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- "You know nothing of me, and I know everything of you."
- — Jaghatai Khan
The Lightning Wraiths are a Loyalist Space Marine Chapter founded in the 37th Millennium during the 23rd 'Sentinel' Founding as a Successor Chapter to the White Scars and in homage to their genetic legacy, the Lightning Wraiths have adopted some of the White Scars' traditions and combat doctrine. They were created in response to an increase in Chaos activity in Segmentum Obscurus. Khugol Khan, the founder and first chapter master, had forged his chapter to effectively combat Chaos Warriors and cultists - specifically Khornate worshippers - as penance for a failure that had cost him his honor and the life of his mentor. A chapter born from shame, hate, and vengeance, the Lightning Wraiths are a reclusive chapter that eschews the pursuit of glory, prestige or recognition. Their introverted disposition also results in their apparent autonomy from the Imperium as the chapter rarely communicates to those outside their circle of trust. It is a widely accepted fact that very few gain the favour and the trust of these Scions of the Khan.
As a Semi Codex-compliant Chapter, the Lightning Wraiths mostly adhere to the tenets Codex Astartes with exceptions regarding specialist roles, naming conventions, and chapter organization. Their disregard of certain passages in order to honour the proud history and traditions of their homeworld, a Feudal World called Morozh'nehya, has gained the ire of devout practitioners of the Codex, such as the Hammers of Dorn. Most of their traditions are derived from the Order of Brehus, an alliance of Morozh'nehyan Kingdoms that was destroyed during a brutal war where an exploratory force of the newly founded chapter fought alongside the Order against the rest of Morozh'nehya. All that remains from the Order are savage tribes scattered on the eternal winter plains of the planet. From the aspirants to the Chapter Master, otherwise known as the Preceptor, every Lightning Wraith has spent a year living amongst the populace to learn the many proud traditions and histories of Morozh'nehya, especially the ways of the remnants of the Order of Brehus.
Marines hailing from the chapter are taciturn individuals, speaking only when the situation requires clear and concise communication. Even then, they speak very little to those who are not of the Lightning Wraiths. The only exception to their introverted attitudes are the White Scars, as the Lightning Wraiths are fanatically loyal to their forefathers, and children, as a deep paternal instinct that was never removed from psycho-indoctrination compels them to protect the next generation at all costs. However, in the fields of battle, the normally introverted marines turn into savages fuelled by their undying rage. Although they avoid direct confrontations, the savagery within the Lightning Wraiths directs them to the heart of an enemy flank, leaving a bloody swath as they cut down anything that was too slow to react to their advance. At the end of a battle or campaign, they are the last ones to leave as their warrior code demands the total annihilation of an enemy and their scholarly nature prompts them to educate the surviving human populace in a plethora of subjects that directly benefit both the planet and the Imperium as a whole. The hunt for enemy survivors is also an opportunity for them to collect equipment from fallen Astartes from other Chapters so that it may be returned to their rightful place whilst their self-assigned duty of educating the survivors also allows them to aid in any funeral rites as the Chapter ethos places great respect towards the dead.
As of the 42nd Millenium, the Chapter is currently recovering from the near decimation of multiple Companies, otherwise known as Pillars of Wisdom, during the expansion of the Eye of Terror into the Cicatrix Maledictum. Massive warp storms had appeared after the Fall of Cadia, and the fleet containing the 5th and elements of the 9th Pillar of Wisdom was begotten with misfortune as one such warp storm coalesced on its flight path as it withdrew from a disastrous and costly campaign against the Tyranids. When the fleet was forced to return to realspace, the 2nd Pillar of Wisdom's fleet was close enough to receive some of the survivors of the 5th, but it too had suffered losses in its attempt to rescue some of their brothers as an undetected Night Lords fleet attacked the Lightning Wraiths. Furthermore, their home world was also nearly destroyed by an invasion force consisting mainly of Black Legion Trator Astartes at the dawn of the Dark Millenium. Forces of the 3rd, 8/th and multiple officers were mostly destroyed by the time a relief force of Primaris Astartes arrived to destroy the docked enemy ships. The arrival of Primaris Reinforcements have filled the gaps left by the deceased marines within these Pillars of Wisdom.
Chapter History
A Primaris Marine clad in the colours of the Sipahi. His left poleyn's markings indicate that he is part of the 2nd Squad and his right poleyn is an honour marking from when he was part of the 3rd Pillar of Wisdom.
Founding
- "There have been many cultures throughout human history that placed a great deal of importance in strengthening a familial bond, whether by blood or by fire. This is why vengeance is such a powerful force; it drives the lowest of the low to conduct great acts that would be immortalized as the deeds of a demigod as the grief of severance is too great for one to bear. Especially with the knowledge of their perpetrator's continued existence.
We understand this feeling, this desire to succumb to the basest human instinct to destroy those who dared to sever a bond that we have spent a lifetime to cultivate. This vengeance, a horrible instinct rooted deeply in our hearts ever since our chapter's inception, is the reason why the Emperor's Angels are devastating warriors. For there is nothing more lethal than a man willing to turn himself into a monster in his single-minded purpose to exact retribution."- —Szulah Nuk'Fallad, Current Preceptor of the Lightning Wraiths
The First Lightning Wraith
The seeds of the chapter were sown during the Yolan Defensive, a campaign between the White Scars and a Drukhari invasion force on the Imperial Colony Yolan on 672.M37, where a Harlequin Troupe ambushed one scout squad conducting surveillance. All but three members of the squad barely managed to survive due to the timely interference of White Scars Bike Squads. One of these survivors was the future Lightning Wraiths founder and Preceptor Khugol Khan.
Khugol was unique among his peers because he was not chosen from a multitude of promising Chogorian souls to take part in the chapter’s trials. When he was a child, the White Scars came to his world in order to purge it from a xenos infestation. During their arrival, one of the chapter’s Thunderhawks had landed near Khugol’s home village. Rather than be stricken by fear and hiding from the unknown and terrifying noises, the boy that was to become Khugol snuck out of his village to investigate the landings. His young mind bore witness to the disembarkation of White Scars armoured vehicles in flashes of white and red. Curiosity had coaxed the boy to approach and attempt to sneak into the large spacecraft in order to learn more about its machinations.
Due to his inexperience in the fields of stealth and his childish eagerness to satiate his curiosity, two individuals thwarted the boy by the time he reached the ramp. One was a giant clad in pure white armour, with scrolls and animal bones dangling from chains and thick twine cords or welded onto flat surfaces. In his hands was a massive falchion that glowed with barely contained energy and on his back was a bulky jump-pack with its machine spirit growling with anticipation. The other was slightly smaller, but a giant nonetheless. Unlike his armoured compatriot, the smaller of the two men could barely be seen as a cloak of changing colours hung from his shoulders and a hood covered his face. Although, small glimpses of white armour can be seen in areas not covered by the cloak.
The boy did not know what they were and had perceived them as monsters who were going to eat him. As such, he tried to attack them with his tiny fists. His efforts were for naught as at that moment, he was trying to fight Scout Sergeant Ugon Tavre and Lord Executioner Chi-Long Khan. Although the two men were able to subdue the boy without any effort, they were interested in him as his fighting spirit and fearlessness was something seldom seen in children not belonging to a Death World or the underhives of a Hive City. As such, they took him into their ship and sent him off to Chogoris for training when the extermination of the Xenos on the boy’s planet was finished.
The boy, then named Kol’rha, was subjected to the White Scar’s training regime upon arrival to Chogoris. Kol’rha struggled in many fronts, as the plains of Chogoris were unfamiliar to him and the shift from his world to White Scar’s savage lands was so sudden for his young mind. The main source of his struggles were surprisingly from the other aspirants. Some of the Chogorian youths despised him for he was an outsider and felt that his presence was a crime against their ancestors. As such, many of them made it their personal missions to make Kol'rha's life miserable. However, young Kol'rha's spirit was strong and unyielding. He took each act against him as a challenge and retaliated against them with wrath burning in his small heart. His actions gained the respect of many of his peers.
By the time he was inducted into the Windspeaker Brotherhood, the White Scars' Scout Company, he was one of the most well-respected initiates in the White Scars and had been renamed Khugol Tsogai. His skill in tracking and reconnaissance was unmatched among his fellow aspirants. For his skills, he would have been favoured for a promotion to become a Scout Sergeant. However, his trials against the Chogorian-born aspirants had ignited a flame in his soul that would not be tempered. He became very hot-headed, almost belligerent towards his superiors as paranoia from his aspirant years had taken root in his mind and he could not bring himself to trust any Chogorian at face-value. This shortcoming almost costed him his life during the Yolan Defensive.
White Scars Astartes defend themselves against a Drukhari Strike Force during the Yolan Defensive.
When an Apothecary had cleared him to be fit for combat again, he was ordered to await transfer into a new squad. Khugol perceived this as the Chogorians accusing him of weakness and was consumed with fury and rode to the frontlines in a bloodthirsty haze. His explosive arrival surprised both Dark Eldar and fellow White Scars as he crashed his bike into a Drukhari transport craft before launching himself into the Dark Eldar horde with complete disregard for his life. Khugol would have perished on that day if it wasn't for the intervention of the acting commander of the White Scars force, Chaigut Khan of the 3rd Brotherhood.
Descending from the skies, Chaigut and squads of Assault Marines tore into the Dark Eldar. He had been awaiting the perfect time to strike and Khugol's sudden appearance provided his troops an ample distraction to make a decisive attack to break the Dark Eldar. The suddenness of his assault forced the Dark Eldar to conduct a retreat, but the White Scars had been anticipating it. Land Speeder Typhoons that hid in the valleys of the planet were given the order to attack the retreating Dark Eldar. Before the Dark Eldar could register what happened, they were caught in between the chainblades of Chaigut's forces and the firepower of the Land Speeders. In his berserk state, Khugol did not register the arrival of reinforcements or the Dark Eldar's broken morale. So when Chaigut approached him to stand down at the end of the fight, the scout attacked his commander with animalistic growls.
The relatively young marine was hopelessly outmatched by Chaigut and was restrained by the Khan in short order. Khugol had to be beaten into submission to bring him out of his bloodlust. He was detained in the Strike Cruiser Chogorian Warhorse for insubordination, assault on a fellow marine and assault on an officer. Typically, these crimes against the Chapter was met with either death or conversion into a servitor. However, Chaigut had requested Khugol to be spared from severe punishment as the scout was a gifted asset, despite his short temper. It surprised Khugol that the man he tried to kill wanted to spare him, as even Khugol himself had accepted that he would die for his crimes. Instead of death, Chaigut offered that Khugol would do penance under his watchful eye and requested Khugol to be attached to a Scout Squad liaisoned to the 3rd Brotherhood.
When Khugol approached Chaigut and asked why the Khan spared him, Chaigut told Khugol that he knew about Khugol's distrust for the Chogorians and why the distrust existed as Chaigut had his eye on Khugol ever since the scout's prodigal skill emerged. He told Khugol that he would endeavor to destroy that distrust as brothers are supposed to watch over each other. However, it did not mean that Chaigut forgave Khugol's actions. Quite the contrary, Chaigut was furious that Khugol had the gall to assault another battle-brother. As such, Chaigut also informed Khugol that he was also under the 3rd Brotherhood's command because Chaigut would personally teach him to temper his fury and savagery. In fact, Chaigut admitted that he would have executed Khugol on the battlefield because he was a danger to everyone if he didn't know about Khugol's circumstances.
It marked the beginning of a bond between two brothers, forged out of mutual respect and fear at one another. Chaigut was wary of Khugol's fury, but was determined to bring out the potential of the young scout because a prodigal White Scar who was not of Chogorian blood was last seen at the dawn of the Horus Heresy. Khugol on the other hand, respected Chaigut's calm and stalwart demeanor. However, the young warrior knew that behind that calm lies a storm that overpowers his own. Khugol knew that when Chaigut's patience reached its limit, he would not survive the ensuing battle between him and the Khan.
Through his time with Chaigut, Khugol became a warrior worthy of attention since his undeniable skill in the arts of the scout was no longer marred with insubordinate and hot-headed behaviour. Chaigut's teachings helped him find inner peace with the grudges that he carried towards those who have wronged him in his youth and had helped him control the Primarch's Curse within their gene-seed. The teachings also made Khugol a lot more cautious and methodical, a total far cry of his wild and uncontrollable former self. It made him slower in deployments, but the information he was able to gather bypassed many of those his peers. Before long, Khugol was promoted to Scout Sergeant and at the same time, Chaigut was chosen to become the new Great Khan of the White Scars.
Tragedy soon struck Khugol on 994.M36 during a campaign against World Eater Warbands invading a planet known as Agathon. The planet had sent distress calls when Chaos ships began to appear on their orbital sensor arrays. The White Scars had answered the summons with Chaigut leading them as his fleet was the closest to the planet. Khugol, who was still undergoing penance, requested that he would be among the first to land on the planet to scout. His request was accepted. While the majority of the fleet hid behind a neighboring planet, a Thunderhawk containing three scout squads made planetfall. When Khugol arrived, he and his squad immediately went towards the planet's PDF headquarters. To their surprise, the PDF's headquarters were already under assault. The PDF troopers were inside of the buildings and were firing upon a massive horde of people who were throwing themselves upon the windows and entrances with reckless abandon.
The scouts noticed that many people within the horde had numerous lacerations, most of which appeared to be self-inflicted. One of the horde's members carried a bloody banner aloft, marked with a sigil of the Blood God. The sight of the banner sealed the fate of the cultists and Khugol ordered his men to fire upon the horde from the shadows. Subsonic rounds tore through three or four people at a time and the sudden deaths caused confusion among the members of the horde. Khugol contacted the PDF within the building and when he appraised them of the situation, the volume of fire from the buildings doubled. Within seconds, the cultist horde was eradicated and the gates of the PDF headquarters opened for the White Scars.
Khugol soon received reports from the other scouts detailing the same phenomenon. Khornate cultists attacking both the Planetary Governor's residence and buildings containing the Astropathic Choirs. The scout squad sent to investigate the Planetary Governor's residence arrived too late as the cultists had already broken through and were ritualistically murdering its inhabitants. As for the Astropathic Choir, the cultists were already in the process of murdering the Astropaths by the time the scouts shot them down. Some managed to survive, but not enough to send an astropathic message into the void to call for assistance. The highest-ranking PDF officer at the station, Corporal Natalia Isenhart, told them that the cultists began their attack as soon as the Chaos ships were spotted. When the servants of the Dark Gods made planetfall, many of the PDF were not able to defend themselves as they were occupied with holding off the cultists. The PDF HQ was lucky as it was located in a backwater city of the planet and not in the capital.
As soon as Khugol learned of this, he instructed the remaining PDF to send a message to the awaiting White Scars fleet. Tears were shed in hope as the message was relayed. The White Scars soon arrived in force and immediately went on the offensive as soon as their tires touched Agathonian soil. The sudden appearance of the White Scars caught the invading Chaos Marines off guard and were initially swept away by the speed and ferocity of the counter-offensive maneuvers. After the warriors of Chogoris successfully made landfall, the ships of the White Scars fleet engaged the Chaos fleet. The war seemed to be in favour of the White Scars as they slew more and more Chaos worshippers and Khugol reveled in the glory he was attaining. That was before they all received a distress call from Chaigut's honour guard, notifying the White Scars that they were ambushed by a horde of Khornate Berzerkers that managed to slip past the White Scars.
A hidden passage only known to the natives of the world was the means that the Berzerkers used to get behind the White Scars' frontlines. The ambushing Berzerkers overwhelmed most of Chaigut's honour guard and accompanying warriors. Those who survived were barely able to hold off the World Eaters long enough to call for aid. Chaigut slew many warriors with his massive power axe, sustaining injuries that would have felled lesser Astartes. His defiant last stand inspired his men and delayed their deaths. However, the tide of maddened Khornate Berzerkers became too much for Chaigut and the remnants of his honour guard. By the time reinforcements arrived, among them were Khugol and his squad, the Berzerkers had finished a ritualistic beheading and scalping of the Great Khan.
At the sight of Chaigut's lifeless corpse, something finally broke within Khugol's soul. Decades of tempering his fury and practicing discipline were thrown away in favour of engulfing himself in rage once again. The wrath of Khugol was a sight to behold, a culmination of all his rage from birth to that very moment. He unloaded his weapon on the closest Berzerkers to Chaigut and when his sniper rifle ran dry, Khugol threw it away and pounced on the dying Berzerker who had scalped his friend and master. While the Berzerkers engaged with the fresh waves of vengeful White Scars, Khugol tore off his victim's helmet and beat his skull into a pulp with his bare hands. Such was Khugol's strength under his trance of wrath. Once his vicious deed was done, he approached his friend's corpse and collected his power axe. With Chaigut's weapon in hand, Khugol rode to seek the Warlord of the Burning Heart Warband.
Many warriors shared his vengeful fury and rode alongside him. Those who remained requested a medevac and prepared the bodies of their comrades so that the Apothecaries may extract their gene-seed. News of Chaigut's death spread fast and the World Eaters became emboldened when they noticed that some of the White Scars faltered. A haze of bloodlust consumed the warriors of Khorne and they were killing more and more White Scars before they could be put down. Khugol and his entourage of vengeful battle-brothers arrived when the White Scars were about to conduct a tactical retreat. Righteous hatred fueled Khugol and he inspired the faltering White Scars to reap vengeance to those who have dared invade an Imperial World.
The battle reached a tipping point when Khugol finally found the Warlord of the Burning Hearts Warband. Ionus the Bloodmonger was at the epicentre of the battle, slaying Imperial warriors with his massive axe. While the warlord was distracted, Khugol rode towards his target and strapped detpacks to his bike's frame. His fellow riders saw what he was planning to do and rode ahead of him to clear a path to the warlord. With a prayer of apologies to the vehicle's machine spirit, Khugol dismounted the bike as it hurtled towards Ionus. The warlord was unable to defend himself when the bike crashed into him and could only scream in agony when Khugol detonated the detpacks. Surprisingly, Ionus was not killed by the explosion, but his limbs were torn off by the force as many organs were ruptured. Khugol saw this and approached the incapacitated Khornate warlord. Before Ionus could say a word, Khugol swung Chaigut's axe and decapitated Ionus. Raising the warlord's severed head to the sky, Khugol proclaimed to the skies of Agathon that Chaigut has been avenged. The battle from the point on was a manic slaughterhouse as White Scars regained morale and destroyed the remnants of the Burning Hearts.
After the campaign, he was promoted to Khan of the 10th Brotherhood for his actions and was forgiven for his past crimes of insubordination and assault. Instead of rapture or pride, Khugol only felt disappointment and sadness. To Khugol, the promotion was another farce in order to control him. Khugol had lost the only person who actually knew him, and because of his loss, Khugol had reverted to distrusting the White Scars again. The warrior became inconsolable and holed himself in the Chapter's archives and the Reclusiam to mourn for 18 days.
Pict-capture of Khugol Khan on his ascension as Khan of the 10th Brotherhood
In his solitude, Khugol poured over records of White Scars campaigns from the days of the Great Crusade. He felt responsible for the death of Chaigut, believing that if he had known of that hidden passage then the Great Khan would never have been ambushed. He studied strategies, intelligence reports, battle reports and Jaghatai Khan's written words of wisdom. The more he learned, the worse he felt about his lack of vigilance on Agathon and the guilt for Chaigut's death grew.
When he finished mourning, Khugol threw himself into a self-imposed duty to beat in the importance of intelligence into the new recruits of the Chapter. The new Master of Recruits vowed to himself that as long as he taught warriors, none of them will make the same mistakes he made. Due to his tutelage, the Chapter began to deploy planetside slower as the scouts would take longer to conduct reconnaissance on the planet's surface. They took it upon themselves to learn as much about a planet and its people as possible, as was what Khugol taught to them. Some also inherited some of Khugol's belligerence, but were reprimanded by the Khan of the 10th Brotherhood. He was called out for his hypocrisy, but he paid the claims no mind as long as his students would become better men than himself.
When news of a Founding reached Khugol, he immediately requested that he would take part. Shame for his lack of incentive at Agathon fueled his desire for further penance away from the White Scars. He felt that if he remained in the Chapter, then he would sully their reputation by his mere presence. Knowing that he would not be swayed, Chaigut's successor allowed it. Those who wanted to take part in the founding of the new Chapter with Khugol were those who rode with him on Agathon after Chaigut's death. Some who came were scouts who learned under Khugol's tutelage and refused to part with him.
Before he set off into the stars to find a new home, High Chaplain Khazim Rashak gave Khugol Khan the power axe he used to cut off Ionus the Bloodmonger's head on Agathon. The final gift broke the hateful spell that lingered in Khugol's heart, and he embraced the High Chaplain as brothers would. With a company's worth of men, a small fleet and enough resources to begin recruitment, the newly founded Lightning Wraiths set off to Segmentum Obscurus to wage their war against Chaos.
The Search For A New Home
After the Chapter's Founding, the Lightning Wraiths sought out a suitable homeworld within their assigned sector of Segmentum Obscurus. Through expeditionary fleets consisting of a handful of squads and a member of the high echelon, the Lightning Wraiths soon found the Feudal World of Morozh'nehya. The head of the expeditionary force that found Morozh'nehya was a former White Scars Stormseer named Tayang Ganbold and with him were a squad of scouts, a squad of Tactical Marines and the Gladius-class Frigate Exodus.
Tayang Ganbold, former Stormseer of the White Scars
At the time of their arrival, Morozh'nehya was experiencing a prosperous and peaceful Iron Age. The frigid surface was littered with Empires of varying sizes and might. The largest and mightiest of these empires was known as the Ghonzi Empire under the rule of a man named Lord Amadeus Schreifter. The Ghonzi Empire and fifteen other empires scattered across the habitable plains of Morozh'nehya formed the Volair Coalition. It was the prince of the small nation of Inxi that had spotted the Lightning Wraiths' landing ship and because it was a part of the Volair Coalition, it shared the knowledge regarding the new arrivals to its allies. Before long, every single monarch became privy to the news that a star fell to Morozh'nehyan soil and was tempted to investigate it.
And so, as the Lightning Wraiths expedition party landed, dignitaries from every Morozh'nehyan Empire came to greet the strangers from the stars. Initially, they thought that the Astartes were messengers from their pagan gods who have come to deliver them to the path of absolution and glory. This forced the Lightning Wraiths to educate the dignitaries of the galaxy and the Imperium. The expeditionary force had landed far from any habitations as they intended to investigate the planet's surface in solitude. If they were greeted by a small party, then it would have been a simple task of silencing them. However, the large crowd of dignitaries and their subjects marching towards them made it an impossibility to conceal their presence without incurring the military might of the entire planet. Although they were Adeptus Astartes and would be more than a match against millions of feudal soldiers, the thought of killing humans due to a misunderstanding did not sit well with the expeditionary force. Through the wonders of science and the oratory skill of the mortal shipmaster, the dignitaries were awed by the vastness of the galaxy and humanity's domain.
Little did the Lightning Wraths know that deep within the Ghonzi Empire, a daemon laid dormant within an ancient relic. It was awakened when it felt the psychic presence of the former White Scar Stormseer. The daemon had been banished to the Warp centuries ago by the White Scars and it longed for revenge against the warriors clad in white and red. It had managed to crawl back into realspace at the dawn the Morozh'nehyan Empires, but only through a foolish Morozh'nehyan's attempts to peer into the void. Even then, the daemon was trapped inside a mirror and was used by the Lord of Ghonzi to peer into the other Empires' state of affairs so that he may capitalize on any weaknesses. This was how the Ghonzi Empire grew to its massive size and it was how the daemon began its plot of revenge.
As the many monarchs traveled the Morzhkan wastelands to greet the strangers, the daemon's plans began to unfold. As she wandered the hallways of the Ghonzian Fortress, Lydia Ergenweld, the wife of Lord Schreifter, was drawn to the hidden mirror through a seductive and hypnotic song that emanated from it. Before she knew what was going on, the daemon possessed her and used her body to murder the Lord of Ghonzi a few days after his arrival. Through false tears and sorrow, the possessed widow blamed the 'demons from the stars' for murdering Schreifter and demanded that every kingdom should join arms and remove the invaders from the planet. Initially, many of the Kingdoms refused to listen to her demands, claiming that it was just her grief that was directing her actions. However, strange murders began to plague each of the Morozh'nehyan empires, each one was immensely brutal and can only be achieved by beings of great strength. Fear and panic began to seep into the minds of the monarchs, and when one of them became the victim of the brutal killings, they sprang into defensive action. All but nine amassed their armies to march towards the Jirae Mountains in order to drive the strangers away.
The nine monarchs who refused to drive away the Lightning Wraiths were part of a union known as the Order of Brehus, named after the Mountain King of Jirae. These nine lords immediately set out to the wastelands with a small coalition of their families and honour guards to warn the giants of bone and blood red. When they arrived, Ganbold had already sensed the daemon's malign presence and had contacted the rest of the Chapter for aid, but was told that it would take months for the closest expeditionary fleet to arrive due to the Immaterium's turbulence at Segmentum Obscurus. Even if their warning was obsolete, the Monarchs of the Order pledged themselves to the Lightning Wraiths under an oath of honour at the moment of arrival. They guided the Astartes to a hidden tunnel network under the infamous Jirae Mountains so that they may prepare for the war before returning to their Kingdoms to marshal their troops. Instead of being offended by the monarchs' assumption of their lack of combat skill, Lightning Wraiths were impressed by their willingness to protect strangers and had the beginnings of kinship with the Monarchs of the Order as those mortal men and women were considered outcasts by the majority of the 'civilized' empires of Morozh'nehya.
Each monarch of the Order ruled an empire at the frontiers of Morozh'nehya's plains, pushing the limits of humanity's resilience and desire to expand. Some of them even bond with the volatile fauna and either make them into their pets or as their war beasts, from an enormous avian capable of transporting two heavily armoured warriors known as the Ayur Hawk to the Polshta Nemeans, giant lions coated in pure white fur that frequently stalk the only volcano in Morozh'nehya - Mount Estia. Some still clung to gladiatorial rites of passage for teenagers, so that their warriors would be a fearless and experienced flock. Others practiced a religion that placed a heavy emphasis on death and ascendance to immortality through said death. Of the nine monarchs, the Lightning Wraiths found themselves to enjoy the company of Izhmael Kalator the most.
Izmael Kalator was the Preceptor of the Crypt-Watchers, an ancient order tasked with safeguarding the location of the Jirae Mountains' greatest treasure - the Tomb of Brehus, and the king of a small nation called Qashai. A diminutive and intelligent man, Izmael always tried to find time to communicate with the imposing warriors. His desire to learn and teach was contagious and his soft-spoken nature made it imperative to listen whenever he spoke. He had been the one to suggest that the Astartes should plan for the incoming war within the tunnels of the Jirae Mountains. It was Izmael who insisted that he would guide Tayang and his men to the Tomb of Brehus with the promise of revelation. It was within the Tomb of Brehus where the Lightning Wraiths understood why the Order was willing to fight and die for them.
They had discovered that the Tomb was an enormous Imperial Shrine with Imperial iconography painstakingly carved into the walls of the mountain. Time had eroded some of the detail, but the rough outlines of twin-headed eagles and the vigilant guardians of the Adeptus Astartes could still be made out. At the centre of the tomb was a small structure with nine pillars carved into the likeness of nine people holding up a gilded roof. Each of the pillars had a bronze plaque at its base containing the name of the person the pillar is modeled after, their history and a virtue that they represented. Within the structure, an upright marble sarcophagus faced the only entrance and exit. Its lid was carved into the lifelike image of the First King of the Jirae Mountains and the sparse amount of offerings at the foot of the sarcophagus indicated that the Tomb has very few visitors.
As the nations gathered their armies, the possessed Lydia began the creation of Chaos cults and had seduced many citizens to join with promises of power and wealth. Many had been tricked to act as vessels for daemons to bolster the Morozh'nehyan armies in their crusade against the Lightning Wraiths. Others were taught to speak in daemon tongue to prepare for the inevitable summonings of Greater Daemons. An enormous amount of people were driven insane by the increasing whispers of the Immaterium and were granted inhuman strength through their insanity. Before long, the once proud and mighty Ghonzi Empire became the epicentre of madness and mindless violence. Its streets were littered with corpses showing signs of ritualistic sacrifices and the sigils of Chaos were branded onto the minds of everyone who remained alive.
The possessed form of Lydia Ergenweld at the apex of the Morozh'nehyan uprising.
Days after the call to war was made, the entire military force of Morozh'nehya bar the Order of Brehus arrived at the foot of the Jirae Mountains. While knowledge of the Crypt's existence is widespread, the entrance to it is not. In an attempt to find it in a short amount of time, large patrols were sent to scour the mountains to search for it while some of the engineers attempted to tunnel into mountains of interest. The engineers were met with little success as their steel pickaxes struggled to chip away the thick layers of rock that concealed any potential tunnels underneath. On the other hand, reports of patrols going missing began to increase. Some of the missing patrols turned up with one or two members remaining and their wills to fight broken. Soon, stories about how the Mountains have spirits that are protecting the strangers surfaced among the warriors.
These disappearances are the work of the skilled mountaineers of the Xulka Empire, who are renowned for their innate skill in navigating the treacherous slopes of the Jirae Mountains. Under the cover of the thick snowfall, Xulkan Jagers ambush the patrols with crossbows tipped with poison before cutting down any survivors. Alongside their mortal comrades, Lightning Wraith Scouts eradicated any patrols they came across with nary a sound thanks to their silenced sniper rifles. Tayang and his accompanying tactical squad were confined to the tunnels of the mountains as their heavier armour would give them away. They despised the claustrophobic halls, but swallowed their pride as they found it to be necessary to maintain the element of surprise.
Some of the Order's warriors, most belonging to the Ayur Hawk riding Uzeki Knights of the Umfasir Kingdom, were taught how to operate Imperial com-beads as they were tasked with reconnaissance. Through these com-beads, Uzeki Knight Narruk Olasiya reported the arrival of reinforcements and an increase of patrol deployment. When the next batch of patrols were dealt with by the wandering Jägers and scouts, they were appalled to discover their countrymen and family members as a part of the patrols. Many of their countrymen had their tongues cut off and their hands bound to their weapons, rendering them unable to warn the defenders or to plead for mercy. Those who weren't subjected to this kind of mutilation were victims of another affliction. While they were alive, the hidden warriors noticed that they moved with an unnatural gait, as if they were struggling to control their own bodies. When the ambushes were sprung, it required significantly more effort to kill one of them. Their bodies would become a pincushion for poisoned crossbow bolts and the only proof of their bodies feeling the impact of the bolts or the poison coursing through their veins was a strangled cry of ecstasy. Decapitation was the only way to ensure that they would stay dead.
These findings were immediately reported to the gathered monarchs and Tayang. It was deduced that the Morozh'nehyan armies against the Order had split apart during the journey towards the mountains and had targetted the Kingdoms of the Order. Despite the rage that permeated in the back of their minds, the gathered monarchs were especially concerned about the more resilient prisoners and were curious as to what caused these people to behave in such a manner. In a sign of good faith in the willpower of the gathered leaders, Tayang revealed to them the truth of what he suspected their captured countrymen had become and told them of the daemon residing on the planet. Initially met with bewilderment, they listened to Tayang as he told them about the Immaterium, the existence of psykers and daemons. To prove to them that he wasn't tricking, he showcased a small portion of his power by conjuring spectral falcons. The final straw for the gathered monarchs was a report of how one of these' possessed prisoners had mauled a squad of Jägers with their bare hands and how the prisoner mutated into a fiendish creature after the act.
At that point, the Warrior Kings and Queens felt that the time had finally come for their counter-attack. And so, at the break of dawn, the war drums of the Order resounded off the intertwining tunnels underneath the Jirae Mountains after days under siege. Vicars, the spiritual leaders of the Vossaka Kingdom, led recitations of ancient battle creeds as the war drums' song increased in intensity. From the invaders' perspective, it sounded like the mountains themselves were enraged at the trespassers. When the last notes of the war song was played and the last lines of verse were recited, the gathered armies of the Order of Brehus let loose a terrifying war cry that conveyed their rage and pain at those who used their own families and countrymen against them. Flowing out of the tunnels like quicksilver and over the mountains' steep slopes, the soldiers of the Order of Brehus poured out of the tunnel networks they resided in and made their final charge with their Kings and Queens leading from the front.
In response to the appearance of the Order's armies, Lydia's generals and their allies ordered a counter-attack. As a deterrent, the armies of the Ghonzi Empire forced the captured to lead the charge against their own countrymen. Many of the warriors loyal to the Volair Coalition and its allies were appalled by the usage of human shields, but were told that the Order of Brehus was consorting with demons and used their countrymen and women as vessels for their sick experiments. The sight of the possessed was enough evidence for the warriors of Morozh'nehya to believe the tale and were more than willing to cut down either prisoner or enemy warrior at that point. However, the armies of Morozh'nehya were not expecting their human shields to turn on them.
The war drums of the Order of Brehus and the battle creeds of the Vicars emboldened some of the captured, specifically those who belonged to the Vossaka Kingdom. The battle creeds were not only rites of war, but a call to martyrdom for Vossaka as every Vossakan was expected to die for their Kingdom when the time came. The Volair Coalition was not prepared for the frenzied Vossakan's to turn on them and the first ranks fell to these men and women under their death oaths. Soon, other prisoners threw themselves at the front ranks of the Morozh'nehyan armies. They would rather die than harm their fellow countrymen and women. The only ones who continued their charge towards the armies of the Order were the possessed and those whose minds broken during their capture. They were successful at stalling the charge as some of the Order's soldiers hesitated in killing the possessed. However, when the possessed and the mindless attacked them, all thoughts of mercy were drowned by rage.
The former White Scars themselves used the massive charge as a distraction so that they could attack from the enemy's flanks. They were accompanied by heavily armoured Hussars of the Utyug-Krov and crossbow-wielding Lancers from the Duchy of Polshta, warriors mounted on massive bears and horses respectively. The enormous beasts were hard-pressed into keeping up with the Astartes' bikes, as both the rider's and the mount's pride demanded that they stay by their new lords' side until death. As they approached the enemy's flanks, the Lancers let loose a rain of poisoned or burning crossbow bolts while the Astartes opened fire with the twin-linked bolters on their bikes. The Hussars went on a full gallop, overtaking the Astartes who slowed down to let the bulkier cavalry unit do its job. At it was a glorious sight, as the sheer weight of the massive bears toppled over any pikemen that dared to stop the charge and the mace-wielding warriors atop the bears crushed heads left and right as they made a bloody swath into the enemy.
The battle was a lengthy bloodbath, with massive casualties from both sides. The Order of Brehus was outnumbered by a hundred to one, but they made up with ferociousness that the other kingdoms lacked due to their insistence on being 'more civilized'. Their lack of martial drive was exploited by the battle-ready knights of the Order. Jägers and Xulka Mountaineers dealt death from a distance, their arrows found chinks in the enemy's armour so that the deadly poison coating their tips could invade the victim's bloodstream. Hellscreamers, alchemists of great renown, hurled ceramic pots filled with a concoction that ignited on impact. Uzeki Knights of the Umfasir Kingdom plucked men from the ground to either hurled them to their deaths or have the massive Ayur Hawk devour its prey. Some of the Volair Coalitions knights even turned on their generals, courtesy of Szek-Faltran Saboteurs who implanted themselves among a general's honour guard.
The Lightning Wraiths' advanced weaponry also even the odds somewhat, as each bolter shell either killed or heavily injured 5-7 men. At least one died from the shockwave of a bolt in gyroscopic flight, another from the direct impact and at least 3 from the resulting shrapnel due to the bolt's detonation within the victim. Tayang's gifts were another blessing as the Stormseer used his gifts to great effect and the sight of his giant form controlling the elements broke the morale of many enemy combatants.
However, the possessed proved to be a challenge for the mortal knights. Having a daemon inside a mortal vessel gave it inhuman speed, strength, and reflexes at the cost of the host's soul. They were incredibly difficult to put down and tore apart any who tried to stop their rampage, whether it be friend or foe. Furthermore, the battle slowly shifted to the Volair Coalition's favour as their higher numbers meant that they could win the war through attrition. More and more knights loyal to the Order found themselves surrounded and outnumbered.
To ensure their victory, Tayang made a large gamble. Requesting his men to protect him, Tayang dug deep into his soul and called upon the Immaterium to summon a great storm over the battlefield. If he failed to protect his soul during this tumultuous act, he would either become a vessel for a daemon or his body would be obliterated by the Immaterium's power. As he focused, the sky began to darken with unnatural colours. The sound of thunder caught the attention of the warriors on the ground and before anyone could react, lightning began to strike. Hundreds of men fell to Tayang's storm in seconds and the mounting casualties broke the enemy. Retreats were called by surviving generals, as they did not want to fight what they perceived as a god.
As the enemy was pushed back, the possessed generals and warriors were hunted down and killed by Lightning Wraith scouts. Tayang then relinquished his powers and rested as the Order celebrated. However, despite his exhaustion, he still sensed that the daemon was still tethered to Morozh'nehya. So, he ordered the interrogation of captured prisoners to determine where the daemon was residing. One prisoner, a mercenary general under the Ghonzi Empire's employ, told about how the Ghonzi Empire became a hell-hole and about the maddening pressure that seemed to loom over its capital. With this information, Tayang and the remnants of the Order made their way to the city of Aludica.
Survivors of the Ghonzi Empire's downfall to Chaos hunt down their mutated countrymen.
When the remnants of the Order arrived at Aludica, the Capital of the Ghonzi Empire, they were surprised to see how far the mighty fortress had fallen to Chaos. Mutated townsfolk wandered the streets, too far gone to be saved by any means. The only option for them was extermination. Surprisingly, some of the citizens of Aludica survived the Chaos occupation and the subsequent purges by the fanatics and when they heard of the city's upcoming salvation, they emerged from their hiding spots and aided in the hunt. Soon, the streets of Aludica were filled by small mobs of desperate citizens armed with whatever they could get their hands on converging on any mutant they come across. Many of these mobs were slaughtered to the last due to the mutants' gifts from the Dark Gods, but the sheer desperation that the civilians had to having their city cleansed was enough for them to keep throwing themselves at the monsters that took their home.
As the city was cleansed, the Lightning Wraiths and the best warriors of the Order made their way to Aludica's Citadel. In there, they found more mutants touched by the warp. After an hour of slaying mutants and traversing treacherous corridors filled with traps infused with warp magic, the hunting party found themselves face to face with Lydia Ergenweld in the citadel's throne room. With nary a word, they all attacked the daemon. Although they were the best that the Order had to offer, these mortal knights fell to Lydia's blade by the droves as she wove between them in a hypnotic dance of death. The Astartes were also hard-pressed to attacking her, as her nimble form darted underneath combat blades or jumped away from bolts at the last second. Her blade, infused with warp energy, cut through power armor like a power sword and with it, she slew 3 Astartes and rendered the rest of the Tactical Squad unfit for combat. The only ones that survived her onslaught were Tayang and Izmael, the last living monarch of the Order. The Stormseer was on his last legs as he was injured by Lydia while protecting Izmael.
When all seemed bleak for Tayang, the reinforcements that he had requested arrived and among them was Khugol Khan. The sudden rain of drop pods provided the Stormseer an ample distraction to let loose his psychic fury upon the possessed Lydia. His psychic attack vaporized Lydia's body, but the daemon still remained on the planet as it returned its essence to the mirror a split second before Lydia was destroyed. Izmael heard the song that the daemon used to entice Lydia and was drawn to it. As Tayang was still incapacitated from the backlash of using his gifts, Izmael wandered through the halls of Aludica's palace without conscious thought. Before he knew it, he was in front of the accursed mirror and the daemon possessed. Unlike Lydia, Izmael had the willpower to fight off the daemon's possession long enough to destroy the mirror. As the daemon bellowed in agony as its tether to the material is severed, Izmael ignited the room with a Hellscreamer firepot so that he and the daemon would die in fire.
With Izmael's death, the planet was freed from the daemon's grasp, but at great cost. The Order of Brehus was no more. Its cities and fortresses were naught but rubble. All of its monarchs were dead, and there were not enough survivors from each nation to help the kingdoms start anew. Those who remained formed tribes, shadows of the once great Empires. The Ghonzi Empire was also dissolved, but the fear of daemonic taint prompted the Lightning Wraiths to aid in the extermination of mutants and the interrogation of Ghonzi citizens that survived the purge. Tayang himself succumbed to his injuries and exhaustion. Before he died, he was able to recall the events of the Uprising to his Chapter Master.
Khugol Khan claimed the world to become their homeworld and with Tayang's tale in mind, began the construction of their fortress-monastery as a massive tunnel network underneath the Jirae Mountains, with the Tomb of Brehus as its epicentre. Nine entrances were constructed for the tunnel network, each is connected to a Shrine built in tribute to the nine Lords and Ladies of the Order of Brehus that defied their entire world to stay true to the Imperium. He also made structural reforms in homage to the Order of Brehus, beginning with the change of the title Chapter Master to Preceptor. Forgemaster Ferro Azhik, who then became Koval Ferro Azhik, then forged a crown from an Iron Halo and the remnants of the crowns belonging to the Order's kings and queens.
In a ceremony immortalized through carvings and paintings within the Crpyt's walls, the Koval welded the Crown of the Old Kingdoms onto Khugol Khan's helmet in a manner reminiscent to a crowning of a new king or queen of Morozh'nehyan Royalty. With this ceremony, the Lightning Wraiths cemented their roles as Defenders of Morozh'nehya and Segmentum Obscurus.
Aedalur Massacre
At the wake of the 9th Black Crusade, an enormous Space Hulk exited the warp at the edge of the Aedalur System. Accompanying the massive machine was a small fleet of Khornate warships, with Yhar’gol, a Khornate Champion with an insatiable drive for daemonic ascension, commanding the invasion party. The attackers consisted of the Chaos Warbands, the Hand of Khorne and the Blackblood Hounds, as well as auxiliary support in the form of daemon engines and an entire Traitor Guard regiment of Khornate Cultists hailing from the Bellowing Daemon Cult.
The first planet that was invaded was the feudal world of Salis. The entire population was either murdered or indoctrinated within a week by a company of Hand of Khorne Traitor Astartes. However, only the strike cruiser Song of Violence was provided for the attack of Salis. The rest of the fleet remained beside the space hulk as it made its way through space towards the Forge World Nivera.
As the space hulk slowly drifted in space, psykers that were either planetside or serving in a nearby Imperial ship began to writhe in agony or jerk spastically as they experienced a seizure brought about by pyschic attacks from immensely powerful psychic presence. The sight of astropaths and navigators foaming at the mouths, screaming in pain as they spasmed on the ground scared those who were unfortunate enough to witness the phenomenon. Merchant ships were not able to enter the warp in order to make a quick escape due to the phenomenon, rendering them effectively trapped in the warzone that encompassed the Aedalur system. Almost all psykers died from the attack, and some psykers became a conduit for a warp gate, spewing forth daemons of Khorne upon the populace of a planet or the crew of a ship.
Amidst the agony she felt, one astropath had projected a powerful psychic message with the remaining vestiges of her energy. The sheer might required for her astropathic message to be sent coupled with the pain of feeling malicious psychic energies caused her to perish. Her final act was what would save Nivera as well as the rest of the system from total destruction as a fleet consisting of the Lightning Wraiths' 3rd, 4th, and elements of the 8th Pillar of Wisdom received her message and warped into the system a few hours later.
The carnage that met the Lightning Wraiths as they returned to realspace was nothing short of sickening. The carcasses of destroyed ships drifted lazily in the void. Worlds that were subject to the Khornate fleet's bloodthirsty warriors were either burning or stricken with a red miasma that clouded the minds of the weak-willed. Each world conquered gave the fleet more followers and gave Khorne more devout worshippers. The centre of their attention was on the drifting Space Hulk inching closer to Nivera. The Hulk was identified as "The Silent Blade", with Imperial records claiming that it was last seen at the aftermath of the 5th Black Crusade.
A pict-capture of the last sighting of the Silent Blade at the end of the 5th Black Crusade.
During their journey through the Immaterium, Magister Polsheyeska Khazan had sensed the powerful psychic presence that was killing Imperial psykers in the system. When they returned to real-space, he was subjected to the full offending might of the psychic aura and it caused Khazan to fall to his knees. Despite the pain that he felt deep within his immortal soul, Khazan was able to use his gifts in order to pinpoint the source of the presence. Before he forced himself to a state of unconsciousness to protect his brothers from a potential psychic backlash, Khazan relayed to the Viceroys of the fleet that the presence's source was deep within the Space Hulk.
Before the Lightning Wraiths could act upon the information bestowed upon them, they received news that many of the Khornate Fleet's ships had broken off formation and were headed straight to Nivera to drop their cargo of warriors and Berzerkers. This update forced the Lightning Wraiths to split up what forces they have between killing the source of the psychic energy and protecting the Forge World. Viceroy Attilus Paran of the 4th Pillar of Wisdom volunteered to board the Space Hulk and requested all present Veterans as well as Steelmasons to aid him in his hunt for the Chaos psyker. The rest would deploy on Nivera to aid the Mechanicum's defense forces on the planet.
Viceroy Paran and the Veterans were given the rare duty of donning Terminator Armour for their mission in Space Hulk as the Lightning Wraiths never found a proper scenario where its usage would benefit their combat doctrine. Within the confines of the Space Hulk, speed was a factor that only served as a detriment and because of this, Paran found it prudent to use the Terminator suits. The Strike Cruiser Dissonance of the Void was seconded to Paran so that they may board the Space Hulk with its Boarding Torpedos and be extracted with the onboard Thunderhawks.
The Forge-World Nivera prior to the arrival of the invasion fleet.
As Viceroy Paran's Killteam boarded the Silent Blade, Saboteur Squads from the 8th made swift landings onto Nivera's surface via Thunderhawk Gunships. They arrived under a hail of fire from patrolling Traitor Guard Valkyries, losing a Thunderhawk due to sheer amount of ordnance and enemy Valkyries that controlled the skies of Nivera. When the Thunderhawks managed to unload the Saboteur Squads, it was an uphill battle against the Traitor Guard to return to the Lightning Wraiths' fleet. One of the Saboteur Squads, lead by Cavus Mattias Vohl, was able to contact one of the Magos that oversaw Niveran weapon production. With their help, communication with the Lightning Wraiths fleet was achieved and data was relayed to the relief force to prepare for the defense.
An updated holomap of Nivera revealed that the majority of the planet was covered in narrow, winding and interconnected pathways. The labyrinthine passageways were a boon for the Skitarii and Mechanicum conscripts as navigating large forces was difficult in this environment. Kill zones were established by the Skitarii at every major intersection, where the forces of Khorne were forced to cross if they wanted to destroy key facilities. However, Lightning Wraiths aircraft would struggle to provide any form of support as many of their ships are much too wide. Furthermore, the Lightning Wraiths were not as gifted in urban warfare as some of their cousins hailing from Dorn or Ferrus' legacy. As such, they had to choose their fights wisely and memorize the intertwining paths of the Forge World as if it were a tunnel system from their home. Unsurprisingly, Saboteurs and Jägers thrived in this chaotic environment as the enemy was hard-pressed to pinpoint the locations of the nimble and silent snipers as they whittle down their numbers with deadly precision.
With the layout the planet taken into consideration and places of interest marked as priorities, the Lightning Wraiths began landing their troops onto Niveran ground, opting to neglect drop pods as the tall towers of the Mechanicum acted as a barrier against any debris that would crash into the planet from outside the atmosphere. Squadrons of Stormhawk Interceptors appeared from the thick and noxious clouds to create a safe cordon for the Thunderhawks and Storm Ravens to unload Lightning Wraiths Astartes onto the narrow streets. A large concentration of Lightning Wraiths Dragoons was deployed on the Mechanicum headquarters of the planet, which contained many high-ranking Mechanicus officials and a repository of records pertaining Imperial shipping routes that intersect the planet towards nearby warzones. Skirmishers came to blows with Khornate Berzerkers almost immediately after landing while their Skitarii allies picked off any stragglers or assisted a Lightning Wraith that would have been overwhelmed.
The battle that the Lightning Wraiths found themselves in was heavily favouring the Skitarii as their weapons and the tight passages created killing fields that destroyed an enemy's advance before it could gain too much momentum. However, despite the advantages in the Skitarii's favour, Yhar'gol's warband outnumbered both the Skitarii and the Lightning Wraiths. In fact, despite the Lightning Wraiths having complete aerial superiority, Stormtalons were plucked from the skies due to the sheer volume of fire that pierced either the gunship's cockpit or its fuselage. Lightning Wraiths Hussars and Lancers struggled to make the best of their bikes and Landspeeders on the streets as they found themselves surrounded time and again due to debris from the battle blocked escape routes. The forces located at the Mechanicum headquarters were slowly giving up ground as the hordes of Berzerkers slew more and more Lightning Wraiths and Skitarii. The limited Jägers and Harbingers helped deny the enemy passage into priority zones that were marked by the combined Imperial force for their strategic importance.
Meanwhile, the Dissonance of the Void had launched boarding torpedoes onto the Silent Blade because the Space Hulk had its own gravity due to its sheer size and was pulling the Strike Cruiser in. Paran's Terminator Squads and the accompanying Steelmasons scoured the Space Hulk for the source of the psychic presence. The only thing that was guiding them was a feeling of wrongness that grew in intensity when they moved in a certain direction. Approximately 30 minutes into their search, Steelmason Olga Konczeski made a startling discovery. While hacking a cogitator that controlled a blast-door blocking their path, he conversed with its machine-spirit to ascertain the cogitator's previous master. The ancient machine-spirit told him that its previous owners were the Fifth Legion and further investigation revealed that the ship it was part of was lost to the Warp during its harrowing escape through the Path of Heaven. He disclosed to the machine-spirit that over 10,000 years had passed and that he and his brothers were Scions of Khan. Before long, the machine-spirit shared the location of an armory and requested the Astartes to take as much as they could to preserve the Fifth Legion's glory.
In their desire to reconnect with their distant past, Paran and his men made haste to the armory that the machine-spirit had shared with Konczeski. When they arrived at the armory, they were surprised to see its contents. There were suits of Mark IV power armour in pristine condition, a few suits of artificer Mark II armour, rows upon rows of Chogorian Glaives and Crusade-Era Combi-weapons and at the end of the armory, there was another door with Chogorian Runes that spoke of death. Upon opening it, they saw a set of Rad-Cannons with its ammunition stored in lead-lined crates fastened to the deck. Paran ordered a small contingent to remain in the armory and to contact the fleet in order to notify them of their discovery before moving on to seek the heretic psyker. Konszeski spoke to another machine-spirit and was able to determine the location of the hangar bay, which he relayed to Paran in case their teleporters would not work or if it would be impossible for any small craft to land on the Space Hulk for the extraction of relics.
As the Steelmasons secured as much relics as they could, Paran and his men moved further into the Space Hulk. An hour after their separation from Konszeski, they began to see signs of corruption taking root on the Space Hulk. Fleshy protrusions covered the walls like vines, some of which oozed a black viscous liquid. Voices also began to taunt the minds of the Space Marines, coaxing them to unleash their rage at each other with hate-filled whispers that soon devolved to outright psychic screams of fury. Before long, the Terminator-clad Veterans came into contact with the defenders of the Space Hulk. Khornate cultists, mixed in with Traitor Guardsmen and women, threw themselves at the Lightning Wraiths in a mad hope of overpowering them with sheer numbers.
Before long, the amount of dead cultists heralded the arrival of a more potent foe. Daemons and Traitor Astartes made themselves known .
Despite the Imperial victory on Nivera, the Silent Blade still loomed over the planet and threatened to split it in two. The fleet considered destroying the Space Hulk, but Mechanicus calculations determined that the Silent Blade's proximity to the Forge World meant that if it was destroyed, the debris would still be large enough to cause significant damage to the planet's surface. Furthermore, the Khornate fleet had engaged the Lightning Wraiths in a suicidal counter offensive in order to take down as much Imperial souls before their imminent demise.
In a last-ditch effort, Paran ordered his ship to intercept the Space Hulk. As the Dissonance of the Void aligned itself in the Silent Blade's path, the Thunderhawks on board were loaded with as much scavenged relics from the expedition before they were sent off with Stormravens carrying Astartes trailing behind them. The human crew onboard urged the Viceroy to take part in the evacuation of the doomed vessel, as he stubbornly refused to let the ship die without him at the helm. Steelmason __ __ heard the pleas and acted upon them. With his mechandendrites, he hoisted his Viceroy into a Stormraven and demanded the pilot to take off before Paran could wrestle out of __'s iron grip. With their conscience clear, the mortals of the Dissonance of the Void detonated the warp-engines when Paran's Stormraven was a safe distance away. The warp rift that appeared from the explosion was large enough for the Space Hulk to pass through and the remaining ships of the Khornate fleet could only watch helplessly as their greatest weapon was stolen from their grasp.
Not soon after, the Lightning Wraiths fleet began to receive multiple readings of warp fluctuations appearing near Nivera. To their relief, the vessels that appeared were Mechanicum vessels that answered the Aedalur System's call for aid. Their appearance caught the Khornate fleet by surprise and they found themselves in between two Imperial forces. Without delay, both the Mechanicus fleet and the Lightning Wraiths fired their broadside weapons in unison. Yhar'gol's fleet was brutalized by the combined firepower of the two fleets and attempted to fight back. Mechanicus vessels were felled by the Khornate counter-barrage and subsequent ramming while the Lightning Wraiths were able to hold off any boarding attempts by Traitor Astartes. A few Traitor ships attempted to use the chaos as a distraction so that they may escape to the edge of the System, but the Lightning Wraiths saw through their ploy and harpooned these escaping vessels with the Ursus Claws mounted on Gladius-class frigates.
As thanks for their deeds, the Mechanicus contingent on Nivera vowed to become the Lightning Wraiths' key supplier of arms and armour as well as ammunition for the long years to come. Furthermore, they would also provide the Lightning Wraiths a unique pattern of Stormtalon that was being developed on Nivera.
Dawn of a New Beginning
- "Never assume that you completely understand an enemy, lest they use your perceived knowledge against you."
- —Vizier Raul Ortega
At the dawn of the Dark Millenium, Magister __ felt a disturbance in the Warp as he meditated in the Sanctum Astralis. To confirm the psychic sensation of wrongness that he felt, __ scryed the void and discovered that Cadia had fallen and that the Warp was expanding. Before he could warn his brothers of the discovery, the permanently overcast skies of Morozh'nehya turned to a sickly shade of magenta and fire rained from the clouds above. Viceroy __ and Viceroy __ of the 3rd and 8th Pillars of Wisdom were mobilizing their forces in order to purge the threat as Aspirants taking their year-long pilgrimage within the Kingdoms and the winter plains voxed the Crypt about daemons coming forth from the hellfire.
Above the planet, a defensive fleet made attempts to contact the Crypt of Brehus, but were unsuccessful due to interference on their communication equipment. As such, they were not able to notify the planet bound forces of the Lightning Wraiths that a large fleet bearing the colours of the Black Legion had emerged from the tumultuous Warp Storms and were making their way to the homeworld. Determined to safeguard their home from whatever corrupt agenda the forces of the Black Legion had in store for Morozh'nehya, the fleet engaged the significantly larger enemy force. Despite their fervor, the fleet was overwhelmed by the sheer number of enemy ships and many of the enemy dropships were successfully making atmospheric entry.
At this point, the great horns of the Jirae Mountains sounded off and the populace was sent to a mass panic. Mortal civilians mobbed in the streets of the Kingdoms, finding a location where a semblance of safety can be felt. Many resorted to leaving all of their belongings behind and making the treacherous trek to the Jirae Mountains, hoping that the Emperor's Angels would grant them sanctuary from what could possibly the end of their world. Mortal soldiers and militia took up arms to defend their Kingdom's walls from the invaders, most of which were armed with pikes and very primitive muzzleloader muskets. Before long, the orbital defences hidden in the Jirae Mountains opened fire into the skies to destroy any dropships before their lethal cargo could be released onto the surface.
News of the civilian migration towards the Jirae Mountains soon reached the Lightning Wraiths and Saboteur Squads were assigned to assist in the escape to safety. A cordon was soon established so that civilians could be safely make the trek under the protection of Saboteur Squads while Jagers and forces of the stationed 3rd Pillar of Wisdom cleansed the planet of the daemonic infestation. Lightning Wraiths Rhinos and Stormravens were also dispatched to distant kingdoms with orders to prioritize the extraction of children and mothers-to-be. One kingdom's monarch had raged at the Astartes' lack of respect, only to be reminded swiftly by his advisors that the wisdom of the Mal'Akim was not to be questioned in times of war. The quick cooling of his temper was what stayed the hand of the Lightning Wraith Cavus sent to extract the children. However, this monarch soon found himself at the frontlines of the war for Morozh'nehya as he was forced to take up arms by the Lightning Wraiths.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the galaxy, the Chapter remained true to its oath of tribute and loyalty to its progenitor. As such, the Lightning Wraiths' 1st Pillar of Wisdom made haste to Chogoris even as the Cicatrix Maledictum began it's expansion. Despite the nigh impassable torrents that plagued the Immaterium, the Lightning Wraiths' fleet managed to power through the Warp and returned to realspace at the edge of the Yassan Sector. However, their exit from the warp was not met with the warm welcome that the chapter was usually subjected to by the White Scars. The lack of a welcome was soon revealed when Szulah Nuk'Fallad, Preceptor of the Lightning Wraiths, intercepted distress calls from Chogoris regarding an invasion by a Chaos Warband.
Filled with rage at the audacity of the Chaos Warband, the Lightning Wraiths sped towards the enemy fleet, forcing their engines to perform past acceptable parameters. Szulah's personal ship, which contained the Chapter's tribute, positioned itself at the centre of the formation so that it may be protected despite the Chapter's wrathful advance. Escort ships ensnared frigates with Ursus claws and.
On Morozh'nehya, the chapter was fighting tooth and nail to protect their home and its citizens. It had gotten so dire that Oathtaker __ and Koval __ had awakened the ancient sarcophagi-bound Dreadnoughts that dwelled in the deep bowels of the Crypt of Brehus to act as a final line of defence against the Chaos horde. If these Ancients were to fall, the genetic legacy of the Lightning Wraiths would be destroyed and lost or worse.
Notable Campaigns
- Irquos Uprising (211.M38) - A planetary governor refused to pay his Imperial Tithes and had gained the support of many generals. Imperial delegation parties were shot upon when their landing craft breached the atmosphere and any survivors were executed. A strike force of Lightning Wraiths Jägers accompanied by Magister Aleksei Nikorov were sent to quell the rebellion before it escalated even further. Any attempts of communication and negotiations were denied by the power-hungry planetary governor. A week after their arrival to the sector, the planetary governor was found bound and gagged in front of his home with the renegade generals' dead bodies accompanying him. He was last seen on his way to a meeting with his generals on the previous night. The man was considered mad as all he spoke of were about the undead coming to rip out everyone's soul from their bodies. However, news of his madness and the dead generals convinced any further usurpers to consider rebelling against the Imperium. The new planetary governor, the exiled son of the previous and an Imperial loyalist, denied any accusations that the Imperium had any hand in the event.
- Pursuit of Izrahmar (213.M38) - A Dark Eldar fleet led by an infamous Archon named Izrahmar was intercepted by the Lightning Wraiths as a vision by Magister Kaytaan Haug had foreseen the fleet's destination. A void battle ensued, and during the chaos that enfolded, Izrahmar slipped passed the Lightning Wraiths blockade. The Lightning Wraiths chased the Archon across an entire sector and before Izrahmar could escape indefinitely, a White Scars fleet led by the Saiko Khan, the Master of the Hunt, crippled Izrahmar's vessel and personally slew the Archon. As thanks for their assistance, Saiko invited the warriors of the fleet to take part in the ceremony of a successful hunt.
- The Silent Pilgrimmage (328.M38) - A failed campaign against the Orks on the Feudal World Rakann forced elements of the 3rd Pillar of Wisdom to withdraw from the planet with their hangar bays filled with as much data regarding the planet's culture as well as the young and the women. The men of the planet refused to let their home world die without a fight, and rallied under one banner to fight off the Ork menace. Vicar Yasan Aziz stayed behind to inspire the doomed men in their final stand. The journey to the nearest Imperial world to drop off the mortals and the subsequent return to Morozh'nehya was done in complete silence to mourn for the loss of the planet and their valiant brother. In remembrance of the planet's defiance, the sigil of Rakann's unified banner - a boar's head impaled by three spears - has been added onto the 3rd Pillar of Wisdom's banner.
- Purge of the Zhau Sector (427.M38) - A Lightning Wraiths arrived at the Zhau Sector, which was located at the edge of Segmentum Obscurus, after receiving news of Drukhari presence. Upon arrival to the sector, they immediately detected the xenos' ships near a feral world. Without any delay, the Astartes fleet barrelled towards the xenos at full-speed and when they were finally noticed by their prey, the closest Drukhari vessels were harpooned to Astartes frigates so that they may not escape. Thanks to the harpooning, the Astartes of the Lightning Wraiths were able to board the xenos ships and wreak havoc from within. Some of the ships managed to cut off the harpoons before Lightning Wraiths boarding parties could land and made their escape. Those were not fortunate enough were either slaughtered to the last living being or bombarded until their ships were naught but ash.
- Ayur Incident (Unknown.M38) - The Lightning Wraiths Gladius-clas Friate Ayur was intercepted by a Dark Angels fleet and its occupants were subjected to a thorough interrogation by an Interrogator-Chaplain. The exact details of the event elude the minds of the Astartes present during the event, but they can acclaim that the interception and subsequent interrogations followed the sudden appearance of Astartes clad in the livery of Dark Angels and black power armour. These "Dark Angels" were requesting supplies when they were hailed by the Ayur and immediately re-entered the warp after receiving aid from the Lightning Wraiths with nary a word.
- Seryaj Campaign (830.M38) - [RECORDS EXPUNGED BY ORDERS OF THE EMPEROR'S MOST HOLY INQUISITION]
- Bayhan Rebellions (153.M39) - A violent rebellion on the Agri-World Bayhan was quelled by the Lightning Wraiths exploiting the populace's deeply rooted pagan superstitions. One such superstition was a local myth of an ethereal bird that collects the souls of those who are cursed to be afflicted with madness. Magister Kai'Shan used his gifts to create a phantom of the twin-headed Imperial Aquila and used it to 'mark' those who started the rebellion. The sight of Kai'Shan's creation marking the rebellion leaders caused many of the rebellion's supporters to abandon the cause and flee to their homes. The rebel leaders themselves committed suicide as they feared the madness that would befall upon them.
- Glory of Degyaratev (183.M39) - The Hive World Degyaratev was graced with a rare occurrence following the PDF's valiant and successful defence of their home world. The planet's skies, which were once filled with Chaos vessels prior to the arrival of the Lightning Wraiths, became the chapter's playground as they conducted intricate air shows for the planet's populace. Cavus Woznyk Calais, the head of the Stormhawk squadron conducting the airshow, had said that the expenditure of fuel to bring hope to the people was a meagre price to pay for the planet's unwavering spirit and loyalty.
- The Shadow Cull (277.M39) - Two Squads of Lightning Wraith Astartes assigned to the protection of the Shrine World Haetalum's holy tomb were killed to a man when a mixed warband of Night Lords and Word Bearers laid siege on the world to defile the remains of Saint Agatha of the Ebon Chalice. The chapter's retaliation force was not able to intercept the warbands from their flight and the year-long pursuit that followed after was not able to deliver that chapter's vengeance for the desecration of both the saint's remains and the bodies of the fallen Lightning Wraiths.
- Grace of Lysanda (143.M41) - At the dawn of the 12th Black Crusade, the Lightning Wraiths sent a fleet to combat the Chaos forces within the Gothic Sector. Magister Elias Dantarum, who was attached to the 7th Pillar of Wisdom was given command of a small portion of the fleet in order to respond to a distress call originating at the very edge of the Gothic Sector. The astropathic message they received had the psychic signature of astropaths belonging to Legio Lysanda. The Warlord Titan Stoic Defiance and a hunting party of three Warhound Titans - the Ignus Absentia, Silentium, and Void Druid - were stationed on the newly conquered world of Wralkas prior to the sudden emergence of Chaos forces to defend it from raiding parties. Stoic Defiance had been wounded due to orbital bombardment overloading its void shields which left it vulnerable against sustained ground attacks. Ignus Absentia and Void Druid were hard-pressed with protecting the Warlord while Silentium had met its end when Chaos Raptors had boarded the Titan when its void shields dropped. An Adeptus Mechanicus fleet hailing from Legio Lysanda, led by a ship designated Grace of Lysanda, had also been attached to the Lightning Wraiths to rescue the titans. As soon as the Lightning Wraiths exited near Wralkas, they immediately deployed troops and aircraft planetside in a very uncharacteristic act of brashness as they could not waste time preparing when a God-Machine was in jeapordy. Lightning Wraiths Astartes aided in the escorting of Stoic Defiance and held off any Chaos vehicles or aircraft that attempted to disrupt the extraction of Legio Lysanda's three Titans despite heavy losses. Once the extraction was complete, the Lightning Wraiths withdrew and acted as the rearguard so that Legio Lysanda's ships could leave the battlefields safely. As a parting sign of gratitude, Princeps Amadeus Kant of Stoic Defiance vowed his God-Machine's service to the Lightning Wraiths for the entire duration of the 12th Black Crusade.
- Damnation of Eulta (994.M41) - The planet of Eulta, a Lightning Wraiths recruitment world, was subjected to an Ork invasion by the Blood Axes Ork clan. Vicar Atlan Khassim was on the planet as he was tasked to scout for any potential recruits. When the Orks made planetside, he saw this as an opportunity to test a serum that he was developing. The serum was designed to draw Orks to a location through a chemical reaction that the Orks are attracted to. He intended for the feral Orks on the planet, which were hunted by children of the planet as a rite of passage to adulthood, to encounter and fight the invaders. His concoction proved to be a little too effective as the feral orks on the planet pledged themselves to become a part of the HackDagga WAAAGH! with the promise of a worthy fight. This resulted in a full-scale WAAAGH! breaking out on the planet's surface and required the intervention of the Angels of Absolution along with the White Scars to completely quell. Atlan Khassim was shamed and would have been interred to the Dark Prophets when a Lord Inquisitor took interest in his work and requested that he is interred into Deathwatch in order for his research to thrive.
- 13th Black Crusade (999.M41) - Elements of the 4th Pillar of Wisdom's fleet took part in the defense of Cadia during the 13th Black Crusade. The fleet bore witness to the destruction of the planet and was among the few ships that rescued the refugees that escaped Cadia's surface before the Blackstone Fortress crashed into it. The fleet is currently recuperating on the Imperial Fists' flagship Phalanx and assisting the Sons of Dorn in the purging of the Chaotic taint that dwells within the venerable vessel.
A Lightning Wraiths Hussar Squad engages abominable pure strain Genestealers of Hive Fleet Kraken upon the Agri-World Laiko.
- Death of Laiko (999.M41) - Elements of the 5th and 9th Pillar of Wisdom arrived to the Agri-World of Laiko to purge a Genestealer Uprising, only for them to be forced in a defensive campaign against a splinter fleet of Hive Fleet Kraken. The Lightning Wraiths suffered heavy losses despite their valiant defence and were forced to condemn the world to Exterminatus after saving as much children and data from the planet. In their attempt to escape from the Great Devourer, a Warp Storm coalesced in the fleet's flight vector and swallowed it whole. They were declared lost until they reappeared at the edge of Imperium Sanctus a few years later and were rescued by the 2nd Pillar of Wisdom only to be forced in a confrontation against a Night Lords fleet.
- Battle of Vectrus (120.M42) - Elements of the 4th Pillar of Wisdom follow a distress call to the planet of Vectrus, which is under attack from the mutated swarms of Hive Fleet Nidhogg. The Astartes made landfall around the planet's central bastion - its capital city Korhelvius - and quickly made use of the lack of airborne bio-forms employed by Nidhogg to gain aerial superiority. They were able to quickly repel the wave of subterranean bio-forms that assualted them as soon as they landed. However, simply having aerial superiority would prove not to be enough, as in the following weeks more and more toxic spores would be released into the atmosphere, blocking the engines of the Chapter's Storm Talons and preventing them flying. Those that were fell prey to the psychic barrage of unstable Zoanthropes and mutated Tyranid Primes. Eventually the Lightning Wraiths would be pushed back to the final temple of Korhelvius, where they made a glorious last stand. Just as they thought they would all die, the Tyranids were pushed back by a sudden barrage of bolters and melta weapons; the Molten Fists 3rd Company, having sworn a crusade of purification against Hive Fleet Nidhogg, had arrived. Together with the new Astartes, the Lightning Wraiths purged the planet of Tyranids, forging a close bond with the warriors of the Molten Fists.
- Indomitus Crusade (Unknown Date.M42) - Once the Chapter was sufficiently supplied and brought back to fighting capacity, the entire chapter - bar the 1st Pillar Wisdom as they would help repair the damage that the Crypt of Brehus received - took part in the Indomitus Crusade within Imperium Nihlus. In particular, the chapter sought to restore order in their assigned sector as well as the neighbouring Gothic Sector
Chapter Home World
A Departmento-Cartographicae pict-file of the planet Morozh'nehya and its neighbouring planet, Daisho.
Morozh'nehya is a hostile feudal world, cast in an almost permanent winter due to its distance to its star. Furthermore, a volcanic catastrophe in the early years of the planet's formation led to thick layers of volcanic ash and smoke to be trapped in its atmosphere, rendering the planet bereft of much-needed sunlight for the majority of the year. On the surface, the planet consists of either vast and empty plains or enormous mountain ranges that are nigh hospitable and traversable. It is a wonder that life somehow survived in this brutal landscape. Any flora that exists is typically fungal in nature, as they are not dependant on sunlight. The fauna on the planet is surprisingly diverse. From the grox-like quadrupeds that feed primarily on plain mushrooms to the enormous Ayur hawks that are used as both a means of swift transportation or hunting during times of peace.
Living in Morozh'nehya is to subject one's self to a lifetime of struggle against the unforgiving planet. The average temperatures throughout a Morozh'nehyan year, which is roughly 2 Terran Standard years and 7 months, would yield third-degree frostbite within minutes of skin exposure to the elements. The comparatively sparse human populace that calls this planet home are distrustful of each other, each one clinging onto a lot of land and would not part with it until death. In Morozh'nehya, wealth is determined primarily by the size of the land that one owns, as very little of the planet can be deemed inhabitable. Even then, the inhabitable areas of the planet could barely provide enough resources to form and sustain a small community. Somehow, either through ancient wars of the past or through sheer luck, kingdoms have been formed.
Fortress-Monastery
The Crypt of Brehus is a massive tunnel network hidden within the heart of the Jirae Mountains. It is both the Lightning Wraiths' Fortress-Monastery and an honoured shrine dedicated to the Imperial Saint Hassan Brehus as well as the Lords and Ladies of the Order of Brehus. There are nine entrances to the Crypt, each one is blocked by thick plasteel doors that only open when the Chapter's Vicars decide that it is time to accept new aspirants or during the Great Pilgrimage. However, finding these entrances is not an easy task, especially during the aspirant trials as the harsh weather of Morozh'nehya coupled with the almost impossibly steep Jirae Mountains hide the tunnels from the untrained eye. Even if one manages to find an entrance, they would have to traverse the pitch blank tunnel while avoiding the creatures that reside within the shadowy depths.
One of the many peaks of the Jirae Mountains during a rare occurrence of the Morozh'nehyan overcast lifting to reveal the nearby moon
If either the pilgrims or the aspirants have managed to find the hidden entrances, they will be greeted by another plasteel door that only opens through a dual biometric system, as the Chapter Serfs tasked to guard the doors outside and inside are required to have their blood drawn through a hidden scanner at the same time. Behind those gates is one of the revered Tombs of the Guardians, a shrine containing the remains of a Lord or Lady that ruled one of the nine kingdoms of the Order of Brehus. Each shrine has its walls engraved with the names of every fallen Astartes from a coinciding Pillar of Wisdom. Sometimes, one can find the name of a mortal or an Astartes on the wall, a sign of respect from the Chapter as the person has been observed to uphold one of Hassan Brehus' virtues.
To the general populace, many of whom are practitioners of Mallakah, a variant of the Imperial Cult revolving around lunar worship as Morozh'nehya's moon is held with great reverence due to its gentle light during rare occasions of the Morohkan overcast lifting when compared to the baleful glare of the planet's sun, these Tombs are the holiest landmarks on the planet. Many brave the treacherous Morozh'nehyan mountains in order to pay their respects to the heroes of the Uprising and to profess their undying faith to the Sicora, the religion's title for the Emperor. Due to the Astartes' transhuman and otherworldly presence, many pilgrims perceive the Lightning Wraiths to be the "Mal'Akim", the earth-bound servants of Sicora. Any Morozh'nehyan that has been given the rare opportunity to lay their eyes upon the Lightning Wraiths clad during the pilgrimage tend to throw themselves at the feet of any Astartes they come across to request for blessings.
At the epicentre of the Crypt, located a kilometer under the base of the tallest peak of the Jirae Mountains, lies the Crypt of Hassan Brehus. Its location represents that his tenants are the foundation of the Chapter's soul and each Tomb of the Guardian represents a virtue that the associated kingdom upheld until their last dying breath - an act that each Lightning Wraith will also commit as many mortals have done so before them. The 'Farshan', the Chapter's equivalent to both a Reclusiam and an Apothecarium, is positioned adjacent to the Crypt of Hassan Brehus. In fact, many Astartes who seek to cleanse their souls under the watchful eyes of a Vicar must first pay their respects to Hassan Brehus before entering the 'Farshan'.
Within the highest peak of the Jirae Mountains lies the Sanctum Astralis, an observatory that is psychically attuned to the Immaterium's everchanging paths. The Magister and his Viziers reside within the Sanctum and use it to scry into the everlasting void to search for any calls for aid or drifting Space Hulks ripe for an expedition into its bowels. Wards are engraved into the walls of the Sanctum in order to prevent any potential exploitation of the psychic attunement by the daemons of the Immaterium. Sometimes, they abduct and train Blanks to guard its sole entrance so that neither the daemon within nor daemons without may exit or enter the Sanctum.
The Khaganate Sepulchre
The Khaganate Sepulchre is a massive underground library filled with ancient tomes and books containing knowledge regarding the galaxy's inhabitants. This was constructed after the expansion of the Crypt of Brehus under the orders of Khugol Khan in honor of Preceptor Izmael's desire to gain and share knowledge. Many works of literature that are too precious to be given away are kept within the Sepulchre's shelves, preserved carefully and studied dutifully by those who respect the words that lined their pages. The Sepulchre is also where many of the Chapter's gifts are stored, given by honoured allies and grateful Imperial officials for the Chapter's service in preserving the safety of humanity. Some of these 'gifts' are relics that were traded by Lightning Wraith Stalkers with other acquired relics during expeditions through drifting Space Hulks.
The Sepulchre is protected by the Kharash, an honour guard consisting of the greatest Morozh'nehyan warriors, and a contingent of Lightning Wraiths Astartes and serfs. Members of the Kharash are chosen through gladiatorial trials amongst warriors from all the remaining Morozh'nehyan Kingdoms and are held once every decade. These men and women protect the ancient texts of the Sepulchre from the shadows, ready to swiftly strike down anyone or anything that would dare desecrate the written wisdom of man. Those who are part of the Kharash are bound by blood-oaths to never abandon their posts and when their time comes to be replaced, the Lightning Wraiths hold a ceremony along with the rest of the Kharash to bid the aged soul a final warrior's farewell before they are ritualistically beheaded by the Oathtaker.
The only way to access the Sepulchre is through the behest of the Preceptor or the Oathtaker, as they are the only ones who know its location and the access codes required to open the massive doors that protect its invaluable treasure. Even if one were to somehow extract this information from these two men, they would still have to traverse a treacherous labyrinth that the Lightning Wraiths have created to protect the ancient knowledge. Morozh'nehyan Predators roam its corridors, kept at the brink of starvation to ensure blind aggression to those who lose their way in the labyrinth. First-time visitors are guided by either the Preceptor or the Oathtaker to and from the Sepulchre. Afterwards, they are expected to remember the path towards the Sepulchre by memory. One wrong turn would result in their demise by the whim of the creatures that roam the labyrinth.
Rites of Recruitment
Every 15 years, the Chapter would set off in a voyage across the __ Sector to conduct visits to their various recruitment worlds, which typically are Feral Worlds or Feudal Worlds. Serfs would discretely land onto these planets with the intent of scouring the planet's human populace for any potential recruits. Lightning Wraiths ships would remain in orbit for approximately one Terran month before Vicars would make planetfall to collect any child that has garnered their serf's interest. In other worlds where a tribute or tithe was owed to the Chapter for deeds done in the past, one child in every household from 8-12 years of age would be collected. There would be no exceptions, as was the way of the Utyug-Krovian Clans of old. These children that the Chapter collects would then be dropped them off at the edge of the Jirae Mountains. This would mark the beginning of the Aspirant Trials, where the worthy would be separated from the weak.
The Cull
The first stage of the Chapter's recruitment requires the children to locate one of nine hidden entrances to the Crypt of Brehus. Some children have the advantage of visiting the Crypt earlier in their lives during pilgrimages to pay tribute to the heroes of Morozh'nehya and as such, would have a rough idea of where they can look for the entrances. The rest would have to find the entrances as swiftly as possible lest they perish in the mountains during the harsh winter season of Morozh'nehya. These aspirants would either move swiftly alone or huddle with other children so that they may preserve their body temperature during their search. Aspirants that shared their prior knowledge of crypt entrances are taken into consideration for team leader promotions if they manage to survive the mountains' devious slopes.
Once a child or a group of children find a crypt entrance, they would then have to navigate the pitch black tunnels to find the secondary entrance that would lead them to shelter. The tunnels are a relic from the era of the Order of Brehus, as they were created and maintained by the Xulka Empire prior to their destruction. They are oddly shaped and branch off in many junctions to disorient any invader. Some of a tunnel's branches lead towards a sudden drop or a nest of cave-dwelling predators. If an aspirant does not have any prior knowledge to a Crypt's layout, it is possible for them to find their way to the secondary entrance by feeling for a slight increase in the ambient temperature as the secondary entrances seal the rest of the Crypt off from the harsh elements and excess heat often seeps through the gates.
The final challenge that the aspirants must face before they may truly begin their training to become Astartes is a challenge of the mind. As the first of the aspirants approach to the secondary entrance, a short-acting hallucinogenic gas is pumped into the air. If any of the aspirant's nerves fray from the hallucinations, the others may be forced to put them down or abandon them as those who have succumbed to the gas become rabid and would attack anything in an effort to dispel the visions. Those who remained calm are allowed entry while the ones whose minds were broken from the gas are left to wander at the gates' boundaries, acting as another challenge for the other aspirants that are still making their way through the tunnels. Once the Cull is over, the bodies of those who have failed are gathered by serfs and buried at the foot of the Mountains. Those who have died from the tunnels' treacherous secrets are unfortunately not given the proper send-offs as their bodies would be lost forever, or 'claimed by the Mountains as tribute' as some of the more spiritual members of the Lightning Wraiths say.
Trials of the Wraiths
Once an aspirant has survived the Cull, they will be fed and cared for by chapter serfs during a rest period that will last one week. During this week of recuperation, the aspirants will be assigned to a Lightning Wraith mentor in evenly sized groups. From then on, the aspirants will be lectured by their Lightning Wraith masters regarding a myriad of subjects pertaining to the chapter's history, combat doctrine, or ethos. They will also be subjected to lengthy sessions of psycho-indoctrination, although this method of training is typically reserved for topics that cannot be taught easily or in a reasonable amount of time. At certain stages of organ implantation, an aspirant is required to conduct a Trial of the Wraith, which is a task that pushes an aspirants mental and physical capabilities to the limit in order to determine if they are fit for further stages of implantation. These include:
- Taming an Ayur Hawk
- Hunting a Polshtan Nemean
- Finding the Khaganate Sepulchre.
The final Trial of the Wraith is a duel between two aspirants. Prior to the duel, the aspirants would be ritually bathed and shaved as to appear as if they were born anew. The duelists would also be naked save for a loincloth and pure white cords that are wrapped tightly around their ankles, knees, upper thighs, wrists, elbows, shoulders and groin in order to reduce blood loss as the aspirants would be duelling with combat knives. To further discourage restraint, the aspirants would be given a powerful combat drug that doubles as a hallucinogenic by the Oathtaker, who would oversee the duel. The only way a duel would end is through the victory of one aspirant or the intervention of the Oathtaker. If there is an odd number of aspirants, then either a member of a Saboteur squad or the Oathtaker himself would duel with the remaining aspirant.
The Prodigal Sons
At the end of their training, the surviving aspirants that have earned their place as Initiates into the chapter are required to undergo a one year pilgrimage into the kingdoms and tribes of Morozh'nehya. Upon their return, they are required to debrief the Oathtaker or the overseeing Viceroy about the things they learned about the mortals. Afterwards, they observe a 9-day silent vigil within the Farshan and when they emerge from the dark halls of the Farshan, the aspirants are interred into a Saboteur Squad to begin their new life as a warrior of the Lightning Wraiths
Chapter Organisation
Rather than use designations prescribed by the Codex Astartes, the Lightning Wraiths prefer to use the titles and ranks of the now dissolved kingdoms of the Order of Brehus out of respect for the fallen warriors. Some of the designations that the Lightning Wraiths use for the new Primaris Marines are not from the Order of Brehus, but rather from the remaining kingdoms that dwell upon Morozh'nehya.
Officer Ranks
The Crown of the Old Kingdoms, the Chapter's most revered relic and the Preceptor's symbol of office.
- The Preceptor - The Lightning Wraith's equivalent of a Chapter Master, the Preceptor is chosen from a cabal of men consisting of members of the Farshan, the Armorium, the Sanctum Astralis, and the Viceroys. One is chosen through a vote among the cabal and would be favored for being an exemplar for all Lightning Wraiths. He must have all the qualities of a Lightning Wraith in spades, from the insatiable desire to learn to the ferociousness of a warlord. Upon his ascension, a Preceptor would become the Viceroy of the First Pillar of Wisdom and the Lightning Wraiths' representative during their centennial voyage to Chogoris. While the Preceptor has command of the entire Chapter, he often lets Viceroys command their own Pillars of Wisdom as they see fit. The only time he overrides a Pillar of Wisdom's command structure is when the Viceroy is either dead or unfit to command.
- Viceroy - The Lightning Wraith's equivalent of a Company Captain. These men lead a company into battle and are in charge of duties that help the Chapter run smoothly. Viceroys are chosen from the ranks of the Chapter's Veterans, typically those who were former members of their assigned Pillar of Wisdom, for their exemplary skill in combat as well as their tactical acumen. Viceroys are also in charge of diplomatic relations with other Imperial forces. As such, many Viceroys are taught by Morozh'nehyan nobility and poets in the nuances of conversation. They are also provided with expansive knowledge in human psychology. It is said that Lightning Wraith Viceroys are among the best diplomats in the Adeptus Astartes due to their extensive knowledge of how the human mind works and their silver tongues.
- Hetman - The Lightning Wraith's equivalent of a Primaris Lieutenant. A new addition to the Lightning Wraiths' ranks, the Hetmans are a Viceroy's second-in-command in the battlefield and his personal bodyguard. This title was taken from the old and dead Duchy of Polshta where these officers have historically served their commanders for life and were only removed from their positions when their assigned commanders die or when they themselves are found guilty of treason. This practice of being practically permanently assigned to a Viceroy has been adopted when the chapter began receiving Primaris Reinforcements. Furthermore, like the Viceroys they are assigned to, Hetmans are taught psychology and poetry to aid in diplomacy.
- Cavus - (plural "cavii") The Lightning Wraith's equivalent of a Sergeant. The Cavus is the lowest rank of command within the Lightning Wraiths, as discipline is still practiced extensively despite autonomy being encouraged. As with the Hetmans and the Viceroys, the Cavii are also taught by nobles and poets as well as Vicars to aid in diplomatic relations with other factions. It is among the Cavus of the Pillars of Wisdom, with the exception of the First, where Hetmans and Veterans are chosen.
Specialist Ranks
- Iakugo - Instead of having a champion in each company dedicated to hunting down enemy warlords, the Lightning Wraiths have one Champion to represent the entire chapter. The Iakugo, meaning "bewildering force" in Common Morozh'nehyan, is the greatest warrior in the Chapter. His previous name would be forgotten, as it is a tradition for him to become one with the weapon that bears the same name as the position he is to hold. His duties consist of safeguarding the Preceptor, spearheading mass assaults, and hunting down Warlords. The Iakugo is the Preceptor's shadow, his guardian and his executioner. With an oath of silence and a mask of Jaghatai Khan welded onto his face, the Iakugo is seldom seen or heard as he lurks in the shadows but is never too far to intervene any attempts on the Preceptor.
- Vicars - Vicars of the Chapter are the amalgamation of an Apothecary and a Chaplain of the Codex Astartes. Healers of both mind and body, the Vicars are held in high regard and are often the ones with a security detail accompanying them with the exception of the Chapter Master. Due to the combination of two roles, the Reclusium and the Apothecarion are also merged into the 'Farshan', a Laeda-Krovian word that roughly translates to 'House of Healing' in Low Gothic. There is also a larger than normal amount of Vicars, when compared to a Codex-Compliant Chapter's amount of Apothecaries or Chaplains, to compensate for the combination of two roles. Furthermore, all Vicars are equipped with a Niveran-pattern Diagnostor Helmet which is a Chaplain's iconic skull helm with improved Auto-senses and readouts along with a built-in auspex for improved performance when conducting their sworn duty on the battlefield. Vicars are also given training on how to conduct battlefield autopsies on various xenos species as well as administering first aid upon mortal humans.
- Oathtaker - The Oathtaker is the combination of a Reclusiarch and a Head Apothecary. These men are gifted in the medicinal arts and have devoted their life studying various tomes regarding the human mind and spiritual healing from Morozh'nehya. They are also warlords with tactical acumen akin to a Viceroy, unafraid to bring forth the Primarch's wrath upon the enemy. Those who are given this position are responsible for inducting Neophytes into the Chapter, overseeing ascensions of Viceroys, Kovals, Viziers and Preceptors. Oathtakers also work closely with Viziers and the Viceroys of the 6th Pillar of Wisdom in maintaing the chapter's immaculate records and preserving the many traditions of the Order of Brehus. They are also the ones who keep the Chapter's dark secrets under wraps. Only the highest echelons of the Chapter know of the secrets that an Oathtaker guards. One such secret is the location of the Chapter's gene-seed repositories.
- Vizier - The Lightning Wraith's equivalent of a Chief Librarian. As the most gifted Librarian in the Chapter, whomever earns this position would act as the Preceptor's chief advisor in matters of great importance. Furthermore, one of his most important tasks besides being the Preceptor's advisor is to scout for potential recruits for the Ukxalshan, or the Sanctum of Heaven, as the Librarius is called. His duty of training new Magisters has given him an exemption from the 50-year(Terran-Standard) periodical recruitment trials, granting him the opportunity to accept trainees whenever the chapter comes across a child that shows psychic potential. This exemption comes with strict guidelines and limitations as well as the vigilant scrutiny of the Oathtaker, who ensures the spiritual purity of each recruit and that the Vizier himself is free of taint or corruption.
- Magister - The Lightning Wraith's equivalent of a Librarian. Besides being invaluable force multipliers due to their psychic gifts, Lightning Wraiths Magisters are tasked with the maintenance of the Chapter's grand library as well as the Khaganate Sepulchre. As they are the ones tasked with the maintenance of the Khaganate Sepulchre, they are also among those who are responsible for recruiting new members of the Kharash - the Sepulchre's secretive mortal bodyguards. They are also tasked with scouring the void from within the Sanctum Astralis for any distress calls in their sector or to predict the machinations of an enemy in order to prepare a defensive cordon or a liberation force in advance.
- Koval - The Lightning Wraith's equivalent of a Forgemaster. A position of both prestige and respect, the Koval is the greatest Machinist within the Armorium. His skill makes him the only person qualified to conduct maintenance and repairs on the Chapter's Relics. The Koval is also the one who creates the guidelines on how to modify and tinker equipment that was scavenged off of the battlefield, a secret that the Chapter's Oathtaker guards vehemently. He works with the Viceroy of the 5th Pillar of Wisdom to safeguard the relics and to ensure that the Armorium is always fully stocked. Interestingly, his title stems from a Morozh'nehyan tradition of having a surname that coincides with a familial trade. Koval was the last name of a family from the Order of Brehus with unparalleled skill in metallurgy. When the chapter was founded, the first Forgemaster adopted the title out of respect for the family line and his first duty was to create the revered Crown of the Old Kingdoms.
- Steelmason - The Lightning Wraith's equivalent of a Techmarine. The Chapter's expansive airforce and high numbers of bikes demand a fairly high amount of specialists trained by the Adeptus Mechanicus to maintain and repair these tools of war. Due to their training with the Mechanicus, they are forced to renounce their oaths of non-augmentation in order to gain the knowledge that the Priests of Mars selfishly guard. Unlike many Techmarines of other chapters, a Steelmason strives to maintain his humanity during his time with the Mechanicus and would cast aside whatever loyalty he has with the Mechanicus for his Chapter. A Steelmason is also the only rank that has a personal retinue of servitors to assist him rather than Chapter Serfs due to the dangerous tasks he has to undertake which require the expendable yet robust slaves.
- Bannerlord - The Lightning Wraith's equivalent of a Standard Bearer. Carrying the pride of a Pillar of Wisdom or the Chapter into battle is a great honour, but one that comes with great risk. Upon its hand-woven fabric, the vaunted history of a Pillar of Wisdom or the Chapter is embossed with immense care and devotion. Every enemy of the Imperium knows by heart that those who carry the standards is responsible for upholding the morale of an army. This knowledge drives them to seek and desecrate any Company standard that enters the warzone. This duty is only given to battle-hardened warriors of the Sipahi as they will ensure that nothing will ever desecrate the banner.
The Sipahi
A callback to the near-mythical nomadic knights of the winter plains of Morozh'nehya, the Sipahi were said to be the greatest warriors who have ever graced the lands of Morozh'nehya. Lead by none other than Hassan Brehus, the Mountain King of Jirae, the Sipahi wandered the lands in search of a home after they were exiled for their leader's refusal to acknowledge the ascension Lord Uraka Caelafrax of the Ghonzi Empire.
Hassan Brehus was once a well-respected general of the Ghonzi Empire and close friend to its lord. As such, when the aging lord passed away and the search for a new successor was announced, Hassan was suspicious of a stranger named Uraka Caelafrax and his claim to the throne by birthright. Hassan knew that the old lord had no legitimate sons as he was found to be sterile by court physicians, much to the lord's sorrow. However, Uraka had claimed that his mother was the late lord's wife and that his father was a trusted court advisor.
Once Uraka had ascended to the throne, the first thing he did was banish Hassan Brehus and all those who were loyal to him or who shared his beliefs of Uraka's illegitimacy. Hassan and his elite soldiers, who were then known as the King's Fist, were escorted out of the city walls by former comrades after a day had passed since Uraka's ultimatum. Clad in black cloaks of shame and mourning, the King's Fist boldly renounced their loyalties to the Ghonzi Empire as soon as they were cast out of the city walls. On that day, the King's Fist would be reborn as the Sipahi, a title that stemmed from an ancient Ghonzan word that literally translated as 'The Betrayed'.
An artist's rendition of a Sipahi knight (left) in combat against a marauder in the midst of a village raid.
The Sipahi's mythical reputation stemmed from their deeds during their exile, as much of the frontier towns of Morozh'nehya were bereft of protection by the larger kingdoms as a war had been raging on for the past 13 years. Due to the lack of protection, many of the frontier towns were exploited by mercenaries, passing armies or deserters. Although they were exiled and disgraced, the Sipahi were still knights by oath and took upon themselves to drive away the miscreants that threatened the outcast towns.
Line Ranks
Battleline Squads
Dragoon Squads are the Lightning Wraith's equivalent of a Firstborn Tactical Squad. The backbone of the Chapter, the majority of the Lightning Wraiths' forces are comprised of Dragoon Squads. Their tactical flexibility allows them to access to the few heavy weapons that the Chapter keeps in their armory. Heavy Bolters with a drum magazine and Rocket Launchers are the support weapons of choice by Dragoon Squads as their combat doctrine requires them to be mobile even with the presence of heavier equipment. Prior to the arrival of Primaris Reinforcements, they are the only ones besides the Jägers and the Harbingers who are encouraged to use at least one heavy support weapon in a squad.
The fresh wave of Primaris reinforcements introduced Primaris Intercessors into the Chapter. These men are designated as Fusiliers, its significance lies in the recent advancements in gunpowder technology that Morozh'nehya has been experiencing and the mass adoption of the new Fusilier Corps, men trained in the usage of primitive gunpowder rifles, into the ranks of a Kingdom's army. Much like the Morozh'nehyan Fusiliers, Primaris Intercessors are welcomed for the advantages that they brought but were initially ostracized for the perceived threat of uprooting traditions that date back millennia.
Dragoons and Fusiliers are also extensively trained in mounted combat and either use the bikes as a means to travel great distances or as a means to wage warfare. Those who dedicate themselves as members of a Bike Squad or an Outrider Squad are split into two designations:
- Hussars - Those who prefer strike hard with a close-ranged firearm or a melee weapon while in motion ride in Attack Bikes or Raider Pattern Bikes and are known as Hussars in homage to the heavy cavalry of the Utyug-Krov, lion-riding shock troopers of great skill renowned for breaking enemy formations with devastating cavalry charges. The Hussars of the Lightning Wraiths follow the doctrines of their namesakes, pulverizing the enemy with repeating high-speed charges from the flanks and penetrating deep into the heart of the enemy's forces. Their preferred weapon of choice when on a bike's saddle are lances and power sabers. Hussars are also differentiated from the Magyars by the wings that decorate the rear of the bike, an old practice by Morozh'nehyan Hussars to intimidate the enemy.
- Magyars - Those who prefer to strike from a distance with the enemy ride the Assault Bikes or the Invader ATVs and are known as Magyars in homage to the highly effective anti-cavalry formation that Duchy of Polshta used during times of war. The term 'Magyar' referred to the mercenaries that offered their services to the Duchy, who were renowned for their skill with the bow. Despite the dissolution of the Duchy, the remaining kingdoms of Morozh'nehya rely on these mercenaries to train their troops or act as security. In exchange for their service, the legendary bowmen were provided with the latest inventions, such as bombs in order to increase their effectiveness in softening the enemy's flanks. Like their namesakes, Lightning Wraith Magyars utilize heavier ranged weaponry to whittle the enemy's numbers from afar, taking care to avoid any direct confrontations.
Close Support Squads
A Skirmisher was the Lightning Wraith's equivalent of a Firstborn Assault Marine, and has mastered the art of close-quarters combat as well as various forms of unconventional warfare. Furthermore, due to the chapter's limited number of Devastator Squads prior to the Ultima Founding, Skirmishers were extensively trained to pilot each type of aircraft in the Chapter's air force. Their training included field repair and self-destruct procedures for instances where a Skirmisher is forced to operate behind enemy lines. The arrival of Primaris Reinforcements provided the Lightning Wraiths with more specialized close-combatants that would augment the chapter's combat doctrine.
Assault Intercessors are designated as Cuirassiers as an identical formation of close combat specialists of the same name has also risen to popularity in Morozh'nehya. Morozh'nehyan Cuirassiers are a cavalry unit that acts as the middle ground between the line-breaking Hussar heavy cavalry of the old clans of Utyug-Krov and the fleeting Magyar light cavalry mercenaries as the emergence of gunpowder made most pieces of plate armour useless. Like their feudal counterpart, Lightning Wraith Cuirassiers would attack the enemy with a brutal charge and would withdraw swiftly to either let other units finish the enemy off with a hail of gunfire or reposition to lure the enemy away from an objective. If the enemy is forced to rout, the Cuirassiers would gun down their fleeing opponents with bolt pistols before engaging a different group with another brutal offensive.
Khatiph Cavus Drago Yasif, 6th Pillar of Wisdom, 8th Squad
Reiver Squads are designated as Khatiph Squads in homage to a Utyug-Krovian myth regarding disembodied voices belonging to avenging spirits that haunted sites of murder. Members of the Khatiph Squads would replace the skull masks of their helmets with a blank, featureless faceplate. This dates back to a practice carried out by Utyug-Krovian priests where they would don featureless masks to exorcise a haunted location. If an exorcism is successful, the mask was said to have its features shifted into the face of the murdered. Sergeants would often decorate their masks with blood-red tear trails as some variations of the legend state that a failed exorcism would result in the priest's eyes exploding due to the anger of the spirit.
Inceptors are designated as Strzelcy (pronounced "s-chel-tsy") due to their identical roles as highly mobile fire support cavalry squads of the Duchy of Polshta. The Polshtan Strzelcy were lightly armoured cavalrymen armed with crossbows that were created to counter the heavier cavalry formations that many of the Morozh'nehyans favoured. Their light armour and excellently trained horses meant that they could outrun and outlast any cavalry unit. Strzelcy would appear at an enemy's flank, rain death with their crossbows, and disappear before the enemy could retaliate with their own cavalry. In the past, these men worked in tandem with their fellow Polshtan cavalry squad, the Magyars.
Scout Squads
Saboteur Squads are the Lightning Wraith's equivalent of a Scout Squad. Saboteur Squads are loosely based off the Pioneer Cadres of the Great Crusade, acting as the eyes and ears of a campaign or an expedition, and the Saboteurs of the dead Szek-Fjaltran Empire that specialized in destruction of vital assets from behind enemy lines. Like the Pioneer Cadres that they are modelled after, Saboteur Squads are sent ahead of a fleet, typically a few days in advance, to gather information on their destinations. The frigates that they typically use are modified with enhanced sensor auguries as well as stealth systems. Coupled with the black hulls and the lack of a Chapter Badge, these ships are essentially ghosts of the void which is befitting for the role they play. Once planetside, Saboteur Squads identify high value targets and cripple the enemy infrastructure in preparation for the arrival of the rest of the Lightning Wraiths.
The new generation of Imperial warriors, the Primaris Vanguard Marines, have found their place amongst the Saboteur Squads as their modus operandi coincide with one another. Vanguard Infiltrators have accepted the designation Shadewalkers in homage to the legendary spies of the Kai'Talshuun Empire. Specializing in reconnaissance, Shadewalkers not only identify high value targets, but also locations of interest such as potential chokepoints, shortcuts and hidden passages.
On the other hand, Vanguard Incursors have referred to themselves as Sappers in conjunction with the new generation of Morozh'nehyan soldiers that were brought about by the introduction of gunpowder. Morozh'nehyan Sappers have been trained to operate within enemy fortifications and create openings in their defences via explosives. Sappers, along with Firstborn Saboteurs, are also responsible with creating minefields and explosive-based traps whenever the Lightning Wraiths are forced to be on the defensive.
Primaris Eliminators have found a place among the Lightning Wraiths' elite Jäger Squads and have begun to refer themselves as the Qatal, which was an ancient Alik-Massah formation that roughly translated to 'assassins'. As with the Jägers, members of the Qatal typically operate in the heart of an enemy's forces as they hunt for the enemy's command structure. Their skill with the Shrike-Pattern Sniper Rifles and Las-Fusils make them invaluable snipers specialized in HVT elimination and morale disintegration. As with the members of the Jäger squads, they do not have the Chapter insignia on their person and are only identified by the handprints painted on their helms and the black service stud above their right eye.
Fire Support Squad
As a follower of the Codex Astartes' tenets of warfare, the Lightning Wraiths maintain the usage of Fire Support Squads albeit in a limited number. Furthermore, as the Chapter uses pre-heresy squad designation symbols from the White Scars and the Legion had lacked any Fire Support symbology, the Chapter utilized an obscure alchemical symbol as the badge of office for Fire Support Squads.
The Morozh'nehyan Alchemy Symbol for Sulfur, and the Lightning Wraiths' new Designation Symbol for Hellscreamer and Akritoi Squads.
The Chapter's Devastator Squads are known as Jirae Squads and are the manifestations of the Mountains that the chapter calls home. They are looming presences in the battlefields that trudge at a glacial speed relative to the rest of their brothers and when they find their targets, their weapons are as relentless and as unforgiving as the avalanches that punish those who dare challenge the mountains' dominion. Their preferred armaments of Plasma and Grav weaponry ensure that the first encounter should be the only encounter that the enemy would have against a Jirae Squad.
The dawn of the Primaris introduced another means for the Chapter to retain both their lightning-fast tactics and fire superiority. With Primaris Hellblasters acting as another means of mobile anti-vehicle support and Primaris Suppressors being a new alternative to Magyar Squads and gunships, the Lightning Wraiths have finally overcome many shortcomings that the infantry had due to the limited number of Devastator Squads. Like with the Fusiliers, the designations of the new support units were inspired by the new military formations of Morozh'nehya brought about by the introduction of primitive gunpowder.
Ifrit Squads, as the Primaris Aggressor Squads are referred to by the Chapter, are comprised of the most ruthless yet austere combatants that the Lightning Wraiths have to offer. The Ifrits are named after famous Morozh'nehyan folktales of similarly named spirits that are borne of fire and smoke roaming burial grounds to immolate any trespassers. As such, the Astartes bearing the designation share the sprit's malevolence towards their enemies. In homage to their namesakes, Ifrit Squads have a preference for Flamestorm Gauntlets and have been noted to be very proficient in their usage.
Hellscreamers were Morozh'nehyan alchemists that have gained a reputation during the Morozh'nehyan Uprising for their devastating creations: bombs and a primitive form of napalm. In the past, the title referred to the screams of the damned souls who were subjected to the alchemists' weaponry. Within the Lightning Wraiths, the title not only refers to the screams of those who somehow survived plasma attacks, but also the high-pitched whining of plasma weaponry prior to firing.
The Akritoi that the Primaris Suppressors were named after are engineers that have experimented with Morozh'nehyan gunpowder to create the prototypes of mobile artillery. Cannons with a lower gunpowder yield would be lighter which meant that it could be easily transported at the cost of range and firepower. Like the Firstborn Harbinger Squads, Akritoi Squads utilize their great mobility to act as rapid response teams to threats with Akritoi Squads specializing in anit-armour where as the Harbingers are anti-infantry specialists.
Specialist Formations
Within the Lightning Wraiths, there are specialist squads that stand apart from their brothers. While not completely unique, as the Chapter has adopted these formations from other Chapters or from ancient texts regarding White Scars Legion formations, the manner in which they are used is what sets them apart from a standard Astartes Squad. Note that most of these specialists are not part of the Chapter's elite veterans from the 1st Pillar of Wisdom. However, they are veterans in their own right and are treated as such for their prowess by other Chapters.
A Jäger of the 9th Pillar of Wisdom during a tank-hunting operation. Note the lack of the Chapter Badge on his pauldron.
- Jägers - Jägers are a covert infiltration team of Astartes specializing in sabotage and decapitation strikes against the enemy while deep behind enemy lines. Jägers typically consist of particularly gifted scouts that have finally earned their Black Carapace and Power Armour, but have refused to leave the 8th or 9th Pillar of Wisdom. Armed with Stalker Bolters along with one support weapon and enough explosives to demolish 5 hab-blocks, their purpose is to cause as much havoc at the heart of the enemy either through a decapitation strike on an enemy's leadership or through a destructive sabotage campaign. The presence of Jägers is the precursor of an assault by the Lightning Wraiths. The integration of Primaris Marines into the Chapter increased the number of Jägers as Vanguard Primaris Marines, specifically Eliminator Primaris Marines have found a place within the ranks of the Jägers.
- Forsworn - The Forsworn are squads of disgraced Astartes who have shamed the Chapter through their pride or lack of self-control. Like the Sagyar Mazan of their forefathers and their Utyug-Krovian namesakes, these warriors are put under a death oath and would spearhead any engagement or act as the rearguard in order to restore their honor. Their insignia would be blotted out, indicating that their actions have made them unworthy of wearing the mark of a Lightning Wraith. Squads would be led by Veterans hand-picked by either the Preceptor or the Oathtaker and each Veteran would be given permission to execute any of the Forsworn who is beyond redemption. Despite their sins, the Forsworn are terrifying warriors driven by desperation for penance and the right to call themselves Lightning Wraiths once more. Their desperation and ferocity have proven to be a massive boon for the Lightning Wraiths whenever these warriors are placed on the field.
- Harbingers - Harbingers are a specialist formation designed around the rapid response to large hordes of enemy infantry. Primarily armed with flamers and jump-packs, Harbingers dart around the battlefield and shut down any attempts of mass-infantry charges in pre-emptive surprise attacks. Their weapons would be insulated from external heat sources, so that a flamer fuel tank would not prematurely ignite due to its close proximity to the flames of a jump-pack. From the skies above their foes, Harbingers would let loose a hail of incendiary grenades before crashing down and burning down the front ranks of survivors. They typically deployed when the Chapter's opponents are either Orks, Traitor Guard, or more recently, Tyranids. However, due to the introduction of the Primaris Suppressors and Primaris Inceptors during the Ultima founding, the Harbingers have been paired with either squads to further increase their lethality. Pairing a Harbinger with Suppressor Squad would improve their tactical flexibility as the Suppressors specialize in anti-tank rapid response, while pairing them with an Inceptor Squad would make them almost unstoppable against infantry.
- Stalkers - Among the ranks of the First Company, a squad or two receives training on the usage of Terminator Armour. However, these men will not be using these cumbersome suits in combat scenarios. Instead, they will be the ones who will board any Space Hulks that the chapter comes across. It is an impulsive act for the Lightning Wraiths to scour the decks of derelict ships in order to find some ancient relic or a repository of information. The unstable conditions and the possible presence of xenos or daemons within a Space Hulk requires the additional protection that Terminator Armour provides its user. Those who are interred into a Stalker squad are typically the daredevils of the chapter with an insatiable desire for danger and knowledge. Whenever a Relic is found, the Chapter will search Imperial databases to discover its original owners. If a match is found, then the Chapter will return the Relic to whomever it belonged to. This comes at a price, as the Lightning Wraiths would bargain for priceless tomes of knowledge from a Chapter's library in exchange for the relic. If the Chapter refuses, then the Lightning Wraiths would keep the relic for themselves.
Lightning Wraiths Librarians
Like many Space Marine Chapters, the Lightning Wraiths has a contingent of powerful psykers who act as advisors and keepers of the Chapter's many traditions and ancient lore. In addition to their scholarly tasks outside of combat, the Vizier and his Magisters are also tasked with scrying the eternal void of space for distress calls from nearby planets and/or vessels. The Sanctum Astralis, a psychic hub where the daemon of Morozh'nehya was rumored to have been summoned for the first time, is their headquarters and a crucial piece of the Crypt of Brehus. Magisters on Morozh'nehyan soil conduct their scrying rituals within the hexagrammatically warded walls of the Sanctum Astralis.
Lightning Wraiths Viziers have developed unique psychic abilities that are unique to the Lightning Wraiths:
- Spirit-Walk - The Vizier wraps himself and fellow marines and an aura of psychic energy. This aura renders their bodies intangible to the physical world, making any weapon pass through them as if they were ghosts.
- Siphon - The Vizier uses a psychic lash to entangle his target. Any creature caught by the lash will have its soul torn from its body. However, this psychic ability is a double-edged sword because if the target is a creature of the Immaterium or of greater psychic power, then the Vizier runs a risk of either possession or having his soul obliterated.
- Armata Strigoi - The Vizier calls upon the lingering souls of dead warriors around him and puts them under his command. As long as he has strength in his mind and body, the souls of the dead do his bidding and would slay anything that dares oppose them.
- Wrath of the Storm - The Vizier summons a powerful warp storm over a battlefield, striking down anything caught under its domain.
- Lightning-Step - The Vizier imbues either his own or an ally's body with warp energy. The warp energies supercharge their nerve clusters, causing the warrior to gain an immense speed boost.
Order of Battle
The Lightning Wraiths' Chapter composition is quite similar to that of the White Scars, with a heavy emphasis on Bike Squads and Land Speeders. In the case of the Lightning Wraiths, it's even more so for the latter. However, due to their preference for aerial combat, there is an exceptionally large amount of aircraft and a limited amount of armoured vehicles and Devastator Squads(prior to M42). The Chapter also has some Terminator suits in their armories, but they are only used for investigating Space Hulks as the dangers within are too great for regular power armour.
Headquarters
| 1st Pillar of Wisdom - Perseverance | |||
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| |||
| Fyar-shan (Sanctum of Healing) | Vroi-shan (Sanctum of Steel) | Ukxal-shan (Sanctum of Heaven) | |
|
Itzakh Orix, Oathtaker of the Lightning Wraiths, Warden of the Fyar-shan Vicars Farshan Disciples |
  Uhran Dzakov, Koval of the Lightning Wraiths, Warden of the Vroi-shan Machinists Chapter Serfs and Servitors |
Xiao Meigu, Vizier of the Lightning Wraiths, Warden of the Ukxal-shan Epistolaries Sanctum Acolytes | |
The Pillars of Wisdom
Rather than having 10 companies of a Codex-compliant chapter, the Lightning Wraiths have 9 irregularly sized companies that they refer to as Pillars of Wisdom as tribute for the 9 Virtues that the 9 Monarchs of the Order of Brehus upheld during the Morozh'nehyan Uprising. When the chapter is at full strength, there would be 80 Veterans, 100 Astartes in each Battle Company, 150 Astartes in each Reserve Company, and 110 Astartes and Scouts in each Scout Company. Each of the Companies represents a Virtue, and each Viceroy is given a duty that coincides with said Virtue.
Viceroy Schwarz Kampfflieger of the 7th Pillar of Wisdom, Warden of the Skies.
- Perseverance - The 1st Pillar of Wisdom of the Lightning Wraiths bears the responsibility of upholding the virtue of Perseverance and the 80 resilient Veterans of the vaunted Sipahi strive to remind their enemies of humanity's stubbornness against all odds. The title 'Regent of Morozh'nehya' and 'Mountain King of Jirae' would be bestowed upon the Preceptor when he is inducted. Like the late Izmael, the Preceptor of Qashai before its fall, the Chapter Master of the Lightning Wraiths would have the responsibility of ensuring the unity of the many warriors under the banner of the Lightning Wraiths. As Regent of Morozh'nehya, he maintains good relations with the surviving Morozh'nehyan kingdoms and is responsible for the world's safety should a threat loom over it. As Mountain King of Jirae, he is responsible for reminding his subordinates to stay true to the virtues that were upheld by the Order of Brehus until their last dying breath.
- Diligence - The 2nd Pillar of Wisdom upholds the virtue of Diligence, which was once the most well-known attribute of the Xulka Empire. Much like the dead kingdom, the 100 Astartes who hail from this particular company are among the oldest of the chapter bar the Sipahi and have been lauded as trail-blazers or pioneers in the Lightning Wraiths' art of war. The Viceroy of the 2nd Pillar of Wisdom is given the title 'Warden of the Crypt' and is tasked with the maintenance of the Crypt of Brehus and would be the de facto commander if the fortress would be under siege. The multitude of defences that litter the interior and exterior of the Jirae Mountains as well as the well-being of the serfs serving within the Crypt's walls are among the Viceroy's many responsibilities.
- Self-Reliance -
- Hospitality -
- Discipline -
- Fidelity - With its roots stemming from the Tribes of Vossaka, the 6th Pillar of Wisdom upholds the unbreakable oaths of undying loyalty from their tributary kingdom. The Viceroy of the 6th is given the title of 'Warden of Faith' and with this title comes the immensely important task of recording and preserving the chapter's history and traditions. This duty partially extends to the security of the Khaganate Sepulchre, a massive library built to store knowledge that the chapter has gathered throughout its years. Furthermore, due to his duties, the Warden of Faith works very closely with the Oathtaker and the Vizier in matters of faith and history.
- Honour - Contrary to the teachings of Vossakan tomes and the wisdom of the Vossmortin nomads, the 7th Pillar of Wisdom ensures that lessons regarding the virtues of chivalry and honour from the Umfasir Kingdom would not be forgotten. As many of the chapter firmly believe in the uselessness of honour and rivalries, those who have served in the 7th learn the importance of an 'obsolete' idea. Oaths of honour, when made by a Lightning Wraith, are expected to be fulfilled as the completion of these oaths would gain the trust, respect and loyalty of other Imperial forces. The 'Warden of the Skies', as the Viceroy of the 7th would often be referred as by other Viceroys, is expected to ensure that the Chapter's expansive air force is properly stocked, maintained and battle-ready. His duties also includes acting as the chapter's representative during visits to the Forge World Nivera to collect precious equipment that the indebted Mechanicus officers provide the chapter.
- Sincerity -
- Valiance -
| Battle Companies | |||
| 2nd Pillar of Wisdom - Diligence | 3rd Pillar of Wisdom - Self Reliance | 4th Pillar of Wisdom - Hospitality | 5th Pillar of Wisdom - Discipline |
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Warden of the Crypt 2 Hetmans 3 Dragoon Squads Bikes Right Arm |
Warden of the Logistiam 2 Hetmans 7 Dragoon Squads Bikes Head |
Warden of the Fleet 2 Hetmans 4 Dragoon Squads Bikes Chest |
Warden of Desolation 2 Hetmanns 4 Dragoon Squads Bikes Left Arm |
| Reserve Companies | Scout Companies | ||
| 6th Pillar of Wisdom - Fidelity | 7th Pillar of Wisdom - Honour | 8th Pillar of Wisdom - Sincerity | 9th Pillar of Wisdom - Valiance |
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Warden of Faith 2 Hetmans 10 Dragoon Squads Bikes Right Leg |
Warden of the Skies 2 Hetmanns 10 Skirmisher Squads Land Speeders Left Leg |
Warden of the Wind 2 Hetmans 4 Jäger Squads Bikes Black Handprint |
Warden of Shadows 2 Hetmans 6 Jäger Squads Bikes Red Handprint |
Combat Doctrine
- "We are the storm that descends from cloudless skies!"
- —Lightning Wraiths Proverb
The Lightning Wraiths preferred style of warfare combines the Raven Guard's stealth-based tactics and the White Scars's hit-and-run tactics. The core of their combat doctrine revolves in the swift and explosive exploitation of an enemy's weakness which is preceded by sabotage, decapitation strikes and guerilla warfare. As such, they barely have any Devastator Squads or armoured land vehicles in their arsenal. The heavy equipment struggles to keep up with the insane speeds that the Lightning Wraiths conduct their attacks, and are mainly used for defensive purposes or to act as long range fire support. To compensate for this potential loss of firepower, the Lightning Wraiths have an extensive and large air force at their disposal. Aerial Superiority is a crucial component of any Lightning Wraith strategy because without their air force, they do not have enough firepower to deal with opponents that are too numerous or too sturdy. A larger than normal amount of Stormhawk Interceptors ensures that any enemy aircraft that dared to patrol the skies are erased from existence while Stormtalons whittle down anti-air batteries and vehicles in order for the chapter's Thunderhawks and Storm Ravens could unload their precious cargo of warriors before demolishing the enemy with strafing runs. The presence of long-lost aircraft - which are created from the forges of Nivera thanks to the STCs that the chapter managed to recover - such as the Xiphon Interceptor, Storm Eagle and Fire Raptor lends further credence to the chapter's reliance on air superiority.
Furthermore, they have two scout companies so that intelligence gathered regarding the enemy's forces will be more extensive and detailed. This also allows more sabotage ops to be executed by the scouts to weaken the enemy infrastructure. The higher number of units operating behind enemy lines is necessary as there are times that the enemy has total aerial superiority and a crippling blow from within is the fulcrum in which the tide of a battle will turn to the Lightning Wraith's favour without the chapter having to resorting to brute force or attrition. Jägers - Astartes that have earned their black carapace but refuse to leave the scout companies - are an integral part of the Scout Companies and of the Chapter as a whole. If knowledge of the enemy officers’ location reaches the chapter’s forces, Jägers are deployed instead of Scouts to hunt down and eliminate the enemy’s command structure as these fully-fledged Astartes are specialized in both training and equipment in decapitation strikes. Unlike Scouts, Jägers have a higher chance of survival if they are prematurely discovered and can brute-force their way to enemy command if necessary. The scout companies also have access to Hades Beaching Drills, which allows them to enter walled fortresses in order to carry out their mission of destabilization.
However, when the Lightning Wraiths are forced to be on the defensive, an additional facet of Morozh'nehyan doctrine is implemented to their usual hit-and-run tactics. If an objective has to be held, the Lightning Wraiths would construct expansive and interconnecting underground tunnel networks around the mission area. A total far cry from their usual tactics, but a viable strategy that was perfected through combat simulations held underneath the tunnels of the mountains of Morozh'nehya. These tunnels would heavily guarded, filled with traps or dead ends, and designed to confuse those who dare to use them. Above ground, inconspicuously hidden entrances and foxholes are placed near allied fortifications as well as potential chokepoints or weak spots. Some of these entrances are false openings that lead the enemy away from the main objective and towards deadly traps. These tunnels are a great boon to those who aid the Lightning Wraiths with the defense of an objective as they are able to move from one place to another in comparative safety. Granted, they would need a Lightning Wraith Astartes or Serf to act as a guide so that they would not get lost or accidentally trigger a trap.
Nivera Pattern Stormtalon
Within the Lightning Wraiths' armoury, a unique variant of the Stormtalon exists solely in the hands of the Lightning Wraiths. The Nivera Pattern Stormtalon is redesigned from the standard Storm Talon to maximize firepower and protection based on an STC that the Lightning Wraiths found on the Space Hulk Silent Blade. This variant has an elongated frame with the VTOL thrusters moved to the rear, just before the modified tail fins. This modification revolved around the Stormtalon's change of the main armament. Instead of a twin-linked weapon mounted on the nose of the aircraft, the Nivera Pattern Storm Talon has an Avenger Bolt Cannon with its ammunition stored in a custom-built carrier within the fuselage. This carrier has enough rounds for the cannon for a sustained barrage that could last 20 seconds before it runs dry.
With the VTOL thrusters moved to the rear of the gunship, a choice made to balance out the weight of the new Avenger Bolt Cannon and to increase aerodynamics, the wings of the Stormtalon were also modified to increased stability. The wingspan of the Nivera Pattern Storm Talon is larger than a regular Stormtalon's by a factor of 2. At the ends of the wings, vertical stabilizers similar to the ones mounted on Stormraven wings were added in order for the gunship to improve its VTOL capabilities. Furthermore, larger wings meant that more weapons could be mounted onto the gunship. Two hardpoints are found on each wing, one is located near the vertical stabilizers and capable of mounting a Storm Strike missile pod while the other is found near the fuselage and is capable of mounting either a twin-linked lascannon, a Typhoon missile launcher or a Skyhammer missile launcher.
Another change applied to the Nivera Pattern Storm Talon is that more armour plating is welded around the cockpit and key positions on the fuselage. This was to improve the gunship's survivability as the aftermath of the War for Nivera revealed to the Chapter that many Stormtalons fell to the enemy due to lucky hits on the cockpit and the integral components within the fuselage. All of these modifications came at a price, as the Nivera Pattern Stormtalon is slower than its counterpart and could barely keep up with its cousin, the Stormhawk Interceptor. A price the Lightning Wraiths are willing to pay as these crafts provide such an overwhelming amount of fire support that cannot be matched by the standard variant of the Stormtalon and is equal to the heavier gear that the Chapter shuns.
Chapter Beliefs
Among Teachers and Students
One belief of the chapter is that their true purpose is to teach and be taught. As teachers, they are the ones who will enlighten the lost and ignorant empires of humanity. It is their duty to introduce a lost empire to the Imperium's vast empire and to enrapture them with historical tales of glory, sacrifice, and duty. The Chapter sometimes acts as a catalyst for technological and scientific growth in a feudal civilization through discreet means such as conveniently placed blueprints or notes regarding physics and chemistry. Feral Worlds are typically left alone, as they act as recruitment worlds for the Lightning Wraiths. Some of the warriors who are too wounded to return to service may also venture through a planet to teach the illiterate how to read and write. The Blood Raven adage "Knowledge is Power" is adopted by the Chapter, and with this adage, the Lightning Wraiths believe that they are strengthening the Imperium by spreading knowledge to those who are severely deprived of it.
As students, each Lightning Wraith studies history, psychology, diplomacy, various dialects of Low Gothic and many other facets regarding the lives of mortals in order to gain insight on both ally and potential foe. Any and all information regarding xenos foes is gathered in order to be exploited prior to deployment. Each Astartes bearing the insignia of the Lightning Wraiths has the virtue of humility molded into his psyche, as knowledge cannot be attained through pride and stubbornness. Knowledge from Xenos mouths and texts are always taken with suspicion, but utilized nonetheless if it means to serve the Imperium. Furthermore, while the chapter only has good relations with the White Scars, information from the mouths of older warriors, regardless of Chapter, is taken out of respect. They may even interact with a planet's populace to learn about popular myths and folktales to understand their culture, both from a tactical standpoint and an academic standpoint. Great Libraries filled with tomes and literary works are defended with fanatical zeal, as the loss of knowledge is anathema to the Lightning Wraiths. In fact, before the Agri-World Laiko was besieged by a Leviathan Splinter Fleet, the total sum of the planet's agricultural records and historical records, as well as numerous samples of the produce that was exported from the world, were preserved in one of the planet’s strongholds.
Their almost fanatical drive for the preservation of knowledge is most noticeable in the position of Iakugo, the Chapter Champion. Every 'reincarnation' of Iakugo is both a teacher and student of the martial art required to wield the twin-blade relic weapon. The hypnotic battle technique is only known to the previous Iakugo and the serfs that he taught. At the death of an Iakugo, a new one is inducted through a vote by the Cabal of Khugol. This warrior would then be taught by the previous Iakugo's serfs, whom are typically aspirants that could not become Astartes due to their bodies rejecting the gene-seed and known as the Bladekeepers, as per the chapter's traditions. If he refuses the tutelage of the Bladekeepers, he commits an unforgivable sin of pride and consequently disrespects the legacy of his predecessor by doubting the validity of the knowledge that he bestowed upon his servants. The disgraced Iakugo-to-be would then be interred into the Forsworn and another would be chosen to take his place. If he accepts, then at the end of his training, the new Iakugo would be expected to take a new generation of Bladekeepers under his wing and impart his knowledge onto them under an oath of secrecy.
Due to this belief of the importance of knowledge, every Lightning Wraith is an accomplished scholar. Prior to any deployment, a strike force will scour Imperial records to gain information on the opponents that they will exterminate and on the land they will fight in. Topographical charts, historical records, battle reports, xeno-biological data, and psychological profiles are some of the many mines of information that a strike force will gather from in order to better prepare themselves. In the case of a defensive campaign, the Lightning Wraiths will endeavor to learn every secret that a planet may hold in so that any potential points of exploitation will be dealt with or utilized as a trap. However, this also results in a slower deployment as the chapter is quite reluctant to deploy troops if there are too many unknowns or if not enough information can be gathered.
Purity of Flesh
The Lightning Wraiths despise bionics and the thought of voluntarily replacing body parts with augmentics is anathema to them. It is their belief that when a warrior's limb is severed or an organ is destroyed, a part of the warrior's soul is lost. To replace a severed limb or an organ is to desecrate what remains of the warrior's soul. Only through a proper death will a warrior's soul be truly whole and at peace. Bionic limbs, eyes, and organs are only accepted out of pure necessity in order to serve the Imperium. Due this belief, the Lightning Wraiths are very reluctant to serve with the Iron Hands and its successors as well as the forces of the Adeptus Mechanicus' Skitarii Legions.
Dreadnoughts are considered to be a great burden and curse to the warrior who is interred into one as the Lightning Wraiths firmly believe that a warrior must be rewarded with eternal peace once they have paid their tithes to the Imperium with their own lives. These ancient machines are seen as tombs of torment that prolong the suffering of the pilot. However, despite the negative stigma the Chapter has upon the idea of becoming a Dreadnought, the Dreadnoughts themselves are highly respected as the warriors who are chosen to be interred in such machines are considered to be the greatest exemplars of the Chapter's 9 Virtues and deserve to be immortalized.
If a Space Marine of great skill or experience has suffered wounds that would render them unfit for combat for the rest of their lives, they are given the Emperor's Peace as there is no point to prolong their suffering. However, some would outright refuse it and request that they are to be healed as much as possible. These marines would become an Ealdor, Astartes that act as mentors for Aspirants and Serfs regarding the Chapter's many traditions. They are also the ones who collect aspirants from other planets. These Ealdors may also go planetside to teach a populace necessary skills in order to boost the planet's efficiency, from literacy to Imperial History.
This also results in a reluctance to use servitors and a very large amount of Chapter Serfs, with estimates stating the presence of 3-4 times more Serfs than most Chapters. It is their belief that any task a servitor can do is achievable through human hands with equal or greater efficiency. A fully functional human mind is more favourable than a lobotomized yet obedient one because creativity and innovative thought processing are core facets in the Chapter's ethos. Furthermore, Chapter Serfs may also serve as 'practice students' for the marines as these Serfs are trained and taught in a plethora of subjects so that they may replace their servitor equivalents. This is also because they are aware of the reputation that Astartes have among mortals, so they use Chapter Serfs as a means to bridge gaps between posthuman warriors and mortals. The only exception to this is the Armorium as certain duties are too dangerous for normal humans and require expendable servitors instead.
Oath of Morozh'nehya
- "In my experience, the best way to protect your people in times of war is to ensure that the enemy is never given the opportunity to reach your castle walls. Take the initiative and strike before a siege forces you to commit to a war of attrition."
- — Chieftan Yasif Que'tahm of the defunct Clans of Utyog-Krov.
One result of the chapter's expansive grasp on history is that they have gained a dour outlook on humanity's future, seeing as the race will never achieve its former greatness due to the self-serving interests within many souls. In fact, the Chapter believes that the race is dying and the warriors of the Imperium are the only things that are delaying the incoming extermination of humanity. Most mortals are perceived to have this self-serving mindset, regardless of their importance to the Imperium as a whole. This belief of humanity's inherent selfishness stems from Khugol Khan's early distrust of the Chogorians and the death cults of Morozh'nehya.
Despite their pessimism and nihilism, the Lightning Wraiths refuse to ignore any calls for aid and are always amongst the first ones to respond to any distress signals within Segmentum Obscurus. While they are not as humanitarian as some Chapters, the Lightning Wraiths actively choose assignments that would ensure the safety of mortals. The chosen assignments often require the Astartes to act as bait or a diversionary assault force to give other Chapters or Imperial forces time to assist civilian evacuation. Lightning Wraith Hussars and Lancers have also been noted to volunteer themselves as outriders and scouts of an escort convoy to intercept any enemy forces that intend to attack the defenseless.
This behaviour has been deeply rooted into the Chapter's combat doctrine through the Oath of Morozh'nehya. Before the Uprising, any nobleman or woman from any kingdom that desired to become a knight had to swear on oath of fealty to a frontier town's elders. This oath placed heavy emphasis that if war were to break loose, every knight's first and foremost duty is to ensure that the people they pledged their oath to would remain safe. Usually it comes in the form of bringing arms and armour for those who are willing to fight and escorting the children and elders to the closest allied kingdom's castle. It is not uncommon for the peasantry to be devoutly loyal to a single knight and many power struggles within a kingdom have begun with a peasant uprising in favour of their lord's ascension.
They are also surprisingly very protective of children. Time with Morozh'nehyan natives had instilled a form of paternal code within the Lightning Wraiths' ethos. Any child that dared to approach a Lightning Wraith is met with warmth and wisdom instead of the unwelcoming silence that is typically associate with these warriors. They go to great lengths to save children from any threat that looms over a world and consider the young as priorities whenever a planetary evacuation has to be made. To voluntarily harm a child, whether directly or indirectly would gain the ire of the chapter.
Transhuman Undertakers
- "It is time for the fallen to rest, they have fought as hard as the Emperor asked them to. Look to the future, to the young ones, and ensure that they too will fight with every ounce of their being as there is no greater reward in death than knowing that the price the foe paid in blood for your life is steep and unforgiving."
- —Oathtaker Aiko Sotek after the Aedalur Massacre
Teachings from the Vossmortin Death Cults of Morozh'nehya have instilled the importance of respecting the dead within the Lightning Wraiths. A small portion of the Chapter will always remain on a planet after a war to aid in the burials of fallen warriors. Rites of the Fallen are taught to each Battle-Brother by the Vicars so that they themselves can give the dead a proper Imperial burial. Additionally, if a planet has unique burial traditions, those who remain will take the extra effort to learn the planet's traditional rites. To further cement their unwavering respect for the dead, the Lightning Wraiths have been noted to return wargear belonging to other chapters that have been left behind in a battlefield. Most of the time, the returned items are in pristine condition which hints that the Lightning Wraiths' Steelmasons have repaired it so that it may serve its purpose once it has returned to its parent chapter.
This belief of the importance of respecting the dead has also resulted in the Chapter frequently seconding Astartes as guardians to Imperial shrines that contain the tombs of Imperial Saints. The voluntary secondment of the Emperor's Angels has gained the favour of many Orders of the Adeptus Sororitas. Particularly the Order of the Unbreakable Lioness and the Order Hospitaller, with the former due to the Chapter's preservation of the Order's many traditions after their assigned Shrine World was destroyed by an Ork WAAAAAGH! and the latter due to mutual respect stemmed from repeated interactions between Astartes and Sister while givng the deceased their final rites after a long and bloody war.
The teachings from the Vossmortin Death Cults about the inevitability of death also made many Astartes abandon misguided ideals of honor and glory, seeing as these things are of no use to the dead. As such, they consider feuds and rivalries between Chapters or Regiments as a waste of time and energy. They also find competitiveness distasteful as it breeds jealousy and strife between warriors whose duty should be their greatest priority. Warriors of the Lightning Wraiths learn early during their training that the only way to truly ensure humanity's survival is to cast away personal ideals and possessions. They believe that the best warriors are those who have nothing to lose and nothing to believe in, as the only thing left in their minds is the drive to protect and to slay.
Scars of the Progenitor
- "I am my father's son. His will is an extension of my existence. No amount of spite or self-loathing will ever change that."
- —Attributed to Khugol Khan
One tradition that the Lightning Wraiths proudly share with their forefathers is the White Scars' scarification rites. Although, their scars are given a reddish hue rather than the traditional off-white of the White Scars because the Lightning Wraiths believe that only their forefathers have the Khan's blessing to carry on the traditions of the nomadic tribesmen of the Chogorian Steppes. Despite the Chapter's negligence to pursue honor and glory, scars earned in battle are signs of a warrior's prowess. Like their progenitors, scarification ceremonies are held during a Battle-Brother's ascension to a position of command and the marks that the Vicars itch onto the skin of the warriors are solemn reminders of the burden one must bear as a leader. Each Lightning Wraith can recite tales of how they got their scars by heart, from a shallow graze caused by an Ork's Choppa to the intricate patterns that dance along the faces of some Vicars. These scars are also marked on their power armor, much like the White Scars.
Gene-Seed
As successors of the White Scars, the gene-seed of the Lightning Wraiths was initially found to be stable and free of aberrations, save for the underlying curse that every scion of Jaghatai suffers from. However, many years after the chapter's first batch of recruits were transformed into Astartes, peculiar mutations began to surface.
Ilyas Khassim, first Lightning Wraith to successfully cross the Rubicon Primaris, still retains his chapter's genetic mutation.
Astartes blessed with the gene-seed of the Lightning Wraiths have been noted to have unnaturally pale skin, to the extent that it had been suspected that they were given Raven Guard gene stock rather than White Scars. Furthermore, their pupils would lose their colouration until only milky white orbs remain and their hair would lighten to an almost pure white shade. It was never discovered how these mutations came to be, with many Vicars believing that the initial batch had been altered or had mutated during the transit to Morozh'nehya. However, despite these mutations, the Astartes of the Lightning Wraith still functioned completely normally. As such, the chapter has accepted these mutations as a part of their identity.
Primarch's Curse: Savagery Within
The genetic curse of Jaghatai's legacy is also felt by the Lightning Wraiths. A savage mindset that is contained through the constant vigilance of both the marine and the members of the Farshan. The curse is necessary as it gives the Lightning Wraiths strength at times where others would have faltered. Those who cannot restrain themselves or drag themselves out of this cloud of wrath and death are interred into the Dark Prophets, specialist squads with death oaths cast upon each member for shaming the chapter through their lack of discipline. The curse usually manifests itself in two stages, but the introduction of the Morozh'nehyan genome has resulted in an unforeseen third stage:
- Level 1 (A Moment Unrestrained) - The Battle-Brother's discipline begins to slip and falter, allowing brief moments of untamed ferocity to emerge in the heat of battle. Often, the Battle-Brother will not even know that he is succumbing to this savagery, and it requires the presence of his Brothers to warn him of his failure.
- Level 2 (Suppressed Rage) - Within the darkest reaches of the Battle-Brother's mind lurks the shadow of his rage and fury, seeking any opportunity to emerge, and causing the Battle-Brother to become belligerent and quick to anger.
- Level 3 (Wrath of Khan) - The Battle-Brother's rage and fury becomes too great to contain and his mind becomes clouded with thoughts on how to unleash it. When given an opportunity, he recklessly throws himself onto the enemy with complete disregard for orders and discipline. If he is unchecked for a prolonged period of time, he will begin to lash out at both friend and foe.
Deathwatch Service
Throughout their years of service under the Militant Arm of the Ordo Xenos, the Lightning Wraiths have gained a unique reputation within the Deathwatch and its members. On one hand, a Lightning Wraith is often insubordinate towards many of his ranking officers as the free-spirit of a Morozh'nehyan would not be doused by those who think themselves as masters of a Lightning Wraith. Gaining a Lightning Wraith's unquestioning compliance in the fires of battle is an uphill struggle of earning his trust and respect.
On the other hand, the main reason why any insubordinate Lightning Wraith isn't immediately disgraced by the Deathwatch is due to the immense wealth of knowledge they seem to have regarding the xenos. Whether it is about the nuances of Ork hierarchy or a word-for-word translation of a dialect of the T'au language. Lightning Wraith Vicars have also been noted to be one of the forefront experts in xeno-biology amongst their peers in the Deathwatch. Many experimental serums and biological weapons specifically created for a certain strain of xenos are accredited to the expertise of a Lightning Wraith Vicar. One such experimental serum is a powerful bio-acid that travels through a victim's bloodstream in a dormant state and activates through a chemical reaction unique to the Kroot. Meaning that traps in the form of corpses to be devoured are left for any unsuspecting Kroot squad to discover. Another unique trait of this acid is it returns to its dormant state once its host is dead. This serum was developed from the acid sacs of a captured Tyranid Warrior Brood and modified with the aid of Genetors from the Adeptus Mechanicus.
Atlan Khassim, one of the few Lightning Wraiths who requested permanent secondment to Deathwatch
It is not uncommon for a Lightning Wraith to leave behind a legacy of knowledge for the next generation of Deathwatch. Historical tomes and philosophical texts are examples of written 'gifts' that a Lightning Wraith leaves behind in a Watch-Fortress' expansive libraries. Lightning Wraiths are also a common sight in a Watch-Fortress' Reclusiam and Librarium as those areas are where the Lightning Wraiths are most comfortable in. Many relics from Space Hulks have also been placed in the armories of the Deathwatch as the Lightning Wraiths Stalkers' expertise in Space Hulk expeditions always results in a discovery of an arcane Imperial relic with minimal casualties. These Stalkers have a sixth sense of sorts when inside a Space Hulk. They seem to innately know where the many dangers of a Space Hulk, such as a gravitational anomaly or a Genestealer nest, may lay before auspices could detect them. As such, Lightning Wraith Stalkers are highly prized by the Deathwatch are among the first to be sought when the threat of a Space Hulk looms over an Imperial planet.
Despite the fact that the Lightning Wraiths seem to thrive in the Deathwatch when their insubordinate behaviour has been curbed, many Lightning Wraiths fight for the promise that they will return home to Morozh'nehya to resume their vigil as the Wardens of their small sector of Segmentum Obscurus. To many Lightning Wraiths, eternal secondment to the Deathwatch is akin to forgetting one's self and having one's entire life rewritten by another - a fate worse than death. As such, many Watch-Captains are careful around any Lightning Wraith that the Ordo Xenos has taken an interest to, as the past has taught them that these scions of the Khan are ready to throw themselves into death's embrace than serve in the guise of another identity. A strong bond with a Killteam is an absolute necessity to ensure that a Lightning Wraith would not do anything foolish that may jeopardize a mission in a fit of depressive fury.
Notable Members
- Khugol Khan - Founder of the Lightning Wraiths.
- Tarac Re'Nali - First Reincarnation of Iakugo.
- Elias Khatiphor, the Kingmaker - The Oldest Dreadnought in service to the Lightning Wraiths, this venerable ancient has overseen the chapter’s founding as a member of the White Scars and has since paid witness to each and every Preceptor’s ascension to the venerated position after his voluntary reassignment to the Lightning Wraiths. As the oldest warrior in the Lightning Wraiths, many Vicars come to him to ask for guidance in regards the the Chapter’s many traditions and many officers look up to him as a stalwart beacon of defiance against the eternal darkness. The slumbering machine of war was awoken during the ill-fated Invasion of Morozh’nehya during the wake of the Dark Millenium. During the Invasion of Morozh’nehya, Elias single handedly defended the secret location of the Chapter’s gene repository from a tide of Daemons until he was relieved by other awakened Ancients.
- Uresh Haeed - Former Viceroy of the 8th Pillar of Wisdom, famously renowned for his preference for psychological warfare which earned him his moniker "Ghoul of the 8th". Uresh was one of the many Astartes throughout the Chapter's history that was not recruited from Morozh'nehya. Rather, he was recruited from a Hive World called Ballur IV after the Lightning Wraiths had secured a victory against notorious 8th Legion. The Night Lords had carried out a mass slaughter on the population of Ontara Primus's underhives, Ballur IV's main hive city. Uresh had been one of the few survivors of a mindless purge carried out by Warp Talons upon his community. However, he did not survive unscathed as his face had been mangled by shrapnel from a bolt round detonating within his father's body and had been forced to watch as his other family members were flayed alive. When the Lightning Wraiths had come to liberate the Underhive of Ontara Primus, the boy had unknowingly followed the footsteps of Khugol Khan and snuck into a Lightning Wraiths vessel after recovering from his injuries. The boy had been noted to be especially anti-social amongst his peers during the chapter trials but had fit in surprisingly well with the nomadic hunting parties of the Oxthonik tribe during his Pilgrimmage. When he finally earned the right to be called a Lightning Wraith, his first-hand experience of Night Lords torture methods coupled with teachings from his mentors had given him the foundation to become a terror on the battlefield. Uresh had never killed his prey in broad daylight or during battle, preferring to strike in the darkness of the night from behind enemy lines as they would be lulled into a false sense of security. When he decided that the time was ripe for him to strike, Uresh made it a habit to shed his helmet to showcase his malformed and ghoulish features to whoever had the unfortunate fate to become his target. Often, he would ensure that his target was not alone so that he would leave a traumatized survivor, whose eyes would be taken from them, to spread the news of his deed. Armed with a Stalker Bolter and a Flaying Knife given to him by a warrior hailing from the Flesh Tearers Chapter, Uresh Haeed's exploits during his time as Viceroy of the 8th Pillar of Wisdom had spread to the far reaches of Segmentum Obscurus and whenever news of the Lightning Wraiths' arrival had reached a rebellion's high echelons, a mutiny headed those who feared the Chapter would almost always occur.
- Kashirin Zukhol - Former Oathtaker.
- Atlan Khassim - Vicar of the Lightning Wraiths, permanently seconded to the Deathwatch.
Szulah Nuk'Fallad clad in his panoply of war, including the Crown of the Old Kingdoms and the relic power axe, Khasar
- Szulah Nuk'Fallad - Current Preceptor of the Lightning Wraiths. The only child of a widower blacksmith, Szulah Nuk'Fallad had always been a beacon of hope ever since he drew his first breath. His upbringing and close proximity to his father's workshop gave the boy insightful knowledge in the art of smithing. In fact, many had believed that he would become a Machinist for he was skilled in manipulating metal into beautiful works of art while spending many hours in the Chapter's forge. When he refused a position in the , all but his closest comrades were confused. He later divulged to his confidants that despite all his skill in the forge, he always believed that his true calling was to lead.
- Xi-Huo Han - Current Viceroy of the 5th Pillar of Wisdom, also known as The Unrepentant. A former child vigilante, who was sent to the Jirae Mountains for the Cull in the place of a king's firstborn son, Han has retained a strong and unwavering belief in justice and retribution. His moniker derived from his actions against Renegade Astartes, where he would not give any of his opponents a chance to redeem or explain themselves as they are damned for their betrayal. Armed with a storm shield and a brutal Morningstar of his own design called "Qaz'Tuhr", which translates to Penitent Wrath, Xi-Huo Han not only upholds and exemplifies the legendary discipline of his Pillar of Wisdom but also is a man of selfless action and honour. This trait was revealed when he intercepted a lethal blow aimed towards a Consectrators Veteran Sergeant named Uriel with his own body. As thanks for the sacrifice, Uriel gave Han his winged helmet which the Viceroy still wears even after his ascension as a Primaris Space Marine.
- Mak'Rasham the Hollow - A Renegade formerly of the Lightning Wraiths, Mak'Rasham was once a Dragoon Cavus who consorted with the Thousand Sons in a desperate attempt to rescue his subordinates from the foul sorceries of Villuxus of the Emperor's Children.
Chapter Fleet
Vessels donning the mark of the Lightning Wraiths have been modified with more powerful engines and larger hangar bays for an increase in capacity for the Chapter's Thunderhawks. This is due to the Chapter's preference in boarding enemy ships rather than bombarding them as there is an opportunity to gather information of the enemy's plans. Furthermore, many of the Lightning Wraiths' escort ships are modified with improved stealth systems for ease in closing the distance to an enemy ship.
These modifications were made as the Chapter's combat doctrine in void warfare is identical to their planetside combat doctrine: defeat the enemy with either a single devastating blow or deal death by a thousand cuts. The following are some of the many ships clad in the colours of the Lightning Wraiths:
- Woe of the Forgotten (Battle-Barge) - This ancient ship has been in the possession of the Lightning Wraiths since its inception and was among the gifts that Chaigut Khan's successor had given Khugol prior to his departure. It was the first vessel to be modified with the larger hangar bays, more powerful engines and weaker shields and armor in order to suit the Chapter's void combat doctrine.
- Kublai's Song (Strike Cruiser) - One of the older ships in the Chapter, Kublai's Song has seen many conflicts that have shaped the Chapter. Szulah Nuk'Fallad once was the acting captain of this ship when he was the Viceroy of the 4th Pillar of Wisdom.
- Gai Gamshig (Strike Cruiser)
- Silent Storm (Strike Cruiser) - The leading ship of the Purge of the Zhau Sector, this ship's hull is decorated with scars from the encounter with Dark Eldar vessels and trophies that the Chapter salvaged from the remains of the xenos ships.
- Epiphany (Strike Cruiser)
- Falconeer (Strike Cruiser)
- Ayur (Gladius Frigate)
- Exodus (Gladius Frigate) - The Lightning Wraiths' homeworld of Morozh'nehya was founded through this ship and was brought to Imperial jurisdiction through the efforts of Vizier Tayang Ganbold and his expeditionary force. This was the first vessel to don the five-pronged crown of the Lightning Wraiths' chapter badge.
- Winter-blood (Gladius Frigate) - The first ship to be outfitted with broadside harpoons at the request of Viceroy Fai after Dark Eldar ships escaped him during a pursuit due to their more nimble vessels.
- Ashen Sky (Gladius Frigate)
- Khugol's Oath (Hunter Destroyer)
- Thirteenth Moon (Hunter Destroyer)
- Carmine Tear (Nova Frigate) - One of the most decorated ships of the Lightning Wraiths' fleet. This vessel has hunted down and destroyed 17 ships belonging to Traitor Astartes throughout its lifetime. The only ship of its class in the fleet, the Carmine Tear is Viceroy Zebediah Ahab's favoured ship and the Lightning Wraiths' vanguard during the defence of Cadia.
Chapter Relics
The Chapter's Reliquary holds a modest amount of Relics that were gathered either during the Chapter's Founding or the Aedalur Massacre from the Space Hulk The Silent Blade. A collection of Serfs aid the members of the Cabal of Khugol in maintaining these most precious of items in between times they are needed by the Chapter. To desecrate these relics in any fashion is to incur the pure, unadulterated wrath of the Lightning Wraiths.
- Soul Tethers - A Battle-Brother that is mourning the loss of another Battle-Brother or of a respected mortal would tie a piece of pure white rope with a decorative tassel around their off-hand, but some of the Lightning Wraiths have been noted to place their soul tethers on different body parts due to personal oaths to the fallen or beliefs. This is an ancient custom from the Kingdom of Qashai and it had meant that the wearer of the rope will act as a tether for the deceased as they make their journey to the afterlife so that the human soul would never be lost in their final odyssey to paradise.
- Voice of Jaghatai - A book that was supposedly written by Jaghatai Khan himself, this was gifted to Khugol Khan by a Stormseer when the Chapter was founded. This was the same book that Khugol poured over during his time of mourning and solitude following Chaigut Khan's death. Many Lightning Wraiths turn to this book when seeking guidance and meditate upon its passages.
- Glory of Ignacio - Ignacio Felicimo, the first Lightning Wraith to be seconded to Deathwatch, was in their service for a hundred standard years and was highly regarded by his Killteam as a skilled warrior and scout. His greatest exploit was defeating an Ambull single-handedly during a covert operation on a world under xenos occupation. To remember his deed, Ignacio commissioned the creation of a knife and a power sword. These two weapons were to have their hilts and scabbards made from Ambull talons and mandibles, trophies that Ignacio brought to the Watch-Fortress after his mission. Upon a scout's ascension to the Jägers, as Ignacio himself was once a part of the special unit, a warrior must make a blood oath with these two blades.
A bolter with its handguard, weapon casing, and pistol grip replaced with pieces of Sal'nuur Oak.
- Whispers of Morozh'nehya - The Lightning Wraiths have a peculiar practice of replacing weapon components with pieces of laminated and blessed wood from the stubborn Mashaan and Sal'nuur trees that dot the feet of the Jirae Mountains. It has been said that each tree contained the voices of ancestors and the noises they make when a wind passes through them is an ancestor's attempt to communicate with their descendants.
- Tome of Vossaka - An ancient leather-bound book, preserved since the Chapter's Founding. The Tome of Vossaka is a religious text that was written at the beginnings of the Kingdom of Vossaka. Its lines were once recited with holy fervor by the Vicars of Vossaka to embolden the hearts of their fellow warriors. When the Kingdom fell at the height of the Morozh'nehyan Uprising, Tayang Ganbold received the book from the last of the Vicars and swore an oath to ensure its survival. To this day, the Chapter's Vicars read upon its ancient pages to study the powerful words that these men and women uttered that turned the tides of war to their favour and use these ancient phrases in their own litanies of faith, fury and hate. When a new Aspirant is inducted into the Chapter as a member of a Sapper Squad, he swears his fealty to the Chapter in the language of the book under the guidance of the Oathtaker.
- The Crown of the Old Kingdoms - A relic dating to the Chapter's founding, the Crown of the Old Kingdoms is a Mark IV helmet with a wrought-iron crown welded around its circumference and cheek plates that cover the portion of the faceplate under the lens and beside the grill. The relic was made from the remains of crowns belonging to the Lords and Ladies of the Order of Brehus, who swore their fealty to the Chapter during a war for their homeworld against a daemon who had tricked the entire world. The first Koval had incorporated the remains of the nine crowns onto an Iron Halo and forged it into the shape of a crown before affixing it onto the helmet. On the surface of the crown's band, the names of these monarchs are etched in flowing script and lined with silver. The helmet itself is Khugol Khan's very own, a souvenir from his time with the White Scars and a reminder for future Lightning Wraiths Preceptors of their vows of eternal loyalty to their forefathers. Khugol's honour markings on the helmet have remained in place to this day, carefully preserved and maintained by the Chapter's Koval, artificers and the Viceroy of the 5th Pillar of Wisdom.
The Khasar, a relic power axe that was wielded by Khugol Khan upon the Chapter's founding.
- Khasar - An ancient two-handed Power Axe that was created during the Scouring, this relic was formerly Chaigut Khan's weapon of choice before it was passed over to Khugol Khan. A fine balance between beauty and savagery, Khasar was a symbol of the White Scars' warrior spirit. Gold and black iron decorated the axe head and the shaft with finely engraved script recounting the Primarch's triumphs etched ono the flat of axe head. The axe head itself has a design of a Chogorian horse carefully crafted onto its blade. It is said that the depicted horse was one of Jaghatai's own mounts during his youth on Chogoris. The horse's name was lost along with the Primarch of the White Scars when he disappeared after a Dark Eldar raiding party laid waste on Chogoris. Many Stormseers of the White Scars also claimed that the horse's soul is imbued into the axe, and like the animal that had ruled the plains of Jaghatai's home, it would not let anyone wield it unless they were deemed worthy, despite the fact that the beast was dead for decades by the time the axe was made. It's deceptive beauty hides the brutality that the weapon is capable of bringing when in the hands of a worthy warrior. Even if the power field generator were to fail, the sheer weight of the weapon coupled with the mono-molecular edge of the axe is sufficient enough to cleave through swathes of men or even power armor. Upon the Great Khan's death on Agathon, Khugol used this weapon to butcher and cleave through scores of Khornate Berzerkers in his single-minded search for the Warlord of the Burning Hearts Warband. Every new Preceptor swears his oaths of fealty and service upon this weapon before he cuts his palm against its blades.
- Iakugo - A Morozh'nehyan word meaning 'bewildering force', it is the weapon wielded by the Chapter Champion who would renounce their old name and replace it with the weapon's in order to become one with the relic as tradition demands it. The weapon is actually a matching pair of Chogorian Warglaives acquired from the Space Hulk Silent Blade during the War for Nivera by Viceroy Paran, the first user of Iakugo. The warglaives had been modified by Koval Ishal Nakeer after their retrieval to suit Paran's preferred fighting style, a mysterious martial art that is passed down from one reincarnation of Iakugo to the next through the Bladekeepers. The warglaives' shafts were replaced with a pair of hand-and-half handles with customized pommels that allow the two blades to interlock with each other, which would transform a pair of scimitars into a twinblade. When paired with the Death Mask of the Khagan, the relic twin-blade becomes an instrument of death in the hands of the Chapter's Champion. Those who are marked as prey by the Iakugo will have a whirlwind of adamantine steel as the last thing they see before they die.
The Death Mask of the Khagan
- Death Mask of the Khagan - This ancient artefact consists of a relic Mark IV helmet that incorporates an incredibly lifelike mask said have been modelled upon the features of the Khagan himself, created after his mysterious disappearance towards the end of the first century of M31, whilst in pursuit of a Drukari Archon into an Aeldari warp gate. Upon the Lightning Wraiths' inception, it was gifted to Khugol Khan, the first Preceptor of the Lightning Wraiths. This profound gift was graciously accepted by The Preceptor, and worn by him for centuries until he fell in battle. This archaic relic was created by the White Scars' finest artificers, it was forged from auramite, a mysterious material of unknown provenance but extraordinary resilience used to construct the customised battle-plate of the Adeptus Custodes, the bodyguard of the Emperor of Mankind. How this unique crafting material was obtained by the White Scars is unknown. After its construction it was layered in jet-black lacquer, making it's surface highly reflective. The mask radiates the Khagan's ferocity and anger at those who betrayed their oaths to the Emperor, emitting an aura of malice and barely restrained savagery that enemies find unnerving and often paralysed with fear, often breaking and fleeing from its hollow, vehement stare. Currently worn by the Iakugo - the Lightning Wraiths' Chapter Champion - the visage of the Death Mask of the Khagan seems to almost become invested with the ghostly life of the Warhawk's spirit. When its wearer emits a battle cry, the powerful vox emitters built into the helm does so also, often causing the morale of the foe to falter in face of the savage spirit of The Khagan made manifest. This ancient helm contains the pinnacle of augury sensors and prophesier readouts and in battle. It also has the unique ability to shroud it's wearer in a flickering halo of darkness that distorts their outline and confounds even the most sophisticated enemy sensors. When combined with the formidable martial talents of the Iakugo, the wearer seemingly becomes an avatar of The Khagan - a whirling dervish of death and destruction - cutting down his foes with savage glee.
Chapter Appearance
Chapter Colours
A battle brother hailing from the Lightning Wraiths is clad in dark bone-white armour with blood-red pauldron trims and a black backpack. The bone-white armor and blood-red trims are a reminder of their belief that they are dead men walking while the black backpack is a representation of the Astartes' burden and duty to protect the Imperium from threats within and without. Their right arm is painted in pure white from pauldron to finger in homage to their gene-sire, the White Scars.
Companies are designated with red vein-like lines that are painted onto various body parts, in reminiscence to their genetic mutations. Battle Company markings are painted on sections of the upper body; either on the arms, the cuirass, or the head. Each of the two reserve companies has their markings painted on one leg, from femur to ankle.
As they are successors of the White Scars, they have adopted some of their gene-sire's squad markings. The Squad Number is marked on the left poleyn with White Scars symbology and some of the squad specialty markings are from that of the White Scars Legion. The only exceptions are the Hellscreamer Squads. Cavii are distinguished by a black ring around the squad designation markings. Hetmans are distinguished by the sigil of the Sipahi surrounded by a black ring and a feathered plume on their helmet.
Veterans of the First Company are set apart from their battle-brothers through a pitch-black helm and a black, tattered, hooded robe in homage to their Morozh'nehyan counterparts, the Sipahi. Viceroys, who are chosen among the ranks of the Sipahi, are distinguished by a blood-red wreath around the Chapter Insignia.
Chapter Specialists are distinguished by the symbol on their left pauldron and the colour of their robes. The Vicars of the Faershan don a white robe and a variant of the Prime Helix on a skull pauldron. The Magisters of the Ukxalshan don a blue robe and the symbol of the Horned Skull on their left pauldron. The Steelmasons of the Vroi-shan don a dark red robe similar to what the Mechanicus techpriests wear and the holy cog-wheel of the Omnissiah on their left pauldron.
The two Scout Companies are encouraged to utilize camouflage on their armour and tunics. Astartes that have earned their black carapace but refuse to leave the scout companies are distinguished by a pitch-black service stud above their right eye. To distinguish between scout companies, either a red handprint or a black one is painted on their faces and helmets for the 8th and 9th Pillar of Wisdom respectively.
Chapter Badge
The Crown of the Old Kingdoms, a relic of a time when nine kings and their loyal subjects remained loyal to the Imperium as their world fell to anarchy and dissent.
The chapter's insignia is that of a five-pronged crown made of black iron over a field of bone-white. It is in the image of the Crown of the Old Kingdoms, one of the Chapter's oldest and most revered relics.
Scout Companies do not have the badge displayed on their armor as it believed that as hunters, they belong to nobody but themselves. It represents the freedom the members of the company will have before they are thrust into a lifetime of servitude as a part of the Chapter's Reserve and Battle Companies. Furthermore, because scouts are encouraged to wear camouflage and tasked with infiltration ops, the lack of a chapter badge would stir confusion and paranoia amongst the enemy as those who are familiar with Astartes wouldn't know which chapter would be attacking.
The Forsworn, marines who have committed a great sin, also do not have the badge on their armour, but for an entirely different reason. These marines have shamed their chapter, and as such, do not have the right of calling themselves as Lightning Wraiths and have been given a chance to redeem themselves. Besides an honorable death, it is only through great deeds of courage and selflessness does one of the Forsworn regain the right to call himself a Lightning Wraith.
Allies
White Scars
Icon of the White Scars.
It is said that every Chapter of Jaghatai's lineage bears the Warhawk's stubborn refusal to be chained down by those who wish to control them and to live freely like the winds that dance across the Chogorian Plains. As such, Successors of the White Scars hold the belief that they are their own masters close to their hearts. The Lightning Wraiths are no exception to this, to a point. To them, their true masters are not the bureaucratic High Lords, but their Progenitors. This leads to a fanatical loyalty to their forefathers, to the point that they would send some of their best aspirants every 100 years to the White Scars as tribute.
Hawk Lords
Hawk Lords Armorial.
The Hawk Lords are the only chapter outside of the White Scars has gained the favour and respect of the Lightning Wraiths. Their respect was gained through their superior aeronautical skill and immense experience in waging war through aerial superiority. The Chapter gives these Scions of Guilliman tributes out of gratitude whenever they accept one of the Lightning Wraiths' most gifted pilots for a secondment with the renowned Talon Wing. These tributes usually come in the form of promising aspirants, but there was a time that the Lightning Wraiths had offered a Nivera Pattern Storm Talon to the Hawk Lords.
Orders Hospitaller
Icon of the Adepta Sororitas.
One Imperial organization that the Lightning Wraiths work very closely with is the non-militant Orders Hospitaller of the Adeptus Sororitas. The Chapter admires their duty of administering aid to both soldiers and citizens. Often, they assist Hospitallers in providing support to Imperial worlds under crisis and the Sisters of the Order present old tomes to the Lightning Wraiths as a sign of thanks for the assistance and the support. The dynamic between the Chapter and the Order is interesting, to say the least, as the latter stays on a planet to preserve life while the former stays to provide the dead with the respect that they deserve. There are also instances where a Lightning Wraith Vicar and a Sister Hospitaller become well acquainted with one another, as knowledge regarding burial practices, medicinal alternatives and matters of faith are exchanged as if one was a part of the other's group.
Bloodmoon Hunters
Bloodmoon Hunters armorial.
The Bloodmoon Hunters are a stalwart and dedicated non-codex compliant Loyalist Space Marine Chapter created during the 13th Founding, the so-called 'Dark Founding'. Very few are welcome among the ranks of Lightning Wraiths, and in turn very few trusts the Chapter. The Bloodmoon Hunters are among those few do to a similar outlook of how to take down an enemy but further the few joint hunts they had together has built mutual respect. Throughout the Chapter, blind obedience is strongly discouraged. All of these Space Marines are expected to act upon their own initiative at the appropriate times. However, such actions must fit within the context of the larger battle scheme. Battle-Brothers consider unorthodox tactics during their preparation for any conflict. These include unusual deployment maneuvers and infiltration. Most times, they have go so far as to assemble ad hoc units specifically appropriate for resolving a particular tactical problem known as a Hunting Party. It was with these Hunting Parties that Bloodmoon Hunters interact with Lightning Wraiths.
Conflicting Chapters
Murdering Sons
Armorial of the Murdering Sons.
The Lightning Wraiths despises the Murdering Sons for their brutality towards children. Although they do agree that a rebellious colony needs to be dealt with, wiping all the inhabitants of a world from the face of the universe is not a method that they condone. In fact, during one notable incident, there was a time where both Chapters nearly waged war against each other over a single child. The Murdering Sons wanted to burn the child and make an example of him while the Lightning Wraiths wanted to make him into a Space Marine so that his rebellious planet's history would not taint the child's mind. It was through the orders of the High Lords of Terra that the conflict was resolved, by killing the child so that no trace of his civilization would exist. Unable to go against the orders of the High Lords, the Lightning Wraiths reluctantly gave the child to the Murdering Sons and were forced to walk away as the child was slaughtered. This once act of cold-blooded murder has never been forgotten by the Lightning Wraiths, who have sworn to rectify this injustice one day.
Enemies
The Forces of Chaos
Whilst the Lightning Wraiths treat every threat to the Imperium with the same calculating manner, the Forces of Chaos are the only things that can make a Lightning Wraith lose their composure. As scholars and historians, they know about the destructive and malignant powers of Chaos and how it can affect anyone. However, this knowledge has ingrained hatred into their hearts that could not be quelled as Chaos was the source of the Imperium's downfall from its glory. To them, worshippers of Chaos are no longer human, but selfish animals who do not understand or care for humanity's need to survive in the vast galaxy. Those who worship these evil powers are hunted down relentlessly and worlds that have fallen to its taint are wiped clean of life. Mercy is a luxury that is never given to those who would sell their souls for their own benefit.
Notable Quotes
By the Lightning Wraiths
- "Prompt: "As lightning strikes, the earth shall quake!"
Response: "As above, so below!""- —Alternative Lightning Wraiths Battle Cry
- "I fail to see whatever slight I may have caused you, cousin. My refusal to cross blades with an established warrior such as yourself is not out of disrespect or cowardice, but out of pragmatism. The enemy maybe defeated and the world has been saved, but dead heroes still lie in the battlefield. I would rather expend whatever strength I have left in my body to ensure that they're given the proper respect so that their spirits may pass on without bitterness and spite. Whatever honour you seek to attain from defeating me, you may have it."
- —Kaid Izrafel, 26th Preceptor of the Lightning Wraiths, after an Iron Knight Champion called him a coward for refusing to partake in an honour duel for a grievance regarding the execution of an Ork warboss.
- "We have the blood of Jaghatai Khan flowing through our veins. We are not the stalwart fortresses of Dorn's scions nor are we the wrathful flames of Sanguinius. We are the rivers of His will; flowing around any obstacle that crosses our path. When we are forced to a confrontation, the torrents of our blades and bolters will be as unending and focused as the rapids of a narrow stream."
- — Vicar Tulemon Far'zhul
- "The enemy thinks that the storms we create are the worst things we could offer. Little do they know that while they weathered the storm, wraiths began to wander the streets."
- —Jäger Yesugi Jalla prior to the assassination of a Traitor General and her retinue
- "Bone white to symbolize our final fate and destination. The purest shade of white to honour our progenitors. Darkest black to represent our eternal duty and burden. Bloody crimson in remembrance for those who have fallen. Iron to remind us of our beginnings. Our colours do not only apply to our Chapter, but to humanity as a whole."
- —A Lightning Wraiths Cavus’ (Sergeant) response to a mortal child’s query regarding their colours.
- "Men and women of the Imperium are expendable, we are no exceptions. Children, on the other hand, are not. We pave their paths so that they may create the foundations for a better way. They are the next generation of warriors, scholars and heroes. If you even think about leaving a child unprotected, I will kill you myself."
- —Szulah Nuk'Fallad threatening a Black Templars Sword Brother during his time as a Deathwatch member
- "If a warrior has nothing to lose and nothing to believe in, then survival is simply a matter of enduring the impending weight of damnation on one's shoulders"
- —Lightning Wraiths proverb
- "To fear death is cowardice, but to embrace it is foolishness. Make peace with your mortality, but do not make your death an easy endeavour or a wasteful act. Always strive to remind our enemies that humanity will never die quietly in the darkness."
- —Khugol Khan on the inevitability of death
- "To err is to be human. We grow as a race for every error we make. However, some transgressions do not deserve forgiveness and warrant spiteful remembrance. Such is the lesson that history begets those who study it."
- —Unknown Lightning Wraiths Magister
- "We are content with being the outriders and vagabonds of the Imperium, as was the way of Jaghatai Khan. We are content of being ignored and overlooked, as was the way of Jaghatai Khan. And like the Khan himself, we swiftly fly to the protection of humanity whenever the call is made. Do not mistake our silence for apathy and our promises to be meaningless for we are the Knights of the Khan. Our word is our bond."
- — Viceroy Xi-Huo Han reprimanding an Imperial Guard Colonel for his comments regarding the Lightning Wraiths' behaviour
About the Lightning Wraiths:
- "They are a chapter of contradictions. They call themselves 'knights' but eschew honor and glory. They have an affinity for labyrinthine tunnels despite their preference for their gene-sire's high-speed warfare and air superiority. They are extremely reluctant to communicate with other Imperial forces, but once they are placed in front of wide-eyed mortals, they answer any questions that are thrown their way. Never before have I witnessed such a frustrating clash of ideals."
- —Unknown Hammers of Dorn Astartes when queried about the Lightning Wraiths
- "Have you ever seen or heard of the walking dead? No? Trust me lad, those things are the closest thing we have to the undead serving the Imperium. If I were you, I would pray that I would never see their faces in my lifetime. Emperor knows that I wish that was the case with myself."
- — Sergeant Velsta of the 67th Cadian answering a young Guardsman's question regarding a Lightning Wraith Viceroy's apparent rudeness of never taking off his helmet.
- "Too slow, little wraith. Your forefathers would be ashamed of your lack of fervor. I know I am, having personally killed many of the Khan's bastards throughout my long and fruitful years. I shall spare you, so the shame will kill you from the inside."
- —Night Lords Raptor Razh'akk of the 19th Claw
- "Most Astartes inspire fear and compliance amongst mortals whenever they are in close proximity with one another. These Lightning Wraiths are one of the few exceptions. They move and present themselves in such a manner that one sometimes forgets that they are in the presence of an Angel of Death. To both my embarrassment and surprise, I also overlook these warriors more often than most."
- —Watch-Captain Benedicto Galicia of the Crimson Fists commenting about the Lightning Wraiths seconded to Watch-Fortress Fort Excalibris
- "They're here, I can feel it. They're watching me, watching us! Those frakking zombies! They'll eat your soul, y'know. That's what they did with Ophelia and Karkus. They spared me, spared me so that I can suffer! So I can remember their undead faces! So that I can remember how they tore out my generals' souls from their bodies!"
- —Excerpt from the Planetary Governor's interrogation following the Irquos Uprising. The audio feed devolves to a cacophony of hysterical sobbing and incoherent babbling after this point.
- "They look too keenly and too deeply into the past to the point of ignorance as one may observe. Yes, they are knowledgable historians and skilled diplomats, but one can be disillusioned with delusions when they forget the difference with once was and what currently is."
- —Librarian Remus of the Raptors.
- "They strike with the force of nature itself, my brothers could learn much from them. Shame they would see me dead if I showed my face."
- —Darius Medies, formerly of the Stormbreakers, about the Lightning Wraiths' combat doctrine
- "Whew! That was some hit-and-run ya'll helped us pull of on them Battlesuits just now. Reminds me of the olden days when we were doin' drive-bys against Fire Warriors back home. Now if you'll excuse me, I gotta help our librarians upgrade our Library of Liberty. After seein' yours, it puts ours to shame!""
- —Executive Alexis 'Preacher' Jonesson of the Emperor's Liberators after a battle against the Tau.
- "From the rumors I heard of these guys, they love to study as many aspects of a friend or foe as they can. What're the odds that they studied US? If they know a lot about us, it's best we stay on their good side. Wouldn't want them giving a detailed playbook of us to the Inquisition...""
- —Major Collins of the now renegade Agents of Liberty.
- "These Hunters that are like after images of lightning are the closest thing we have as brothers in all but blood. The unquenchable desire for knowledge and the freedom from the false chains of honour and glory. The Lightning Wraiths are welcome on our hunts and we shall answer their call when the need calls for it."
- —A Bloodmoon Hunters Veteran
- "I think there's a lesson to learn here. No wall can shield you from a blade in the dark... Or an assault from below"
- — A Wild Hunt Eliminator, scouting the remains of an insurgent fortress raided by the Lightning Wraiths
- "At first glance, one would assume a close kinship between our Chapters, given our similar deformities. Yet nothing is further from the truth. These Sons of the Khan, have their father's temper, and yet a measure of sophistication I would not have foreseen. Their defensive strategies were sounder than they originally seemed, complimenting our fortresses well.
The counter attack, when it came, was swift, precise and well co-ordinate, far in excess of what we would have envisioned. Indeed, we have much that could be learned from our cousins. Yet we are staunch traditionalists. We will continue in the manner we always had, with determination and grit.
We will save being the better men, to those more suited to it. Ride safely, Cousins."- —High Chaplain Aranati Champions of Mortis.
- "I admire the Lightning Wraiths, their unwavering commitment and denial of glories earned. They speak only when they need and fight with a fury like our own rage! Only drawback is that they lack a real sense of humor. But they can make a mean cup of recaff. What I'd give for that recaff again."
- —Ladinas Gemeni, The Exalted Paladin of the Crimson Impalers, while holding a cup of insufficient recaff.
Trivia
- The Lightning Wraiths' affinity for tunnel warfare, guerilla warfare and aerial superiority have been inspired by various factions across the Command & Conquer video game series.
- Many of Chapter's Ranks are either inspired by the military ranks and government positions of the Ottoman Empire and the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth or by mythology.
- The Chapter's appearance is a reference to a historical event aptly named 'Attack of the Dead Men' and the appearance of Death Knights from the Warcraft series.
- The Chapter's Companies are named after the memoirs of T.E Lawrence, "The Seven Pillars of Wisdom". The 'virtues' of each pillar belong to the 9 Noble Virtues of Asatru from Viking culture.
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