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This article, Nemean Lions, was written by Cornish Moose. Please do not edit or 'acquire' this fiction without the writer's permission. |
- "The burden of duty weighs heavy upon us all. We are the stalwart defenders of the Imperium, and it falls upon us to protect humanity from the horrors that seek to destroy us. The attrition of war is a relentless enemy, one that drains our strength and tests our resolve. But we are not here to falter or fail. We are here to fight until our last breath, to hold the line and keep the darkness at bay. We are the Nemean Lions, and we will never back down from our duty to the Imperium. They shall know our fury!"
- —Regulus Leonidas, Former Chapter Master of the Nemean Lions
The Nemean Lions (High Gothic: Leones Nemeaeus) are a Loyalist Successor Chapter of the stoic Imperial Fists, raised during the 23rd 'Sentinel' Founding in the early years of the 38th millennium. They were created in response to an increase in Ork activity in the vicinity of the Aeaean Cluster in Ultima Segmentum. Regulus Shaka, the founder and first Chapter Master, fought hard to establish the Chapter and mould them into a well-equipped fighting force - despite the indifference of the Imperium's logistical system - to make sure they could resist the greenskin hordes that opposed them. A Chapter born from a desire to prove the worth of the warriors of Caelus, the Nemean Lions are a young but proud Chapter that does not shy away from a challenge and is always ready to answer the Imperium's call.
As a largely Codex-compliant Chapter, the Nemean Lions predominantly adhere to the tenets of the Codex Astartes, with exceptions regarding naming conventions, and some minor elements of organisation. Marines hailing from the chapter are proud individuals, bearing markers on their armour and wearing pelts as displays of their personal courage and achievements. Acts of bravery are lauded and a brother that defeats a powerful foe is likely to be marked out for future greatness. Yet despite this, they are level-headed as well, creating robust battle stratagems that are calculated to minimise casualties, both their own and that of civilians. While their affinity for the mortal peoples of the Imperium is a point of pride for the Chapter (in marked contrast to many of their more uncaring brethren), they do not place the lives of these mortals above their own and will (reluctantly) sacrifice them for the greater good of humanity if needed.
As of the 42nd millennium, the Chapter is currently recovering from heavy losses incurred during the Fall of Cadia and the subsequent formation of the Cicatrix Maledictum. Furthermore, their homeworld was ravaged by a splinter fleet of the Great Devourer and most of the inhabitants slain or scattered. While the planet survived, albeit barely, it was forever altered by the event and the Chapter has become fleet-based while the massive restoration efforts are underway to try and salvage it.
The arrival of Primaris reinforcements have filled most of the gaps left by the fallen Astartes within the Chapter's ranks, albeit at a cost to the internal homogeneity of the Chapter. Rumours of bitter debate amongst the Firstborn and even hushed whispers of a schism are furiously denied by the Chapter, which insists that they are united in their acceptance of the Emperor's gift.
Chapter History[]
Founding
In the dawning years of the 38th millennium, the series of linked foundings that are collectively known as the 23rd Founding was ongoing, with another batch of new Chapters ready to begin mustering. The Nemean Lions were amongst these new creations, but their tale goes back a little further than this however, to the twilight of the previous millennium.
For thousands of years, the elders of Caelus Prime had shown little interest in the wider Imperium, dutifully providing the Tithe when required and carrying on their lives without worrying much about the visitors from the stars. This changed when raiders attacked from off-world, causing great destruction before the arrival of Astartes from the Scions of Cassan, which drove off the invaders. The sight of these mighty demi-gods filled the Nemeans with awe, particularly the young King Sigujana whom had fought alongside them at the head of the PDF.
Sigujana could not shake his dreams of these warriors from his mind after their departure, and he greatly desired to see their kind once more, perhaps even join their ranks if he could. To that end, he decided to do what no Nemean had ever done before, depart his homeworld and set out into the wider galaxy.
Sigujana spoke with the traders that frequently visited Caelus Prime to buy goods from his people, seeking their aid. These traders claimed they did not know the location of the Scions, but that they knew of a route to Holy Terra, birthplace of humanity and home to the Emperor, creator of the Astartes. Whether what they said was true, or a ploy to gain a great sum of wealth from the Nemeans, is not known. Nonetheless Sigujana eagerly accepted their offer to arrange passage, gathering a host of warriors and their families, along with most of his wealth. This party set off on the vessel provided, leaving his daughter as steward.
What they had assumed was a quick journey, proved to be far, far longer. The original traders quickly slipped away, passing off their charges into the hands of other merchant captains and cargo haulers. For much of the following century, the Nemeans drifted from port to port, hopping between vessels as they inched closer to Terra. What the traders had neglected to mention, prior to their departure, was the difficulty in obtaining direct transport, and the sheer number of other peoples, officials and pilgrims, likewise heading towards Terra which stymied every step forward. As they sat in a merchant dock in Segmentum Solar, King Sigujana finally passed, his dream unfulfilled. His warriors too had passed by then, indeed the party now consisted of the sons and daughters of the families, lead by Sigujana's son, Kajama. Kajama debated whether to even continue with the journey, now that those who had precipitated it were all gone. As he lingered at the dock, pondering his decision, Kajama met a young Rogue Trader by the name of Ezana and while they didn't know it at the time, both of the men's fortunes changed forever.
Ezana, on route to Terra himself to visit a Navigator house in his personal corvette, saw an opportunity to gain great wealth, for the Nemeans still had ample reserves, including a number of exotic beasts. He offered to take the group to the Phalanx, the Imperial Fists' mobile Fortress-Monastery in orbit of Holy Terra. he told Kajama that this mobile fortress was home to some of the Emperor's angels, who may hear out his request. Kajama was wary, distrustful of these lofty promises after seeing the duplicity of many of the men his father had dealt with. It was only after much talk with Ezana that he was eventually brought round to one final throw of the dice. Ezana was able to use his contacts to arrange a landing on the Phalanx for the Nemeans. There they sought an audience with the Imperial Fists’ Castellan present. Having piqued his interest with their boldness, this audience was permitted. Kajama made an impassioned speech to the Castellan, weaving a spellbinding tale of the journey they had undertaken, of the challenges they'd faced and determination they'd displayed. His warriors displayed their prowess in a series of mock battles and coordinated dances, showcasing their abilities with the spear and shield. Kajama's young son Shaka even stepped forward unprompted and gave a short speech, a bold move for one so young and so unnerved by the occasion. This boldness by the Nemeans impressed the Astartes present and they offered up a proposal. They spoke of the ongoing 23rd Founding and the latest mustering of recruits which had just started. Chapter 973 had been assigned to the Imperial Fists for creation and they suggested that the youngest of the Nemean party join these growing ranks.
Talos Titanomakhitis, a mighty Contemptor Dreadnought that was gifted to the Chapter by the Imperial Fists upon their founding. The current pilot was interred during the Medean Crusade in M39.
Kajama was devastated to discover that he was far too old to become an initiate, but to his immense pride his son Shaka was not and immediately volunteered to prove his mettle in the trials to become one of humanity's mightiest warriors. Kajama asked the male children of his party to likewise undergo the implantation of gene-seed so that his son, whom he was sure would prove the greatest of the new recruits and be selected their leader, would have a core of veterans to build his Chapter around. The Imperial Fists' Apothecaries warned that while they were young enough, there was still great risk in undergoing the process to become an Astartes. The trials they would have to endure to become transhuman Astartes would very likely kill some of them in the process, no matter how courageous and strong-willed they were. Despite these risks every boy agreed without hesitation, and so the Imperial Fists' finest Apothecaries and fleshcrafters utilised the ancient techniques and their finest relic medicae equipment, to undertake the task of successfully transforming these brave children, from human to transhuman warrior. But as predicted, some of them nonetheless died, such is the fickle nature of such arcane technology and the gruelling training regime. Out of the volunteers, barely two score survived the trials and transformation, a number that nonetheless impressed the Imperial Fists at the hardiness of the Caelusians. In honour of their courage the transformed Prince Shaka - who indeed was appointed to be Master of Chapter 973 - formed an elite company of Astartes around the survivors, the core members of his honour guard. They would serve him well as advisors and as protectors over the following centuries. After consulting various charts, it was deemed that Caelus Prime would be a suitable destination for the new Chapter, for the Aeaean Cluster was vulnerable to outside threats. Thus Kajama, Shaka and the fledgling core of the new chapter departed the Phalanx with a retinue of Imperial Fists to further train these new warriors, and a number of gifts, the most valuable of these being a priceless suit of Mk II Crusade armour and an ornate sword wielded by a former Chapter Master.
The newly anointed Chapter Master (for which the Nemean title of Regulus was created) swiftly grew into an excellent example of an Astartes. He did not sit idle as his Chapter, named the Nemean Lions in honour of the mightiest predator on Caelus, grew around him, leaning on his advisors and father to see if there were any improvements that could be made to his warriors or their equipment.
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+++CLEARANCE: Magenta
+++DATE: 178.M38
+++RED NN. 269348-3
+++SUBJECT: Chapter Equipment
-
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(reference file ++CPW/158.356.CSS.++)
Greetings esteemed Magos,
It has come to my attention that you hold in your vaults stockpiles of equipment salvaged from the fallen Adeptus Astartes Chapter known as the "Crimson Robes". For reasons unbeknownst to anyone outside of the Administratum, this cache was not acquired for my Chapter upon founding, despite our proximity.
It seems to me that an accord could be arranged between us, to both of our benefits... I have attached a file of various goods and minerals which my world could provide you with, for your perusal. Additionally such an agreement could provide you with other benefits, the friendship of an Adeptus Astartes Chapter, so close to you could prove a great boon in your future.
I look forward to receiving your reply.
May the Spirits guide you
Regulus Shaka,
Chapter Master of the Nemean Lions, Adeptus Astartes
One of his first destinations was the Forge World of Tvastar, having been told of the Crimson Robes, a Chapter lost in the warp since the 33rd Millennium. This ill-fated force had re-emerged 5 years earlier, only to be assaulted by a massive Ork fleet and driven to the planet of Chekhov IV. There the Chapter had been wiped out after heavy fighting with the savage xenos before reinforcements could arrive and repel the greenskins. The salvageable power armour and wargear had been taken to Tvastar for repair and Shaka wanted this rare cache of ancient equipment for his men. The Mechanicus present were initially dismissive but after Shaka presented the Magos with gifts, including pelts from the incredibly rare Apex Nemean Leonis, he was able to gain their attention. The Lions were provided with a significant amount of equipment from the cache and some were able to augment their Mk VII armour with pieces of Mk III as a result and a few veteran Kontoi were even blessed with full suits of Mk III armour.
Space Hulk Cleansing
Pict-file of Space Hulk Dominatus Felix Titanicus, seen drifting free of the nebula which had concealed it for many millennia.
With resources spread thin as the Imperium mustered the huge number of new Chapters, the Nemeans were only given a modest fleet as part of their Founding - two Battle Barges and a small number of Strike Cruisers and Escorts. While this was considered suitable by the Administratum for the Chapter to fulfil its role, Shaka was not pleased with the situation.
As the Bastion Chapter of the Aeaean Cluster the Lions were expected to cover a large area and their foes had sizable fleets to call upon. The Sector fleets were depleted by constant fighting and could not be relied upon for support so the Lions needed to be able to hold their own in void combat. Shaka was mindful of what had happened to the Crimson Robes, the scarred armour of his men a constant reminder of how vulnerable a Chapter can be in the huge universe. Shaka decided to enlist the help of the Rogue Trader his father had used before, Ezana of the Solar Winds of Auximite, to help him search for new ships. The Auximite by chance had already found what Shaka wanted but lacked the means to tackle it themselves - a Space Hulk drifting in void space that was believed to contain salvageable ships. Scans of the hulk showed it was home to what they believed to be a human population, but no envoys that the Auximite had sent there had returned. Shaka saw the opportunities that this provided to both factions and decided to draw up plans. In a combined operation a force from the Auximite Merchant Fleet joined the Nemean Lions and together they assaulted the Space Hulk. They quickly discovered that the humans were in fact an infestation of Genestealer Cults.
After a prolonged engagement involving the entire Chapter sweeping the hulk compartment by compartment, the Lions were able to defeat the Genestealers and claim the Space Hulk. From this they were able to cut free and claim a sizeable number of ships, including an enormous Dreadnought, three Battlecruisers and a number of Cruisers. The Dreadnought was heavily damaged and would require extensive repairs at the orbital yards orbiting Tvastar. The Battlecruisers were relatively lightly damaged and Shaka presented them to the Magos of Tvastar as a gift in thanks for their assistance. The Cruisers would take longer to repair but several would eventually join the Chapter fleet, the rest going to bolster the battered Battlefleet Kantharos. Freed from the threat of enemy attack the Auximite were able to begin more extensive salvage operations of the Space Hulk, eventually salvaging a number of minor vessels.
Passing of the Torch
Shaka had achieved much in a few hundred years, strengthening both his Chapter and the Aeaean Cluster. His legacy would be cut short however, unforeseen failures of implanted organs meant that his health began to rapidly deteriorate. The Spiritwalkers communed with the ancestors for guidance and announced that Shaka's destiny was to slumber until the Chapter's need was most dire. Twelve great periods of strife would require his wisdom and strength before he could cross over to the spirit world. It was decided that this meant that Shaka should be placed into cryo-sleep and awoken when the Lions faced an insurmountable threat.
Prior to entering cryo-sleep, Shaka's final task was overseeing the election of his successor, Hekaton Nicarchus of the 2nd Speria.
While uncommon, some of the younger members of the Chapter utilise Bikes as part of 'Wolf Packs', conducting long range reconnaissance and raids.
Sebastus Crusade
In one of their first major campaigns after the internment of Shaka, Nicarchus answered a call from his fellow sons of Rogal Dorn; the Imperial Fists, Black Templars, Frost Claws and Soul Drinkers. This call was to participate in a massive Imperial Crusade, currently mustering on the world of Sebastus. However whilst the five Chapters were assembling and awaiting the arrival of further forces, they were attacked by the newly promoted, supremely arrogant and ambitious Warsmith Ta'shur of the Iron Warriors traitor Legion. During the Iron Warrior's surprise assault, Nicharchus was slain by Ta'shur before the Iron Warriors were forced to retreat by the arrival of Imperial reinforcements. The fury of the Astartes was incandescent and the original crusade was repurposed to target this new opponent, the Iron Warriors warband. Over the following eight years, the vengeful Chapters viciously hunted down Ta'shur, who had underestimated the storm he had brought upon himself. The assembled Chapters were merciless, burning his fleet, smashing his fortresses until only one remained. On the world of Imu II they besieged Ta'shur's final fortress, methodically pounding it into a ruin and crushing the defenders. In the end, serving alongside the Sword Brethren of the Black Templars, and veterans of his own 1st Speria under the cover of relentless bombardment from the Frost Claws' Drak's Roar Land Raiders, Caellumis, the newly promoted Regulus, managed to cripple Ta'shur before publicly executing him, decapitating the Warsmith at the very top of his wrecked fortress.
Medean Crusade
Despite the best efforts of its staunch defenders, by the early 39th Millennium the Aeaean Cluster was once more embroiled in constant war. Ork Waaaghs were pushing deep into the Sector, ravaging the vital systems within. These attacks culminated in the massive Waaagh of Warboss Darrioz, a cunning greenskin who rampaged across half the Cluster before his three pronged assault was finally halted in the orbits of Caelus Prime, Tvastar and Tymar by the forces of the Imperium. Darrioz was slain by an awoken Shaka in battle on Caelus Prime in the First Battle of Mytikas Peak and this left the Orks temporarily in turmoil. With half of the Cluster occupied or besieged by the xenos menace, it was decided by the ruling council of the Cluster that these attacks could not continue and that the Imperium needed to retake both the lost ground and annex the neighbouring Ork territories as well to lessen future attacks. For this a Crusade would be called, drawn from the Nemean Lions and local Astra Militarum forces as well as any available detachments of other nearby Astartes Chapters. They would strike in three battlegroups and then split off into multiple detachments to attack as many worlds as possible to keep the Orks off balance. Speed was of the essence to capitalise on the leaderless Orks so little time was spent sending out requests for outside assistance. The opening assaults were highly successful in driving the greenskins back but it was not long before a new Warboss named Xerkzez seized power and organised an effective resistance. Xerkzez was also a cunning leader, a former lieutenant of and worthy successor to Darrioz, and fought well against the hard pressed Imperial forces. For several decades the campaign experienced both triumph and disaster as the fortunes of war swung back and forth. Eventually Xerkzez was toppled in the battle of Salamesh and the Orks finally routed. While half of the Sector was devastated in the conflict, the Ork threat had been so diminished that a period of relative peace would follow for many years, allowing time to rebuild and reinforce. In the aftermath the Nemean Lions took the opportunity to start undertaking a larger role in the Imperium, casting off their now redundant previous role as a Bastion Chapter.
Aquivea Campaign
One of the first actions the Lions participated in after the Medean Crusade, the Aquivea Campaign was a swift and brutal cleansing of a system that had declared independence from the Imperium. Regulus Epamondas led a force in a daring strike on the governor’s palace and took out the entire leadership in a single stroke. However this did not lead to the capitulation of the citizens as expected, for the rebellion was actually the result of a foul xenos cult working from the shadows. Epamondas and his men were forced to fight a running street battle against both human and abominations as they withdrew from the capital in the face of an overwhelming counterattack. After achieving this with minimal casualties they prepared for a full scale assault against the hive but this was countermanded by an Inquisitor, who had decided such heresy could only be resolved via purifying the planet. Epamondas protested, arguing that nearly all of the citizens were unwitting participants but was forced to stand aside. Thus began a long history of distrust when it came to Inquisitors and their organisation.
Betrayal and Turmoil
In this disastrous encounter, later named the Ambush at Luhktrae, the Lion's suffered the loss of almost the entire first Speria after being betrayed by a detachment of a brother Chapter, the Scions of Cassan, which had secretly turned to Chaos. The remainder of the Lions furiously pursued and slaughtered the heretic Astartes to avenge their brothers and retrieve the Chapter's precious Terminator armour. The bloodlust of the Lions was not slaked by this victory and they refused to believe that these Astartes were working alone. They located and blockaded the fleet of the Scions in orbit of a world, demanding the destruction of the remaining Scions whom they declared traitors. It was only the size of the Scions fleet (larger than that of the Lions thanks to their fleet-based nature) that stayed their hand long enough for the intervention of cooler heads and the summoning of an Inquisitor to prevent a full scale conflict between the two. While the rest of the Scions were cleared of heretical taint, the Lions disdained this decision and vowed to never fight alongside them again.
Ancient of the 1st Speria, shown bearing the black banner of the post-Shaka era.
The shame of losing their first Speria caused great dismay amongst the battle brothers of the Lions, shaking their confidence in their own martial skills. Believing that they had been forsaken by the spirits, some fell into a state of despair, others departed the Chapter to become Deathwatch Blackshields and try to regain honour that way. Epamondas tried to still this rising turmoil by deploying the Chapter on a campaign to gain some quick victories but this proved to be a mistake when the conflict turned into a drawn out war against a mysterious robotic foe which saw the complete annihilation of several Speria. This defeat, combined with the horrific sight of former brothers transformed into monstrous trophies which some of the robots draped over their bodies, almost in a parody of the pelts worn by the Lions, sent morale on a further spiral downwards. Fearing that the Chapter was on the verge of collapse, Epamondas ordered all remaining Lions to return to Caelus Prime and brought Shaka out of Cryogenic sleep. Shaka, deeply disturbed by this turn of events, gathered the entire Chapter, now just numbering a few hundred, onto the hunting plain and spoke with his brothers. Each one was honoured to bear witness to their founder and drew strength from his presence. Shaka ordered an immediate crusade against the robots that had bloodied his warriors, vowing to repay all shed blood.
A member of the Sparagos.
With Shaka in command, he was able to rouse the Lions to renewed vigour and they set off once more for the Tomb world. Armed with the foreknowledge of what they faced, Shaka was able to prepare for each encounter, softening up each target with orbital fire, artillery and diversionary assaults. As a result each victory was assured but not obviously so, raising the spirits of his men. The reclamation of the bodies from the first campaign was another boost, allowing those spirits to be guided into the afterlife. By the end of the mission Shaka was confident that the morale of the Chapter was on the mend and was satisfied to return to his slumber. He left a parting reminder to Epamondas to take more care when planning any future ‘easy’ missions. After this incident Regulus Epamondas ordered the creation of the Sparagos, a taskforce to be gathered in times of great strife to avenge fallen Nemeans and bring the culprits to justice.
The Harrowing of Epipolae
A campaign badge to commemorate the Epipolae campaign, created after the conciliation of the Nemean Lions and the Immortals.
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+++CLEARANCE: Carmine
+++DATE: 578.M39
+++RED NN. 223368-9
+++SUBJECT: Epipolae Atonement
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Greetings esteemed Regulus,
I come to you with glad tidings, a matter which I hope can repair the ill blood that lies between our two Chapters.
During a series of reprisals we enacted against those foul traitors, the Amber Shrouds, we captured and purged their flagship, the vessel which caused us so much ire at Epipolae. In the abomination that was their trophy room, we recovered the bodies of those who fell at Epipolae, both our own and your dead. While defiled and broken, we were able to restore them and we are on-route to restore them to your keeping. It is our great hope that this will be sufficient to heal the rift between us and perhaps our Chapters can become friends once more.
If you would permit us the honour, we will remain for the funerary rites so we may pay our respects to the fallen.
May the Spirits guide you
Shahanshah Epaminondas Abariel Esfand,
Chapter Master of the Immortals, Adeptus Astartes
The secluded Cisepolus star system in Ultima Segmentum saw an incursion of Enslavers that threatened to overrun the entire area. Four Spears (Companies) of the Astartes Chapter the Immortals were dispatched to offer their aid, including the majority of their First Spear. No strangers to slugging it out for protracted campaigns, they settled in for a gruelling campaign, fulfilling several noteworthy objectives and making headway in seeing the Enslavers off. This was not without cost however, with the four Spears reduced to a Spear and a half by the first year’s end in 567.M39. These brief victories were short lived however, with things taking a dark turn when several other fleets of Enslavers and their thralls converged upon the star system, cutting off the Immortals and those they assisted and driving them all the way toward the Hive and Fortress World of Epipolae. The Inquisition, alarmed by the sheer number of Enslavers that now occupied the territory, declared that the entirety of the star system must be subject to Exterminatus and that all the space within Cisepolus was declared a free fire zone. Anyone who did not leave the area within a week of issuing the order was to be destroyed alongside the worlds of Cisepolus.
A contingent of the Nemean Lions numbering two Speria were dispatched to assist in evacuation efforts of vital military assets and to alleviate the stress the understrength Imperial forces were facing. The Immortals set forth from Epipolae, their vessels alongside that of Imperial Navy vessels, laden with as many of the world’s populous and military hardware of value as they could hold. On route they endured a series of clashes with the Enslavers upon the worlds and in the void above them.
Despite these difficulties, the evacuation was largely successful, until the closing stages when the overstretched Immortals and Nemean Lions were met with another foe: the elusive Amber Kings. The fleet was ambushed as they made their way to the Mandeville Point by these renegade Astartes, that had a score to settled with the Immortals from since before they took on their current moniker. With a force numbering some six companies worth of Astartes, four of which fell upon both the Immortals and Nemean Lions, while the last two companies ensured that the pursuing Enslavers would not intervene. A steep toll was paid by both of the Chapters and the assortment of Imperial vessels, the ambush only being seen off after the Immortals' flagship of the first Spear, the Star Song, downed four vessels in quick succession while the acting Hekaton of the Nemean Lions boarded the command bridge of the aggressor’s flagship in a last ditch effort to sap momentum out of their opponent’s advance and seize the initiative once more. Though this was successful, and the enemy was halted and seen off; the Hekaton was slain and unfortunately for all those involved, the bodies they lost aboard the vessels of the Amber Kings could not be recovered due to the lack of numbers and other circumstances that barred either the Immortals or the Nemean Lions from being able to do so. With the stain of Lukhtrae still recent in the Chapter's memories, the Nemean's were greatly upset at this inability to recover the bodies, something they blamed the Immortals for as the Chapter had refused to lend any forces to a retrieval attempt.
The Immortals were keen to embark on a shadow crusade against those responsible for this tragedy, the Amber Kings. The events of that day bit deeply into the chapter’s sense of self and they were ready to pay that tally back to the Amber Kings for their transgression. Fought entirely within the void with few if any witnesses, this was a personal labour that no one else would be allowed to meddle in or contribute toward. They obsessively stalked their prey for the coming years in a bid to learn how they went about operating as traitors that shunned the Ruinous Powers, waiting for the opportunity to pounce on their quarry. They would be given said opportunity in the aftermath of a deal gone awry with other renegades and bands of pirates. While the small flotilla of vessels under the Amber Kings was licking their wounds, the Star Song and her assortment of vessels surrounded the wounded ships. The vicious Terminator formation of Sunspears teleported aboard their flagship while the other vessels contained the flotilla. It was ultimately a massacre for the beleaguered Amber Kings, and their trophy room which was filled with the bodies of those slain at Epipolae were reclaimed and taken with the Immortals back to the homeworld of the Nemean Lions. On the surface of Caelus Prime, both Chapters paid their last respects and observed the Last Rites of the Lions. For their part, the Immortals remembered the sacrifice of the Lions of Caelus and offered the Nemean Lions a statue carved from marble depicting one of the fallen Astartes struggling with an Apex Leonis. The efforts of the Immortals elicited immense gratitude from the Nemeans, and they in turn gifted the Immortals a number of pelts, hand crafted weapons such as spears and other such gifts like Leonis cubs. They also offered the Chapter their friendship and an open invitation to join them for feasts and celebrations when they were next held.
Organisational Reform
After the election of Regulus Alkaios in 652.M41, one of his first acts was to begin the arduous process of gathering support for a reform of the Chapter's organisation. The original, heavily Codex-deviant, layout of twelve Speria was becoming a hindrance in the increasingly turbulent current millennium. The loss of several Strike Cruisers made deploying the twelve Speria independently more difficult and there was a growing number of instances where the Codex-deviance would create friction when working alongside other Chapters or the Inquisition. Alkaios also believed that the small but significant uptick in manpower and vehicles for each Speria that would result from this change would prove decisive in the larger conflicts he foresaw arising. With the aid of his reputation and the support of the Spiritwalkers, who had received visions supporting this course of action, Alkaios was able to muster a majority in favour of this overhaul. The 11th and 12th Speria were disbanded and merged with the remaining ten. Alkaios decided to retain the twelve-sided tables that was located in the meeting chambers of the Fortress-Monastery and aboard the flagship Argos, placing an helm engraved with battle names on the vacant seats in honour of the former warriors and their Speria's deeds.
Cadia's Fall
Alkaios' three Speria fought many engagements in the Cadian system and the surrounding sector against the forces of the Great Enemy, using their enhanced mobility to conduct devastating strikes.
When the calls for reinforcement were sent out from Cadia after the Battle of Tyrok Fields, Regulus Alkaios knew that he must answer the call. Despite the Lions being committed in multiple campaigns across Ultima Segmentum, he understood that Cadia was of paramount importance. Eventually he decided to withdraw the first three Speria from the preparations for the Trojan campaign and lead these three hundred warriors to answer Cadia’s call. Accompanied by the Argos, these Speria participated in the defence of Cadia against Abaddon’s latest Crusade, battling traitor forces across multiple warzones. They suffered heavy casualties before withdrawing after the fall to join the Indomitus Crusade.
Trojan War
Most of the remaining Lions were embroiled in the Trojan war during the Black Crusade, a sprawling conflict orchestrated by the Alpha Legion as part of a number of plots created seemingly to draw away forces that could have otherwise been sent to the Cadian system. Warp storms formed shortly after the conflict began, trapping both sides in the war zone and distorting the passage of time through unknown means. While externally the war only raged for twelve years, for the combatants it was closer to a century. The rebellion and its Chaos supporters were eventually crushed but not before the Alpha Legion had succeeded in its goal. Many of the surviving Lions were irreparably affected by the conflict, becoming overly aggressive and isolated from their brothers.
Noctis Aeterna
The Great Rift left the Lions separated, with Alkaios and his forces unable to re-join the bulk of the Chapter in Imperium Nihilus. Cut off from their home, they joined Guilliman’s gathering forces, hoping that they would be able to find a path across the rift when these forces set forth.
Those Lions that emerged victorious from the Trojan war had little time to celebrate, for they found themselves in a hellscape of conflict, as Chaos and xenos forces ravaged the Aeaean Cluster. They set about with a two-fold objective, that of securing the Cluster and rebuilding the strength of the Chapter.
Pict-file of a detachment from the 8th Speria fighting a desperate last stand against encroaching Orks, 001.M42.
Myrian Conflict
Departmento Cartographicae pict-file of the Marmara Passage, a corridor through the Great Rift that was discovered in Segmentum Ultima and secured by Alkaios and his three Speria in early M42.
Alkaios and his men fought alongside the forces of the Crusade as it made its way through the sectors of Imperium Sanctus, earning many accolades in battle. Guilliman bolstered their depleted ranks with his new Primaris marines, a revelation that deeply troubled many of the Firstborn. They feared a degradation of their culture and traditions by integrating these new marines from different worlds and time periods. When a stable corridor through the Great Rift was discovered by the Crusade close to the Aeaean Cluster, Alkaios was dispatched with a small taskforce to secure it for the Imperium. On route they passed through the Coele-Myr SubSector and became embroiled in a lengthy conflict to restore Imperial authority and drive out a confederation of Chaos aligned warbands. While the conflict was brutal, the Lions forged bonds of friendship with the other Astartes elements involved, allies which would prove useful in the turbulent future. Once this was resolved, the taskforce continued on and secured the corridor, with support from another Chapter, the Jade Wyverns. Alkaios took the opportunity to transit through and visit Caelus Prime, reuniting with his brothers. They were overjoyed at his return, having feared the worst, but also concerned by the enhanced warriors he brought with him. Much debate and strife was caused by this before Alkaios was able to calm the situation. After shoring up the defences of the Sector, Alkaios led almost the entirety of the Chapter back through the corridor to re-join the Crusade.
Hive Fleet Ereshkigal
A Nemean Deathspeaker exhorts his brothers forward to victory!
With Alkaios and almost the entire Chapter away battling as part of the Indomitus Crusade, the Aeaean Cluster was left comparatively undefended, with only the local forces remaining. Despite this there was a time of relative peace, with the would-be attackers of the Sector scattered by the wrathful Regulus prior to his departure and embroiled in their own petty conflicts amid the wider chaos of the Imperium Nihilus. Such a turn of events of course could not last, though no one could have anticipated the eventual cause of the destruction. Amid the polished marble and gold of the capital, Athenai Prime, a sinister cult had gathered its strength in the catacombs and patiently bided its time, waiting for the opportune moment to strike. They burst forth in a foul tide of abominations and heretics, aided by a majority of the PDF, which hoisted strange flags bearing a multi-limbed deity. Soon the whole planet was engulfed in bitter conflict, the gleaming jewel of the Cluster blackened by flame and scarred by the crude explosives of the foe. The loyalist elements of the PDF fought hard to resist the invaders, making them pay for every foot of ground. It was not enough however and in desperation, Praefectrix Adrastei Philaenus ordered Battlefleet Kantharos to scour parts of the planet with its formidable weaponry. These measures were able to turn the tide, and the enemy was driven back and hunted through the underground systems. This triumph would prove bittersweet however, for not only was the planet ruined by war but also the cult had managed to achieve its actual aim, drawing the eye of a nearby Tyranid splinter fleet, codenamed Hive Fleet Ereshkigal by the Imperium. The fleet had thus far skirted the coreward border of the Cluster, devouring a handful of systems but not heading further in towards the major worlds. Now, drawn by whatever perfidious signal the cultists had sent, they made an immediate course change to strike at the interior, entering through the Rizus SubSector. Faced with the prospect of total annihilation, the Praefectrix sent out calls for aid. On Caelus Prime, Hekaton Aristeus heeded the call, mustering his initiates. He rushed as many as possible through the final stages of their training, to grant them the ability to wear full Power Armour. He also ordered the unsealing of the cryo chamber that held Shaka, deeming this an event that required his skills. Aristeus was aware that this would be the twelfth awakening, the prophesied final one before Shaka would pass over to the spirit realm, a matter that greatly troubled him but he knew that Shaka was desperately needed, both on a strategic and tactical level.
Shaka set about organising his warriors and calling upon the ancient debts and friendships he had accrued over the millennia, demanding they settle their accounts with warriors. The Daughters of Athena dispatched several regiments to his side, as did the Tyrasian Blackhearts and many others. Recon teams established that the hive fleet was moving through the Grecian belt, seemingly heading directly towards Tvastar. Shaka ordered all available forces to the Tvastarian system, to link up with the Tvastarian Loricatti. Shaka decided to make his stand there rather than intercept the fleet earlier, amongst the myriad defences and the strong naval detachment. Despite this formidable array, the Tyranids forced their way through the defences with brute force, flooding the skies of Tvastar with craft. Shaka roused the defenders with speeches, vox-broadcast across the entire planet, before the battle commenced. Scores of xenos were cut down by the fusillades of las and bolter fire, for a time it seemed as if the firepower might be enough to stay them. Alas it was not so, and furious close quarter clashes broke out across the battlefields. Shaka moved between each flashpoint, slaying synapse creatures to disrupt the Hive Mind, and rallying the defenders. He fought with a reckless abandon, fuelled by the pain of his failing body and the knowledge of his impending death. News that the rest of Battlefleet Kantharos's arrival was imminent and the Tvastarian Explorator fleet was close behind renewed the fervour of the defenders, but the Tyranids did not relent. The Prime Hive Tyrant of the fleet, seeking to break the defender's spirit before reinforcements arrived, revealed itself and launched an attack on Shaka personally. The two duelled amidst the wider clash of their bodyguards, each surprising the other with the ferocity of their blows. Eventually Shaka saw an opening and took it, despite knowing that he left himself open in return, plunging the Spear of the White Lion into the heart of the beast. Shaka in turn was impaled by the claws of the Tyrant, the two collapsing together in deathly embrace. Seeing their leader fall, the surrounding Lions charged forward and slew many xenos in a blood rage, cutting down hundreds before they fell themselves. The disruption of the Hive Mind caused chaos amongst the ranks of the Tyranids, their offensive faltering without leadership.
An Agema Dekarchos.
The arrival of the ships of Battlefleet Kantharos would seal the fate of the battle, cutting into the flank of the depleted Hive ships and destroying them utterly. Tvastar itselfs still contested, with the Tyranids - reduced to wild beasts without their connection to the Hive Mind - roaming the polluted wastelands and hiding within the myriad abandoned mines.
The Second Tendril
The Sector had little time to grieve these losses, terrible though they had been, for unbeknownst to them a second, smaller tendril had entered the Cluster via the Thalatta SubSector during the battle for Tvastar. This tendril was almost held off by the sizable military presence still located around the Trojan system, which had not had time to fully relocate to aid Tvastar. As the Tyranids added the biomass from the fallen to their ranks however, they were able to grind down the defenders, eventually overwhelming them and reducing the planets they had fought over into lifeless rock. The deaths of these millions were not in vain though, as it bought time for the Sector to realise that a second threat was growing and organise a response. Hekaton Aristeus, now the leader of the remaining Nemean Lions, realised from tracking the path of the advance that the Tyranids’ destination was Port Kantharos and Tyras Prime beyond it. While the defences of both were formidable, by the time they reached them the tendril would likely be strong enough to overwhelm them. Aristeus needed a battleground to take on the threat, one that was closer to the tendril, so it couldn't gather as much strength, yet also well defended to aid his weakened forces. As he studied the charts, he realised with a sinking heart that the best candidate was Caelus Prime itself. The layers of orbital and ground based defences would inflict a heavy toll upon the xenos, possibly enough to allow the Lions to defeat those that made planetfall. The question though was how to divert the tendril?
Tvastar was able to (albeit reluctantly) provide an answer. It transpired that during the initial attack of the Genestealer cult on Athenai Prime, they had managed to acquire a number of the beasts for study. These had unexpectedly defeated the stasis they were held in and transmitted a signal to the first tendril of the Hive fleet, diverting it to Tvastar. Since then the beasts had remained contained and dormant, safe in the bowels of the Forge World. They agreed to transport them to Caelus Prime and awaken them, and thus lure the tendril towards that world. The ploy worked, diverting the Xenos. In the path of the hive fleet, worlds were evacuated and burned when the Tyranids descended to feed, weakening the Tyranids as much as possible. This costly plan worked at reducing the threat, though at unimaginable cost. Finally Caelus Prime itself was evacuated of all non-combatants, along with as many relics and precious objects as possible. Aristeus confirmed with Lord Admiral Dreh'auc of the battlefleet that even this world was to be subjected to exterminatus if defeat became inevitable, so dire was the threat.
A Nemean Devastator Kontos lays down suppressing fire to cover the advance.
It began once more with a mighty clash in orbit, this one even greater than at Tvastar thanks to the presence of Battlefleet Kantharos at the start. Even such a fleet was forced back however, with many vessels destroyed or disabled. The surface was soon embroiled in furious conflict, the overlapping layers of the Fortress-Monastery proving difficult to assail. The Lions fought with reckless abandon, slaying many beasts for each Astartes felled. They called down bombardments or artillery on every lost position, seeking to limit the biomass that might fall into enemy hands. Yet still the Tyranids advanced, each wave creeping forward. Some hope came in the form of the fourth Speria, which arrived along with several vessels Alkaios had dispatched, originally to aid Tvastar but since diverted. It was a small but welcome addition, bolstering the beleaguered Astartes defending the Fortress-Monastery. Still, the battle was not going well, though both sides had suffered greatly. In desperation, Lord Admiral Dreh'auc decided upon a risky gambit, to cut the heart from the Xeno's fleet. The mighty flagship Keravnós, with all safety interlocks removed, was sent on a suicidal run into the enemy fleet. Ablaze, bleeding from a thousand wounds from enemy fire desperate to halt it, this mighty dreadnought rammed into the vast vessel at the center, triggering a colossal explosion which engulfed both vessels. Alas the gambit failed to fully pay off, for the warp drive was too damaged to trigger, which would have caused a much mightier detonation. Nonetheless, it caused many casualties amongst the Tyranids, and disabled several of their largest vessels, including the one directing the hive mind. This opening was seized upon by the Imperials, who ordered all remaining vessels to exploit this breach. While the Tyranids recovered from their disarray, the fleet worked to cut them into smaller groups to be destroyed piecemeal. After many more hours of bitter conflict, they succeeded. Caelus Prime was a more total victory than Tvastar, with no vessels escaping the slaughter, but it was also more devastating. While the other fleet had moved through the sparsely occupied Grecian Belt, limiting the destruction it caused on-route, the second had cut a path through the Rizus and Thalatta SubSectors, leaving a dozen systems lifeless, with almost as many burned by the defenders to deny them to the foe. Caelus Prime itself was also devastated, its ecosystem in chaos, population decimated and the Fortress-Monastery little more than a smouldering ruin, choked with bodies. In time the Imperium may be able to reclaim and rebuild this world, but it will never be as it once was.
This loss of so much of their heritage, coupled with Shaka's death caused a ripple of shock through the ranks of the rest of the Chapter when they received the reports of the conflict. Many fell into states of melancholy or rage, seeking out perilous tasks to sate this anger. Those Skotadi that had all but recovered from the trauma of the Trojan War reverted to their previous state, causing much trouble for Alkaios. He sent back instructions for Shaka's body to be returned to the Cryo pod, with a proper funeral to await the return of the Chapter once the Crusade had ended.
An armoured vanguard of the 6th Speria advances on the foe, during the waning years of the Indomitus Crusade.
Strife and Schism
In the aftermath of the devastating events of Hive Fleet Ereshkigal, Alkaios struggled to maintain the momentum of the Chapter, and control those elements which were losing their composure. Additionally, the old cracks which had been concealed during better times. The combination of the previous organisational reforms, introduction of the Primaris, Shaka's death and "loss" of Caelus Prime spilled over into a fury amongst the older members of the Chapter, aimed at Alkaios. A number of these veterans, including some which had hailed from the disbanded 11th & 12th Speria, most of the Skotadi and other disaffected brothers decided to demand Alkaios be stripped of his rank and a new Regulus elected, for they had decided that he was the focal point of all this past misfortune. A gathering was held on the hunting plains aboard Argos, to allow this challenge to be heard. All parties spoke at length, with many agreeing, at least in part, with the grievances of the disaffected. Despite this, when the vote was held they were defeated by the majority of the chapter, as most of the Astartes felt that Alkaios was a victim of circumstance and his decisions had been correct, thus he was ultimately still the best to lead. The disaffected were apoplectic at this outcome, refusing to accept this. The leader of the group demanded single combat and charged at Alkaios, but was stayed by the hand of Antaeus, who drew his blade and blocked his path. Alkaios demanded that all present disperse, promising that a future meeting would be held, when heads were cooler. The disaffected begrudgingly accepted and left, though in their heads the seeds of mutiny began to crystallise, and they held a secret gathering the next day to discuss their options, ultimately deciding they must act, "for the good of the chapter". Amongst their number was the second highest ranking Spiritwalker, a highly respected elder, who used his influence to manipulate more brothers into joining their side and arranged for the subtle redeployment of picked brothers on the Argos while suspected loyalists were transferred to other ships or the ongoing land campaigns. When they felt they had enough men gathered, they made their move, causing a distraction in the forward hangar bay with a fire and false reports of xenos infiltrators that drew most of the Astartes and voidsmen away from the bridge. The rebels stormed the bridge and captured Alkaios and Avathis. Wishing for a bloodless coup and "legitimate" transfer of power, and foolishly believing that more secretly supported them, they didn't kill anyone at first and instead moved to seal hostile forces off, their plan being to force Alkaios to declare that he was standing down and leaving the chapter. However while Alkaios was being escorted to a holding cell, the escort party stumbled across Antaeus, who had just finished a combat training session. Believing that Antaeus was sympathetic to their plight, due to his trauma during his crossing of the Rubicon, and unwilling to kill such a renowned warrior, they hesitated on the trigger. Antaeus seized the opportunity and wrestled a pistol, coldly shooting two of the rebels and driving the rest away. Alkaios and Avathis, now freed, retreated to the hangar decks with Antaeus, to try and gather soldiers.
Alkaios managed to get on the broadcast system and send a general warning to the ship's crew and the rest of his fleet. Open warfare within the ship broke out between the loyalist Astartes and voidsmen, and the rebel forces as the betrayal became known. Realising that they could not enact their original plan, and that any dreams of wider support were not going to materialise, most of the rebels retreated to the secondary hangar and fled in a number of stolen ships. The leadership however had already been cut off on the bridge and Alkaios stormed in at the head of a horde of warriors, capturing or slaying those that remained.
In the aftermath Alkaios, in despair, wanted to discard his rank and become a Blackshield, in deep shame at what had occurred under his leadership. Iphaclus managed to persuade him to stay his hand. The Chapter as a whole was nonetheless deeply shaken by what had occurred, and a number of warriors did depart to become Blackshields, though at least a couple subsequently disappeared, likely to seek out the band of rebels. It was decided to bury all knowledge of this stain on the chapter's honour and despatch a Sparagos team to search for the few remaining traitors.
Homecoming
Alkaios, in light of what had happened, decided to reverse his previous decision to delay the funeral of Shaka. He realised that the Chapter needed a time of healing and to mourn their losses. He therefore decided that he would take them home, back through the Marmara passage once more, so that they could hold the funeral and spend some time on their homeworld.
The Chapter assembled on the scorched plains of Thriasia to witness the pyre of Shaka, a sombre yet subdued ceremony, just as the famously modest Astartes would have wanted. As the funeral songs faded into silence, Alkaios stepped forward and addressed his warriors. He began by acknowledging his failures, but also pointed to his successes, the triumphs that were overshadowed by the dark days of the galaxy and vowed that he would stay, to renew the fortunes of the Chapter. He reminded his men of the past glories, the deeds which had caused the Chapter to become legend, singing the song of victory they had woven over the past four millennia. As he finished, he was met with a thunderous roar of approval, swollen by the addition of the Chapter's Serfs and the local citizens present, for despite the doom mongering of the now outcast rebels, Alkaios was much beloved, and those who remained believed that he could renew their fortunes once more.
It would not take long for Alkaios to get the opportunity to put his words to the test. The greenskins to the galactic east of the Sector, revelling in the warfare that had been unleashed and largely resurgent after past defeats, began to gather under the leadership of a new Warboss. This leader, known as Jawklaw, absorbed several lesser Waaaghs and saw the opportunity to lead his boys against a weakened but still formidable prize, the legendary fortress of Tyras Prime. The Warboss which cracked this mighty bastion would become legend, a warrior greater than the infamous Darrioz of Xerkzez, which had been laid low attempting it. The battered and bloodied Sector found itself once more under assault as Jawklaw struck in a three pronged blow. The nearby Hartlords Chapter answered the calls for aid and joined with the Nemean Lions' counterblow to the greenskins. The conflict was bloody and protracted, with Jawklaw proving a cunning foe, adept at marshalling his forces to hammer weaknesses in the Imperial defences. Eventually however the Astartes were able to corner and slay the Warboss, splintering his forces and finally driving them out to bring peace to the Cluster once more.
Notable Campaigns & Battles []
Current Chapter Banner of the Nemean Lions. Note: After the death of Strategos Shaka in M42 the Chapter's Ancients carry black banners to mark his passing. Prior to this blue or grey banners were utilised.
- The Cleansing of Zintanica V - The Nemean Lions and Daughters of Athena use their speed and ferocity to quickly end the siege warfare of entrenched Chaos forces.
- Sebastus Crusade (742-750.M38) - The Lions accompany several other Chapters, including their Progenitors the Imperial Fists, the Black Templars, Frost Claws and Soul Drinkers in a multi-year manhunt to bring retribution to an Iron Warriors warband which had ambushed the Chapters and killed many of their Astartes, including Regulus Nicarchus.
- The Medean Crusade (120-193.M39) - The Nemean Lions spearheaded a Crusade to clear the Aeaean Cluster of Orks that had plagued the Imperial territory for Millennia. The relatively young chapter was essential in the Crusade’s success.
- The Harrowing of Epipolae (566-572.M39) - Two Speria are dispatched to the besieged Cisepolus system to aid in evacuations. After a series of bitter engagements, the commanding Hekaton staged a daring assault on the enemy flagship, slaying their warlord at the cost of his own life and almost the entire boarding party. Unfortunately, the bodies they lost aboard the vessels of the Amber Shrouds could not be recovered due to insufficient remaining forces available to the Nemean Lions. The Immortals declined to risk more of their warriors on the endeavour, something that greatly offended the remaining Lions, leading to a period of tension between the Chapters.
- Epipolae’s Toll Repaid (572-578 M39) - Following the events that became known as the Harrowing of Epipolae, the Immortals embarked on a shadow crusade against those responsible for this tragedy, the Amber Shrouds. The events of that day bit deeply into the chapter’s sense of self and they were ready to pay that tally back to the Amber Shrouds for their transgression. With their full strength gathered, they were able to successfully take apart the forces of the warband, culminating in the capture of their flagship. Within they discovered a vast trophy room with the bodies of the dead Astartes from Epipolae. Seeing the opportunity to mend the bridges between them, the Immortals gathered and cleaned the remains of the Nemean and brought them to Caelus Prime; they then stayed to observe the funeral rites. The Nemeans were extremely grateful for this act and forgave the previous offences, declaring bonds of friendship and offered a debt of gratitude to the Immortals, something which would later solidify into a full alliance.
- Second Cherubic Crusade (233-235.M40) - Regulus Leonidas lead the 4th, 5th, and 6th Speria to the Cherun System to aid the defence against the Waaagh of Warboss Bulletteef. After several years of conflict, the combined might of multiple Astartes Chapters and the Astra Militarum were able to drive back the greenskins.
- The Gorgantes War (714-855.M41) - Rebel forces, with the assistance of Heretic Astartes, ravaged several systems of the Thalatta Subsector. The Nemean Lions dispatched a Speria but were misled as to the scale of enemy forces, and narrowly avoided defeat after many years of bitter fighting.
- Corkav Incident (739.M40)- After a series of raids by the Kabal of the Bleeding Heart into Imperial space near the planet of Corkav, close to the Aeaean Cluster, a Speria from the Nemean Lions was dispatched to investigate the matter. When they arrived however, they were ambushed by the Drukhari and forced to attempt a retreat. They were cut off, however, by more of the Drukhari raiding party and the situation appeared dire. Luckily a Warhost of the Craftworld Keil-Xin had also been hunting for the source of the raiders and decided to intervene. They struck from the Webway and aided the beleaguered Speria, and together they were able to drive back the now outnumbered and outflanked Drukhari, destroying the raiders. With the threat dealt with, the Nemeans warily withdrew, aware they did not have the numbers to take on the Aeldari and agreeing to keep their presence a secret.
- The Trojan War (897-999.M41) - Following the gruelling and prolonged conflict of the Gorgantes War, further insurrection came from the previously staunchly loyal Trojans. The Nemeans deploy a full five Speria to the heavily fortified system, and their fate remained unknown until the end of the Noctis Aeternae, trapped by a temporal ritual the Lions fought against an unprecedented force of heretics and daemons for almost one hundred years. Those that endured eventually defeated the heretics with reinforcements led by Shaka himself, only later discovering that the war was simply a ploy to divert forces from the Cadian gate.
- Battle of Medin Kasr(999.M41) - Alkaios and the Lion Guard conducted a rear guard action to cover the withdrawal of the three Speria and the last civilians from this Kasr. A Chaos Lord, seeing an opportunity, charged Alkaios with a force of traitor Astartes and fought the Regulus personally. While Alkaios battled fiercely and landed a number of crippling blows, his foe gained the upper hand, shattering Alkaios' shield and toppling the lion. His guard, enraged at seeing him fall, succeeded in driving the lord back and retrieved their commander. As they dragged the semi-conscious Regulus from the fray, Somatophylakes Aberderus held back the heretics, slaying several with great sweeps of his sword before being felled by the furious lord. Alkaios was nearly overcome with rage and shame at the loss of Aberderus and vowed that he would gain both vengeance and the recovery of Aberderus' corpse once his wounds had healed.
- The Battle of Vorlese (M42) - Eparchos Alexiares led a detachment of the Lions as part of the assault on the Grand Cruiser.
- The Reclamation of Coele-Myr (003-112.M42) - Regulus Alkaios responded to distress hails in the embattled Coele-Myr Sector, battling alongside elements of several other Chapters to remove the foul Chaotic warbands that infested the region.
- The Third Battle of Tvastar (M42) - Strategos Shaka defends Tvastar against the forces of a Tyranid splinter fleet and is slain in single combat against the Hive Tyrant.
- Second Battle of Caelus Prime (M42) - Hekaton Aristeus defends Caelus Prime against the remnants of the Tyranid splinter fleet and after a brutal onslaught is successful in destroying it.
- Waaagh of Warboss Jawklaw (M42) - Warboss Jawklaw assails the Aeaean Cluster, sensing an opportunity to defeat the weakened defences of Tyras Prime. The Nemean Lions, aided by the Hartlords Chapter, succeed in slaying the warboss and scattering his forces after heavy fighting.
Chapter Homeworld[]
- Main article: Caelus Prime
Caelus Prime, homeworld of the Nemean Lions, as seen in late M41
The Nemean Lion's homeworld was, and hopefully will be again, Caelus Prime, a planet home to huge sprawling savanna plains that once held a wide variety of animal species which either closely resembled Terran specimens or were deliberately seeded from Terra long ago for reasons unknown. Prior to its devastation, the Nemean people were nomadic tribes with a strong warrior culture. From a young age the men participated in ritualistic hunts to gain pelts. Those that became Astartes maintained this tradition, adorning their armour with furs to show their prowess. The most accomplished warriors showed their prowess by hunting the famous Nemean Leonis, a deadly predator that could threaten even a fully armoured Astartes if underestimated.
Caelus Prime was home to over three hundred tribes of various sizes, all under the nominal leadership of a single King, who historically hailed from the noble lineage of the chieftain of the largest tribe, the Sentinels of Mytikas. The term tribe is somewhat erroneous, as each "tribe" is actually a conglomeration of multiple smaller communities often spread across vast distances. Likewise the King is more figurehead than practical ruler, as exercising any actual control over the 300 tribes would be a monumental task. Each tribe was effectively autonomous, as were the smaller communities that made up each one. The King and the lesser Chieftains were nonetheless useful despite their largely ceremonial status, serving as a conduit between the tribes and Imperial envoys and other individuals, as well as organising the distribution of arriving supplies, the gathering of suitable children for initiation to the Astartes Chapter and other such tasks that needed access to a wider strategic picture.
Caelus Prime is located in the Aeaean Cluster. After the opening of the Great Rift Caelus Prime now lies close to the Rift but also to a temporary corridor through, a perilous yet strategically important position.
After the devastation of the world by the Tyranids of Hive Fleet Ereshkigal, Caelus Prime became overrun by enhanced fauna and mutated lifeforms, the ecosystem permanently altered by the spores of the xenos. The Nemeans requested the aid of Tvastar to terraform the world back to its previous state, using the ancient technology of the Mechanicus. While sympathetic, the Tvastarians pointed out however that they required this technology to restore their own ravaged world, which had been likewise infested, not to mention a number of other ravaged planets that likewise had requested their services. Caelus Prime would need to wait. Estimates suggest that it will be decades before Tvastar is restored, with Caelus Prime likely taking significantly longer. In the meantime the majority of the surviving Nemeans have returned to their home, determined to reclaim it from the xenos. The hunting skills they possess have put them in good stead against the new lifeforms present, though it is a never-ending struggle. Preliminary reports indicate that a sizable percentage of the indigenous animal life has survived and appears to be fighting back against their new competition. Distorted holo-pics of Nemean Leonis wrestling with remnant Tyranid bioforms have already garnered a great deal of interest from the wider Sector.
Notable Tribes
The 300 tribes are of great importance to the Nemean people, so much so that the Astartes of the Nemean Lions retain their tribal markings after initiation, adorning their right hand pauldrons with their heraldry.
- Wind Stalkers
- Sentinels of Mytikas - The "Royal tribe", the majority of the Kings of Caelus have reportedly hailed from this tribe. As by far the largest tribe and the one that resides in the shadow of Mytikas Peak, it also provides a significant chunk of the manpower for the Nemean Lions, including the current Chapter Master, Alkaios.
- Stormborn - Excellent sailors who traverse the oceans of Caelus, those that join the Chapter Serfs are commonly assigned to the fleet. The current High Navarch Avathis hails from this tribe.
- Children of Aphenai
- Salt Grass
- Scions of the Titans - Occupy the Graveyard of Titans
- Wraith Sires - Occupy the Well of Tears
- Spirit Walkers
- River Wanderers
- Karda
Notable Fauna
- Nemean Leonis - Similar in appearance to the ancient Terran Lion, the Nemean Leonis was the top predator of Caelus Prime. It has diamond edged claws that are known to be able to pierce adamantium armour, but it is most notable for its hide, containing a collagen material that is highly resistant to damage and only gets stronger with age. Indeed, ancient Leonis, known by the name Apex, are considered nearly invulnerable and sightings of them resulted in massive hunts to acquire their pelts. Currently, the status of this great creature in the wild is unknown, as it now faces many new and enhanced threats to its dominance. Sightings of what appears to be the beasts, and an even larger mutated creature likely created from it, have been reported on Caelus Prime. It also survives in captivity on the vessels of the Astartes Chapter, and on Caelus Secundus, thanks to artificial introduction millennia ago.
- Magyaran Wolf - A species of large, wire-haired wolves that has been domesticated by the Nemeans to be used as hunting dogs. Their excellent senses and ability to point towards prey means they are highly prized by their owners. Regulus Alkaios keeps a pair of these wolves and regularly utilises them for his hunts. Like the Leonis, the status of these beasts in the wild on Caelus Prime is unknown, though large numbers are present in the Chapter fleet and on Caelus Secundus.
Fortress-Monastery
- Main article: Mytikas Peak
The Nemean Lions' Fortress-Monastery is Mytikas Peak, positioned on a plateau overlooking the great plains of Thriasia, ancestral home of the 300 tribes. A sprawling network of the usual Astartes defences rings the perimeter and indeed from the outside the Fortress Monastery is seemingly a typical example of an Astartes fortress. Deep within the heart of the defences however is an enormous underground structure, a vast bunker that the Lions call home. It contains an extensive array of holo projectors and atmospheric processors to simulate the appearance of the plains that lie outside the many layers of stone, metal and shielding. Hundreds of tents, identical to those used by the tribes of the plains (though substantially larger), dot the artificial plain, allowing the Lions to continue to exist as they did prior to becoming Astartes and maintain the traditions that are deeply ingrained into their core, while still being as well protected and safe as any other Chapter when it returns home to rest and rebuild after campaigns. In a corner, concealed from the plain itself is the enormous lift surrounded by a double helix staircase that allows the Marines and any equipment to easily traverse between the plain and the rest of the Fortress-Monastery. Above this vast plain lies the second largest chamber in the Fortress-Monastery, the ‘Hall of Furs’. This chamber, faced with Caelusian Marble, holds the pelts of fallen brothers and can hold the entirety of the Chapter should it be required to. At the hall's terminal is arrayed the pelt of the white lion and panoply of Shaka. The remaining sections of the outward fortress include guest quarters, armouries, machine hangars and deployable runways. While the bulk of the Machine pits and Apothecarion facilities are within those sections, both have elements incorporated into the artificial plain, with their mechanical components carefully concealed by tents and cameoline screens. Several forges operate under the false sky, carefully built by Tvastar to mimic those used by the mortal tribes while still being the equal of a standard Techmarine forge. Though a library for reading and tome collections is held within the Fortress Monastery’s spire, the Spiritwalkers spend most of their time within the plain, around a replica of the ‘Temple of Lost Seers’. A great hall, the largest tent of the plain, sits in the middle of the chamber. Shaka’s 'tomb' is in one corner, where the Strategos stands in cryopreservation, awaiting the return of the Chapter for his funeral. It is the only tomb the planet possesses, as deceased Nemeans are immolated upon the Thriasian plains.
The Monastery currently lies in a semi-ruined state, slowly being rebuilt by a contingent of the Chapter's Serfs, stymied by sporadic attacks by the hostile wildlife and pockets of feral Tyranids. The Chapter has temporarily transferred their operations to the Argos, operating as a Fleet-Based Chapter while they await this restoration.
The surface complex of Mytikas Peak, showing the exterior defences, buildings and layout. Beneath this tip of the iceberg, lies a warren of underground tunnels, chambers and vast vaults.
Chapter Organisation[]
The Lions are a hardened, veteran force which mostly adheres to the core concepts of the Codex Astartes but has deviated in a number of ways to better suit their chosen battle tactics and cultural history. Each Company of the Lions is called a Speria and combines all arms into a flexible, balanced battle group that does not require support from other detachments. There are no reserve Speria with the Lions, each one maintains a mix of unit types and regularly sees combat. Formations made up of several Speria are called Phalanxes and are led by the senior Hekaton, who gains the temporary rank of Tetrarches for the duration of the operation. The Lions favour long range firepower, with a large proportion of Devastator and Tactical Kontoi (Squads), plus a growing number of heavy and regular Intercessors. Dropships and attack flyers are desired over tanks as the Lions prize mobility over durability and rely upon rapid redeployment for a number of their core battle tactics. The Lions have delegated significant amounts of authority to their Chapter Serfs, with the fleet and logistical arms under the complete authority of mortals. This practical measure frees up precious battle-brothers for purely combat duty that would otherwise be burdened by administrative roles.
Rank Hierarchy
The Nemean Lions' order of battle contains several specialist formations and ranks not present in other Space Marine Chapters, though they largely resemble the standard Codex Astartes ranks in function if not title. In Nemean culture when a rank/title is permanently bestowed upon a warrior it is taken as a new first name, replacing the previously held one.
Officer Ranks
- Strategos (Former Regulus) - This rank was created in light of Shaka's unique status and to avoid confusion when he interacts with his successors.
- Regulus (Chapter Master) - Currently held by Alkaios.
- Tetrarches - A Brevet rank to signify a Hekaton that is leading several Speria (Phalanx). Uniquely this rank is not taken as a permanent name so is discarded once the bearer reverts to their old position. Prior to the dissolution of the Syntagmata, a Tetrarches oversaw each formation, being drawn from the senior Hekaton of the Speria within.
- Hekaton (Captain)
- Eparchos (Lieutenant) - The Senior Eparchos in a Speria is denoted by a lion tooth talisman typically worn on the waist. Unlike some Chapters, the Lions had utilised this rank even prior to its reinstatement by Roboute Guilliman.
Specialist & Honorary Ranks
A Nemean Deathspeaker ready to inspire his brothers with a tale of past glories.
- Deathspeaker (Chaplain) - Nemean Deathspeakers are tasked with recording the battle history of the Chapter. Unusually a few of them disdain the practice of wearing a helm and freely show their faces amongst their brothers.
- Samanos - A subset of the Deathspeakers who perform the role of executioners, bringing justice to any who dishonour the Chapter.
- Spiritwalker (Librarian) - In addition to their regular duties, Spiritwalkers perform frequent communes with the spirits of the passed, seeking guidance on future events.
- Sangoma (Apothecary) - Due to the beliefs of the Lions, Sangomas will strenuously avoid operations that remove limbs or portions of flesh unless absolutely necessary.
- Forgemarines - (Techmarine) - Adherents to the Cult Mechanicus are typically pariahs within the Chapter, due to their greater willingness to embrace bionic enhancements.
- Agema (Veteran) - Agema are often bestowed with more complete suits of Mk III armour as a reflection of their status.
- Saragos - A veteran who is serving/has served in a Sparagos strike team. These warriors are allowed to retain a section of bone-white armour to signify this honour, typically their helm.
- Skotadi - Those that have been marked by the Skotadikos, predominantly veterans of the Trojan war.
- Misthophoros – Title bestowed upon a currently serving member of the Deathwatch.
Line Ranks
- Dekarchos (Squad Sergeant) - Typically denoted by a red, transverse helmet crest in addition to a helmet stripe. Often a Dekarchos will carry a battle spear in addition to their standard wargear as a further symbol of office and in place of a more typical close combat weapon.
- Defteros (Corporal) - These command the second combat section in a Tactical Kontos. Since the Nemeans rarely divide these units, the Defteros typically oversees logistical concerns such as ammunition levels and casualties while the Dekarchos oversees tactical matters.
- Kontophoros (Battle-Brother) - The typical Astartes of the Chapter. Since the Nemeans do not operate standard companies, every single brother is trained equally in all weapons the Chapter uses.
- Katakopo (Scout) - Katakopo are divided amongst the ten Speria, with each Kontoi assigned mentors drawn from that Speria.
- Psilos (Neophyte) - Those that have been initiated but are not yet mature enough to join a Katakopo unit.
Specialist Formations
Somatophylakes Leonis
Lion Guard
- Composed of the most veteran and skilled of the Chapter's warriors, the Somatophylakes Leonis (Lion Guard) are clad in ancient suits of Terminator armour. Each warrior has distinguished themselves by hunting a Nemean Leonis alone and unarmoured, slaying it in ritual combat.
- These pelts are proudly displayed on their armour to show their prowess. The Lion Guard are fearsome in both hand to hand and ranged combat, dedicated to protecting the Regulus with their lives. As Alkaios insists that the suits are kept meticulously repaired and maintained they do not bear the patchwork of scars that the more numerous Anthropos carry as a sign of past deeds. Much like the original Lion Guard formed by Shaka at the dawn of the Chapter, the current bodyguards act as both protectors and council to the Regulus, being seen as sources of great wisdom as well as superb warriors.
- Currently the Lion Guard is made up of Firstborn marines. No member of the Guard has so far been willing to attempt the conversion process and none of the new generation of Primaris yet deemed worthy to join their ranks.
Anthropos
Leader Atlas of the Anthropos.
- The Terminator force of the Chapter, veteran Astartes chosen for the honour of wearing the Chapter's ancient suits of Indomitus pattern armour. After the ambush at Luhktrae, which saw the loss of every member of the Anthropos, those that came forward to replace them vowed to shed their own names and deeds in honour of the slain, echoing the tradition of the Atlas. This was embraced by those that followed and those that followed them, becoming tradition for the entire formation. When a warrior dons one of these suits he too discards his own name and takes on that of the armour. These suits are a tapestry of past deeds, for the Techmarines are forbidden from repairing any of the suits after battle, barring damage that would render the armour unusable or the wearer vulnerable. As a result, each suit bears many scars which tell the tale of countless deeds in battle. An Anthropos prides himself on memorising these deeds, regaling the tales in the feasts held by the Chapter. In addition a written record is maintained of the Anthropos' deeds, in the care of the Deathspeakers. The passing of prior members is noted not by the death of the former, but the ascension of the new bearer. When not encased in the suits, members of the Anthropos conceal their faces from their brothers behind masks, to maintain the illusion.
- The Anthropos maintain a strange position within the Chapter, for joining them is seen as a sideways promotion, as no member seeks (or indeed been granted) a command position. The decision to shed your own name and deeds to take up those of another is one that, while hailed as a great honour, only a few wish to take up. Indeed some tribes view a decision as anathema and no member has joined the ranks of the Anthropos. Most members of the Anthropos are those that have gained no great deeds of their own, so view the loss of their own name as no great issue, seeing their ascension as a chance to gain immortality in the annals of the Chapter, albeit under another's name. While some have voiced concerns that the lack of exceptional warriors in the ranks of the Anthropos would produce a sub-par formation, this does not appear to have occurred. The Spiritwalkers have claimed that the reason behind this is that the wearer becomes imbued by fragments of the spirits of those that have worn the suit before, bestowing upon them greater abilities than they would otherwise have possessed. No investigation has ever been conducted to test the veracity of this claim.
- A small number of Primaris marines have now been inducted into the ranks of the Anthropos, a matter of some contention but nonetheless permitted. These Primaris hailed from the Greyshield contingent of the Chapter and are likely Astartes that proved unable/unwilling to bond with their new brethren, choosing to withdraw behind the mask of the Anthropos instead.
Sparagos
Zaeragos Ateas of the Sparagos.
- An elite kill team of the Chapter's finest warriors, gathered to undertake perilous missions to retrieve the bodies of Lions that have been taken as trophies by foes. Such desecration is anathema to the Lions, and they will ensure that these trophies are retrieved at any cost so that the slain brother can cross to the spiritworld in peace. Sparagos teams are typically drawn from the Agema and the Samanos, though occasionally other brothers/units are called upon for support if deemed necessary for tactical or morale reasons. The Sparagos, though given leeway to arm themselves as necessary, most often carry large relic Stormshields, swords and one-handed ranged weapons (typically heavy Bolt Pistols). With this armament they can push ahead through the surrounding firefight to reach and engage their target. Wherever possible the trophy taker is captured alive, to allow a ritual execution that the Chapter can witness.
- A member of the Sparagos is given a special set of armour for the length of their duty, which is painted bone white, to reflect the role they undertake. After their duty has ended, former members of the Sparagos are permitted to decorate a portion of their original armour in that colour to denote this service. They are viewed by the rest of the chapter in deep respect, for they undertake a duty of great importance, preserving the immortal soul of a fallen brother.
A Primaris member of the Sparagos.
Skotadi
A member of the Skotadi. Note that the tribal badge has been defaced, rejection of their cultural heritage and history seems to be a common side effect of their affliction. Like most Skotadi, this Astartes has repaired his armour with scavenged parts, including a Mk VII helm, something otherwise unheard of within the Chapter.
- The Skotadikos, as the Aeaeans call the Noctis Aeternae, left a significant scar upon the entire Chapter, which it is still coming to terms with. The greatest current manifestation were among some of the survivors of the Trojan War, now known as Skotadi, those that were marked by the rift. They suffered a collective mental trauma, likely unveiling a previously hidden genetic flaw within the gene-seed, which left them with an undercurrent of aggression and pain, prone to surface at the slightest provocation. Although the majority would later seemingly recover, some did not and progressed further. They found themselves unable to integrate with the next generation of warriors who replaced their casualties and especially staunchly refused to acknowledge the Primaris.
- Alkaios, deeply concerned as to the impact they could have on the wider Chapter, decreed that the Skotadi would be isolated and formed into kill teams, to be deployed ahead of the Lions’ main assaults in battle and in separate actions. His hope was that in time they might recover as the others had or find peace through falling in battle. Alas after the death of Shaka and the shared pain this caused, a significant number of the "recovered" Skotadi reverted to their previous state, swelling the numbers of these troubled Astartes.
- The Skotadi are anomalous to the rest of the chapter, wearing customised armour which is augmented with pieces drawn from patterns not usually employed by the Chapter such as Mk IV or V, due to ad hoc repairs conducted during the Trojan war. While their unafflicted brethren repaired or replaced this armour upon reuniting with the main Chapter, those of the Skotadi retained it, perhaps as a subconscious marker of their new status. Their behaviour is considered erratic and barbaric, the respect and significance of the spirits lost to them. They brutally execute their enemies, particularly traitor forces, often dismembering them and uncaring of the ritual prayers spoken over the dead. While such thoughts trouble him, Alkaios is secretly relieved when he receives a report of one of their number falling in battle.
Order of Battle
In the last few millennia, the organisation of the Chapter has undergone a significant overhaul, reflecting logistical and tactical changes to the Lion's doctrine. The most significant and largest of these being instigated by Regulus Alkaios. Prior to his ascension, the Nemean Lions fielded twelve Speria, eleven with eighty Astartes and the First Speria being half as large again at one hundred and twenty. These were organised into four self supported battle groups called Syntagmata, nominally assigned to the four SubSectors of the Aeaean Cluster, though in practice this was rarely the case after the Medean Crusade due to the increasing use of the Chapter to assist other areas of the galaxy. Alkaios deemed this organisation overly rigid, limiting the number of deployments that the Chapter could undertake at any one time. Alkaios wanted to increase their flexibility in light of the frequent brush fires that broke out within their sphere of influence, and improve the Chapter's standing amongst the organisations of the Imperium, which frowned at their heavy deviations from the Codex Astartes.
They now maintain a more conventional ten Speria of one hundred Astartes, having disbanded the 10th and 11th Speria and renamed the 12th Speria accordingly in the 10th's place. As of 653.M41 the order of battle assumed its current composition.
Organisation (Pre-Reform)
| Capitulum Mandatum | ||
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Chapter Champion, Chapter Ancient, Chief Deathspeaker, Chief Sangoma, Chief Spiritwalker, Forgemaster
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| Armourium | Reclusium | Apothecarion |
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| Librarius | Praefectus Navis | Logisticiam |
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| I Syntagmata | II Syntagmata | ||||
| Veteran Speria | Battle Speria | ||||
| 1st Speria "Epilektoi" |
2nd Speria "Jaws of the Jaguar" |
3rd Speria "Notus Inferno" |
4th Speria "Shield of Talos" |
5th Speria "Spear of Hippomenes" |
6th Speria "Sons of Argus" |
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| III Syntagmata | IV Syntagmata | ||||
| Battle Speria | |||||
| 7th Speria "Katochos Archeron" |
8th Speria "Wall of Leonidas" |
9th Speria "Drako Drakon" |
10th Speria "Wrath of Nemea" |
11th Speria "Blades of the Fallen" |
12th Speria "The Silver Shields" |
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Current Organisation
| Capitulum Mandatum | |||||
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Chapter Champion, Chapter Ancient, Chief Deathspeaker, Chief Sangoma, Chief Spiritwalker, Forgemaster
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| Armourium | Reclusium | Apothecarion | |||
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| Librarius | Praefectus Navis | Logisticiam | |||
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| Veteran Speria | Battle Speria | ||||
| 1st Speria "Epilektoi" |
2nd Speria "Jaws of the Jaguar" |
3rd Speria "Notus Inferno" |
4th Speria "Shield of Talos" |
5th Speria "Spear of Hippomenes" | |
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| Battle Speria | |||||
| 6th Speria "Sons of Argus" |
7th Speria "Katochos Archeron" |
8th Speria "Wall of Leonidas" |
9th Speria "Drako Drakon" |
10th Speria "The Silver Shields" | |
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Chapter Equipment[]
Nemean Lions Primaris Intercessor
The Lions are a well-equipped Astartes Chapter, benefitting from their close connection with the Forge World of Tvastar, which resides within their Sector. They have the usual complement of vehicles and equipment, as well as some examples of more unique gear and relics. They have a comparatively high proportion of Mk III armour due to their inheritance of the salvageable suits from the annihilated Crimson Robes Chapter at their creation, though only a few of these suits are actually complete. Their veteran Kontoi wear a larger proportion of Mk III armour segments as a reflection on their status as the Chapter's elite. The most decorated of these warriors may even be provided with near-complete suits of the armour as a sign of their achievements. In addition to this, the Chapter's Forgemarines can create new suits in the style of the ancient Mk III armour, though this is a cosmetic imitation, not an actual recreation of the original armour, and genuine examples are still rightfully highly prized. The remainder of the Chapter wears either Mk VII or Mk X armour, often with a Mk III helm and/or pauldrons, either genuine or one of their facsimiles.
The close relationship between the Chapter and Tvastar has enabled the Lions to acquire several ancient Dreadnoughts and other vehicles, including a Sicaran Battle tank and a few Storm Eagle gunships. Thanks to dedicated support from Tech-Priest teams, on ‘secondment’ to the Chapter, the Lions can deploy these ancient and temperamental vehicles on a semi-regular basis.
Due to their tactical doctrine the Chapter has made some alterations to their holdings, with some staples of other Chapters either collecting dust in deep storage or traded away for other equipment. For example the Chapter has very few Thunderfire Cannons or Centurion Warsuits, replacing them with a greater number of aircraft and skimmer vehicles. While they possess the typical number of Land Raiders, they have a greater number of the dual purpose Helios pattern, so they can act as long range artillery platforms in more static engagements. Additionally, the Chapter has created or acquired a number of specialist equipment and vehicles to better suit their needs in battle.
A battle brother clad in Hyades Sub-Pattern Phobos armour, which the Chapter acquired during the Myrian Campaign.
Specialist Equipment & Vehicles
Mk VII Armour, "Breacher" Variant
A cosmetic facsimile of the original Mk III armour, this is a modified suit of Mk VII armour designed to resemble the physical appearance of the older armour. Crafted by the Forgemarines of the Chapter, it is still a complex task to produce the parts and most of the Chapter is equipped with only partial suits. A slow but steady supply though has been augmenting the Chapter's stock of regular Mk VII armour, for the Lions prefer both the visual aesthetic of the older suits and the increased frontal protection that comes with the thicker plating.
Mk X Armour, "Breacher" Variant
While the modular Mk X armour system has been received positively by the Nemean Lions, they immediately began looking into developing a modification to suit their own requirements and to reflect the visual aesthetic of the Chapter. The result was a new Breacher variant, which features additional plating and a new helm and pauldrons, forged in the style of Mk III armour. While it retains the ability to mount the gorget, a number of Nemeans have removed this piece, preferring improved helmet mobility over the slightly increased risk of a hit to the neck seal. Like the Mk III armour it resembles, this suit is well suited to breaching actions and assaults, due to the enhanced protection it provides from frontal hits.
Mk X Armour, "Hyades" Sub-Pattern
Crafted by the Tech-Priests of the Forge World of Carcosa, this variant of Phobos armour trades some of the covert and weight reducing elements for increased durability and firepower due to thicker plating and the ability to equip a backpack mounted Myskaton Grenade Launcher harness. The Nemeans gained access to this variant after campaigning alongside the Immortals Chapter during the Reclamation of Coele-Myr and being gifted the technical specifications.
Niveran pattern Bolt Rifle.
A gift from the Lightning Wraiths Chapter, the Niveran pattern Bolt Rifle is a bullpup variant of the Mark II Cawl Pattern Bolt Rifle, built on the Forge World of Nivera. Retaining the accuracy and range of that weapon in a smaller package, albeit at the cost of being more complicated to manufacture, the Lions immediately recognised the advantage such a weapon could provide. Tvastar has begun limited production of this rifle using the plans provided by the Lightning Wraiths, allowing the Lions to field a small quantity of these weapons. Priority has been given to those units which are expected to operate primarily in confined quarters such as urban combat, mechanised Kontoi and airborne elements.
Storm Falcon.
A flyer which bears a visual similarity to the Corvus Blackstar, albeit less advanced and capable. It is unknown how the Forge World of Tvastar acquired the STC for the Storm Falcon. All records on the matter are sealed and any attempt to investigate is quickly stifled. The Storm Falcon is a fire support/heavy transport, sporting a pair of Accelerator Autocannons alongside a more standard loadout, it can unleash a blistering hail of fire onto targets before dropping a cargo of Astartes and then providing close air support or interception of attack craft and drop ships. Armed with a suite of halo countermeasures, this flyer is able to pierce all but the heaviest AA defences as part of strike missions.
Dios pattern Stormraven
A variant of the standard Stormraven, the Dios pattern has a substantially lengthened body. It cannot carry a greater number of Astartes however, as the extra space is taken up by thicker armour, an improved sensor suite to provide the passengers with greater battlefield awareness and more munitions and fuel to give the Dios pattern greater staying power to support the Lions it is accompanying.
Fusilia-Pattern Arrestor Skid
After witnessing the Sons of Rapture display its highly effective use in combat, the Nemean Lions successfully petitioned the Chapter to acquire copies of this STC design for their own uses. The Chapter now utilises this rocket-assisted skid to rapidly drop their armoured vehicles into battle, enabling a swift follow up to their orbital and aerial insertions. The Arrestor deploys a series of rocket motors moments before impact to lower the drop speed to (albeit barely) acceptable levels for the enhanced physiology of Astartes and the rugged construction of their vehicles, before detaching to allow the vehicle to immediately deploy into combat. The only limitations of the system are the requirement for a Thunderhawk transport to carry the vehicle to the combat zone, as the skid is insufficient to protect a vehicle against orbital entry. It also puts additional strain on the maintenance requirements of the vehicles, as the landings are still extremely violent and rough.
Non-Astartes Personnel[]
Like all Astartes Chapters, the Nemean Lions have an extensive number of mortals who ensure that the limited number of battle-brothers are able to focus their attention on warfare and that they are equipped with well-maintained equipment. Consisting of both Chapter Serfs and Servitors, these ancillaries are vital to the survival of the Chapter.
Chapter Serfs
The majority of the mortals that serve the Chapter are un-augmented humans or initiates that failed at an early stage, typically before implantation. These "Serfs" are responsible for maintaining equipment, preparing meals, crewing the Chapter's void vessels and the thousands of other tasks that are deemed too important to be undertaken by an Astartes. Like the Astartes themselves, these serfs are drawn from the citizens of Caelus Prime, though with no bar on gender unlike the Transhuman warriors themselves.
As per the rules and dictates on Astartes chapters fielding auxiliary forces, the Chapter's Perioci (Warrior Serfs) are utilised in a purely defensive manner, protecting the Fortress-Monastery and void vessels.
Unlike some Chapters, the Lions treat their serfs as near equals, allowing them to hold high positions such as Master of the Fleet and Logistician. Each brother has several serfs assigned to him and strong bonds of kinship are common. The death of a higher ranking serf is often treated with the same reverence as that of a battle-brother, with funeral ceremonies being attended by both mortals and Astartes. While some new serfs are drawn from the pool of recruits and failed initiates that don't make the cut, or fresh volunteers from the tribes, a sizeable number come from the Klironomoi, serf families where the parents serve and the children are inducted as soon as they come of age. This is because there is no ban on serfs establishing relationships and families, indeed it is encouraged, with families being given light duties and extra support while they raise their children, on the understanding that their children will serve the Chapter, either by becoming serfs or by undergoing the trials to become a Space Marine. Should the parents not agree to these terms, they will be dismissed from service and required to return to their tribes, albeit with a modest gift from the Chapter's funds to help them transition back to a normal life.
When a serf becomes too elderly to continue their duties, they are formally relieved of their duties and retired, being given a pension and offered a plot of land from the Chapter's holdings. While some accept this offer and form small communities of retired serfs, eking out a simple life in the fields for their remaining years, most choose to return to their home tribes instead, joining the ranks of the tribal elders and telling the wide eyed children tales of the mighty Astartes they lived alongside.
Becoming a Chapter Serf is an aspiration for many amongst the population of Caelus Prime, a mark of pride and prestige, though not all agree. Some tribes refuse to provide any serfs and will only contribute to the Artellian Choosings, going so far as to demand the return of any that fail during training yet live. This is due to the highly independent nature of these tribes, which were never truly controlled by the Kings of Caelus, and are only tolerated due to the quality of the initiates they provide.
Serf Ranks
- Navarch - Commander of one of the Chapter's naval vessels. The most senior Navarch also performs the role of Master of the Fleet.
- Epimeliteas - A serf that has been assigned to the Chapter's Logisticiam. The most senior of these is the Chapter Epimeliteas, who acts as the Chief Victualler, responsible for overseeing the logistics of the Lions at home and on campaign.
- Somatophylakes Hupheretes - Serfs that have been assigned as the personal attendants of the Regulus and other members of the Capitulum Mandatum. For many serfs this is considered the highest of all honours and a position to greatly aspire to reach. Only a position such as a Navarch or the Chapter Epimeliteas would be considered a higher honour.
- Hupheretes - A serf that has been assigned as one of the three personal attendants of a battle-brother. These serfs enjoy higher status and often form close bonds with the Astartes they care for, frequently being honoured when they pass away from old age or retire.
- Hypareshia - A serf that serves as part of the command crew on one of the chapter's vessels.
- Demourgoi - A serf that has shown interest or ability in the arts of maintenance or another craft and been inducted into the Chapter's artisans. These serfs are given higher rank and therefore status amongst the serfs. Under this heading are the Sacratium, Scholiasts and Scribellum.
- Perioci - Warrior Serfs that are trained for defensive combat roles, defending the chapter's fortress-monastery and vessels. Under this heading are the Serf-Pilots, Warrior Serfs and Armsmen.
- Douloi - The basic serf that performs the myriad menial tasks around the fortress-monastery and aboard the chapter's vessels. Under this heading are the Labourers, Enginarium Labourers, Historitors, Refectoriums and Monitors
.png "Void Serf (Mechanic).png (895 KB)")
Servitors
Due to the Nemean's beliefs regarding the sanctity of flesh, they abhor the creation and use of servitors, particularly those created from Nemeans. As a result, they have outlawed the creation of servitors from the citizens of Caelus. Reluctantly however, they have acknowledged that there are some roles which require a servitor and as such there are a number of them present within the Chapter, albeit a much smaller number than present in most Chapters. These are drawn from the penal stock of the Sector, those criminals that have committed such a heinous crime that death alone is not a suitable punishment. These servitors are regarded with disdain and revulsion, an unwanted but necessary commodity.
Chapter Culture[]
A Serf's artistic rendering of Regulus Alkaios conducting a hunt of Leonis. The Master of the Hunt watches on with several initiates, ready to intervene if something goes awry. Due to the extreme danger hunting a Leonis presents, power armour is typically worn regardless of the skill of the hunter.
A Nemean Sangoma. The Sangomas walk a fine line between respecting the beliefs of their brothers and preserving vital assets to the Imperium.
The culture of the Nemean Lions is closely tied to that of their homeworld, aided perhaps by the fact that even the original founders hailed from the planet and thus there were no foreign influences initially.
Beliefs
Like their mortal brethren, those that become Astartes retain the beliefs of the tribes of the plains, who believe in the sacred spirits of all living creatures. Thus, they have a deep respect for life and the preservation of it, for a life should only be taken for a greater cause. The Nemeans are deeply spiritual, revering the spirits of the ancestors, whom they call upon for council on matters of great importance, with their guidance often being critical to the decisions taken. The Spiritwalkers are the Chapter's conduit to this end, utilising the techniques of the planet's Shamans to summon them. They believe that the spirits are the cause of the powers that certain individuals can wield, those the Imperium calls Psykers.
The Astartes of the Nemean Lions follow a strict code of honour, drawn from the various warrior codes of the tribes of Caelus. While stealth is practised by the Chapter and a well placed ambush a tenant of their doctrines, a Lion would baulk at shooting or stabbing a foe while unaware. They view combat as an extension of their hunts, and thus the foe must be able to fight back, like how the Leonis has a chance to face its killers when a hunting party tracks one down. For example, at the unleashing of an ambush, the Nemeans will unveil their presence in some manner just prior to the first shot being fired, so their opponent gets even a millisecond of warning to satisfy honour. Snipers are somewhat of an anomaly, as the Nemeans recognise their value but also want to adhere to their values. Thus snipers are utilised, but only in "combat" scenarios (i.e. in a battle that is already raging, so the foe while unaware of the sniper is nonetheless aware of their wider foe). When killing an opponent, the Astartes of the Nemean Lions will utter a death prayer to give thanks to the spirits for their guidance in the combat. If the foe is deemed "worthy", they might also utter a further prayer to honour the fallen warrior and take a small trophy from them, as they do a pelt from a hunt.
The Spirits
As a result of these beliefs, the Nemeans regard the gene-seed as a sacred vessel, imbuing its recipient with a portion of both the Emperor's and Dorn's spirit. Additionally, since each gene-seed is grown within a previous host, part of their spirit (and those of the previous hosts) is deemed to reside within the current recipient. Thus, this lineage is also of importance to the Astartes of the Chapter, with records kept of the previous hosts. If a fallen Lion is desecrated, the Chapter will hunt down the perpetrator with the full wrath they can muster as punishment and any lost body parts must be recovered if possible. If the corpse cannot be restored, then the Spiritwalkers must undertake a ceremony known as the rite of unification which will gather the disparate pieces of the spirit and restore it. This ceremony takes many days and requires sacrificial animal offerings from relatives of the deceased. If successful the soul will be restored and guided to Caelus Prime, though it shall be weakened by the trauma and unable to be summoned for council by its descendants.
Interactions with Mortals
Unlike some Chapters, the Astartes of the Nemean Lions retain a close relationship with the peoples of their homeworld, continuing to participate in tribal ceremonies and familial traditions. Of course, the tides of war mean that a long time can pass between actual participations by more than just the training contingent.
When on campaign with the human forces of the Imperium, the Nemeans do not remain aloof, interacting with these peoples and aiding them where they can. It is not unheard of for members of the Chapter to encamp amongst the soldiers of the Imperial Guard and break bread with them, sharing stories of their home and weaving tales of past glories.
Funerary Customs
The Astartes follow the funerary rites of the mortal peoples of Caelus, which are that cremation of the physical form is required to release the spirit.
Nemeans ensure that their fallen are holding a weapon in their hand, preferably before they pass so that the spirit will remember that it was a warrior. The corpse of a fallen brother should remain intact and be returned to Caelus Prime for cremation. This is because the spirit and body are one and it must be ensured that the warrior's soul returns to the homeworld, where it can both enter the afterlife and guide the Spiritwalkers.
The dead are cremated on funerary pyres on the Thriasian plains under the Fortress-Monastery, in a ceremony open to all the peoples of the world. Before this, their armour is cleaned and returned to the Chapter's Armorium, with the tribal markings documented before erasure and added to the written histories. The wearer's pelts and other trophies are taken to the 'Hall of Furs', to be displayed with the other relics of the fallen heroes of the Chapter. After the Apothecaries have removed the progenoids and taken care of any other matters, the body is left in state for a brief time so that any Astartes or Serf that wishes to say goodbye may do so. Then a funerary procession leads the fallen warrior to the pyre, flanked by a spear arch of the Chapter's soldiers. After a brief speech by the Spiritwalkers the pyre is lit and the singing of the warrior's battle poem begins.
When the fire has completely died and the remains reduced to pure ash, these are gathered and sealed in a jar ready for transport. A party of Serfs, including the fallen warrior's Hupheretes, is assembled to transport the ashes to the home tribe, along with a copy of the battle poem. There the Serfs will participate in a second ceremony of restoration, where the ashes are scattered and the song sung once more, so that it can be weaved into the greater one of the tribe.
Medical Conflicts
Bloodletting, organ removal, and cybernetic transplants are traditionally considered sacrilegious for the peoples of Caelus, but for an Astartes it is an unavoidable facet of their existence. The Apothecarion, and its Sangomas are a carefully balanced discipline of science and tradition as a result. This deviation from tradition is considered acceptable however as the process leads to the incorporation of a fragment of Dorn's (and by extension the Emperor's) spirit and those of previous lions, therefore any weakening of the original spirit is offset by this added strength. While the Sangomas happily conduct initiation thanks to this justification, they will strenuously avoid any operation that weakens the spirit under other circumstances, such as removal of a damaged limb, unless it is of vital importance. Where possible they prefer to utilise cloning or regenerative treatments over bionics.
Technological Conflicts
For the Chapter's Forgemarines a similar dilemma exists, for augmenting their bodies with cybernetic implants is often necessary for their work and revered by the subjects of Mars. However, for the Nemean Lions it is a deeply concerning practice that many abhor. For a healthy limb to be removed and replaced with machinery, is to have your soul weakened and an insult to the spirits. When a Forgemarine does this for any reason other than necessity, his brothers will inevitably look down upon him as a result. As a result, most of the Chapter's Mechanicus contingent only undergo the bare minimum alterations to fulfil their functions, and hide any augmetics from their brethren when possible.
Some Forgemarines nonetheless put the machine faith above the Nemean faith, and are all but exiled, forced to live apart with only their fellow Forgemarines for company.
Dreadnoughts are regarded with a mix of pity and distaste by the Chapter, another necessary evil they must bear. Those that occupy them are Astartes that have been mortally injured yet cling to life, which is seen as a sign by the spirits that they are destined to further deeds. This is regarded as a bittersweet fate, for while the Nemeans must honour the will of the ancestors, the thought of never feeling the breeze of the plain again, the thrill of the hunt, becoming a husk inside a machine.. is one that they can barely stomach. Those that seek these entombed warriors out between battles are often the younger brothers, curiosity and a desire to hear tales of Shaka and the ancient Reguli from those that walked beside them overruling any fear of what they have become.
Leadership
While the leadership of the Nemean people is a hereditary monarchy (albeit an predominantly symbolic one), the Chapter somewhat understandably has eschewed this tradition and instead utilises internal votes and councils to choose new leaders and debate matters of importance.
Languages
Each Astartes of the Nemean Lions is fluent in several languages, to facilitate their ability to operate effectively. The main language of the Nemean people is Caelusian, a written and spoken language which is a derivative of the language Αἰαία, the lingua franca of the wider Aeaean Cluster, which was introduced when traders began to visit, some time before Caelus Prime was incorporated into the Cluster officially. In addition to this every recruit is taught High and Low Gothic, so they can communicate with other Imperial forces effectively. mastering the languages is thus an important step in their training.
A small number are also fluent in the language known as Nemuni, which is now spoken by roughly only 25% of the planet's population, primarily the tribal nobility. This percentage is higher amongst the Chapter's members, as the melding of tribes leads to some of those who hail from groups where the language is almost extinct to attempt to learn it out of curiosity. It is also important in the singing of the ancient songs of the Chapter, which were composed using this language.
Songs
Oral histories are of great importance to the Nemeans, with warriors memorising the most noteworthy for inclusion into their songs, to be shared with others. It is one of their great beliefs that as long as a story remains, the subject is never truly gone from this realm. One of the secondary duties of the Deathspeakers is the responsibility for maintaining the war stories of the Chapter, transcribing the songs into written records that can be recited. The books that these warriors carry contain the songs of the mightiest heroes of the Chapter, ready to be sung when needed. When a Lion falls in battle, a Chapter Serf (specifically hailing from another tribe of origin to ensure impartiality) will undertake the compilation of the relevant songs into a battle-poem, which will then be sent to the tribe that the warrior hailed from. Such stories are incorporated into the history of the tribe, adding to the greater chorus, and can greatly enhance the status of the tribe, if the deeds included are particularly glorious.
Cuisine
While some Astartes Chapters subsist on nutrigruel, carboloafs and vitamead, the Nemeans do not consider such a spartan diet to be suitable for warriors. They have retained the diet of their mortal brethren, albeit scaled up to suit their increased appetites. In addition to consuming most of the animals they hunt, they subsist on the meat of livestock and the various grains grown on Caelus. A fermented drink made from milk called Amaeshi is a staple of their diet.
Typically the Nemeans will start their days with a meal of Upheuti, a porridge made from grain, which is eaten cold with Amaeshi, vegetables and pulses. Their midday meal consists of roasted meat, steamed bread and vegetables, including Amahdube, a root vegetable which is sliced and fried. In the evening they will gather for a communal feast, consuming the fruits of the day's hunt, slow roasted over a pit fire, with vegetables, more Amaeshi and Chalaka, a spiced relish.
Recently they have adopted a form of meat pie from the Lightning Wraiths called Gip’Tregga. Consisting of slow-roasted spiced meat baked into a pastry in a stone kiln, it proved popular during the shared meals within the chapters, with the Nemeans acquiring the recipe from the Wraiths for their own needs.
Primaris
With the introduction of the Primaris, and more specifically the process of crossing the Rubicon, the beliefs of a number of members of the Chapter have been deeply strained. As the process of crossing the Rubicon results in the temporary cessation of all life signs, those that experience it have effectively died and been reborn. Yet these reborn brothers experience no afterlife, no interaction with the spirits during that period, leading some to conclude that perhaps the spirits are nothing more than drug induced hallucinations or warp shadows. Such conclusions can lead to deep melancholy or despair amongst these Rubicon Primaris, something that is concealed from the rest of the Chapter as far as possible.
Of course, not all of the Chapter's Rubicon Primaris come to this conclusion, and some of those that initially felt this way have since changed their perspectives. After all, while they have technically died, since these Rubicon Primaris do not remain deceased, it could simply be that their spirits did not leave the body during this period.
The former Greyshields of the Chapter have introduced a number of new ideas and philosophies to their brethren, some of which have been viewed with interest, others with derision. Amongst these ideas is the Imperial Fists practice of scrimshaw, engraving of bones with ornate patterns significant to the creator. While the Nemeans find the act of carving bones distasteful, a number have adopted the practice using synthetic materials.
Chapter Gene-Seed[]
As a Successor Chapter of the Imperial Fists, the Nemean Lions share almost all of their genetic legacy with their forebears. Due to this direct link, they have inherited many of the characteristics of their Primarch Rogal Dorn and his original sons. The Chapter's gene-seed is highly stable and mostly free from flaws, though like the Imperial Fists' it is lacking the Betcher's Gland that allows a Space Marine to spit corrosive acid, and the Sus-an Membrane that allows him to enter a life-sustaining state of deep hibernation. It also possesses the additional flaw of an imperfection in the Occulobe, increasing the low light vision of the Lions' Astartes at the cost of greater sensitivity to strong light. As a result the lens filters of the Chapter's helms are modified to account for this sensitivity, cutting out more light than normal. The gene-seed has proven to be forgiving towards slightly older initiates, which when combined with the robust genetic stock of Caelus Prime has given the Chapter a moderately higher success rate when implanting into more mature subjects. It should be noted though that this applies only to the initial implantation, older Aspirants still have a higher chance of organ rejection or developing complications as they age. The Chapter's Sangomas weigh this carefully against the skills of the applicant and the council of the Spiritwalkers before approving such cases.
Skotadi Previously unseen before the Noctis Aeternae, the advent of the Great Rift has seemingly unlocked a flaw in the Gene-Seed of the Nemean Lions. Those afflicted slowly lose the discipline and stoicism that is typical of Nemeans, giving in to anger and bloodlust. They no longer heed orders and crave the rush of close combat, charging their foes with reckless abandon. Such brothers are named Skotadi, a name given to mercifully few thus far. As their indiscipline poses a risk to the doctrine and battle plans of the Chapter, the Skotadi are formed into kill-teams and used for detached operations. Some remark darkly that many of these operations are deliberately high risk to cull the number of Skotadi, to hide the shame of the Lions.
Chapter Recruitment[]
One of the Katakopo. Nemean Scouts are expected to fight in the battle line and as such are equipped with this in mind, wearing helmets and carrying loadouts more aimed towards regular combat over scouting.
When a new batch of recruits are required, the Nemeans hold an event called the Artellian Choosing. The tribes send their most promising young men to the gathering for a several weeks long series of hunts, duels and ritual trials to demonstrate not only the physical but also mental prowess of all the potential Aspirants. Many thousands of applicants are whittled down to a few hundred candidates that will go on to the next stage. These "Psiloi" (Aspirants) then undergo the initial stages of implantation and their real training begins. Unlike some Chapters the Lions do not permit duels to the death as part of training, only to first blood. There is still a high mortality rate for Aspirants however, the hunting of some of Caelus’ deadliest creatures is integrated into the training regime and such creatures do not forgive failure. Hypno-indoctrination is still an integral part of the early training, like with all Astartes Chapters, though the Lions place less emphasis on reshaping the personality of the recruits and implantation of memories, for they feel that this would affect the recruit's spirit and they want their warriors to retain more of their original personality and the cultural background of their heritage. Thus they conduct the hypnotherapy required to ensure successful implantation and conduct but avoid implementing the more extreme elements that some Chapters do. The hunts instil valuable lessons into the young warriors and teach them key skills of field craft, stealth and teamwork. They are overseen by veterans, but one particular hunt that is the final trial of their training is led by the Guardian of the Hunt. A trek that lasts weeks is undertaken, through treacherous terrain controlled by the deadliest predators of the world. The young lions travel to the Graveyard of Titans and the Temple of the 'Lost Seers' that Spirit Walkers have undertaken pilgrimages to for Millennia. Here they commune with the Spirits, often for the first time. This is the final stage of their initial training, and after they return the survivors will be assigned to the 10th Speria as Katakopoi to undergo combat training. These new warriors will be divided up between the ten Speria to complete their training, though they remain on paper as part of the 10th. The initiates of the Chapter are not formed into the traditional scout units, instead being formed into combat units and used for both limited front-line combat and support roles. These young warriors fight with an unbound eagerness, desperate to prove themselves in every possible conflict to gain the respect of their elders. In battle these units are expected to draw the foe back to the main body by skirmishing when in defence and probing the enemy lines for weakness when on the offensive. The Lions are noteworthy for maintaining larger reserves of Scouts, due to the resultant higher mortality rates they endure but also to offset their lack of reserve companies. Often to replace combat losses, the Lions will choose the most experienced of the available Katakopos and grant them their power armour, rather than reshuffling manpower from other Speria.
Primaris Marines
With the revelation of the Primaris, the Chapter has begun the process of fully transitioning to these new Astartes. When Alkaios and his Speria joined the Indomitus Crusade, Roboute Guilliman offered them Primaris marines from the Greyshields to fill the losses sustained during the Noctis Aeternae and the conflicts preceding it. Alkaios was wary, these Astartes had no knowledge of Nemean culture and the traditions of the Chapter, they had gone on no hunts, earned no pelts. Many were ten millennia old and held deeply rooted beliefs of their own. He knew from experience that many in the Chapter were deeply conservative and would resist such a change. Nonetheless he decided to take one of the offered marines, the future Alexiares, and see how well he adapted. He took the marine to the Nemean hunting ground in the Argos to introduce him to the hunt. They stalked a lesser lion, with the Regulus teaching his charge the rituals he needed to perform. Alexiares brought down the lion with a hunting spear and ended it with the ritual dagger in the traditional manner. Over the coming days he would be introduced to other aspects of Nemean culture and eagerly explore each one. During this time, he selected the name Alexiares to replace his own.
As the number of Primaris marines in the chapter increases, the Techmarines are increasingly looking into how to modify the new Mk X armour to incorporate Mk III style plates. This veteran Dekarchos is wearing one of the more heavily modified examples.
Alkaios was greatly pleased at how this Primaris had embraced the Nemean ways and the respect he had shown. Alkaios decided to accept Guilliman's offer. While the initial integration was comparatively smooth thanks to the familiarity his men had with the Primaris, having fought alongside them already, and the deep trust they had for their leader's judgement, this did not ring true with the wider Chapter when they reunited. Alkaios had been absent for many years and some had even believed him to be dead. His arrival with these new and unheard-of warriors caused protest amongst the leadership and grumbling in the ranks of the greater Chapter. Days of talks did not alleviate the situation and several fights broke out between the two sides with a number of marines being injured. Iphaclus resolved to speak to the dissenters personally, telling them of his commune with the ancestors and the vision they had sent him, showing of how the Emperor's hand had guided Cawl's in the creation of the Primaris and that accepting these warriors would allow the Imperium to grow strong once more. This quietened most of the disagreement, for the time being at least.
Alkaios announced several days of ritual sparring contests to allow the two groups to intermingle. The new Primaris acquitted themselves well, despite the vast experience of the older marines. Nevertheless, the Chapter Champion Antaeus, while being shorter and weaker than the Primaris challengers, won every contest, whether bare fisted or with a blade, even against marines that had been in cryo storage since the Great Crusade. The event helped to forge bonds between the two groups which would then be tempered in the coming battles as Alkaios stabilised the Cluster before taking them all to re-join the Indomitus Crusade. While the integration of the initial Primaris had been completed successfully, Alkaios has declined the offer of any further reinforcements drawn from the Unnumbered Sons, preferring to replace these losses the traditional way using Caelusian stock and modified gene-seed. He feared that the dilution of the Chapter's gene-seed and culture this would result in would be too much for his brothers to stomach and would only lead to further conflict. Fractures are beginning to show in the Chapter as the original Primaris rise through the ranks and the Rubicon Primaris procedure further muddies the waters. Alkaios and a number of the senior officers have undergone the procedure successfully but several high-profile failures of the upgrade procedure before it was perfected have not helped the matter, with some greatly respected marines dying as a result. Additionally, the recent ascension of some Primaris to elite units and officer positions has bred resentment amongst marines who feel their greater experience has been overlooked. The Chapter is currently in a mixed state, with many marines undecided or unwilling to upgrade, particularly those who are veterans of many centuries.
A Fireteam of Primaris Intercessors dismounts from its Impulsor transport to storm a traitor redoubt.
Combat Doctrine[]
The Nemean Lions are predominantly adherents to the Codex Astartes’ many practicums of warfare, recognising the tactical flexibility and strategic knowledge it provides, though they have made small alterations to suit their preferred stratagems. The Lions's doctrine focuses heavily on mobile warfare, to an extent rarely seen outside those hailing from the lineage of the White Scars, albeit based around aircraft and skimmers rather than the bikes typically preferred by those Chapters. To minimise the casualties that can ensue when these mobile forces meet a foe that can counter them, the Lions deploy in larger formations where possible, rarely deploying at less than Speria strength, though smaller units have been utilised when necessary. They also ensure that heavier equipment is always held in reserve, allowing them to switch to more conventional heavy warfare if required.
While this style of warfare is highly effective, the doctrine is heavily reliant on application of firepower at key points. To that end, the Chapter has acquired or developed several specialised variants of standard vehicles (such as the Storm Falcon), which possess a greater quantity of firepower. This allows the Lions to carpet an objective with ordnance before swooping in to deploy their warriors to finish off the weakened foe.
A Nemean Lions' assault is a highly coordinated affair, requiring multiple branches to align at a single point to overwhelm the opponent. Armoured vehicles move into pre-planned positions, artillery batteries readying their payloads. Ground infantry prepare to move forwards in transports alongside the armour, while drop pods and flyers ready to deploy. The assault begins with a ferocious bombardment from the artillery, followed immediately by the airborne units in the flyers swooping in to seize key objectives and drop pods secure likely enemy reinforcement routes. As the enemy reels from this assault, the ground forces advance to join the airborne troops, while the artillery and flyers support both with bombardments and close air support. Once broken, the foe finds themselves pincered between the units deployed via drop pod and the advancing hammer blow.
Nemean Lions Whirlwind. Like most vehicles fielded by the Lions, concealment and survivability is a priority and thus camouflage netting has been applied to help hide it while stationary.
When forced onto the defensive however, the Lions switch to a hybrid mobile-static stratagem, along the lines of the ancient Terran "hammer and anvil" tactic. The majority of the infantry and armour will deploy and dig in, displaying some of the fortification prowess of their progenitor as they throw up elaborate defensive lines. Their heavy armour will be brought out of reserve and along with the flyers will form two strike waves, hidden behind these defences. As the enemy advances, they are whittled down by bombardments from the concealed artillery batteries and long range fire from the dug-in armoured vehicles. As their waves break against the fortifications, the Lions' local commanders will relay reports on any weak spots in the assault that can be exploited. Once these become apparent, the strike waves deploy. The airborne elements cut the hole in the weak point, and the following heavy armour drives a wedge into it, pushing deep into the crumbling formation. As the enemy wavers, the static line joins the offensive, attacking along the front until the foe is in full retreat.
Deathwatch Service[]
Misthophoros Apollonides, a Nemean Lion currently in secondment with the Deathwatch.
Despite the friction that has existed between the Lions and organisations such as the Inquisition at times, they readily send Astartes for the Long Vigil when required and have a long and storied history of service with the Deathwatch since their founding. These Astartes are selected by the Spirit Walkers during a ritual, consulting the spirits to find which Battle brothers will gain the most from their service. Those Nemean Lions seconded to the Deathwatch have accumulated a respectable history and reputation, but only a few in all their number have chosen to remain beyond their tour, remaining loyal to their chapter above their new comrades.
Notable Members[]
Regulus Shaka inspiring his men during the Siege of Sharina IV
- Strategos Shaka † - The first Chapter Master of the Nemean Lions, responsible for the formation of its culture, traditions and equipment. A huge and imposing figure, Shaka was on more than one occasion mistaken for a Primarch by the primitive people of the planets he fought on. Shaka spent most of his time as Regulus fighting to ensure his Chapter was well equipped for the many wars they would have to fight, using threats, bribery and negotiation to build up his fleet and ground forces to be best equipped for any fight they may come across. While still comparatively youthful he began to suffer from failing organs and his expected life span was reduced to a decade at most. Before his ill health forced him to renounce the leadership and be interred in cryosleep, Shaka wore a custom suit of Artificer armour made by the Tech-priests of Tvastar. Shaka was still alive though and his health, while failing, allowed him brief periods out of cryo for conflicts of such importance that the presence of his imposing stature was necessary. Whenever Shaka took to the battlefield the mere sight of his silhouette rallied the Lions and inspired them to fight with three-fold ferocity. For twelve great conflicts Shaka was awakened, saving his Chapter from periods of strife, both external and internal, before finally falling in battle.
Regulus Alkaios charges a traitor redoubt during the defence of Medin Kasr, Fall of Cadia.
- Regulus Alkaios - The current Chapter Master of the Nemean Lions, ascending to the position in the middle of M41. Although young, Alkaios was already a legendary figure within the Chapter, having defeated an Apex Nemean Leonis single-handedly during a hunt. As a Battle brother Alkaios fought extensively alongside a detachment of Salamanders and gained a deep respect for the regard they showed towards the innocent civilians of the Imperium. Alkaios will do his utmost to protect the mortal humans of the worlds he fights on, though he will not allow this to compromise his battle plans or put his brothers at risk. While this has gained him a great deal of adulation amongst some of the peoples he has saved, it has also led to disagreements with other chapters who disapprove of the human focus. Alkaios can often be seen at the forefront of battle, scattering and crushing his foes with mighty sweeps of his thunder hammer, the Hammer of Hephaestus. Alkaios has recently successfully crossed the Rubicon Primaris as an example to his men that the procedure is feasible.
- First Hekaton Ilus - The current Captain of the First Speria. Ilus ascended to the rank following the death of Hekaton Hylas at the hands of an Alpha Legion kill team during the re-conquest of Lernaean III. Following the confusion and disarray caused by the loss of several key leaders of the Speria, Ilus was able to stabilise the situation and rally his brothers, leading them out of the precarious situation they had found themselves in. After rejoining with Alkaios's forces, the Regulus decided to appoint Ilus as the new Captain. Ilus is a taciturn and pragmatic leader, willing to spend lives for the greater good, both those of his own men and allies. He prefers to stay at the rear, overseeing the combat strategies, waiting for the perfect moment before charging in and slaying foes with mighty blows from Imperator, his relic sword. Ilus has recently crossed the Rubicon Primaris at the request of Alkaios.
- Chief Spiritwalker Iphaclus - The current Chief Librarian of the Nemean Lions. Twin brother to Alkaios but his opposite in personality, Iphaclus is a reserved and cerebral character who avoids the limelight in favour of studying in his library. Iphaclus lacks prowess in battle, with poor marksman scores, and average sword skill. However, he has incredible strategic insight and extraordinary psychic powers. With the introduction of Mk X armour Iphaclus has adopted the Phobos pattern, preferring the extra mobility and lighter weight it affords. After persuading Alkaios that the spirits were guiding him to embrace the Primaris, Iphaclus crossed the Rubicon Primaris just after his twin, aiding his passage with his psychic powers.
Deathspeaker Philocentes rallies the 6th Speria during the storming of the Ruined Gate, Gorgantes Campaign.
- Deathspeaker Reclusiarch Philocentes - A charismatic orator who wades into the heaviest fire to drive the Lions to greater deeds, Philocentes is an imposing figure on the battlefield and equal in respect and ability to many of the Chapters historic Regulus. Unusually for a Reclusiarch, Philocentes freely shows his unscarred face to his battle brothers, even on the battlefield. As is tradition, Philocentes and his fellow Deathspeakers oversee funeral rites, ensuring all fallen brothers are burnt after their gene-seed is extracted. He also records the history and deeds of the Chapter's members and activity. Philocentes has recently crossed the Rubicon Primaris at the request of Alkaios and was instrumental in the survival of 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th Speria during the Trojan war, during which single-handedly slew a Traitor Knight.
Antaeus advancing to engage an Ork Warboss during the Battle of [REDACTED].
- Chapter Champion Antaeus - Antaeus was a late recruit to the Astartes, initially rejected due to perceived poor suitability. He joined the Nemean PDF Cadets and swiftly gained fame, displaying impressive skill with any close combat weapon, particularly the traditional hunting spear and the long sword. He took his rejection strongly and fought hard to be recognised by both the Astartes and his superiors. Eventually he came to the attention of the Regulus and was accepted despite the reservations of the Sangomas and began the process. Two centuries later and he was a well-respected warrior in the Chapter, recognised for his skills in combat. With the death of the previous champion, Antaeus was chosen by Alkaios after a ritual contest which saw him face 20 contenders in unarmoured single combat, defeating each one in a single day without taking a scratch in return. As Chapter Champion Antaeus wears a relic suit of Mk II power armour and wields an ancient blade which bears a strong resemblance to the Black Sword of the Black Templars. Since his prowess is made clear, he does not feel the need to signal it further through pelts, choosing instead to only wear a piece of the Apex Leonis pelt which was gifted to him by Alkaios upon his ascension. Antaeus has recently crossed the Rubicon Primaris at the request of Alkaios.
- Hekaton Aristeus, Guardian of the Hunt - Aristeus commands the 10th Speria and is therefore master of the Katakopos. As with his predecessors he is afforded the title of Guardian of the Hunt, a prestigious rank within Nemean Culture. Hailing far back into the forgotten past of Caelus there are tales of the Guardians, skilled warriors who could track any prey and tame mighty beasts such as the filament wolves. Aristeus continues this legacy, teaching the Psilos his skills and organising hunts for Chapter gatherings, both at home and on campaign. Aristeus is rarely seen without Horish, his Mytikan Falcon, a fearsome bird of prey and his closest friend. Aristeus has recently crossed the Rubicon Primaris at the request of Alkaios.
Eparchos Alexiares defends the First Speria Ancient during the War of the Beasts.
- Eparchos Alexiares - A young but already highly decorated Astartes who fought alongside Roboute Guilliman during the Indomitus Crusade. The first Primaris to be accepted by the Chapter, Alexiares was responsible for passing on the knowledge he had gained to the other Greyshields adopted by the Chapter. He was gifted a blade by the Ultramarines as thanks for his aid in the War of Beasts. His skill at arms and cunning intellect has seen Alkaios recently promote him to the First Speria.
- Leader Atlas - The current commander of the Anthropos who, as per tradition, has set aside his original name to assume that of Atlas. Atlas was a near mythical warrior from the Founding of the Chapter who carved his way through a horde of genestealers to secure the battleship which would become the Argos, the pride of the Chapter. Since then, the various Atlas’s have always been at the heart of every battle, tallying up an incredible list of achievements and victories. The latest Atlas lives up to the name, having earned distinction in the retaking of the Trojan system and joining the last battles of the Indomitus Crusade which saw the Aeaean Cluster liberated.
- Forgemaster Hephaestus - A marine who when initiated suffered from crippling complications which left him unable to perform his duties. He was denied the mercy of the Sangomas though by Regulus Dioedas, who was guided by the Spiritwalkers to keep Hephaestus alive and part of the Chapter. Dioedas decreed that Hephaestus would go to Mars to become a Techmarine. The Mechanicus rebuilt his body, their technology far surpassing that available in Ultima Segmentum. Reborn in metal and faith, Hephaestus eagerly absorbed the knowledge offered to him. He returned to his Chapter as a fully-fledged Techmarine and swiftly rose to the rank of Forgemaster of the Lions. Hephaestus has maintained a close relationship with the now Regulus Alkaios, who he believes is a worthy successor to Dioedas. Hephaestus has recently crossed the Rubicon Primaris. Despite the increased risks this posed, it proved a momentous event for Hephaestus, healing several of his crippled organs and improving his health. The change has been bittersweet however, for he was accustomed to his mechanical elements and the positive and negative elements of them.
Foehammer, one of Hephaestus's proudest creations.
- Hekaton Archelaus - Archelaus is a hardened, veteran warrior who proved his mettle during the Trojan War. After the death of Akhilles in the waning days of the campaign, he took over as Hekaton of the 4th Speria and was appointed Praetor. Under his command the surviving chaos warbands were hunted down and destroyed and final victory achieved. Archelaus is known for his deeply spiritual nature, spending many hours with the Spiritwalkers and Deathspeakers, seeking the wisdom of the elders. He has made it his task to persuade the dissenting voices of the chapter to embrace the Primaris, seeing them as the only way for the Chapter to thrive going forward.
- Zaeragos Ateas - Leader of the Sparagos, responsible for overseeing the assembly and deployment of these kill-teams. Ateas is a deeply spiritual Astartes, spending much time in the company of the Spiritwalkers and mortal tribal elders when he is on the homeworld.
- Fleet Navarch Avathis - Master of the Fleet and Shipmistress of the Nemean Lions flagship Argos. She ascended to the position in 983.M41 after the unfortunate escape of a Leonis from the reservation led to an impromptu hunt being staged throughout the vessel, with the prior Shipmaster encountering the Leonis as he vacated his stateroom. Avathis has already proven to be a skilled commander in combat, directing her vessel and the larger fleet with impressive ability. At the battle of Apenta Malna, she engaged a traitor fleet which outnumbered the Nemean forces 3-1, winning a significant victory.
- Misthophoros Apollonides - A currently serving member of the Deathwatch. Apollonides is a calm and collected Astartes, displaying the deep patience and quiet manner typical to Nemeans. Shortly after the Noctis Aeterna Apollonides was chosen for Deathwatch service and departed to join their ranks. As is customary, he replaced his rank of Kontophoros with that of Misthophoros.
- Talos Titanomachitís - The current pilot of the Chapter's mighty contemptor dreadnought, gifted to the Chapter by the Imperial Fists upon their founding. He was interned during the Medean Crusade in M39. Like all Dreadnought pilots of the Nemean Lions, he was selected after the spiritwalkers determined that his journey was not yet complete and he should be interred rather than granted the Emperor's mercy. Titanomachitís is not as reckless as some of his brothers, no longer seeking out his death to end his imprisonment (though he did at first). Instead he seems to have found a semblance of peace in the rhythm of battle, calmly performing his duty when called upon to do it.
Chapter Fleet[]
Current Fleet Composition
The Strike Cruiser Orks's Bane, engaging a traitor fleet over Tyrinis Delta. The heretics are aided by the vessels of Ork pirate Darktoof, a prominent mercenary in Ultima Segmentum.
The Nemean Lions have a sizable fleet, thanks to the acquisition of several vessels from both the fallen Crimson Robes and also the cleansing of Space Hulk Dominatus Felix Titanicus.
The Nemean Lions' Chapter Fleet in early M42.
This has served them well in the campaigns they have undertaken, both defensively and offensively in aid of their sector and the wider Imperium. As of M42, they possess the following combat vessels:
- 1 Courageous class Battle Barge
- 1 Battle Barge
- 6 Strike Cruisers
- 14 Escorts
Notable Vessels
- Argos (Courageous class Battle Barge) - An enormous Battleship, longer than even a regular Battle Barge, the ship named Argos was salvaged by the Nemean Lions during the cleansing of Space Hulk Dominatus Felix Titanicus. The ship was damaged almost beyond repair and required a century-long refit before it was operational once more. Behind the formidable façade of armour and turrets, the Argos is comparatively under-gunned for a ship its size and has a number of structural weaknesses as a result of her traumatic history, rumoured to be exacerbated by rushed, sub-standard build quality when the vessel was constructed. The Mechanicus of Tvastar provided an extremely strong void shield as a result to compensate. While the ship is still a potent asset in fleet engagements, the Argos is more highly valued for her transport ability. The interior contains an enormous artificial hunting plain, complete with numerous examples of wildlife from Caelus so that the Astartes can participate in hunts and other rituals from home as they transit to distant battlefields.
- Blade of Delias (Battle Barge) – The most decorated vessel in the Lion’s fleet after Argos, the Blade of Delias has seen combat in countless battles across the millennia and been almost destroyed a dozen times. Despite these brushes with death the vessel is not seen as unlucky by the Astartes that are assigned to it, indeed it is highly sought after as a symbol of resolute defiance. The extensive network of repairs that patchwork the surface of the mighty warship led the Athenaian theologist Heracletus to postulate her thought experiment on the Ship of Nemea, which ponders if a vessel that has had all its parts replaced over its lifespan is still the same vessel. Despite the best efforts of the shipwrights of Tvastar, the Blade of Delias is showing some worrying levels of wear in the interior structure. However, the rebuild of the vessel to address these issues would likely take decades, if not longer. The loss of the vessel for that long, when the demands of the Chapter are so great is a tough decision to ponder.
- Spear of Caelus (Battle Barge) – Though it was not as decorated or highly sought as the Blade of Delias, the Spear of Caelus was nonetheless a warship with a long list of victories under its belt. Most famously the ship slammed down into the atmosphere of Rehkordernan VI, dropping its cargo, an entire Speria, into the heart of heretical cult before powering back up into the void. The ship was lost in battle during the Trojan War and too badly damaged to be salvaged.
The Blade of Delias.
- Lion’s Mane (Strike Cruiser) – One of the vessels salvaged and retrofitted after the Space Hulk incident, Lion’s Mane fought steadfastly in many engagements before being lost in the Battle of the Perry Straits, ramming an heretic battleship.
- Ork's Bane (Vanguard Strike Cruiser) - Salvaged from the destruction of the Crimson Robes, the Vanguard Cruiser Heart of Night was allocated to the Nemean Lions upon their founding. It was renamed to Ork's Bane after the decisive battle of Salamesh where it reaped a heavy toll upon the Ork warships.
- Shaka's Fist - Another one of the vessels salvaged and retrofitted after the Space Hulk incident, this ship was originally named Fury of Nemea but was renamed after the Isawahana conflict. Commanded personally by Shaka during the engagement, she was responsible for crippling a number of vessels via close-range hammer blows, thus earning her moniker which was later made permanent.
Chapter Relics[]
A Land Raider Helios, the most commonly fielded variant utilised by the Nemean Lions.
- Spear of the White Lion - The Spear wielded by Regulus Shaka. An otherwise normal Nemean hunting spear, it was rebuilt after being shattered during the hunt for the White Lion, an extremely rare Apex Leonis which had lived to such an old age that its pelt had turned completely white. The rebuilt spear has a power blade and metalled shaft, with an impressive history of slaying enemy warlords.
- Pelt of the White Lion - The pelt of an extremely rare Apex Leonis slain by Shaka during a lengthy hunt. This pelt typically adorns the tank Foehammer when it takes to the field.
- Hammer of Hephaestus - Forged by the legendary Forgemaster Hephaestus for Regulus Alkaios, this mighty Thunder hammer was used to slay a Greater Demon of Khorne during the Indomitus Crusade.
- Aspis Cadianis - A large, oval shield, crafted after Alkaios's previous shield was sundered on Cadia. It was named in honour of that terrible conflict and inscribed with the names of the Lions lost.
- The Spirit Blade - An ancient relic within the Nemean Lions, a blade that the spirit walkers of the tribes of Caelus supposedly used before the formation of the Chapter that was said to channel its wielder's psychic potential as a lightning rod. Where this blades origin truly lies is unknown, but it has been reforged into a power sword for the chief Spiritwalker and currently is wielded by Iphalcus.
- Armour of Pericales - A suit of Master-crafted Mk II armour inherited from the Imperial Fists Chapter. Wearing this suit of armour is an honour reserved for the Chapter Champion.
Godbreaker, a Kratos Battle Tank of the Chapter.
- Dawnbreaker - A power sword of unknown origin, bearing a strong resemblance to the Black Sword of the Black Templars. This well-balanced duelling blade is reserved for the Chapter Champion.
- Guardian Blade - A power sabre of unknown origin. This blade is reserved for the Guardian of the Hunt and is considered a symbol of his status.
- Blade of Aemilius - A power sword gifted to Eparchos Alexiares by the Ultramarines after he fought with exceptional distinction alongside the Sons of Guilliman during the Vigilus campaign.
- Godbreaker - A recent addition to the armoury of the Nemean Lions, this mighty relic of the distant past was salvaged from the battlefields of Coele-Myr, where it had been found fighting against the traitor forces despite a slain crew. Secretly the vehicle had belonged to the Blades of Onyx warband, which decided that in light of the damage the vehicle had received (and they lacked the resources to adequately repair), plus the fact it had accepted the new livery and crew, they would gift the vehicle to the Nemeans. Due to the secretive nature of the Blades' existence and their contribution to the conflict, this information is left out of the Chapter's documentation on the war.
Sicaran Battle Tank, Tvastar variant "Foehammer"
- Foehammer - An ancient Sicaran battle tank salvaged from the destruction of the Crimson Robes Chapter. During the 12th battle for the Gyula Heights the turret of the tank was obliterated by an Ork Titan. With no ability to repair or replace the Sicaran's turret, Hephaestus decided in desperation to graft the turret of a disabled Repulsor Executioner onto the hull to get it back into the fight. Such tech heresy shocked the Magi of Tvastar when they discovered it and they attempted to have the hybrid vehicle dismantled and rebuilt according to the original patterns, but they discovered that the Sicaran's machine spirit had overwhelmed that of the turret and now refused to be parted with it. After much consultation, the Magi decided to allow the vehicle to remain as it was and merely repaired it and ensured that the original temporary modifications were made permanent. Hephaestus has since petitioned the Mechanicus of Tvastar on multiple occasions to try and make the new hybrid a recognised pattern of vehicle but to no avail. The rarity of Sicarans, even damaged ones, is a severe hindrance to his request.
Chapter Appearance[]
Identity-pict file displaying the Nemean Lions' heraldry and armour.
Chapter Colours
The Nemean Lions wear primarily dark grey power armour. Parts of the armour such as the wrist trim of the vambraces (forearm armour), poleyns (knee guards), top of the helmet and left armorial inset are given a sand yellow colouring. The right armorial inset is mustard yellow with a painted tribal design unique to the tribe the wearer hails from and the poleyns feature a black and tan, hide style pattern. Some of the Astartes of the Lions decorate their armour with additional tribal markings to select armour panels. This is permitted as long as it is restricted to only the right side of the armour, to alleviate concerns that excessive embellishment may anger the machine spirit. Helmets are universally worn in battle, even amongst the leadership.
Nemean Lions Armourial
Unlike in some more Codex-compliant Chapters, the Nemean Lions' Speria do not use coloured trim as a designation. Kontos speciality (such as Tactical, Assault or Devastator) is also not indicated as the Lions designate such roles just before battle and rely on the equipment and HUD markers to identify these units. The Kontos number is identified by a small numeral placed on the power pack. The rank of Kontophoros is indicated by a red transverse crest (replaced by a red armour marking if mounting a crest is impractical due to other factors) and a white helmet stripe. Veteran status is conveyed by a yellow helmet stripe and often a more complete suit of Mk III armour.
Chapter Badge
The Nemean Lions' Chapter badge is a snarling lion head in gold on a sand-yellow background. It bears a strong resemblance to the symbol of their fellow 23rd Founding Chapter, the Celestial Lions, albeit in different colours. Whether this was a deliberate choice by the Imperial Fists when founding the two Chapters or simply a matter of coincidence is not known, though repetition of heraldry is hardly an uncommon occurrence within the Chapters of the Astartes. Neither Chapter is recorded as having encountered the other so they are likely unaware of this fact.
Relations[]
A fireteam of the 3rd Speria disembarks from a Repulsor transport. While only deployed in limited numbers by the Chapter, the firepower of the Repulsor is a highly valued feature for operations where speed is less of a priority.
Allies
| Last Wall Chapters | As with other members of the lineage of Rogal Dorn, the Nemean Lions are members of the "Last Wall", a pact to reunite all Imperial Fist successors in the event of a dire threat. As such they maintain a bond with their brother Chapters. | |
| Imperial Fists | The Nemean Lions naturally have strong ties with their progenitor, both officially and unofficially. While their relationship with the Imperial Fists started as an extremely close bond, due in part to the gratitude the Nemeans held for the assistance provided during their founding, in later years it has begun to falter. The Nemeans have come to realise that while they share blood with them, they are fundamentally different spiritually to their progenitors and many of the other Chapters from this lineage, often feeling a closer connection to those Chapters hailing from the gene-lines of the Salamanders and White Scars due to their more closely aligned philosophies. | |
| Myrian Septumvirate | An informal alliance of several Astartes Chapters, formed after the reclamation of Coele-Myr. The members have pledged to aid each other in times of strife and to retain bonds of friendship. | |
| Daughters of Athena | Well-equipped and trained Astra Militarum Regiments raised on Caelus Prime alongside the Nemean Lions. The Lions have forged close bonds with the various Kori of the Daughters in the countless conflicts the two have fought in. If any are available, the Lions will choose Daughters over other Imperial Guard forces in the area. | |
| The Solar Winds of Auximite | An alliance of Rogue Traders who were enlisted by King Kajama to ferry him to The Phalanx prior to the founding of the Nemean Lions. They have since become integrally involved with the Lions, aiding them in both warfare and diplomacy wherever profit follows. | |
| Forge World Tvastar | The closest Forge World to Caelus Prime and the provider of most of the Chapter's equipment. Shaka took great care to cultivate a strong relationship with the Magi, to ensure that they always have the Lions in their thoughts when new gear is available. | |
| Blades of Onyx | Though their relationship with the Blades of Onyx is a closely guarded secret, the Lions have nonetheless benefitted from maintaining ties with this secretive band, gaining several priceless relics in exchange for supplies and the occasional item from Tvastar being "lost" in their vicinity. These Astartes are also members of the Myrian Septumvirate. | |
| Immortals | While the relationship between these two Chapters started off frosty, the diplomatic overtures of the Immortals have thawed this ice and lead to a strong bond of friendship between the two, with each sharing gifts, unique technology and knowledge with the other. They have further solidified this friendship due to both being members of the Myrian Septumvirate. | |
| Lightning Wraiths | While these two Chapters have only recently become acquainted, during the Triumvirate conflict, they have already taken advantage of the strengths they can provide to each other, exchanging wargear such as the Niveran pattern Bolt Rifle. They have further solidified this friendship due to both being members of the Myrian Septumvirate. The cultural similarities, in particular the rituals around death, have ensured that these two Chapters have a strong bond, with frequent visits by members to maintain these bonds. | |
| Emperor's Legion | Having participated in several conflicts together, these two Chapters have formed a bond forged in fire. Highly compatible combat doctrines have contributed to their good working relationships, with each complimenting the other. | |
| Hartlords | While these two Chapters have only recently become acquainted, the Hartlords provided aid during the Waaagh of Warboss Jawklaw and proved vital in the killing of this warboss and the scattering of his forces, thus earning the thanks and friendship of the Lions. |
Troubled Relations
| Mechanicus | Despite their close ties to the Forge World of Tvastar, the Lions have at times come close to drawing the ire of the greater Mechanicus, due to their tendency to modify vehicles and occasionally skirt the border of tech-heresy. | |
| Inquisition |  |
The Lions have an uneasy relationship with the Inquisition at best, a result of the Lions putting what they consider to be the well-being of the Imperium ahead of faction politics and until recently having a flexible relationship with the Codex Astartes. As of yet the Lions have not drawn the true wrath of the Inquisition upon themselves and the recent good standing the Lions have forged as a result of their organisational reforms and their contributions to the Indomitus Crusade may give them pause if they do. |
| Scions of Cassan | The Lions have never truly forgiven this Chapter for the Ambush at Luhktrae which saw the destruction and desecration of most of their First Speria by a breakaway traitor contingent. While the parent Chapter was cleared of association with the traitorous elements, the Lions still regard them with contempt and hostility. |
Enemies
| Orks | The Lions have a long history of conflict with the Orks, who were the primary cause of the Chapter's creation with their constant Waaaghs into the Aeaean Cluster. The Medean Crusade broke the back of such large attacks but the Orks remain a persistent nuisance in the Sector. | |
| Chaos | The forces of Chaos are an especially hated foe of the Nemean Lions, on several occasions they have caused severe casualties for the Chapter and drawn them into long conflicts such as the Trojan War and Coele-Myr conflict. | |
| Tyranids | Most recently the Nemean Lions’ greatest foe was splinters of Hive Fleet Kraken that laid waste to entire systems of the Aeaean Cluster and cost them their most famous warrior before they were finally contained. Of all the threats to test the home Sector of the Lions, never has one left their lands irreparably devastated. For this the Lions treat the Tyranids as an unparalleled threat. | |
| Necrons | While not a regular foe of the Nemean Lions, the Necrons have drawn their ire on several occasions, as a Dynasty resides close by the Aeaean Cluster, leading to several conflicts. The Flayed Ones' practice of draping human skin over their bodies is particularly repulsive to the Lions, and if the skin is from a Nemean, it can send the Lions into an incandescent rage until the body is recovered. |
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Notable Quotes[]
By the Nemean Lions
- "My warriors are the mightiest mortal men of the Segmentum. Long have we fought the enemies of the Imperium and crushed them beneath our feet in His name. Let us be reborn, our flesh reforged as tough as the skin of the Apex Leonis and our mighty roar shall make the heretic and xenos alike tremble in fear."
- — Excerpt from a remembrancer's recording of King Kajama's speech to the Imperial Fists, prior to the Chapter's founding.
- "The burden of duty weighs heavy upon us all. We are the stalwart defenders of the Imperium, and it falls upon us to protect humanity from the horrors that seek to destroy us. The attrition of war is a relentless enemy, one that drains our strength and tests our resolve. But we are not here to falter or fail. We are here to fight until our last breath, to hold the line and keep the darkness at bay. We are the Nemean Lions, and we will never back down from our duty to the Imperium. They shall know our fury!"
- —Regulus Leonidas, Former Chapter Master of the Nemean Lions
Nemean Lions Predator Destructor.
- "Brothers! We near the end of a long and brutal struggle! We have fought, we have bled, we have been beaten but we are unbroken! The Heretics think they are safe behind their defences, they think they have won! They are wrong!! Will you follow me? Will you show them how foolish they are?"
- —Regulus Strategos Shaka prior to the charge of the 300, the final skirmish of the Trojan War.
- "Do you see those Heretics over there?! Do you see them?!?! Their presence offends me, their stench offends me, their very appearance offends me! Purge this Heresy brothers, charge!!"
- — Regulus Alkaios during the Indomitus Crusade.
- "The bolters fell silent, the bodies became still, the rasps and cries ended, the thud of ceramite boots upon rockcrete continued, and in the novel quiet only them and the vox distorted whispers of the death prayers remained. Every kill earned a word to the spirits, no matter the quality of the soul, and the ferocity of the firefight would earn many minutes of this chant."
- —Battle poem of Livinia VI, Serf Demeter - 384.M41.
- "With a thunderous roar the lightning struck the hammer.
"With me Sons of Caelus!" He howled.
The sea of black and gold recoiled, while the light of emperor soared.
With a crash of broken metal and bone.
"With me the Lions of the Plains!" He bellowed.
In Gold and Grey the Sea washed forward, its depth rumbled and echoed.
With boom of fury and triumph.
"With me Nemeans, for Shaka, for the Emperor!"
Light met darkness, the skies turned red, and the crescendo etched into the infinite.
With a thunderous roar."- —Excerpt from a battle poem of Cadia, author unknown.
- "Brother, a helmet interferes with my enhanced sensory capabilities."
"I think a bolt round to the head might interfere with them more."- —Exchange between a Nemean Lion and a Wolf of Fenris, after the Lion queried the lack of helm amongst the Wolf's wargear.
About the Nemean Lions
- "The Heretics were closing in, my platoon was down to five or six soldiers, low ammo, low morale. The Commissar was long dead. I loaded the last power pack into my Laspistol and prayed for the Emperor to deliver us. He answered my prayer. Two flyers came screaming in at low level, unleashing a furious barrage and a cargo of even more furious demi-gods. They flew through the enemy in a glorious dance of death and blood, scattering the filthy traitors back to the shadows. I thank the God-Emperor every waking moment for sending His servants the Nemean Lions to spare us that day."
- —Unknown Astra Militarum Lieutenant.
The Nemean Lions field a number of pieces of equipment that have their origins in the various Chapters they have fought alongside. This Intercessor wields a Niveran pattern Bolt Rifle, a gift from the Lightning Wraiths.
- "As Sons of Dorn, one would think that they would be as stalwart and pragmatic as the rest of their gene-kin. While the former is correct, the latter being a partial truth is something that I am glad to see. Their bonds with their brothers are among the strongest I have seen. The care that they place to ensure that the souls of their fallen pass on in peace and fulfilment is nothing short of beautiful. While we are of different genetic heritage, we are of the same mind in regards to the belief of the human soul."
- —Jäger Cavus Bahjutei of the Lightning Wraiths.
- "I have had the honour of being a spectator of the Feast of Blades that the Sons of Dorn hold on a centennial basis shortly before my secondment to the Deathwatch. While the Nemean Lions did not ultimately win, their prowess among their peers was something that could not be overlooked, the Black Templars themselves even made note of the performance of Antaeus in the arena. I find many of our fellow Astartes name themselves for some ideal or likeness that they do not end up living up to. However, it must be said, apart from the Custodians, the Nemean Lions truly have earned the moniker of their namesake."
- — Cyrus Sogdianus, former Vanguard Veteran of the Kingslayers, of the Immortals regarding the prowess of the Nemean Lions.
- "The defence and liberation of the Aeaean Cluster was a brief moment of proud history amongst so much failure and the final act of the first Praetor and Taskforce Onyx. To know that these systems would birth such a noble Chapter would have given him pride. That such loyalty, fealty and nobility remains in humanity strengthens my faith in the Emperor. But I have sought you out for a more sorrowful reason, to return one of your fallen sons. We knew him as Judgement, fury of the Spirits. He was my comrade and oversaw the burial of our battle brothers. His service surpassed all that we asked, and I have never seen such reverence for the dead. Whatever his failure, whatever drove him to leave you, he spent the remainder of his life seeking to redeem it. I came to learn much of your culture through him, the significance of your ancestors and the spirits of the plain. It is because of this that I know that I must break the shroud of secrecy we keep, to honour his memory. Please, read his history and know his deeds, take his furs and pelts, accept him once more as a Son of Shaka. I have the body, I have his murderers, see justice is done for my friend."
- —Brother Mitikas, Chaplain of the Brotherhood of Provedance, of the Blades of Onyx, returning Brother Asterius to the Nemean Lions.
 Myrian Septumvirate Chapters
| |
|---|---|
| Member Chapters | Angels of Anguish • Ashen Souls • Blades of Onyx • Draconian Impalers • Immortals • Imperial Wardens • Jade Wyverns • Lightning Wraiths • Nemean Lions • Onyx Phoenixes • Star Golems |
Trivia[]
- The original basis for the Nemean Lions stems from a small Astartes painting project created by the author. Having recently switched from painting Custodes, he was drawn to the Celestial Lions but had no desire to paint any more predominantly gold miniatures. The lore rapidly spiralled out from there, eventually coalescing into the modern homebrew.
- The Chapter's history, ranks and nomenclature are derived from a mixture of ancient Greek and African tribal culture.
- Alkaios, the current Chapter Master, is named after Alcaeus, the birthname of Heracles (Hercules as he is more commonly known).
- The Nemean's tactical doctrine is largely inspired by the Zulu Impi, in particular the tactic of encirclement (known as the buffalo horns formation) and preference for highly mobile warfare.
Stories[]
- New Blood - Regulus Alkaios meets the first of the new Primaris Astartes assigned to his Chapter
Gallery[]
Videos[]
