their duties as the Emperor's Angels of Death. This ensures that their presence is remembered, even after they have long departed. Hidden within the Nomads Gift is a vox-caster, this allows the Chapter to monitor the planet’s status from afar and return when needed. If the tithe is due, the world is in peril, or has fallen to corruption, the beacon acts as a guide for the fleet’s navigation.
The Oath of the Void
Before any major campaign the Chapter finds themselves in, they all gather within their vessels’ prayer halls to recite the Oath of the Void. The ceremony includes gazing at a projection of the stars of the solar system they are currently in, which symbolizes their unending journey and the Emperor’s light guiding them through the void.
Weapon Forging
Much like their parent Chapter, the Salamanders, the Astral Vanguards hold weapon crafting in high regard. Every single Space Marine of the Chapter is trained in the sacred art of weapon forging from the time they are aspirants. This symbolizes the bond every marine has to the weapons that he forges; for these are not merely seen as tools, but as extensions of the marine themselves. The weapons and armor of the Chapter often feature celestial symbols, the names of the worlds they saved, or even the names of long lost Battle-Brothers. This is to remind themselves of the sacrifices each marine had to make in order to become what they are.
Marks of Glory
The Astral Vanguards receive etchings onto their armor instead of branding their flesh to commemorate their major battles and achievements. Each mark tells a story of the marine’s journey, blending milestones they have achieved and adding to the collective legacy of the Chapter.
The Celestial Vigil
The Chapters sacred meditation ritual amongst the Astral Vanguards, held within the chapels of their vessels. The Battle-Brothers kneel in silence beneath the domed ceilings of the ships chapels while reciting the Litany of the Honor Bound to focus their minds and reaffirm their purpose Space Marines. This ritual is performed before or after significant campaigns; serving as a time for reflection, healing, and spiritual renewal. For veterans, the Vigil can last for several days, which inspires younger marines to strengthen their faith and resolve. This tradition reinforces the Chapter’s resilience and unity, reminding them of their eternal duty and the burdens they bear as the protectors of humanity.
The Lament of Ashes
This procession is held for the honored fallen of the Astral Vanguards through a solemn and sacred ritual known as The Lament of Ashes. When a brother of the Chapter falls in battle, his remains are retrieved by his squad-mates with the utmost care and brought aboard the Vigilia Aeterna, the flagship of the Chapters fleet. The name of the fallen marine is inscribed into the Tome of Remembrance, an archive of the names of every single Battle-Brother who met an honorable end and their final acts of duty they accomplished. The deceased is cremated in the flagships sacred forge, their ashes mingling with the embers that have burned since the Chapters very founding. During this ceremony, the Wayfarers Circle is led by the High Creedwarden (Master of Sanctity) of the Chapter in a recitation of the Litany of the Honor Bound. Once cremated, the ashes are gathered into a ceremonial urn with celestial patterns and names of the campaigns the fallen brother took part in during his life of service. In a somber procession, the urn is then carried to an airlock aboard the flagship. Surrounded by his brothers, the High Creedwarden speaks a final blessing before the ashes are released into the void. The marines stand in silence, watching the ashes drift amongst the stars. This serves as a symbolic gesture of their eternal crusade to protect the subjects of the Emperor. This also symbolizes how in death, the fallen Battle-Brothers will watch over their Chapter as part of the infinite expanse of the galaxy, but also serves as a reminder for the inevitable fate that will befall every Astral Vanguard.
Astral Vanguard Naming Conventions
The naming conventions of the Astral Vanguards stems from their old homeworld of Tenras. The culture of the Tenrasi people are based on the ancient people from Old Terra, specifically those from both the Turkic and Mongol people of Central Asia. Some examples of some Tenrasi names the space marines of the chapter will be given are Temren, Sayan, Kahir, Matau, etc. Alongside their given Tenrasi names and enough experience, they will be given an epitaph that they earn from their most notable deeds. Some examples include Voidblade, Ashfang, Ironfist, etc.
Notable Individuals
Chapter Recruitment
The Oath of Departure
Before the fall of their homeworld, the Astral Vanguards would recruit aspirants from the many Tenrasi clans. Now, with no homeworld to claim as theirs, the Chapter has resorted to recruiting aspirants from the battlefields where they came out victorious, or from the remnants of a ravaged world. These aspirants are chosen based on their physical strength, resilience, and mental fortitude. Among those who display exceptional promise in all three virtues, they will be taken by the Chapter. It is here that they will swear an Oath of Departure; a blood oath to give themselves over to the Chapter to embrace their part in their eternal crusade. Thus cementing their first steps in giving themselves fully to the Vanguards Creed. For several years, the aspirants are put through a series of brutal and unforgiving trials. These are designed to reforge the mind, body, and soul of the young aspirants into blades of the Emperor and shields to the Imperium.
The Trials
Trial of the Embers
The first of the trials, it is here that the aspirants are taught not only the foundational skill of weapon forging. This trial tests the patience and endurance of the aspirants as they are brought into the Chapters blazing foundries and must push on through the scorching pain brought about by the heat of the forge. Aspirants are tasked with forging a bladed weapon that they'll be using throughout the rest of the trials. Failure in passing this trial results in the aspirant being turned into a Chapter serf.
Trial of the Void
It is here in the second trial that aspirants spend time in isolation within a small pod, enduring the cold vastness of the void for a prolonged period of time. This tests the aspirants resolve and ability to maintain focus in solitude. Those who succumb to fear or despair will be seen as unfit for the Chapter and will either face reassignment as serfs or exile.
Trial of the Gauntlet
The third trial trains the aspirants in the Chapters combat doctrine, Path of The Sword and Shield. This tests their mastery defensive resilience and offensive precision. Aspirants are put through grueling wargames. During these wargames, aspirants must excel in defensive scenarios, precise assaults, and combined operations that balance both resilience and offense, all within harsh environments. It is here that their physical endurance, adaptability, and tactical skill under pressure are put to the test. Failure in this trial results in forced exile, often resulting in aspirants being marooned on the planet the wargames were held. This trial ensures that only those who truly embody the Chapter's values and combat acumen ascend further into the trials ahead.
Trial of the Hunter
The fourth trial tests the aspirants steel and mettle against the horrors of the galaxy to ensure that only the strongest receive the first set of implantations. The aspirants are deployed to a hostile alien planet and are tasked with hunting the planets most dangerous form of predator. Prior to deployment, they receive only minimal intelligence about the terrain and the creature they are tasked with hunting and must rely on their instincts and adaptability. Working in teams of ten, the aspirants must track down, hunt, kill the creature, and return with a trophy as proof of their triumph. The danger and difficulty of this trial are immense, as only three or four out of the ten aspirants sent to the planet typically return from this harrowing test. Those who do manage to make it back from this trial, but are severely injured, are then subjected to servitorization.
Trial of the Crucible
The fifth and final trial puts the remaining aspirants through the procedure to receive their first set of implantations. This trial differs from the last as its not a direct test of combat skill, but more a trial of endurance and resilience, as the aspirants must survive the intense physical strain and spiritual burden of the implantation process. Overseen by the Chapters Reclaimers (Apothecaries) and Creedwardens (Chaplains). The process is fraught with risk, with many of the aspirants succumbing to the grueling transformation or rejecting the gene-seed outright. Those who do endure this ordeal emerge strengthened and are formally accepted into the Chapter as scouts.
Becoming Scouts
During this time, the newly created scouts will serve in combat for a number of months under the guidance of a sergeant and will be trained in the Chapters doctrine of war. It is under his guidance, the scouts embark on their first set of combat operations, where they hone their skills in order to fully embody the Chapters ethos. During this period, scouts will learn the intricacies of Path of The Sword and Shield doctrine, practicing defensive tactics and precision strikes while emphasizing the protection of civilians. This stage is critical in shaping their abilities and reinforcing the values of the Chapter; forging them into disciplined warriors ready to ascend to becoming full fledged Battle-Brothers once the sergeant deems them worthy of receiving their final implantations.
Reborn Anew
Upon successfully receiving their final implantations, the newly ascended Astartes will undergo a naming rite aboard the Chapter's flagship vessel, within the Oathborn Sanctum, a grand candle-lit chamber adorn with motifs of grand constellations and celestial bodies, is where the newly ascended Space Marines, now fully stripped of their old identities, stand forth to both the Chapter Master and High Creedwarden. They speak of the trials and sacrifices each marine had made to get to where they are now. Each Battle-Brother steps forward in turn, their accomplishments they achieved throughout the trials are recited before their fellow brothers. Based on their deeds, the new Battle-Brothers are given names that reflect their character, resilience, or their defining moment in their journey to becoming a Space Marine.
Chapters Gene-Seed
Chapters Gene-flaw
Combat Doctrine
The Astral Vanguards have had to make adjustments to their ways of combat due to their nomadic nature and having fought a multitude of different enemies in different environments. The Chapter employs their combat doctrine known as Path of The Sword and Shield. This is an generalist philosophy to war that embodies both their adaptability and their commitment to protecting humanity; emphasizing the combination of whatever tactics are necessary to defeat the enemies of Mankind. The use of tacticus, gravis, and phobos pattern units are all utilized within the Chapter. Unlike their gene sires, the Astral Vanguards do not favor the use of flamer based weapons and thunder hammers as their main choice of weapons; they favor whatever tool proves to be the most effective against whatever enemies that lay before them.
Their combat doctrine focuses of two key paths that the Chapter follows when in battle as each Battle-Brother is trained in both aspects of the combat doctrine, ensuring that each marine is a finely honed blade and an unbreakable shield. The Path of the Shield focuses on having an impenetrable defense; creating a strong grip around key objectives, while also establishing kill zones in order to box enemy units in with no chance of escape. The Path of the Sword focuses on an engaging the enemy in an unrelenting offensive, involving the execution of quick and decisive attacks to dismantle enemy command structures, supply lines, critical assets, and the elimination of high-value targets.
Chapter Organization
Ranks
Chapter Leadership
The Chapter’s political decisions are governed by the Wayfarers Circle, a council comprised of the current Chapter Master, Arslanor Voidblade the Chapter Master, the High Creedwarden (Master of Sanctity), Elder Sage (Chief Librarian), Lord Forgekeeper (Master of the Forge), Reclaimer of Ashes (Master of the Apothecarion), and the War Chiefs (Captains) of each of the 10 companies. The War Chiefs also represent the vessels under their command, blending military and logistical oversight with strategic planning. The Wayfarers Circle meets beneath the projection of a star map aboard the Vigilia Aeterna (The Eternal Watch), where every decision is framed by the endless void that defines their existence; all to ensure the Chapters survival.
Order of Battle
Headquarters
Chapter Companies
Non-Astartes Personnel
Chapter Fleet
Chapter Armoury
Chapter Relics
Chapter Appearance
Chapter Colours
The Astral Vanguards' armor features blue pauldrons, arms, helmet, power pack, and knee pads. The torso and legs are painted in a dark grey, providing a stark contrast to the vibrant blue elements of the armor. Their helmets are further distinguished by the white faceplates accented with a dark grey stripe running down the center of the helmet vertically. The red lenses add a sharp, menacing edge, complementing the color scheme that provides the Chapter with a visually commanding presence. They also sport on pelts taken as trophies from the monster they hunt as symbols of their relentless drive to destroy any who stand in the way of the Vanguards Creed.
Chapter Badge
The emblem of the Chapter is that of a black sword and shield. This symbol is the embodiment of the Chapters void-faring spirit, endurance, and strength. The iconography also symbolizes the weight to bear heavy burdens, it reflects the Chapter's relentless crusade across the void; exemplifying their roles as humanities guardians in the face of their enemies. This symbol also provides connection to the Chapters combat doctrine, Path of The Sword and Shield.
Deathwatch Service
Most members of the Chapter views service in the Deathwatch as a high honor. The insight gained from these brothers is viewed as a boon to the Chapter in order for them to strengthen their combat doctrine to better combat xenos threats, wherever they may be. However, there are those amongst the Chapter that view deathwatch service as deviating too far from their sacred oaths to the Chapter. The prolonged separation from their Chapter will weaken the Space Marines bond to their Chapter. Skeptics of the Deathwatch within the Chapter believe that the strength of their Chapter relies on the bonds each Battle-Brother has with each other, and in the eyes of these individuals, giving away said brothers is seen as antithetical to their Chapters beliefs. This belief is also validated for some by the fact that some of their brothers will stay in the deathwatch permanently as Black Shields. Nonetheless, the Chapter still willingly cooperates with the Deathwatch.
Chapters Relationships
Allies
| Name | Iconography | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Salamanders |   |
The Astral Vanguards and the Salamanders share a strong, yet complex bond with one another. They each take pride in their craftsmanship. Additionally, both Chapters values their roles as protectors of humanity; however, there is a noticeable divide between the two. Some amongst the Salamanders, who are staunch followers of the Promethean Cult, view the liberties taken by the Astral Vanguards in their alterations of what the Promethean Cult demands of them as sons of Vulkan as blasphemous. Yet, there are many more amongst the Salamanders who view their fellow sons of Vulkan with a high sense of respect for their unyielding resolve in battle and dedication to humanity. Despite these differences, brotherhood between the two Chapters still remains strong. |
| Astra Militarum |   |
Despite the divide that is between the mortal soldiers of the Imperial and the genetically modified Angels of Death, the Chapter does not view them in the same light as many other Astartes do. The Astral Vanguards hold a deep respect for their mortal brothers and sisters-at-arms. They recognize the unbreakable will that every man and woman in the Astra Militarum has in order to fight against the darkness that seeks to snuff out the Emperor's light. The versatility of the Chapters combat doctrine also proves to be a boon when reinforcing vulnerable gaps in ally defenses and to strike down enemy combatants that normal infantry would greatly struggle against. The Guardsmen reciprocate their respect towards the Chapter by telling tales of the nomadic giants who arrived in their darkest hour to turn the tides of war in humanity's favor. |
| House Radrios |   |
Neutral
| Name | Iconography | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adeptus Mechanicus |   |
Both the Astral Vanguard and the Mechanicus share a mutual respect for one another. The Mechanicus respect the Chapters craftmanship while the Astral Vanguards value the knowledge the Priests of Mars can provide. Due to the nomadic nature of the Chapter, they heavily rely on the Mechanicus for support in repairs and maintenance to ensure that the Chapters fleets and arsenals are in peak condition. In return, the Chapter aids in defense of forge worlds and provides protection during exploratory missions. Yet, despite their relationship, the Chapter on many occasions have also caught ire of the Priesthood of Mars due to the Chapter tendency to modify their wargear, which is viewed as performing tech-heresy in the eyes of the Mechanicus. |
| Deathwatch |   |
The Astral Vanguards have maintained a mutual, yet beneficial relationship with the Chamber Militant of the Ordos Xenos. Despite the concern many amongst the Chapter has when giving away their most valuable assets away, their Battle-Brothers, to the Deathwatch. However, they also understand the necessity of them doing so. In doing so, the Chapter will gain much needed experience in fighting any Xenos threat that comes their way from the Battle-Brothers who would make their return, while also having those marines come back to the Chapter as stronger warriors as well. |
Enemies
| Name | Iconography | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The Pale Riders |   | |
| Kabal of the Flayed Sun |   | |
| Orks |   | |
| Genestealer Cultists |   | |
| Tyranids |   | |
| Necrons |   | |
| T'au Empire |   |
Notable Quotes
By The Astral Vanguards
About The Astral Vanguards
Gallery
