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The Night Wendigos are a mysterious and feared chapter of Space Marines, known for their relentless pursuit of justice and brutal methods of punishing lawbreakers. Unlike the Night Lords, who revel in terror for its own sake, the Night Wendigos see themselves as the embodiment of retribution, delivering swift and merciless punishment to those who defy the Emperor's laws. Inspired by the legend of the Wendigo, a mythical creature that stalks the night, they operate in the shadows, striking without warning at traitors, heretics, and renegades.
Their methods are brutal but calculated, designed to instill fear in the hearts of those who would dare break Imperial law. They are known for leaving behind gruesome displays of their work, often arranging the corpses of their enemies in macabre tableaus as a warning to others.
The Night Wendigos' synthwave-inspired armor is both a symbol of their otherworldly nature and a psychological weapon. The glowing patterns and colors disorient their enemies, making them seem like spectral figures emerging from the darkness. Their armor is also equipped with advanced stealth systems, allowing them to move silently and strike without warning.
Despite their fearsome reputation, the Night Wendigos are fiercely loyal to the Imperium. They see themselves as the Emperor's chosen enforcers, tasked with rooting out corruption and heresy wherever it may hide. However, their methods have drawn criticism from other chapters and Imperial authorities, who view them as overly harsh and borderline heretical.
Chapter History
The Founding
The Night Wendigos were founded during the Cursed Founding in 991.M35, a period marked by genetic instability and mysterious origins. While the chapter claims to be of pure Imperial descent, rumors persist that their gene-seed is tainted by the legacy of the Night Lords. These rumors are fueled by the chapter’s pale skin, glowing eyes, and affinity for terror tactics. However, the Night Wendigos vehemently deny any connection to the traitor legion, insisting that their gene-seed is a gift from the Emperor Himself.
The chapter’s creation was shrouded in secrecy, with many of the details lost to time. What is known is that the Night Wendigos were created to serve as enforcers of the Emperor’s justice, tasked with rooting out corruption and heresy wherever it may hide. Their founding was marked by a series of prophetic visions experienced by their first Chapter Master, Kael Veyron, who saw a frozen world bathed in neon light and knew it to be their destined home.
Discovery of Frostveil Prime
The chapter’s homeworld, Frostveil Prime, was discovered during a vision-guided pilgrimage by Kael Veyron. According to legend, Veyron was led to the planet by a series of prophetic dreams, which showed him a frozen world bathed in neon light. Upon arriving, he found the planet’s icy wastes and neon-lit auroras to be the perfect reflection of the chapter’s mission: to bring light to the darkness and justice to the guilty.
The planet’s harsh environment and eerie beauty shaped the chapter’s identity, and they quickly established their fortress-monastery, the Howling Spire, within the planet’s tallest mountain. The spire became a symbol of the chapter’s unyielding resolve, its neon-lit spires visible for miles across the frozen wastes.
First True War: The Purge of the Hollow Stars (991.M35)
The Night Wendigos’ first true battle as a chapter was the Purge of the Hollow Stars, a campaign fought in 991.M35 against a rogue Adeptus Mechanicus faction that had turned to heresy. The faction, known as the Cult of the Hollow Star, had begun experimenting with forbidden xenos technology, creating abominations that defied the Emperor’s laws.
The Night Wendigos were deployed to the Hollow Stars, a cluster of mining colonies on the edge of Imperial space. The campaign was brutal and unrelenting, with the chapter’s neon-lit armor cutting through the darkness as they descended upon the heretics. The Night Wendigos’ terror tactics proved devastatingly effective, as they broadcast their judgments across the colonies’ vox channels, declaring the crimes of the heretics and warning that no one would escape their wrath.
The campaign culminated in the Battle of the Hollow Forge, where the Night Wendigos confronted the cult’s leader, Archmagos Vhal’Kor, within the heart of their forge-temple. Kael Veyron himself led the assault, his thunder hammer, Storm's Wrath, smashing through the cult’s defenses. In a final, brutal duel, Veyron struck down Vhal’Kor, his body left hanging from the forge’s central spire as a grim warning to all who would defy the Emperor.
The Purge of the Hollow Stars cemented the Night Wendigos’ reputation as relentless enforcers of the Emperor’s justice, and it remains a defining moment in the chapter’s history.
The Rise of Chapter Master Stefan Elrond (125.M38)
The current Chapter Master, Stefan Elrond, rose to power in 125.M38 following the death of his predecessor, Chapter Master Darius Veyron, during the Siege of the Flesh Palace. Darius had been a beloved leader, and his death left a void that many doubted Stefan could fill.
Stefan’s ascension was not without controversy. While he was a respected captain and a master tactician, some within the chapter questioned his ability to lead. To prove himself, Stefan called for a vote among the chapter’s captains, vowing to accept their decision without question. After a tense deliberation, Stefan was chosen as the new Chapter Master, but many still doubted his worth.
First Battle as Chapter Master: The Defense of Aurora’s Reach
Stefan’s first battle as Chapter Master came during the Defense of Aurora’s Reach in 126.M38, when a massive Chaos warband led by the Daemon Prince Malakar the Defiled launched an assault on Frostveil Prime. The warband sought to claim the chapter’s sacred relics, including The Lex Aeterna, and plunge the planet into chaos.
Stefan led the defense with unwavering resolve, his neon-lit armor cutting through the darkness as he rallied his brothers. However, the battle took a dire turn when Malakar himself breached the walls of the Aurora Citadel, his daemonic form wreaking havoc among the defenders.
In a moment that would define his leadership, Stefan confronted Malakar in the Hall of Eternal Vigilance, where The Lex Aeterna was kept. The duel was brutal and unrelenting, with Stefan’s thunder hammer, Aurora's Wrath, clashing against Malakar’s daemonic blade. Despite the Daemon Prince’s overwhelming power, Stefan fought with a ferocity that inspired his brothers, his every strike a testament to his unyielding sense of justice.
In the end, Stefan emerged victorious, striking down Malakar and banishing his soul back to the warp. The battle was a turning point for the chapter, as Stefan’s leadership and courage silenced all doubts about his worthiness to lead. His victory was celebrated as a sign of the Emperor’s favor, and he was hailed as the embodiment of the chapter’s mission: to be the Emperor’s judge, jury, and executioner.
The Return of Roboute Guilliman
The return of Roboute Guilliman and the dawn of the Indomitus Crusade was met with mixed feelings by the Night Wendigos. While they respect Guilliman as a son of the Emperor and a master tactician, they are wary of his more pragmatic approach to governance. The chapter believes that justice must be absolute and uncompromising, and they fear that Guilliman’s willingness to make alliances with xenos and tolerate minor heresies undermines the Emperor’s vision.
Despite their reservations, the Night Wendigos have fought alongside Guilliman’s forces on several occasions, their brutal methods complementing the Ultramarines’ strategic prowess. However, they remain vigilant, ever ready to deliver the Emperor’s judgment should Guilliman or his allies stray from the path of righteousness.
Notable Campaigns
- The Purge of Veloria Prime (732.M41) In 732.M41, the Night Wendigos were deployed to Veloria Prime, an Imperial world that had seceded to the Tau Empire under the leadership of Lord-Captain Elias Vorn. The chapter arrived under the cover of darkness, their neon-lit armor cutting through the gloom as they broadcast their judgment across the planet’s vox channels, declaring the crimes of the traitors and warning that no one would escape their wrath. The Night Howlers descended from the skies, capturing traitors and collaborators before dropping their mutilated bodies into the streets below, sending a clear message: "There is no escape." Grantham and Jarrod fought back-to-back against four dozen Tau warriors and a pair of XV8 Crisis Battlesuits, tearing through the enemy with savage efficiency, while the Judgment Wardens captured Commander Shas'vre Kais, extracting vital intelligence. The campaign ended with the execution of Lord-Captain Vorn, his body left hanging from the hive’s central spire as a grim warning to all who would betray the Emperor.
- The Shadow War of Kaelthar (745.M41) In 745.M41, the Night Wendigos were called to the world of Kaelthar, where a Genestealer Cult had infiltrated the planet's ruling elite. The chapter deployed their Seeker Squads to gather intelligence and mark targets for destruction. The campaign culminated in a brutal assault on the cult's stronghold, where the Night Wendigos used their terror tactics to break the cult's morale. The cult's Patriarch was slain by Grantham Smith, who used his psychic powers to banish its influence from the planet.
- The WAAAGH! of Grukk Face-Rippa (758.M41) In 758.M41, the Night Wendigos faced a massive Ork WAAAGH! led by Warboss Grukk Face-Rippa. The Orks had overrun several Imperial worlds, and the Night Wendigos were tasked with halting their advance. The chapter launched a series of lightning-fast raids, targeting the Orks' supply lines and leadership. The campaign culminated in a duel between Chapter Master Stefan Elrond and Grukk Face-Rippa, with Elrond emerging victorious after a brutal battle.
- The Votann Uprising (771.M41) In 771.M41, the Night Wendigos were deployed to the Hollow Moons, a cluster of mining colonies controlled by the Leagues of Votann. The Votann had rebelled against Imperial authority, claiming the colonies as their own. The Night Wendigos used their stealth capabilities to infiltrate the colonies, sabotaging their defenses and assassinating their leaders. The campaign ended with the Votann's surrender, their leaders executed and their colonies reclaimed for the Imperium.
- The Siege of Hive Secundus (789.M41) In 789.M41, the Night Wendigos were called to Hive Secundus, where a Genestealer Cult had taken control of the hive's underbelly. The chapter deployed their Terminator-armored veterans to lead the assault, their heavy armor and devastating firepower proving invaluable in the close-quarters fighting. The cult's Patriarch was slain by Jarrod Smith, who used his twin lightning claws to tear through its defenses.
Chapter Home World
Chapter Home World History
Frostveil Prime is a frozen death world shrouded in perpetual twilight, where the sun never fully rises. The planet's eerie, neon-lit auroras and icy wastelands reflect the chapter's synthwave aesthetic.
Landscape
- Neon Auroras: The planet’s atmosphere is filled with vibrant, neon-colored auroras that light up the sky, casting an otherworldly glow over the landscape.
- The Glacial Wastes: Vast expanses of ice and snow stretch across the planet, broken only by jagged mountains of black rock that pierce the sky.
- Neon Forests: Scattered across the planet are forests of bioluminescent trees, their trunks and leaves glowing in shades of blue, purple, and green.
- Frozen Seas: The planet's oceans are frozen solid, with only the deepest trenches remaining liquid. Beneath the ice, strange and ancient sea creatures thrive.
- Aurora Plains: Flat, icy plains where the auroras are most visible. These plains are sacred to the chapter, and it is here that they conduct their most important rituals and ceremonies.
Major Cities
- Aurora's Reach: The planet's capital and the only major city, built into the side of a massive glacier.
- Frostveil Bastion: A fortress-city located near the chapter's monastery.
- The Shrouded Port: A hidden city built beneath the ice, accessible only through a series of tunnels.
Chapter Fortress Monastery
Aurora Citadel is the heart of the Night Wendigos, a towering fortress-monastery carved into the side of a massive black mountain on Frostveil Prime. The citadel is a blend of ancient stone and glowing neon, with towering spires that pierce the sky and reflect the planet’s eerie auroras. It is both a symbol of the chapter’s unyielding resolve and a functional stronghold designed to withstand the harshest conditions.
Architecture and Design
The Aurora Citadel is a marvel of Imperial engineering, its design reflecting the chapter’s synthwave aesthetic and wendigo-inspired lore. The fortress is built into the mountain itself, with layers of glacial ice and adamantium-reinforced stone providing near-impenetrable defenses. The exterior is adorned with neon-lit runes and wendigo skulls, their glowing eyes serving as a warning to all who approach.
The citadel’s interior is a labyrinth of halls, chambers, and vaults, each designed for a specific purpose. The walls are lined with ancient murals depicting the chapter’s history, their colors shifting and changing in the light of the neon auroras. The air is filled with the hum of machinery and the faint scent of ozone, a byproduct of the citadel’s advanced power systems.
Key Locations
1. The Hall of Eternal Vigilance:
- The heart of the citadel, where the chapter’s most sacred relics are kept, including The Lex Aeterna. The hall is guarded by the chapter’s most devout Chaplains and Librarians, its walls lined with glowing runes and psychic wards.
2. The Howling Spire:
- The tallest tower of the citadel, where the Chapter Master resides. The spire is adorned with neon-lit antlers, symbolizing the chapter’s connection to the wendigo. From its peak, the Chapter Master can oversee the entire fortress and the surrounding landscape.
3. The Ice Cells:
- A prison carved into the glacial rock beneath the citadel, reserved for the most dangerous and irredeemable criminals, heretics, and xenos. The cells are lined with ancient runes and wards, their power amplified by the planet’s icy environment.
4. The Howling Forge:
- The chapter’s primary forge, where Techmarines craft and maintain their weapons and armor. The forge is filled with half-finished projects and ancient schematics, its walls adorned with neon-lit cogwheels.
5. The Aurora Plains:
- A vast, icy plain located at the base of the citadel, where the chapter conducts its most important rituals and ceremonies. The plains are illuminated by the planet’s neon auroras, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
The Ice Cells of the Howling Spire
Deep within the Howling Spire, the Night Wendigos' fortress-monastery, lies a prison known as the Ice Cells. Carved into the glacial rock of Frostveil Prime, these cells are reserved for the most dangerous and irredeemable criminals, heretics, and xenos. The walls are lined with ancient runes and wards, their power amplified by the planet's icy environment, ensuring that nothing escapes.
At the heart of the Ice Cells lies Cell 13, a chamber sealed with layers of adamantium and psychic wards. Within this cell is imprisoned Khalzahr the Eternal, an immortal monster of unknown origin. Khalzahr is a towering, bestial entity, its form a nightmarish blend of flesh, bone, and ice. It is said that Khalzahr was captured during the Great Crusade, its existence a closely guarded secret of the chapter. The Night Wendigos keep it contained, studying it for insights into immortality and the nature of fear. Some say Khalzahr's presence has influenced the chapter, its icy essence seeping into the very soul of the Howling Spire.
Chapter Recruitment and Trails
The Night Wendigos recruit from the harsh, frozen world of Frostveil Prime, where only the strongest and most resilient survive. The chapter’s recruitment process is as brutal as it is efficient, designed to weed out the weak and identify those with the potential to become true enforcers of the Emperor’s justice.
The Trials of the Wendigo
1. The Trial of Endurance: Recruits are stripped of their clothing and left to survive in the frozen wastes for ten days with nothing but a knife. They must hunt for food, avoid predators, and endure the planet’s deadly cold. Many do not survive this trial, but those who do are deemed worthy of the next challenge.
2. The Trial of Shadows: Recruits are sent into the neon forests of Frostveil Prime, where they must evade capture by the chapter’s Seeker Squads for three days. This trial tests their stealth, cunning, and ability to think on their feet.
3. The Trial of Judgment: Recruits are brought before a captured traitor or heretic and ordered to deliver the Emperor’s judgment. This trial tests their resolve, their understanding of justice, and their willingness to do what must be done.
4. The Trial of the Wendigo: The final trial is a ritual hunt in which recruits must track and slay a Frostveil Wyrm, a massive, predatory creature native to the planet. The hunt is conducted in complete darkness, with only the neon auroras to light the way. Those who succeed are welcomed into the chapter as full-fledged battle-brothers.
The Night Wendigos believe that these trials not only test the physical and mental strength of their recruits but also forge them into the relentless enforcers of justice that the chapter requires.
Chapter Organisation
Officer Ranks
- 1. Chapter Master (The Wendigo’s Shadow): The supreme leader of the chapter, responsible for guiding its actions and upholding the Emperor’s justice. 2. Captains (Judges of the Aurora): Leaders of the chapter’s companies, tasked with enforcing the Emperor’s law on the battlefield. 3. Lieutenants (Harbingers of Retribution): Second-in-command to the Captains, responsible for leading squads and executing tactical plans.
Specialist Ranks
- 1. Librarians (Seers of the Frozen Light): Psychic warriors who use their abilities to guide the chapter and strike fear into their enemies. 2. Chaplains (Preachers of the Neon Void): Spiritual leaders who inspire the chapter and ensure their loyalty to the Emperor. 3. Techmarines (Artificers of the Howling Forge): Masters of technology who maintain the chapter’s weapons and armor. 4. Apothecaries (Keepers of the Frostveil Seed): Medics responsible for preserving the chapter’s gene-seed and healing their brothers.
Line Ranks
- 1. Veterans (Wardens of Judgment): Elite warriors who have proven themselves in battle, often serving as the chapter’s enforcers. 2. Sergeants (Hunters of the Night): Squad leaders who guide their brothers in combat. 3. Battle-Brothers (Spectral Enforcers): The backbone of the chapter, tasked with carrying out the Emperor’s justice. 4. Scouts (Stalkers of the Aurora): Recruits undergoing training, often deployed as infiltrators and scouts.
Special Units & Formations
- 1. Terror Squads (Night Howlers): Equipped with jump packs and chain weapons, these squads specialize in psychological warfare. They descend from the skies like vengeful angels, capturing traitors and collaborators before carrying them into the air. They drop their mutilated bodies into the streets below, sending a clear message to the traitors: "There is no escape." 2. Terminator-armored Veterans (Judgment Wardens): These elite warriors are clad in Terminator armor and serve as the chapter’s enforcers. They are tasked with carrying out the most severe punishments and are often deployed to eliminate high-value targets. 3. Raptor Squads (Sky Reapers): Fast-moving assault units that strike from above, using their jump packs to deliver devastating hit-and-run attacks. 4. Seeker Squads (Shadow Stalkers): Infiltrators who gather intelligence and mark targets for destruction. They are highly skilled in stealth and sabotage, often operating behind enemy lines.
Order of Battle
The Night Wendigos are organized into 10 companies, each with a specific role in the chapter’s operations. Their order of battle is as follows:
Companies
1. 1st Company (Judgment Wardens)
- Role: Veterans and Terminator-armored warriors.
- Specialization: Heavy assault and elite operations.
- Notable Units: Terminator Squads, Vanguard Veterans.
2. 2nd Company (Neon Reapers)
- Role: Battleline companies.
- Specialization: Close-quarters combat and psychological warfare.
- Notable Units: Assault Squads, Tactical Squads.
3. 3rd Company (Shadow Stalkers)
- Role: Battleline companies.
- Specialization: Stealth and ambush tactics.
- Notable Units: Infiltrator Squads, Reiver Squads.
4. 4th Company (Frostveil’s Fury)
- Role: Battleline companies.
- Specialization: Rapid deployment and hit-and-run tactics.
- Notable Units: Outrider Squads, Bike Squads.
5. 5th Company (Aurora’s Wrath)
- Role: Battleline companies.
- Specialization: Heavy support and firepower.
- Notable Units: Devastator Squads, Hellblaster Squads.
6. 6th Company (Howling Spire Sentinels)
- Role: Reserve companies.
- Specialization: Training and reinforcement.
- Notable Units: Tactical Squads, Scout Squads.
7. 7th Company (Neon Howlers)
- Role: Reserve companies.
- Specialization: Close-quarters combat and terror tactics.
- Notable Units: Assault Squads, Reiver Squads.
8. 8th Company (Frostveil’s Claw)
- Role: Reserve companies.
- Specialization: Heavy support and firepower.
- Notable Units: Devastator Squads, Aggressor Squads.
9. 9th Company (Aurora’s Flame)
- Role: Reserve companies.
- Specialization: Rapid deployment and hit-and-run tactics.
- Notable Units: Outrider Squads, Bike Squads.
10. 10th Company (Stalkers of the Aurora)
- Role: Scout companies.
- Specialization: Infiltration and reconnaissance.
- Notable Units: Scout Squads, Infiltrator Squads.
Night Wendigo Librarians
The Librarians of the Night Wendigos are feared for their mastery of psychic powers, particularly those related to fear, illusion, and the manipulation of shadows. Their abilities are a reflection of the chapter’s mission, allowing them to strike terror into the hearts of their enemies and deliver swift justice to the guilty.
Unique Abilities
1. Aura of Dread:
- The Librarian projects an aura of fear that unnerves and disorients nearby enemies. This ability amplifies the psychological terror tactics of the Night Wendigos, causing enemies to hesitate or flee in the face of the chapter’s relentless advance.
2. Shadow Step:
- The Librarian can teleport short distances through shadows, allowing them to move unseen and strike without warning. This ability is particularly effective in night fighting and ambush tactics, making the Librarian a deadly and unpredictable foe.
3. Neon Mirage:
- The Librarian creates illusory duplicates of themselves and their allies, confusing and distracting enemies. These illusions are rendered in the chapter’s signature neon colors, making them even more disorienting. The ability is often used to mask the chapter’s movements and create openings for devastating attacks.
4. Frostveil’s Wrath:
- The Librarian summons a wave of icy energy that freezes and shatters enemies in its path. This ability is particularly effective against hordes of weaker enemies, such as Genestealer Cultists or Tyranid swarms, and serves as a powerful tool for controlling the battlefield.
Chapter Gene-Seed and The Curse of Foresight
The Night Wendigos’ gene-seed is a source of both pride and mystery. While the chapter claims to be of pure Imperial descent, rumors persist that their gene-seed is tainted by the legacy of the Night Lords. These rumors are fueled by the chapter’s pale skin, glowing eyes, and affinity for terror tactics. However, the Night Wendigos vehemently deny any connection to the traitor legion, insisting that their gene-seed is a gift from the Emperor Himself.
Gene-Seed Traits
- Pale Skin and Glowing Eyes: The chapter’s gene-seed causes their skin to become pale and their eyes to glow with an icy blue light, giving them an otherworldly appearance.
- Enhanced Night Vision: The Night Wendigos can see perfectly in complete darkness, making them masters of night fighting.
- Psychic Affinity: Many members of the chapter exhibit latent psychic abilities, particularly those related to fear and illusion.
The Curse of Foresight
Some members of the chapter are cursed with the ability to see into the future, much like the primarch Konrad Curze. These visions are often fragmented and filled with horror, showing glimpses of death, betrayal, and destruction. The cursed brothers are both revered and feared within the chapter, their foresight seen as both a gift and a burden.
The Curse of Foresight manifests differently in each individual. Some see only fleeting images, while others experience vivid, prophetic dreams. The chapter’s Librarians are trained to interpret these visions, using them to guide the chapter’s actions. However, the constant barrage of horrific futures takes a toll on the minds of the cursed, and many eventually succumb to madness.
Chapter Belief
The Night Wendigos believe that the Emperor’s law is absolute and that those who break it must be punished without mercy. They see themselves as the Emperor’s chosen enforcers, tasked with rooting out corruption and heresy wherever it may hide. Their belief in justice is unyielding, and they view their brutal methods as necessary to maintain order in a galaxy teetering on the brink of chaos.
The chapter draws inspiration from the legend of the Wendigo, a mythical creature that stalks the night. They see themselves as spectral figures of justice, emerging from the darkness to deliver retribution to the guilty. Their neon-lit armor and synthwave aesthetic are not just for show—they are a symbol of their mission and a psychological weapon designed to strike fear into the hearts of their enemies.
Chapter Combat Doctrine
The Night Wendigos specialize in ambush tactics and psychological warfare. They often deploy in small, highly mobile strike teams, using their stealth capabilities to infiltrate enemy lines and strike at key targets. Their attacks are swift and brutal, designed to maximize fear and confusion among their enemies.
- Psychological Warfare: They broadcast their judgments across vox channels, declaring the crimes of their targets before delivering punishment.
- Decapitation Strikes: They focus on eliminating leadership and key figures to cripple their enemies.
- Public Executions: They make examples of lawbreakers, often leaving their mutilated bodies as warnings to others.
- Stealth and Ambush: Like the Night Lords, they excel in night fighting and ambush tactics, striking from the shadows.
In battle, they favor close-quarters combat, using their power claws and chain weapons to tear through enemy ranks. They are also known for their use of psychic powers, particularly those related to fear and illusion, which they use to disorient and demoralize their foes.
Chapter DeathWatch Service
The Night Wendigos view service in the Deathwatch as both an honor and a test of their resolve. While some chapters see it as a duty or a chance to gain glory, the Night Wendigos see it as an opportunity to hone their skills in hunting the most dangerous xenos threats in the galaxy. They believe that serving in the Deathwatch allows them to better understand the enemies of mankind, making them more effective enforcers of the Emperor’s justice.
However, the chapter’s relationship with the Deathwatch is not without tension. The Night Wendigos’ brutal methods and unorthodox tactics often clash with the more disciplined approach of the Deathwatch. Despite this, the chapter’s warriors are highly valued for their expertise in psychological warfare and their ability to strike fear into the hearts of their enemies.
Notable Deathwatch Veterans
- Captain Jarrod Smith: Jarrod’s time in the Deathwatch was transformative. Initially sent as a punishment for his fiery temperament, he returned as a master of xenos combat and a more disciplined leader. His experiences with the Deathwatch shaped his tactical approach, and he often incorporates their precision and adaptability into the Night Wendigos’ strategies.
- Librarian Grantham Smith: Grantham served a brief stint with the Deathwatch, where he honed his psychic abilities and learned to combat the warpcraft of xenos psykers. His time with the Deathwatch deepened his understanding of the warp and its dangers, making him a more effective guide for the chapter.
The Night Wendigos believe that those who serve in the Deathwatch return with a deeper understanding of the Emperor’s will and a greater appreciation for the chapter’s mission. As such, Deathwatch veterans are often given positions of leadership within the chapter, their experiences seen as invaluable in the fight against the enemies of mankind.
Chapter Notable Members
Chapter Master Stefan Elrond
Stefan Elrond is a towering figure, both physically and in reputation. Born on Frostveil Prime, he was raised in the chapter's fortress-monastery, The Howling Spire, a towering structure carved into the side of a glacial mountain. From a young age, he displayed an uncanny ability to track and hunt, earning him the nickname "The Wendigo's Shadow."
As he rose through the ranks, Stefan became known for his unyielding sense of justice and his willingness to do whatever it takes to uphold the Emperor's laws. He is a master tactician, often using psychological warfare to break his enemies before engaging them in combat. His presence on the battlefield is both awe-inspiring and terrifying, as he moves with a predatory grace, his glowing armor cutting through the darkness like a specter of death.
Stefan's leadership has shaped the Night Wendigos into a chapter that is both feared and respected. He is a firm believer in the chapter's mission, seeing their brutal methods as necessary to maintain order in a galaxy teetering on the brink of chaos. However, his unwavering dedication to justice has also made him a controversial figure, with some accusing him of being as merciless as the enemies he hunts.
Grantham Smith, the Librarian
Grantham is a powerful Librarian of the Night Wendigos, clad in Terminator Armor that glows faintly with psychic energy. His armor is adorned with runes and sigils that protect him from the warp, and his left arm is equipped with a built-in storm bolter. He wields a relic power sword, its blade inscribed with ancient wards that make it especially effective against daemons and psykers. Grantham serves as Stefan Elrond’s closest advisor, using his psychic abilities to uncover the truth and guide the Chapter’s actions.
Grantham is a calm and calculating individual, often acting as a counterbalance to his brother Jarrod’s fiery temperament. His psychic powers manifest as a swirling aura of blue and pink energy, reflecting the Chapter’s colors.
Jarrod Smith, Captain of the 1st Company
Jarrod is a battle-hardened veteran who once served as a sergeant before being sent to the Deathwatch. Initially, he saw this as a punishment, but his time with the Deathwatch honed his skills and broadened his perspective. Upon his return, he rose through the ranks to become the Captain of the 1st Company, leading the Chapter’s most experienced veterans.
Jarrod wears Mark X Power Armor customized for speed and agility, and he wields twin lightning claws that crackle with energy. He also carries a master-crafted bolter, and as a captain, he has access to the specialized ammunition of the Sternguard Veterans. His time with the Deathwatch has made him a master of fighting xenos and Chaos forces, and he is fiercely loyal to his Chapter and his brother.
Paul Vansickle, Third Captain
Paul Vansickle is a close friend of Jarrod Smith and a veteran of countless battles. He wears Jump Pack Intercessor armor and wields a plasma pistol and a power shield paired with a thunder hammer. Paul is known for his aggressive tactics and his ability to lead from the front, often diving into the thickest fighting to inspire his men. His thunder hammer, Storm's Wrath, is a relic of the chapter, its head crackling with energy as it strikes down the enemies of the Emperor.
Mike Bray, Techmarine of the 3rd Company
Mike Bray is a master craftsman and a loyal servant of the Machine God. He wears Primaris Techmarine Wargear and carries the tools of his trade with pride. Mike has crafted many of the chapter's most revered relics, including the lightning claws wielded by Jarrod Smith. His workshop within the Howling Spire is a marvel of technology, filled with half-finished projects and ancient schematics. Mike is known for his calm demeanor and his unwavering dedication to the chapter.
Joey Dillman, Fifth Company Captain
Joey Dillman is a knightly figure within the chapter, his custom armor adorned with intricate engravings and heraldic designs. He wields a combi-melta gun and a power sword that ripples with neon light, its blade humming with energy. Joey is renowned as the chapter's finest swordsman, his skill with a blade unmatched by his brothers. He is a staunch believer in the chapter's mission, seeing their brutal methods as necessary to maintain order in a galaxy teetering on the brink of chaos.
Jordan Nijar, Fourth Company Captain
Jordan Nijar is a towering figure, clad in Gravis Armour and wielding a power sword and a boltstorm gauntlet. He became captain after defeating a Chaos warlord who had slain the former 4th Captain, Danson John, in single combat. Jordan is a relentless warrior, his presence on the battlefield inspiring his men to fight with unmatched ferocity. His power sword, Frostveil's Bite, is a relic of the chapter, its blade shimmering with icy light.
Chapter Fleet
- The Night Wendigos’ fleet is a reflection of their relentless pursuit of justice, their ships designed to strike fear into the hearts of their enemies and deliver swift retribution to those who defy the Emperor’s laws. The fleet is known for its sleek, predatory designs and neon-lit hulls, which cut through the void like spectral wraiths.
- Battle Barges
- 1. The Howling Spire: - The flagship of the Night Wendigos’ fleet, The Howling Spire is a massive Battle Barge that serves as the chapter’s mobile fortress-monastery. Its hull is adorned with glowing neon runes and a massive wendigo skull on its prow, symbolizing the chapter’s mission. The ship is equipped with advanced stealth systems, allowing it to strike without warning. - Notable Engagements: The Howling Spire led the chapter’s forces during the Purge of Veloria Prime and the Defense of Aurora’s Reach, its devastating broadsides and boarding actions turning the tide of battle.
- 2. The Frostveil’s Wrath: - A heavily armed Battle Barge, The Frostveil’s Wrath is known for its brutal efficiency in void combat. Its hull is painted in the chapter’s signature colors, with neon-lit chains adorning its prow. The ship is often deployed to deliver the chapter’s most severe punishments, its presence a grim warning to all who would defy the Emperor. - Notable Engagements: The Frostveil’s Wrath played a key role in the Purge of the Hollow Stars, its bombardment cannons reducing the heretics’ fortresses to rubble.
- 3. The Eternal Judgment: - The youngest of the chapter’s Battle Barges, The Eternal Judgment is a sleek and fast vessel designed for rapid deployment. Its hull is adorned with neon-lit lightning bolts, symbolizing the chapter’s swift and merciless justice. The ship is often used to reinforce besieged Imperial forces, its arrival turning the tide of battle. - Notable Engagements: The Eternal Judgment led the chapter’s forces during the Siege of Hive Secundus, its boarding actions breaking the back of the Genestealer Cult’s defenses.
- Strike Cruisers
- 1. The Neon Reaper: - A fast and agile Strike Cruiser, The Neon Reaper is known for its hit-and-run tactics. Its hull is adorned with a neon-lit wendigo skull, symbolizing its role as a bringer of terror.
- 2. The Shadow’s Bite: - A stealthy Strike Cruiser, The Shadow’s Bite is equipped with advanced cloaking systems, allowing it to strike without warning. Its hull is painted in matte black, with neon-lit runes adorning its prow.
- 3. The Frostveil’s Claw: - A heavily armed Strike Cruiser, The Frostveil’s Claw is often deployed to support the chapter’s Battle Barges. Its hull is adorned with neon-lit chains, symbolizing its role as an enforcer of the Emperor’s justice.
- 4. The Aurora’s Fury: - A fast and versatile Strike Cruiser, The Aurora’s Fury is known for its devastating broadsides. Its hull is adorned with neon-lit lightning bolts, symbolizing its speed and ferocity.
- 5. The Wendigo’s Howl: - A stealthy Strike Cruiser, The Wendigo’s Howl is often used to deploy the chapter’s Seeker Squads behind enemy lines. Its hull is painted in matte black, with a neon-lit wendigo skull on its prow.
- Cobra-class Destroyers
- 1. The Frostveil’s Fang: - A fast and agile Cobra-class Destroyer, The Frostveil’s Fang is known for its hit-and-run tactics. Its hull is adorned with neon-lit chains, symbolizing its role as a bringer of terror.
- 2. The Shadow’s Sting: - A stealthy Cobra-class Destroyer, The Shadow’s Sting is equipped with advanced cloaking systems, allowing it to strike without warning. Its hull is painted in matte black, with neon-lit runes adorning its prow.
- Forge Ships
- 1. The Howling Forge: - The chapter’s primary Forge Ship, The Howling Forge is a massive vessel equipped with advanced manufacturing facilities. Its hull is adorned with neon-lit cogwheels, symbolizing its connection to the Machine God.
- 2. The Frostveil’s Anvil: - A heavily armed Forge Ship, The Frostveil’s Anvil is often deployed to support the chapter’s fleet during extended campaigns. Its hull is adorned with neon-lit chains, symbolizing its role as an enforcer of the Emperor’s justice.
- 3. The Aurora’s Flame: - A fast and versatile Forge Ship, The Aurora’s Flame is known for its ability to repair and refit the chapter’s ships in record time. Its hull is adorned with neon-lit lightning bolts, symbolizing its speed and efficiency.
The Night Wendigo's fleet also possesses seven Escort vessels and 45 Thunderhawk gunships
Chapter Relics
- The Twin Lightning Claws: Fangs of the Wendigo
- - History: The Fangs of the Wendigo are a pair of ancient lightning claws, said to have been forged during the Great Crusade. They were originally wielded by the Chapter's first Chapter Master, Kael Veyron, who used them to carve a bloody path through the enemies of the Imperium. The claws are etched with runes that glow with a faint blue light, reminiscent of Frostveil Prime's auroras.
- - Abilities: The Fangs of the Wendigo are not only deadly in close combat but also emit a low-frequency hum that unsettles the enemy, amplifying the psychological terror the Night Wendigo are known for. The claws are capable of cutting through even the toughest armor, and their lightning fields can disrupt the nervous systems of those struck, leaving them paralyzed and vulnerable.
- - Current Wielder: Captain Jarrod, the 3rd Company Captain, wields the Fangs of the Wendigo with unmatched skill. His time with the Death Watch honed his combat abilities, and the claws have become an extension of his will, delivering swift and brutal justice to those who defy Imperial law.
- The Dual-Headed Power Axe: Aurora's Wrath
- - History: Aurora's Wrath is a massive, dual-headed power axe that dates back to the Chapter's founding. It is said to have been forged from the remains of a fallen star, its blade shimmering with a pink and blue hue that mirrors the Chapter's synthwave aesthetic. The axe was first wielded by Chapter Master Stefan Elrond during the Siege of the Flesh Palace, where it cleaved through the corrupted form of Captain Ullix the Smiling. - Abilities: The axe's dual heads are capable of generating a powerful energy field that can disrupt warp-based energies, making it particularly effective against Chaos forces. The weapon is also incredibly versatile, allowing the wielder to switch between sweeping strikes and precise, devastating blows. The axe's energy field emits a faint hum that grows louder with each swing, creating an eerie symphony of death on the battlefield.
- - Current Wielder: Chapter Master Stefan Elrond wields Aurora's Wrath as a symbol of his dual role as both judge and executioner. The axe is a testament to his unyielding sense of justice and his willingness to mete out punishment to those who defy the Emperor's will.
- The Relic Power Sword: Frostveil's Edge
- - History: Frostveil's Edge is a relic power sword that has been passed down through the ranks of the Night Wendigo's Librarius. The blade is said to have been forged from the ice of Frostveil Prime's deepest glacier, its edge honed to perfection by the Chapter's finest artificers. The sword is imbued with the psychic essence of the Chapter's first Chief Librarian, Eryndor Voss, who sacrificed his life to bind a powerful warp entity within the blade.
- - Abilities: Frostveil's Edge is a weapon of both physical and psychic power. The blade is capable of cutting through even the toughest armor, and its psychic energy can disrupt the minds of those it strikes, leaving them vulnerable to further attacks. The sword also grants its wielder enhanced psychic abilities, allowing them to channel their powers with greater precision and strength.
- - Current Wielder: Librarian Grantham wields Frostveil's Edge with a calm and focused demeanor. The sword is a symbol of his role as both a warrior and a guide, its psychic energy complementing his own abilities and allowing him to lead his brothers with wisdom and precision.
- The Storm Bolter: Neon Reaper
- - History: Neon Reaper is a master-crafted storm bolter that has been in the possession of the Night Wendigo since their founding. The weapon is adorned with intricate engravings that glow with a neon blue light, and its barrel is reinforced with adamantium, allowing it to fire at an incredible rate without overheating. The bolter was originally wielded by Sergeant Jarrod during his time with the Death Watch, where it earned a reputation for its reliability and deadly accuracy.
- - Abilities: Neon Reaper is capable of firing specialized ammunition, including kraken bolts and hellfire rounds, making it a versatile weapon on the battlefield. The bolter's advanced targeting system allows it to lock onto multiple targets simultaneously, ensuring that no enemy escapes its wrath. The weapon's neon glow also serves as a psychological weapon, its eerie light unnerving those who face it.
- - Current Wielder: Captain Jarrod continues to wield Neon Reaper as the Captain of the 3rd Company. The bolter is a symbol of his rise through the ranks and his unwavering dedication to the Chapter's cause.
- The Power Claw: Judgment of Frost
- - History: Judgment of Frost is a massive power claw that has been wielded by the Chapter Master of the Night Wendigo since their founding. The claw is said to have been forged from the remains of a Frostveil Wyrm, its icy talons capable of tearing through even the toughest armor. The claw's power field generates a chilling aura that freezes the blood of those who face it, leaving them vulnerable to its deadly strikes.
- - Abilities: Judgment of Frost is a weapon of both physical and psychological power. The claw's icy talons can freeze the flesh of those it strikes, leaving them immobilized and vulnerable to further attacks. The weapon's chilling aura also serves to unnerve the enemy, amplifying the terror tactics the Night Wendigo are known for.
- - Current Wielder: Chapter Master Stefan Elrond wields Judgment of Frost as a symbol of his role as the Chapter's ultimate judge and executioner. The claw is a testament to his unyielding sense of justice and his willingness to mete out punishment to those who defy the Emperor's will.
- The Relic Power Sword: Frostveil's Bite
- - History: Frostveil's Bite is a relic power sword wielded by Captain Joey Dillman, the Fifth Company Captain. The sword was forged during the chapter’s founding by the first Chapter Master, Kael Veyron, who sought to create a weapon that embodied the chapter’s mission and identity. The blade was crafted from the ice of Frostveil Prime’s deepest glacier, its edge honed to perfection by the chapter’s finest artificers. The sword is imbued with the psychic essence of the chapter’s first Chief Librarian, Eryndor Voss, who sacrificed a portion of his soul to bind a powerful warp entity within the blade.
- - Abilities: The blade of Frostveil's Bite ripples with neon light, its energy field capable of cutting through even the toughest armor. The sword’s glow intensifies in the presence of heresy, making it a powerful tool for rooting out corruption.
- - Psychic Resonance: The sword amplifies the wielder’s psychic abilities, allowing them to channel their powers with greater precision and strength. This makes it particularly effective against psykers and warp-based entities.
- - Frostveil’s Chill: The sword emits a chilling aura that freezes the blood of those it strikes, leaving them immobilized and vulnerable to further attacks.
- - Current Wielder: Captain Joey Dillman wields Frostveil's Bite with unmatched skill. The sword is a symbol of his role as the chapter’s finest swordsman, and its neon glow is often the last thing his enemies see before meeting their end.
- The Thunder Hammer: Storm's Wrath
- - History: *Storm's Wrath is a relic thunder hammer said to have been forged during the Unification Wars on Terra, long before the Great Crusade. Legend holds that it was crafted by the Emperor Himself as a symbol of justice and retribution, gifted to one of His earliest enforcers. The hammer was lost for millennia, buried beneath the icy wastes of Frostveil Prime, until it was discovered by Captain Paul Vansickle during a vision-guided pilgrimage to the planet’s frozen heart. The hammer’s head is inscribed with ancient Terran runes that glow with a faint blue light, and its haft is wrapped in chains said to have bound the first traitors of mankind.
- - Abilities: Storm's Wrath is a weapon of unparalleled destructive power. When activated, its head crackles with arcs of blue lightning, capable of obliterating even the toughest armor and sending shockwaves through the ground that disorient and scatter enemies. The hammer’s strikes are accompanied by a deafening thunderclap, which the Night Wendigos use to instill fear in their foes. Additionally, the weapon is said to resonate with the Emperor’s will, guiding its wielder to deliver righteous judgment.
- - Current Wielder: Captain Paul Vansickle wields Storm's Wrath with unmatched ferocity. The hammer has become an extension of his will, and its thunderous strikes are often the last thing his enemies hear before meeting their end.
- The Sacred Chapter Law Book: The Lex Aeterna
- - History: The Lex Aeterna (The Eternal Law) is the most sacred relic of the Night Wendigos, a massive tome bound in black adamantium and inscribed with glowing neon runes. It is said to have been written by the Emperor Himself during the Age of Strife, long before the Great Crusade, as a codification of His vision for justice and order in a galaxy consumed by chaos. The book’s pages are made of an unknown material that glows faintly with psychic energy, and its words are said to shift and change, revealing new truths to those deemed worthy. The Night Wendigos believe that The Lex Aeterna was gifted to their first Chapter Master, Kael Veyron, by the Emperor in a vision. According to legend, the book appeared in the heart of the Howling Spire, surrounded by a halo of icy light. Since then, it has been guarded by the chapter’s most devout Chaplains and Librarians, who study its pages for guidance in their unending quest for justice.
- - Abilities: The Lex Aeterna is not a weapon but a source of immense spiritual and tactical power. Its pages contain ancient wisdom and strategies for combating heresy and corruption, and its psychic energy enhances the abilities of those who study it. The book is also said to grant visions of the future to those who are worthy, guiding the chapter’s actions in times of crisis.
- - Current Wielder: The Lex Aeterna is kept in the Hall of Eternal Vigilance within the Aurora Citadel, under the protection of the chapter’s Chaplains and Librarians. It is consulted only in times of great need, and its wisdom is shared with the Chapter Master and his closest advisors.
Chapter Appearance
Unarmored, the Night Wendigos resemble their Night Lords forebears, with pale, almost ghostly skin and sharp, angular features. However, their eyes are a piercing icy blue, glowing faintly in the dark like shards of frozen light. These eyes are said to reflect the cold, unyielding justice they dispense. When armored, their synthwave-inspired armor—electric blue with hot pink accents and glowing neon highlights—makes them appear as spectral figures emerging from the darkness, a terrifying sight for their enemies.
Chapter Badge - A glowing neon wendigo skull set against a black field.
Relations
Allies
Enemies
Notable Quotes
By the Night Wendigo
- "The Night is finally here. So all you heretic xeno scum, it is time to fear. For the Night Wendigo are now near, you can run but you cannot hide, for we are the Night that never ends."
- — Olaf The Oracle, 2nd Company Captain
- "I've lived in darkness for a long time. Over the years, my eyes adjusted, until the dark became my world, and I could see."
- — Certnunnos, 7th Company Captain
About the Night Wendigo
- "When the Night Wendigo arrive to a planet, they do not come to liberate, they do not come to save, they come to bring judgement, in the name of Emperor."
- — Inquisitor Hamish
- "When we saw the fleet above our home world, we cheered on for the Emperors angels, for we thought they have come to liberate our world of the ork invasion. But soon those cheers turn into cries, for the Night Wendigo do not liberate, they do not save, they leave nothing but terror & dread in their wake."
- — Survivor's account of the Ork invasion of Bitu
Gallery
