MidHammer 40,000

[BY ORDER OF THE EMPEROR: THIS PAGE IS CURRENTLY A WORK IN PROGRESS.]

There is no true peace amongst the stars, yet it is not all carnage and slaughter. Thirsting gods laugh as they send their minions to work evil, but their laughter is drowned out by the defiant battle cry of the loyal - for the Emperor! His Will be done!

MidHammer 40,000 is a /tg/ rewrite of the Warhammer 40,000 universe, trying to strike a balance between the grimdark original and BrightHammer. It aims for a grimbright or 'grimlight' feeling; barring the Emperor and the Primarchs, plus maybe a lucky few exceptional people, a single individual is unlikely to alter the state of the galaxy meaningfully, being but a single drop on the platter of history. Yet together, the people of the Imperium stand, each doing their part, pooling their single drops into an unstoppable tide that washes away the darkness. Many die, and they shall sadly not be remembered, but their deeds shall forever be honoured.

Thread links:

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/59185788/ Original thread.

Assorted Lore Bits

Intro Spiel

It is the 41st Millennium. For more than a hundred centuries The Emperor has sat on the Golden Throne of Earth. He is the Master of Mankind by the might of His will, and master of a million worlds by the might of his inexhaustible armies. He is as near as death as any man has right to be and then some, his body writhing invisibly with power from the Silver Age of Technology as it ever so slowly recovers from the grievous blow dealt to him by his traitorous son. He is the Lord of the Imperium for whom a million times a million soldiers fight and die, knowing He will soon lead them once more.

Yet even in his horrendous state, the Emperor continues his eternal vigilance. Mighty battlefleets cross the daemon-infested miasma of the Warp, the only route between distant stars, their way lit by the Astronomican, the psychic manifestation of the Emperor's will. Vast armies give battle in his name on uncounted worlds. Greatest amongst his soldiers are the Adeptus Astartes, the Space Marines, bio-engineered super-warriors. Their comrades in arms are legion: the Imperial Guard and countless planetary defence forces, the ever vigilant Inquisition and the tech-priests of the Adeptus Mechanicus to name only a few. For all the multitudes of the alien, the mutant, and the heretic, they stand as the indomitable will and bulwark of Mankind - battered, beaten, tarnished and worn, but unbroken, unbowed, and proud.

To be a man in such times is to be one amongst untold billions. It is to live in the hardest and most resolute regime imaginable. These are the tales of those times. Remember the power of technology and science, for though so much has been forgotten, yet more shall be learned and re-learned. Hold close to your heart the promise of progress and understanding, for in the twinkling dawn of the future there is still hope. There is no true peace amongst the stars, yet it is not all carnage and slaughter. Thirsting gods laugh as they send their minions to work evil, but their laughter is drowned out by the defiant battle cry of the loyal - for the Emperor! His Will be done!

Chapters, Legions, and the Codex Astartes

The Codex Astartes still exists in this universe, but, mostly because the Lorgar Letdown wasn't as devastating as the Horus Heresy and there were more primarchs that could oppose Guilliman, it's not universally adopted as in the original 40k.

Basically, after the Lorgar Letdown, a fight breaks out between Horus and Guilliman on how to handle the remaining legions, Guilliman of course stands for his chapters style, Horus instead wants to keep the legions as they were during the Great Crusade. This conflict between the two primarchs doesn't spark another civil war because Big E, though very weakened by his recent injuries, intervenes to save the day and find a compromise.

Currently in the Imperium Codex Astartes and Legio Astartes coexist with the first ones more suited for planetary scale operations and the second ones for sector-wide offense and defense. Loyalist marines are "split" into these two different ideologies depending on which idea their primarchs supported.

[Suggestion] Tried to flesh out some of the stuff here, let me know what you think. Really love the concept for Midhammer! -Wammnebu
If the Imperium post LL gets divided into Primarch-run Fiefdoms, the Softer form of the Codex Astartes could act similar to Imperial "Feds" or "Catholic Holy Orders:" orders with a specific purpose that operate above and outside the Feudal Segmentums run by Primarchs.

In this universe The Codex Astartes was authored by Jaghatai Khan (the nomad prince), who took on the notes and writings of his friend Roboute Gulliman (the institutionalist) as a way to preserve his vision. The realm of Ultramar was still spiritually and physically scarred by the Scouring of Maccragge and the Primarch treachery. Between bearing the brunt of the Lorgar Letdown, and the misinformation campaigns of Alpharius, Ultramar was suspicious of returning to the Greater Imperium at large. Khan, feeling guilty about the death of Roboute Gulliman, and how his Legion was spared most of the losses that befell their brothers, saw this as a way to make amends. Because the book was co-written, Rouboute's concerns about legions going traitor are tempered by Khan's nomadic experience with settler decadence and horde fragmentation. The result is a pseudo-united "Paralegionary" Force. The Khan willingly cedes control of two thirds of his Legion to be broken up into chapters, and the now Rogue Ultramarines agree to do the same. These Chapters are scattered throughout the galaxy. They can come at the request of The Primarchs (or other Imperial or Ultramar governors), but they ultimately answer to no one but The Emperor. Certain Primarchs (Magnus, Fulgrim, Corax, Vulcan) could have these Free Chapters help shore up the dwindling defenses of their territories. It also gives the Emperor a little bit more direct control over regions, (cant be too careful...). Eventually Primarchs like Rogal could grudgingly see the wisdom in this and donate chapters to fortify around the eye of terror. One of Khan's Stormseer successor chapters eventually becomes "The Grey Knights," etc. Perhaps too other Primarchs allow for some of their sons to form chapters according to the Khan-Gulliman Codex. The Blood Ravens could be an example of one such. Additionally, since both RG and JK have the most stable Geneseed (besides Rogal), and other legions would be disproportionately affected by the "Lorgar Letdown," the splitting of these two chapters would be seen less as a break up, and more of a "flowering" since the Khan would expect their successor chapters to act like Nomadic Bands that split off to form their own vibrant tribe. While Gulliman and Khan are technically no longer incharge of any of their now emancipated sons, they still have significant authority over The Codex itself, and any changes and revisions made.

Rules for Post First Founding Chapters:

The Codex provides the provisions under which a group of Astartes can apply for "Chaptership." Should an aspiring chapter-master wish to create an independent chapter, he must meet the following provisions:

1. Permission from your Primarch (or Legionary Commander)
2. Sponsorship from at least 10 other Chapter Masters,
3. Endorsement of good character by no less than three of your fellow legionaries of equal or greater status,
4. An endorsement of gene-seed health by the Ordo Biologius.
5. Have strength of no less than 150 Astartes, but no greater than 500
6. Among these 150, no less than 10 Librarians and 10 Apothecaries
7. Other requirements based on the Index upon which your chapter is founded under (those founded under Regula Magnus, have additional regulations placed on Psykers, for instance)

If all 6 of these provisions are met, then the Rules and Chapter can be approved by a Majority of The High Lords of Terra and the Approval of 3 Ultramar Princes (Emperor can Veto) If any of these provisions are lacking, then either the Emperor's approval or a Unanimous Vote of The High Lords is required

While Gulliman and Khan wrote the entire book together, they also provided their own sections or "indexes" that they wrote independently. An applying chapter must apply to be under one of these rules, and will be subject to the regulations of the chapter they are headed under. Sections are Numbered in order of their creation

Section 1: Index Aurellian or "The Rule of Gulliman"

Index Aurellian requires provisions relating to planetary administration. Those under the Rule of Gulliman are expected to live up to Gulliman's vision of Statesmen Astartes and have mastery of the diplomatic and administrative arts as well as military matters. Index Gulliman also has additional requirements regarding Chapter Composition and Fortress Monasteries.

Section 2: Index Chorgoris: or "The Rule of Khan"

Index Chorgoris provides guidelines on nomadic or spaceborne chapters. It is less interested in composition and focuses more on clear lines of succession, Chivalric rules regarding behavior between fellow astartes and non-astartes, and managing Intra-chapter disputes. The Rule of Khan is considered to be less stringent on the Chapter as a whole, but places more of the rules and liability on individual Astartes.

Eventually Other Primarchs (with the permission of Khan/Ultramarines Chaptermaster) added their own Indexes (Shown in order of their creation)

Section 3: Index Phoenician: or "The Rule of Fulgrim"

Fulgrim's Rule places additional requirements on Artificers and Apothecaries. Astartes under the Rule of Fulgrim are also expected to be masters of Personal Combat. Those under Fulgrim's rule are expected to be both expert fighters and expert craftsmen. Curiously there are no Emperor's Children Successor chapters under the "Fulgrim's Rule." Due to the weakness of The Emperor's Children, they could never afford to donate. Instead the followers of The Rule of Fulgrim are almost exclusively Iron Hands Successor Chapters. Index Phoenician was written by Fulgrim at the personal request of Ferrus Manus, who had several companies request their Genefather's permission to form Chapters.

Section 4: Index Praetorian: or "The Rule of Dorn"

The Rule of Dorn has a few stipulations for personal behavior or for chapter management. The ultimate focus of Index Praetorian is Seigecraft and Engineering. A chapter under Index Praetorian is rigorously disciplined in the arts of engineering, warfare, architecture, and defensive tactics.

Additionally, there are certain "sub indexes" or Regulae, which while not significant enough in their divergence to be considered its own chapter, provides additional rules for further specialization of space marine chapters.

Section 2(a) Regula Mortis (Rule of Garro)

Special section of rules for loyalist sons of traitor legions. Mostly follows Index Chorgoris, but with guidelines pertaining to managing a Chapter composed of multiple Genefathers, as well as additional rules for safegaurding against corruption.

Section 1(a) Regula Viatorris (Rule of The Webway)

A work of headache inducing compromise, and endless negotiations between Jaghatai Khan, Magnus, and The Representatives of Craft World Biel-Tan. Astartes founded under this codex were the first Space Marines to be permitted to operate in the Webway, and as such shoulder their crippling regulations with pride and distinction. In addition to stringent regulations regarding chapter organization, organizational hierarchy, and restricted activities, chapters in the Rule of The Webway must also accept the sponsorship of an individual craftworld, and are required to answer to them regarding activities in the web way.

Section 1(b) Regula Prosperae (Rule of Magnus)

Heavily Modified variation of Index Aurelian, the Regula Magni adds additional qualifications for Librarians, and tactics for Librarian heavy combat.

Section 2(a) Regula Tempestus The Rule of Warp

Created to help in the creation of chapters who operate near the Eye of Terror, and as such have more encounters with Warp Storms and Demonic incursions.

Section 3(a) Regula Tyrranis (The Rule of Tyrannids)

For Tyranid-busting chapters, augments Index Chorgoris with its emphasis on adaptability, with Dorn's experience and resilience enshrined in Index Praetorean. Exceptional at adapting to an ever adapting foe.

Section 2(b) Regula Skythiae (Rule of The Nomad)

The Mellennium long ambition of the Khan realized through the benignly negligent sponsorship of Commoragh. Created in M38, the Rule of The Nomad offers significantly more flexibility than the bureaucratically asphyxiated Regula Viatorres Astartes. In exchange for limitations on operations in the webway, they have greater flexibility travelling through the webway, making these Astartes chapters the ultimate force for rapid response and deployment throughout the Imperium with little Eldar interference.

First Founding

The First Founding was made entirely of White Scars and Ultramarines. The Creation of the Free Chapters was seen as the first step towards reconciliation between Ultramar and The Greater Imperium.

First Founding Chapters:

Novamarines

Genesis Chapter

Macragge's Honnor

Rampagers

Mantis Warriors

Marines Errant

Storm Lords

Sons of Gulliman

Inceptors

Black Counsels

Second Founding (ie The Penitential Founding)

While Jaghatai and Gulliman had created the Codex Astartes with the Loyalist fragments in mind, it was a very controversial position and Jaghatai didn't want to jeopardize his carefully hammered out reintegration of Ultramar with Traitor Chapters. Instead, Jaghatai used his own legion "The White Scars" as a sort of Parole Office for Wayward Astartes, helping to mitigate concerns about their reintegration by sending them out to demonstrate their loyalty to the Imperium under his Supervision. When Jaghatai felt the time was right, he used Nathaniel Garro, well-liked on Ultramar being the last Astarte to see Roboute Gulliman alive and the protector of The Primarch's last writings as the Posterboy for his "Second Founding."

Garro was granted permission to found his own Chapter made up of Former Death Gaurd loyalists, and permission to recruit new astartes and carry one the Death Gaurd Geneseed. With the success of Garro's "Dusk Raiders" Soon other chapters were able to form their own loyalist chapters under "The Rule of Garro." Unlike in Vanillahammer, these chapters are aware of their gene-father's treachery and have built themselves around continuing their Emperor-made purpose. Second Founding Chapters:

• "Oathkeepers" Fmr Death Gaurd, formed from Nathaniel Garro
• "The Charcodons" Fmr Night Lords
• "Silver Skulls" Fmr Iron Warriors
• "Consumed" Fmr World Eaters
• Space Wolves Fmr Space Wolves (Vanilla Wolf Brothers), the few who survived the madness. Their founding was unique in that their request to form a Chapter was rejected by non-other than Leman Russ himself. Leman, who was so disgusted with himself and his Legion, did not want any part of his legion to carry forward. They went to the High Lords of Terra and the Emperor himself pleading for the chance to serve the Emperor once again, and permission for the Name "Space Wolves" to die an honorable death. Additionally, they went to Magnus to beg for him to intercede on their behalf, in exchange for service. Magnus was impressed by their gall, and agreed to help them overrule Russ's refusal. The war cry of the new Space Wolves is "Remember Prospero." They go through the galaxy hunting their former brothers, but try to stand clear of their furious father.

Fourth Founding or "The Phoenecian Founding"

The Fourth Founding consisted of a donation of Iron Hands. The Iron Hands were swelling with new ranks and many of the tensions between Ferrus Manus and his Augmentation obsessed sons was beginning to surface. Both were affecting the efficiency of the Legions. Seeing the behavior and capabilities of other legions like The Thousand Sons, Emperors Children, Ultramarines, and Salamanders; Ferrus Manus was concerned that his obsession with brute strength and refinement of flesh was stifling the creativity and capabilities of his Astartes. In the interest of seeing his Sons thrive and adapt, Ferrus Manus commissioned his friend Fulgrim to design a set of rules to allow his successor chapters to reach their full potential. In many ways the Successor chapters of the Fourth (and future Iron Hands) Founding are unique in their dual heritage, taking on traits of both Primarchs

Fifth Founding or "The Corvidae Founding"

The Fifth founding came about as a result of a the First Black Crusade, when several legions (the Iron Hands in particular) learned the hard way how painfully ill-equipped they were for war against demonic forces. While orders like The Grey Knights did exist, they were small, and the Inquisition's "Ordo Malleus" was distrusted by most, if not all Space Marine Legions. Thus it was Magnus The Red's Turn to Donate, and as Such Composed The Regula Prosperae, providing for new Psyker-heavy Chapters, and ways to guard them against Chaos.

Fifth Founding Chapters:

• The Corvidae Donated by Magnus the Red to be one of The First of the new Mystic Chapters
• The Exorcists
• The Pleasure-Seekers
  Chapter and Ironic name provided by Fulgrim, this Chapter excels in fighting against the Servants of Slaanesh
• The Emperor's Path
  White Scars Successor, specializes in fighting against Tzeentch
• The Emperor's Peace
  Focuses on The Servant's of Khorne,
• The Wolf Hounds
  Another Anti-Khorne Chapter, Thousand Son's Successor trained by Leman Russ
• The Apothacaries
  Iron Hands Successors, specialize in killing Demons of Nurgle.
• Espandor's Faithful
  General Anti-Demon Ultramarine Successors
• Memory of Maccragge
  Ultramarine Successor, expert Nurgle Killers.

Sixth Founding or "The Dornian Founding"

Called The Dornian Founding by those not in Proximity to Rogal Dorn, was made up of the deserters of The Imperial Fists Legion. Dorn's Legion, angry that Dorn had abandoned crusading for obsession with fortifications requested that part of the legion break off and serve Horus's plans. Dorn consented on the condition that he would allow them to break off if they agreed to follow The (maligned by Fists) Codex Astartes. Unfortunately they Called his bluff.

• The Emperor's Champions
  Founded by None other than Rogal's Former Champion, Sigismund, This chapter is unique among the other Imperial Fist Chapters in that it is one of the Few that does not use "Index Praetor," Instead preferring the Rules set out by The Khan enshrined in Index Chorgoris.
• The Crimson Fists
• The Celestial Lions
• The Imperial Fists
• Fists Exemplar
• Excoriators
• Iron Knights
• Astral Knights
• Soul Drinkers
  In this universe a Dorn Successor chapter that follows the Rule of Magnus)

[/Suggestion]

Big question: Legion of the Damned. Does it become the Legion of Martyrs? In this setting, perhaps anyone can get a second chance if you were sufficiently hardy in terms of soul and mind.

Primarchs

I would suggest a sort of 'Council of Regents', in which they spend a lot of time on Terra, making sure governance is actually competent. They might be Primarchs, but there are only eight of them, and the Imperium is the size of a galaxy. Sure, on occasion they'll venture out to kick ass or inspect the Imperium, but there are so many threats and only so many Primarchs - even they can't be in multiple places at once. Alternatively, they could be ruling over Segmentums, taking up about as much time - sure, it's a smaller area of space, but now there's only one Primarch.

Ferrus Manus and Fulgrim are BROS FOR LIFE and go on BRO TRIPS OF PURGING TRAITORS AND HIGH ADVENTURE together.

Fulgrim is A GOOD BOY. Horus is THE BEST BOY.

Sanguinus is fabulous hawk boy. Probably gets hit on by everyone who's brave enough.

Black Crusades

I'd say that with Lorgar as Heresiarch and probable Arch-Priest, Black Crusades could be a hella lot more organised to compensate for the increased power of the Imperium?

Yeah. The reason why Black Crusades are kinda disorganized in 40k is cause all the daemon Primarchs fucked off somewhere else and abandoned their Legions, till Abby forcefully knocked some sense into everybody. Lorgar would be a nice catalyst to focus the wrath of the Chaos Legions on a single objective instead of mindlessly tearing each other apart. With the participation of at least one or two other daemon primarchs.

Would the Drop Site Massacre still happen? Would it be that extreme?

Being outnumbered, pulling off something like Isstvan would simultaneously be far more difficult and a practical requirement to even have a chance. Fulgrim obviously doesn't kill Ferrus Manus here, though. Anyone got any ideas for the Drop Site Massacre?

Maybe they got a shit load of Deamons to help them a bit more. I mean with Lorgar being so devoted to the gods it would be a decent reward for purging the traitor legions of loyalists. Maybe they sacrificed a few planets on the way.

That sounds good! Enough to score a devastating tactical victory, but not enough to put him on par with Horus' tantrum!

The "shitload of Daemons" idea for Isstvan makes sense; having never faced this kind of threat en masse before,Imperials get fucked up.

[Suggestion]

Suggestion For The Drop-Site Massacre

Merge Betrayal at Calth with Isstvan IV with Rouboute Gulliman taking the hit for Sanguinious and Ferrus Manus.

Alpharius and Lorgar devise a plan to royally f*** over the Ultramarines, and use Gulliman's realm to create an inter-Imperial civil war.

Evil Scheme^TM

Step 1: Alpharius and Lorgar convince Horus to send him and Gulliman to take car of Calth.

Step 2: Lorgar Splits his Legion in Two. Keeps half of the most loyal (to him) to travel with him to Calth, the other Half goes to Maccragge with Kor Phaeron.

Step 3: Kor Phaeron brings most of the Loyalist Word Bearers with him, however nearly all of the ship's crew and psykers are fervent traitors. Mortarian's loyalists will also be nearby.

Step 4: When Gulliman and Friends get to Calth, the Word Bearers would betray him, kill Gulliman and most of the ultramarines there.

Step 5: Lorgar sends word out to Galaxy that Ultramarines have betrayed the Emperor, so that other Primarchs (especially The Lion and Russ) will come to happily destroy Ultramar.

Step 6: Loyalist Word Bearers and Death Gaurd conveniently near Maccragge hear the news, and invade to "pacify" the planet

Step 7: Once WB and DG loyalists have done enough damage to the ultramarines (or before they start to realize they were sent to kill loyalists), DG and WB ships will begin Gas Bombing Their own loyalist regiments.

Step 8: Traitor Word Bearers on board will offer the chaos, bloodshed, and unholy fratricide as an offering to the Dark Gods for a demonhost to appear on Macragge.

Step 9: Other Loyalist Legions like the Dark Angels and Space Wolves will arrive on Maccragge see chaos demons and surmize the reports of Gulliman's treachery were correct. Begin take no prisoners assault on Maccragge

Step 10: Alpha Legion will send reports to rest of Ultramar that The Emperor betrayed them, loss of both Gulliman and Maccragge will prompt the Kingdom to retaliate.

Step 11: Lion and Wolf will fight Ultramarines

Step 12: Lion and Wolf will lose because Luther and Khornite Space Wolves will take this opportunity to betray their Genefathers. El'Johnson and Russ die surrounded by traitors and vengeful ultramarines.

Step 13: Profit. Permanent rift between Ultramar and Empire. Ultramar will be susceptible towards Chaos. Three Loyalist Primarchs will be dead, Ultramarine, Space Wolves, and Dark Angel remnants will join the Traitors. Kingdom of Ultramar will be Merged with Monarchia for Chaos Base of Operations.

Fortunately For the Imperium, things start Falling apart around Step 4. For a number of Reasons.

Khan-Gulliman Broship:
Because of the friendship between the Vth and XIIIth legions in this timeline, the Stormseers get a premonition of the dark macinations against the Ultramar and decide to warn them. Unable to physically warn him because of warp storms, Khan pulls a Magnus and sends a supercharged Psychic warning to Gulliman: a vision of an destroyed nest where Mother and Eaglet lay dead amidst a pile of smashed eggs. Gulliman got the message and chose to secretly travel from Monarchia (where both legions were) to Macragge with a few ships leaving the expedition to Calth in the capable hands of Sargent Aeonid Theil. Gulliman is able to get to MacCragge before the invasion begins.

Bel`akor wrecks Step 5 and 6
There was a second consequence to Khan's Psychic message, in that it left the barrier between reality and the warp soft around the already warp-soft Monarchia. Because of this, Bel`akor (who was already irritated at the Uppity Lorgar trying to take his job) took this opportunity to lead an invasion to claim Monarchia for himself.
Belakor's Bluster has several implications on Lorgar/Alpharius' evil scheme:

This invasion caught both legions off guard, weakening both the Ultramarines and to a greater extent the Word Bearers.

Not only did the incursion of Monarchia destroy the suprise factor of Chaos, but Lorgar inadvertantly taught the Ultramarines how to fight demons.

The warp storms that built up as a result of the increased demonic activity prevented Alpharius from learning what was going on to devise a new plan

The counter attack and exterminatus delayed the betrayal by months. Giving Gulliman much needed planning room.

news about the Demon incursion at Monarchia gets out, complicating things for the loyalists under Kor Phaeron. After the demonhosts and the cultists are defeated, the suspicious Aeonid Thiel determines that the best course of action is to Exterminatus Monarchia before he and Lorgar go to Calth. In hindsight the smart thing for Lorgar to do would have been to try to attack the Ultramarines there, but instead Lorgar bites his tongue, decides to stick to the plan, and goes along with the exterminatus, offering the death of his planet as a sacrifice to the Dark Gods.

Gulliman wrecks Steps 6 and 7
Gulliman arrives on Maccragge in secret and with the Regents of Ultramar and has ample time to asses the situation and make preparations. Realizing that Warpstorms surrounding Ultrmar have cut it off from the rest of the Imperium, that the Death Gaurd and Word Bearers have amassed fleets within striking distance, he saw what was about to happen. Lacking his Space Marines, he decides the best course of action is to prepare for an evacuation of the planet. In what could be called his logistical magnum opus, he is able to ground, redirect, and even construct enough vessels to amass an armada to evacuate more that 70% of the Planet, led by his mother. The 30% that remained refused to let Maccragge go down without a fight, and so they prepared under Gulliman to for a last stand until help from the Imperium could come (it doesn't). Additionally because Gulliman was there to defend his planet personally, he was able to prevent most of the inter-loyalist bloodshed that was supposed to happen. Commander Nathaniel Garro Meets Rouboute Gulliman during their invasion of Maccragge and is able to save the loyalist death Gaurd from unite the loyalists for a last stand of Macragge. During the long seige Gulliman composed several writings including what would eventually become "The Codex Astartes." Garro is able to escape with the Last Writings of Rouboute Gulliman who dies fending off the demon hordes.

Luther and Khorne wreck Steps 9, 11, and 12
The Delay of the Betrayal of Calth, and Warp Storms as a result of the Demon incursion/Exterminatus of Monarchia mean that by the time the Betrayal of Calth and invasion of Macragge actually happens, Khorne grows impatient with Tzeentch/Lorgar/Alpharius's plan, and decides he wants the Space Wolves under him now. The Wolf Sons grow impatient and more rabid. Perhaps if Lorgar had known he could have helped the Wolves hold their sanity, but he was out of contact with the greater Imperium because of the warpstorms. So when The Legion goes to Prospero there is nothing anyone (russ, alpharius, or lorgar) can do to stop the feral hordes that were once men of Fenris. Unable to stop the Bloodshed, a disgraced Russ sends a lone message of warning to the greater Imperium.

When the Dark Angels received word of The Burning of Prospero, they were supposed to have been well on their way to Maccrage, yet there were no messages from Calth or Maccragge. And the Dark Angels were attending to their own affairs on The Rock. The Lion upon hearing about the Destruction by the Hands of the Space Wolves, he orders his legion to immediately abandon their current mission and come to the aid of Magnus' homeworld. Luther becomes concerned. Had the Plan changed? Had it Failed? He wasn't sure, but he was certain that he couldn't let The Lion get to Prospero. In haste he and Alpharius (who has not heard from Lorgar or Kor Phaeron) orders his fallen to create an impromptu "Drop Site Massacre" complete with sabotages of 1st Legion Fleets, as well as control of Calliban's Fortress monastery. Ironically, Luther's ad hoc plan was far more successful Alpharius' meticulously planned Massacre of Macragge as the bitter and enraged Lion spent many bitter months fighting mile by mile against Alpha Legion Trickery, Tzeentchian Demons, The Fallen, and his own corrupted country men. By the time he was able to capture Luther at The Rock, most of the Fallen had taken nearly half of his fleet and left most of his homeworld destroyed. When the exhausted and betrayed El'Johnson heard about The Ultramarines "Betrayal" at Calth and preparation for Maccragge, he prepared for a mad dash to massacre the Ultramarines. Fortunately for the Imperium by the time the Lion got there, Maccragge had long since fallen, and the survivors such as Nathaniel Garro were able to explain what actually happened.

What was Alpharius Thinking?
Suprise! it was all just as planned. Alpharius got all of his objectives out of this mess:

Rouboute was Dead

half of the Dark Angels are his puppets

Lorgar Humiliated before the Chaos gods

Magnus punished for defying Tzeentch

Daddy Tzeentch proud of his scheming

The Ultramarines were broken and scattered

All of the chaos and lack of communication in Ultramar, Fenris, and Calliban meant that Terra was less defended. He could go in and strike the Imperial Palace, killing Malcador and delivering a near fatal blow to The Emperor

Blood Angels

First, I believe Dante wouldn't suffer half as much, since the "golden warrior" Sanguinius talked about is probably himself, if the prophecy even exists in this version of the story. Another thing is the black rage wouldn't exist, since the psychic imprint of Sanguinius wouldn't have gotten beaten half to death. Red thirst would still be a thing, but it wouldn't lead to assholes like the flesh tearers. Also, no Sanguinalia, so the average imperial worker gets worked to death even on space christmas. Baal would probably not have been fucked up so badly either so there's that.

Space Wolves

Maybe they are sent to Prospero to arrest Magnus as per Horus Heresy, but the Legion falls to Khorne due to their hatred for psykers and the sheer prominence of psychic energy, with Russ looking on in desperation as his Legion goes berserk and burns everything his Brother built?

The average Space Wolf is somewhere around eight to nine feet tall. The Canis Helix has mutated so extensively that they now resemble upright wolves more than men, with various Chaos-derived scars, body damage, and injured skin, nearly completely coated over by a deep, often heavily manged and matted coat of fur genetically similar to human hair.

Their power armor is fused into their bodies in a varying fashion, having basically grown in (see pic related for a general idea). It is also a living part of them; the canine jaws and lengthy claws of the Space Wolf are lined with ceramite, contributing to their ability to effectively gore enemies to death. Inside, some of their organs- including Astartes implants- have duplicated further, enabling them to sustain lengthy fire from even bolters when combined with their ingrown armor.

The Space Wolf is close to non-sentient. It's lost the ability to speak or otherwise create intelligent vocalization, and is belligerent and hostile in nearly all occasions, but is just intelligent enough to dimly understand and resent how far it has fallen, as well as obey the orders of its dark masters. Their gait is usually quadrupedal, but they may rear up on their human legs much like a bear would.

While the Space Wolves are monstrously powerful, being effectively power armor-lined and Warp-enhanced, they are also rare. Only the original legionaries who fell are left; the Canis Helix, unless somehow integrated into another human, is the key to their specific brand of mutation and corruption, and as such a Lord trying to produce more Wolves will be met with no success. For this reason, the Wolves are highly prized; beaten into compliance, these war-beasts trade hands, only loyal to those they fear or their patron Gods. It is considered quite an accomplishment to have enough to send into battle, but they are well worth it, tearing and ripping through enemy lines while shrugging off ordnance that would bisect a Chaos Marine.

Eldar

As for the trader, yes I was thinking Ulthwé... But with a twist. Every trades happen on the neutral ground of Commoragh, after the Dark Eldar had been eradicated/exiled. Such attacks against their kind but before anything make looks the Druchari bad in the eyes of their cousins made Biel'Tan fuckin angry. As such, Vect managed to introduce the way of Commorragh into Craftworld... Before, Dark Eldar were killing and raiding for fun and necessity. Now, they do for fun and vengeance, seeking to take back their homes and made the humanity crawls at their feet.

Alternatively, about the Dark Eldars: I feel like a way to make them less edgy would be taking away their need to torture people to survive, make the Dark Eldar just the biggest galactic raiders, smugglers and all-kinds-of-black-market-stuff sellers/buyers. They raid to steal shit and people just because they're really greedy and selfish fucks. Some sadist Dark Eldar still exist but they do that shit for fun.

I just pictured grimbright Comorragh as the biggest black market ever with scum from all over the galaxy.

Grimbright Comorragh is a metropolis-sized black market: Radical Inquisitors browsing xenotech to hunt traitors with initiating a market chase scene when they spot some heretek trying to buy archeotech.

What would these "new" dark eldar do to save their souls from Slaanesh? Soulstones also for them is too banal?

They may try to catalyse their thirst to vengeance and the pain they inflict to create a new eldar god like Ynnead ? Grimbright, because, yes, God of pain and vengeance... But also it deprive Slaneesh from a good chunk of his power, ensuring a more of equal fight between the two divinity later ?

[Suggestion] They dont really know what to do to save their souls from Slaanesh. They are trying to figure that out. The Dark Eldar are trying all sorts of different things, soulstones, apotheosis, technologically aided immortality. So far nothing is working. The Dark Eldar are so ruthless and amoral because they will stop at nothing to find away to escape Slaanesh. [/suggestion]

So what's different?

Whereas OriginalHammer is grimdark - shit's fucked and it's not going to get better - and BrightHammer is noblebright - shit's grand and it's only gonna get better - MidHammer takes a different approach. We aim for a grimbright or 'grimlight' feeling; sure, it looks like we're fairly boned now, but we all know that if we hold on a little longer, a brighter tomorrow shall be our fate.

Lore-Wise, the Lorgar Letdown wasn't as successful as the OriginalHammer Horus Heresy. Whereas some things went better than in OH, with the Space Wolves Legion (though not Russ, who is now a *ahem* lone wolf, crusading through the Imperium) falling to Chaos and the Alpha Legion driven to Tzeentch by their obsession with plots within plots, these victories are outweighed by the increased loyalist sentiments in the Primarchs and their Legions; Fulgrim, BROS FOR LIFE with Ferrus Manus, Horus, THE BEST BOY, and Magnus, RED MAGIC SPACE MAN, staying loyal, with Lorgar taking over as Heresiarch. This leads to the Lorgar Letdown being far less damaging than the Horus Heresy, with the most important distinction being that Big E, while still receiving a devastating wound that binds him to the Golden Throne, it is not so bad that he has been slowly dying for the past ten millennia. Instead, he has ever-so-slowly been recovering, communicating more and more frequently with his people and his surviving sons as he regains his strength. Though the threats from without and within are manifold, the people of the Imperium stand resolute, knowing that their Emperor shall soon lead them again.

[Suggestion] Idea for Religion Since Lorgar's writing would be likely purged by the Emperor and all of the Primarchs, The Ultramar Cult of The Aurelian, The Cult Mechanicus, and Promethean Cult all Step in to take its place. The Imperium of Midhammer is a much more Tolerant place, with religious devotion not losing its head to violent fanaticism (mostly). Holy Terra still promotes the Imperial truth, but The Emperor grudgingly tolerates the rise of religions centered around him. The Lorgar Letdown convincing both him and the Primarchs that pretending Chaos doesnt exist, and ignoring mankind's need for things to believe in is probably a bad idea.

The Aurelian Cult Founded in Ultramar, the Aurelian Cult Worships Roboute Gulliman and The God-Emperor. It serves as this timeline's main replacement for the Ecclesiarchy. The Cult places great emphasis on the Emulation of Roboute Gulliman and his writings for how to live. They believe that in the fullness of time The Avenging Son will return with his Father in Glory to defeat the Traitors once and for all, and build an "Imperium Secundus" in the warp. The Aurelian cult would function a bit like the Bretonians as well, with Tanasha Euten acting as The Lady of The Lake.

Key Beliefs (tl:dl, what if Matt Ward was Joseph Smith)

1. Deities

   There are three chief deities of the Aurelian cult: The Father, The Son, and The Queen Mother

   1. The Father
      The God Emperor of Mankind, Those who practice the Aurelian Cult believe that the Spirit or Soul of the Emperor far outgrows his actual physical presence, and that while he is Physically present on Holy Terra, his spirit is everywhere.
   2. Gulliman: The Son

      The Aurelian Cult believes that Gulliman was sent by his Father to Ultramar so as to teach men how to follow him. And that by living as a human among humans, he could set an example for what The God-Emperor expects of all his Children. The annals of Gulliman's life is recorded in a several sacred texts, but his own writings about life on Ultramar and the Imperium are also treasured. It is believed that by dying on Macragge Guliman was beloved by his father and uplifted to godhood, where he now fights for the souls of those loyal to the Emperor.

      1. Imperium Secundus

         Imperium Secundus has taken on a spiritual meaning as an afterlife. It is believed that Rouboute is building Imperium Secundus in the warp, and all noble souls of the Imperium will join him in this new and final kingdom.

         "For though we are lost in Illyrium,
         Beset by all our foes,
         We trust in you The Ultramarine,
         For In Illylium you are Building a Kingdom
         For In Illyrium you are paving the path
         For in Illyrium the wild beasts obey you
         For in Illyrium the brutes and monsters scatter
         For in Illyrium the Loyal will gather to you
         For in Illyrium a New Kingdom will be made.
         The Aurelian says to Forest of Illyrium
         "Be Trimmed and Pruned" And The Forrest will Grove itself
         The Aurelian says to the Cliffs of Illyrium,
         "Be Sturdy and Sloped" And The Cliffs will make themselves Foundations
         The Aurelian says to Oceans of Illyrium
         "Be Calm and be Clean" and The Oceans will harbor themselves
         The Aurelian will say to the Beasts of Illyrium
         "Be docile and fertile" and the beasts will husband themselves.
         The Aurelian will say to Illyrium "Be a Kingdom fit my Father"
         And Illyrium will bow and become Imperium." -Exerpt from The Psalter of The Matron

      2. The End Times

         By dying, Gulliman saved the souls of humans from drowning in the warp he is building his "Imperial Secundus" in the warp. When the End Times come, The Aurelian will reunite with the Emperor, bringing with him the souls of those noble souls who served the Emperor in Life and Served him and The Aurelian in Death. Then The Aurelian with Join his brothers and all Imperials and lead them into the Eye of Terror to slaughter the ruinous powers.

   3. The Queen Mother

      Tarasha Euten, The Mother of Roboute Gulliman, she through her trials on the Flight to Holy Terra has become a god in her own right. She acts on behalf the Emperor and Her Son. She is seen as the "Facilitator" aiding man to follow the path to the Emperor laid out by Rouboute Gulliman

      1. The Tasks of The Mother: (Space Grail Knights!)

         Those loyal servants of The Imperium will receive tasks by the Queen Mother, those who dedicate their lives to The Lady of Ultramar and fufill her tasks in protecting Mankind are bestowed with great power.

      2. The Daughters of Tanasha

         The Queen Mother Appeared to The Women of Ophelia during the m33 telling them to gather their swords and "Rebuild her Home"

2. Demonic Entities

   The Aurelian Cult (whether by accident or design) does not actually know the names of the actual Ruinous powers. Instead they are known through the Traitor Primarchs that serve them

   1. Alpharomegon: The Schemer
   2. Perturabo: The Great Temptor
   3. Angron: The Corruptor
   4. Mortarion (or whoevs): God of War and Wroth.
   5. Lorgar: The King of Demons
   6. Kurze: The Demon of Chaos
   7. Korphaeron: The Desecrator
3. Holy Entities
   • The Celestial Saints

     These include holy men and women from Gulliman and The Emperor's past who are believed to be in Imperium Secundus with Gulliman. They work on behalf of him and the faithful of the galaxy. Like the Living Saints their power is granted by the Holy Triad

     Examples include: St. Malcador the Hero, St. Olanius Pius, St. Konor, St. Aeonid Theil, St. Genetrix (the wife of Gulliman whose name is lost to history).

   • The Living Saints
   • The Divine Brethren

     The Primarchs are considered to be somewhere between gods and Saints.

4. Sacred Texts
   1. "The Protoevangelion of St Konor" in which St. Konor reveals unto Antoli sacred truths of the life of Rouboute Gulliman
   2. "The Psalter of The Matron" the Hymns sang by Tarasha Euten during the the "Flight to Terra"
   3. "The Apocalypse of The Steward" Account of the Last Battle for Maccragge by an unnamed Servant who remained on the planet. It was found during the Holy Crusade of Macragge in M35 reclamation by "The Daughters of Tanasha"
   4. "Last Testament of Aurellion" Collection Gulliman's Last Writings, his thoughts and warnings to the people of Ultramar, to the Imperium, and to His Astartes.
5. Cult Organization:
   • Leadership:
     • The Cult is Headed by the Chapter Master of The Ultramarines (Currently Maneus Calgar), headquartered in Espandor. He is considered "First Among Equals" Among the Other Chapter Masters
     • The Chapter Masters of The XIII Legion: The Chapter Masters who govern Particular Sectors serve roles similar to "Patriarchs"
     • Adeptus Sorroritas:

       They follow their own organizational rules, and answer only to their Spiritual Liege the "Lord of Ultramar." Because their code was seen to be derived by The Queen Mother Herself, none dare challenge it.

     • The Black Eutenites: (this world's black templars/death company Grimbright Sad Marines)

       A fanatical and controversial order of Legions who have received "The Golden Sorrow" where upon they are witness to the Suffering and Death of Rouboute Gulliman. Additionally they are witness to the "the current sufferings of gulliman today" Where they are given visions of all those in the Galaxy whose prayers are yet to be answered, or in a need of aid. They call themselves the Black Eutenites because it was reveiled to them they are in descent to Tanasha Euten, who was the First to Recieve "The Golden Sorrow" as she was spiritually connected to Roboute Gulliman as he was tortured and killed on Maccragge. While Emotionally, Spiritually, (and physically) painful the Black Eutenites see this as a great honor, and have their own term for it - "The Gift of The Mother." This order is particularly controversial because they see themselves as an order apart from the rest of The Ecclesiarchy (and the Imperium for that matter), and that they are charged by Gulliman and Tanasha themselves to right the wrongs of the imperium (including when righting said wrongs puts them at odds with the The Ecclesiarchy and other Imperial Administrations).

     • Holy Sites

       The Ecclesiarchy of the Aurelian Cult is Set around 13 Sacred Sites. Espandor (contentiously) holds the honor of First Among Equals. However Each Holy Seat is powerful in its own right. Every Ultramarine Successor Chapter and Sister of Battle Chapter Must Choose one Holy Seat in which they are beholden to. Holy Seats (in order of Importance:

       • Espandor
       • Holy Terra
       • Ophelia

         The Site of where Tanasha Euten's Ship Crash Landed, during Maccragge's Famous "Flight to Terra." Is one of the Oldest Seats of the Ecclesiarchy, and is also the founding site of the Sisters of Battle. Most Sisters of Battle Claim this Seat as their Spiritual Liege.

       • Calth
       • Nova Thulium
       • Sotha
       • Arda
       • Prandium
       • Maccragge

         Despite its obvious religious Importance, Maccragge was only purged of the Demonic Taint of Nurgle following the Sister's Crusade of M37. Maccragge was considered a had a sister seat of both Ophelia, Espandor, and Nova Thulium there until M39, when the Seats were united under a single Spiritual Liege.

       • Gantz
       • Saramanth
       • Uldregor
       • Laphis

       
       

[/suggestion]

Primarchs

Loyalists

Lion El'Johnson

What's his function? If we go with the suggestion that Alpharius fucked his Legion over and caused the split, he might devote himself to counter-intelligence ops, stopping revolts, rooting out turncloaks, etc.

[Suggestion] Between Alpharius' Manipulations of Luther, The Destruction of Calliban, and almost getting manipulated by Alpharius into starting a Civil War with the Ultramarines. Lion El'Johnson is obsessed with Counter-intelligence, and information networks. Unlike Vanillahammer The Lion's Dark Angels have made the Existence of The Fallen well known, and alert other legions to its activities. They "stay in the Dark, to help others see the light." The Lion is now also very deliberate and slow moving in his actions. To the point where some have claimed he is "Sleeping" on the Rock. He is not. He is just paranoid about being manipulated again.[/Suggestion]

Fulgrim

A GOOD BOY. With the obvious candidate for Propaganda Minister leading the Heresy, I'd say Fulgrim could do that job? Keeping the masses loyal through flawless works of Imperial art, spreading the Imperial Truth (or maybe something halfway between the Imperial Truth and worship of Big E) to new worlds, etc.

Jagathai Khan

Maybe the Emperor's Messenger? While Big E can of course psyker a messenger to everyone in the galaxy, if he's still capable of speech that might be a less painful alternative. Ferrying rapidly back and forth between Terra, as well as protecting messengers and shipping lanes and acting as rapid response troops, the White Scars are a welcome sight throughout the Imperium. Jaghatai is probably a decent guy, if a bit of a more less patient person.

[Suggestion] Jaghatai is based less on Ghengis Khan, and more Babur the Great. In general his White Scars and Chorgoris bear more resemblance to the Central Asian Steppe Peoples like the Old Uyghurs, Uzbeks and Chagatai of Timur (Convenient, eh?). Less "ruthless barbarian" trope and more "noble savage" trope. Make no mistake, he will still raise a mighty horde and will slaughter your army down to the last man, but afterwards he will stop to write a poem about the only flower left standing on the ruined battlefield.

I'm imagining The Khan taking on a more Noble appearance, less leather and more fine garments, layered plate mail, and Qalpak hats. His legion and ships have also taken on a distinctly more medieval central asian look, with his battleships embellished with the elaborate Gold and Turquoise of the Registon Maydoni. And his Stormseers spinning in their psyker chants like Whirling Dervishes. His armies being a diverse array of Medieval Asiatic warriors from Nomadic Warriors to Gurkhas

In keeping with the shift from Karakorum to Samarkand, Jaghatai in this universe is a greater administrator than he is in Grimdark. What sets him apart from other administrative focused Primarchs (Fulgrim, Gulliman, Lorgar), is his suspicion for settled governments, and a preference for nomadic. Khan sees a little of The Palatine in every Settlement he meets, and is convinced that the best form of government is one where the government is mobile. His meeting with his father, experience with space travel has only solidified this opinion. Khan thinks that just as it is best for the Hordes to govern cities, it should be the Fleets that direct planets, not Planets that direct fleets. His effort to convince his father and brothers of this has so far been unsuccessful, but many have come to respect his views.

Rather than being forgettable but likable, Jaghatai, in this timeline, has an "odd couple" broship with Roboute Gulliman, similar to that of Fulgrim and Ferrus Manus. Jaghatai and Rouboute represent the ideal form of opposing ways of life. They have a friendly rivalry, and regularly trade opinions and debates on the ideal administration. Khan admires the logistical prowess of Gulliman's "Settler system" while Gulliman is impressed with the Flexibility and adaptability of Khan's "nomadic system." Ultimately it was because of this unlikely friendship that after the events of the Lorgar Letdown, Gulliman entrusted Khan with composing The Codex Astartes.

After the Events of the Lorgar Letdown, Khan spends his time in the frontier regions of the Imperium, travelling aiding and governing the forgotten planets. He also oversees the Ultramar/Imperium alliance, as well as an advisory role for the "Codex Astartes" Chapters [/Suggestion]

Leman Russ

Russ is also known as the Lone Primarch. His legion abandoned him. They took refuge in bestial rage, the abandonment of high culture and values for the brutal existence of battle. Slowly they became less than their fellow Marines, then less than humans. Corrupted by the touch of the Gods, the Wolves fell, despite the farthest efforts of Russ to avert such a fate for his sons. Twisted and contorted, until all that was left of them was mutated, horrific creatures, the Canis Helix having overtaken them. Their power armor fused into their bodies, lining their snapping jaws and unholy, blood-slaked claws. Little left of their minds save the thirst for blood and battle. There is nothing left of the Space Wolves that once were, save Russ. His sons, long since lost to the Warp, are nothing more than a pack of baying hounds, little more than war-beasts to the Chaos lords they serve.

Russ has since abandoned his lost homeworld and legion. Casting off his old regalia and armor, he has taken up a simple, unpainted set of power armor. Though his true location is known only to the Emperor, it is said by Guardsmen on campaign that he travels through the Imperium, ranging from battlefield to battlefield to annihilate the enemies of man. Some wonder what goes through his mind. Does he still think of his sons, or has he attempted to bury his memories?

Dorn

Probably still the Emperor's Praetor and Architect. Anyone got fun ideas for the boys in yellow? Maybe he reigns in the Black Templars a bit once they become a thing. I'll bet Black Templars, while very very fanatical, aren't as dickish. As well... The Fists were always about defense. Good Emprah, leave them on a planet with materials for a while and we have a new Cadia.

[Suggestion]

Dorn, The Mad Architect

Disgraced as the Emperor's Praetor, Humiliated by Alpharius and Perturabo, and Abandoned by his own Legion, Rogal Dorn, Former Praetor of Terra, and Great Architect of The Imperial Palace has retreated to his home in the Inwit sector, and there he is building. Those few Imperial Fists (now called The Hands of Dorn) who have remained loyal are his master builders, serving to transform the Entire Inwit Segmentum into a Citadel. Few of his brothers know why, or what he is building for, and most have assumed their brother mad, for surely nothing exists to be as terrible to need a fortress this strong?

During The Lorgar Letdown:

Perturabo is able to goad Dorn and his fists into a Trap on Olympia, which Perturabo has transformed into a massive fortification he calls the Iron Cage. The LL Iron Cage is less Grimdark than its Vanilla hammer version, its more like a standard seige (Though Perturabo now also employs warp magic into his fortifications, making it a trippy seige as well). Its significantly less devastating than on the Imperial Fists, however it does take a really long time to seige. Long enough for Dorn to be away at his post on Terra for Alpharius to sneak in, destroy half the Imperial Palace (and about half of the Custodes, and a good chunk of what was Asia and the Pacific) on Terra with an Archeotech Bomb, Kill Malcador the Sigilite, Mortally Wound the Emperor and Steal the Emperor's Right Hand and Heart as a Tribute to Tzeentch. Once he finally cracked Perturabo's Seige Perturabo was no where to be found. Perturabo then Blew up the planet of Olympia as an offering to The Prince of Pleasure for Demonhood. Dorn and his legion barely escaped.

"Do you Remember, Rogal, when you were asked if there was any Fortress you could build that I could not siege?"
"Yes" said Dorn, "and the answer remains the same."
"As curt as ever. Now what about the inverse? Does the Great Architect of Terra believe he could crack any Fortress I built?"
"This is evident now" Dorn replied, to the muffled laughs of the Imperial Fists.
"Indeed, Father, never really granted me the same opportunities as my new patron does. Did you know, I was so angered by your hubris that day, that in my more foolish mortal life, I would spend weeks at a time, agonizing over your plans and my own, your battle records. Convinced that, given the opportunity, I could outshine you with a fortress that you could never crack. But now that my patron has given me the tools to fufill my desire, I see the truth. I was not your rival, I never existed. In your mind, I was a projection of your own sins. You once accused me of recklessly throwing legionaries at walls, and yet..." The Primarch Waved his hands around his ruined Citadel, "here we are at the site of my ruined walls. Leveled only by the Fine Skulls of your Legionaries. That ruthless obstinence is not my failure, its yours. Do you know what I have realized, My dear Brother Rogal? For so long, my mind was obsessed over designs for "the perfect fortress" it was my obsession, my dream, i would build the best Fortress. Then I realized my folly. There is no best fortress, whether we build them with sticks like our ancestors, or Rockcrete and Adamantium, they are all built with the same purpose. Do you know what that purpose is?"

"To make it so strong you stop the enemy from entering" said Rogal.

"NO" Roared Perturabo with a bellowed, triumphant laugh."I knew you would say that, but that's ok, I used to say that as well."

"All fortresses are pregnable, Rogal, with enough time and resources. Ancient Troy fell through trickery. Qunstinable Fell through treason, Jibralter fell through Technology, and Nova Yorik fell through the unruliness of its own citizens. Just as Terra falls now due to the negligence of its Defenders. It is the duty of any fortification not to be impregnable, but to make the cost of breaking it so high the enemy is either deterred or exhausted. To be so costly, that it is not worth the treasure inside. And if that is true, the ultimate fortress, my brother, is not one that can't be besieged, it is one not worth seiging at all."

"And That, my ever-obstinate brother, is your greatest failure. Perhaps you are right, maybe there is some design of yours I could never break. But I never needed to, perhaps, like Illium of Old I just my Ulysses to open the Gates. All i needed was its great defender, Rogal Dorn, away long enough for the defenses to falter. Terra has fallen, and I dont care. But I know you do, just as I know in your heart you think you could siege any fortress I built. No matter how meticulous my design, you would find a way to tear it down, whatever the cost. You have to, that's why you projected onto me, your pathetic shadow. So obsessed are you with your ability to build and siege, that, like me, you could never comprehend, never even conceive of the idea that a fortress would cost too much to crack. That it is not worth the treasure inside. Well here it is, Rogal. Here is the heart of my Fortress. An Ancient Planet-destroying Bomb from the Dark Age of Technology, much like the one that has detonated on Terra in your absence. I set it to detonate in 100 days, but that was the day before you came here, about ...99 days, 16 hours and 55 minutes ago. I do hope you remember the way out Rogal and your legion is ready for a lively sprint, as I am afraid I am not here to show you the door. Good Luck dear Brother."

-Holographic Projection of Perturabo at the heart of the Labyrinthine, Continent-Spanning Fortress of Olympia.

After The Lorgar Letdown

His legion was mostly intact, but he took the injuries his Father and Terra sustained very personally. The fact that his father was only wounded, and that there was only a continent sized crater on Earth did little to lift up his spirits. Dorn resigned from his Position as The Emperor's Praetorian, and wandered the galaxy.

At some point in his self-imposed exile of he stumbled upon rumors of Hive Fleet Tiamet. He and his men followed through and in M33 he encountered Ziaphoria's Tower. Ordering an excavation of the tower. Through this Dorn has learned the awful truth of what is comming, and that Humanity is not prepared. Perturabo's words ringed in his soul and he suddenly realized his true calling. He saw an entity who, like him, had no concept of surrender, no notion of the cost of war, no instinct except resiliance and adaptability. Discovering new found purpose he returned to Terra and formally requested that the Segmentum Tempestus be handed over to him. The Sector, which was divided among the already overworked brothers, were more than happy to have their brother back and active in Imperial affairs again. They readily granted it to him.

Now in control of the Segmentum, He immediately set to work. All local leaders who opposed his rule or designs were expelled (this now includes the nomadic fleet Tallarn, who opposed the engineering of their home system). All resources in the Segmentum, be it human, material or spiritual, exists for the fortifications of the Segmentum. Planets, drained of their mantle for Ore, stars have gone dark from Dyson spheres, asteroid fields lay vacant, gas giants Syphoned to their core. At the Center of it all lay Inwit, once an ice world now a Fortress world three times the size of its old planet, surrounded by rings and floating fortresses.

Abandonment by his Legion.

While Russ lost his legion to the madness of chaos, Dorn lost his to his own all consuming obsession. Sigismund, representing those Fists who wished the Legion Returned to their founding purpose of Great Crusades and glorious conquests confronted Dorn. Dorn, while furious, let them go. The Few that remained (about 4 chapters worth) renamed themselves the Hands of Dorn.

Because of his Legion Deserting him, Dorn has come to rely more on the Men and Women of The Segmentum, in particular the "Crenellations of Krieg," who are his steadfast fortress defenders. The Entire Segmentum is hammered into the image of Dorn. Stoic, utilitarian, obstinate, and ever resiliant. And when The Hive Fleets dig begin to arrive in the Segmentum. Dorn and his Troops stood ready.

[/Suggestion]

Sanguinius

Known by his honorific, "The Emperor's Fury", Sanguinius travels the length and breadth of the Imperium, enacting His will. Despite his title, most of his duties are explicitly non-violent in nature; resolving diplomatic crises that could see entire sectors embroiled in civil war or heretical uprisings, planning the overall strategy of a Crusade, or spreading the word of the Emperor to worlds led astray. Few know why the Primarch of the Blood Angels, one of the finest warriors in the galaxy, avoids conflict so. Some theorize he has been horribly injured by Lorgar during his duel with the Arch-Traitor, no longer able to lift a blade, but those who have seen the Primarch's graceful movements know this to be false. Only the most trusted of Sanguinius' inner circle know the truth of the matter: the Primarch is constantly battling an affliction known as the Red Thirst, a berserker rage that leaves him in a frenzy if it is unleashed. Rare are the times when the Angel of Baal risks entering combat, and then only in the darkest of hours. He deploys alone, with long-ranged fire support, to avoid collateral damage, and once fighting, does not stop until the last foe has been butchered.

[Suggestion] Sanguinius's only fought one Battle in the Lorgar Let Down. The in which he did He and his men were consumed with The Red Thirst. It was so barbaric that Sanguinius refused to fight anyone but Lorgar himself. Having also consumed Kor Phaeron, he is now witness to the horrid memories of The Black Cardinal and is fighting this corruption in addition to The Red Thirst. He fears that the next time he develops the Red Thirst, he will fall to Chaos.[/Suggestion]

Ferrus Manus

Goes on bro-for-life HIGH ADVENTURE trips with Fulgrim, the Good Boy. He’d probably be the Emperor’s Artificer, innovating a lot in the department of things that help you stop other creatures from breathing. He might have good ties to the AdMech, with the living metal on his hands being seen as a blessing from the Omnissiah? Iron Warriors ain't as fetishistic about tech, since he intended to reign them in later in OriginalHammer, and since he's still kicking now...

Guilliman

His administrative skills would definitely mean he’d have a role in governance and administration at the highest level. He might just straight-up be the Imperial Regent if we don't go with the 'Council of Regents' idea.

[Suggestion]
Gulliman is dead. Not "in stasis" dead. Just Dead. Sanguinius/Ferrus Manus dead. The death of Rouboute Gulliman serves as this universe's focal point for all of the spiritual shenanigans that Vanillahammer 40k has like the Living Saints, Sanguinor (The Aurelian), The Sisters of Battle (Daughters of Euten), The Ecclesiarchy (With Maneus Calgar as "The Spiritual Liege" Space Pope). The Ultramarines also now have a Grimbright version of The Black Rage called "The Golden Zeal," where the Heroic last Stand of Rouboute Gulliman Inspires them to fight demons and heretics.

Istavaan IV and The Drop Site Massacre is instead Calth and the demonic destruction of MacCragge (see dropsite massacre suggestion), in which Rouboute gives his life to help ensure the evacuation of the Macragge through hundreds of evacuation ships (important later).

The Five Hundred Worlds of Ultramar are De Jure "Independent" from the Imperium because of the events of the Lorgar Letdown (destruction of maccragge, warpstorms, suspicion of other primarchs), but in reality The Imperium exerts as much control over its "Ally" Ultramar as it does any distant realm of the Imperium. This is in no small part thanks to the Work of Jaghatai Khan, who took the Notes of His Buddy Rouboute for The Codex Astartes, and Christopher Tolkein'd them into The "Codex Astartes." Under the Codex Most of The White Scars, Orphaned Ultramarines, and Loyalists abandon their legions to act as independent chapters that would work in Ultramar and The Imperium, while still being personally loyal to the Emperor (not any Primarch or admin of Terra).

In the 41st Millennium, Ultramar is Space Bretonia complete with A deified Tarasha Euten Serving as the Lady of The Lake (as well as Mary in Catholicism/Orthodoxy). Ultramar is covered with noble houses who religiously follow the Codex Astartes (as well as Gulliman's other Writings), and will go on quests for the "Great Mother's" Favor. This Universe's "The Black Templars" are called the "The Black Eutenites" who are essentially a Collection of Grail Knights and Knights Errant, who go Lorgar Hunting. The are "Black" because they Paint over their previous Chapter Insignia to denote their service exclusively to "The Queen Mother." The Capitol of Ultramar is now Espandor (Space Vatican), with Calth (Space Santiago) and a rebuilt Maccragge (Space Jerusalem) being Sites of Holy Pilgrimage. The Refugees of Maccragge have become a special nobility in Ultramar, with families taking the names of the Evacuation ships.

Gulliman's Mother, Tarasha Euten, takes on special significance in both Ultramar and The Aurelian Cult. This is not only because of her connection to her son, but also because of the events of "The Macragge Armada." The Macragge Armada were the ships that Gulliman was able to save from Macragge's destruction along with Billions of Ultramar Citizens. The Refugee Ships went through their own Grimbright version of The Flight of The Eisenhorn, where the Gellar Field failed on their warp to Terra. Tarasha Euten stood defiant against the Demons and horrors of the warp, and took command of the fleet. Because Tarasha was there and because there were billions upon billions on board, rather than a single battleship, Tarasha was able to comfort the fearful refugees; and rally them to faith.

"Perhaps you are falling into despair, and you believe The Emperor has abandoned Ultramar in its darkest day. But Know This! That as my son gave his dying breath fighting these very demons he did not lose his faith in the Emperor. And because of this I know That The Lord of Ultramar stands alongside us, I see him like a great wave of sparkling clean water driving down the Floatsam and mud of the warp. He did not lose his faith, and so I swear to you on this accursed demon-ridden ship, nor will I. So if you weary to place your faith in the Emperor and too tired to carry your prayers to Terra, then fear not! Your hopes and prayers will not be lost in the hell, for as The Queen Mother of Ultramar I command you to look upon me and to place your faith in my faith and the faith of Rouboute. For we have not forgotten him -and with our last words, passing spirit, and dying gasps- My son and I will carry your names and your prayers to the Golden Throne." Courage and Honnor, my Children! The Emperor Protects!" -Last Vox Broadcast of Tarasha Euten on board "The Maiden of Espandor."

By Using herself and Gulliman as the focal point for their belief, the Refugees were inspired to repel the demons and were able to build a sort of substitute Gellar Field of Faith." The other result of this was that Tarasha Euten achieved Apotheosis transforming into a minor god (not Chaos God, more like Isha). Gulliman himself also achieved Apotheosis as a result of this Flight and there are occasional sightings of "The Aurelian" a Man in Gold and Blue coming to the aid of The Imperium.

The "Aurelian Cult" alongside Vulkan's Promethean Cult and Cult Mechanicus are the three accepted religions in the Imperium. The Aurellian Cult in particular serves as the substitute for The Imperial Cult of Vanillahammer, (perhaps instead of being Grimdark evil Goge Vandire is just Space Luther and creates a different sect?). The Religion functions similar to how The Koran thinks Christianity works, with The Emperor (The Father), Gulliman (The Son), and Tarasha Euten (The Holy Spirit/Blessed Mother) forming the Holy Triad of Dieties, with the Father being Supreme over the Son and Mother. The Return of the Avenging Son is considered a sign of the End Times, when it is prophesized that The Avenging Son will return to Earth to Slay Lorgar and -Reuniting with his father and brothers- shall slay the Ruinous Powers. [/Suggestion]

Magnus

Loyalist. Takes over part of Big E’s burden as to the Astronomicon from time to time. If he’s not doing that, he’s probably overseeing the Scholastica, the Black Ships, and hunting down rogue Psykers. I could see him spearheading educational campaigns too, especially about psykers. The Emprah's Magny-Magic. Probably gets on well with Malcador.

Horus

The Best Boy. Probably still the Warmaster, conquering new worlds for the Imperium. Does he retain his shtick of making sure all worlds he conquers are fully integrated, or does he leave that to Guilliman (if Papa Smurf doesn’t fuck off to do his own thing) or Vulkan? I’d love to see him plan against the Tyranids at some point. Think about how he'd react to Creed. Think about it. In in-game terms, this would basically mean deploying five units wherever you wish however you want with scout. Scout you Titan, Horus, and a knight and a few tanks. Why not? Horus arranges the strategic bits, and then Creed hides his units.

Vulkan

With the Salamanders’ thing for helping out civilians, I could see Vulkan acting as a pacifier of worlds. Whereas Sanguinius mostly deals with the diplomatic side of things, keeping powerful individuals loyal, Vulkan would go out to the masses and rouse their support for the Imperium. Bro of everyone. Prepare to be friended. Of course, if you piss him off...

Corvus Corax

With the Emperor’s Executioner and Terror Weapon both falling to Chaos, Corax might take over both roles, becoming the dagger in the dark that removes those Sanguinius cannot placate and terrifying into submission those Vulkan cannot convince. Obviously doesn’t take it to Curze’s extreme, though. Probably causes a lot fewer body parts of loved ones to be found in mailboxes. Instead, eloquently worded death threats, ultimatums, and warnings signed in suspicious red liquid.

Traitors

Perturabo

Slaaneshi. His natural perfectionism developed into obsession and Slaanesh worship. Essentially replaces Fulgrim and the Emperor's Children as the Slaaneshi Legion.

[Suggestion] Given that Perturabo has a whole "Hellenic/Italian Renaissance" Theme, His Slaaneshi demon form looks like the Vitruvian man with extra arms and legs emerging from a single point.

His contribution to the Lorgar Letdown was keeping Rogal Dorn and his entire Legion occupied in a Grimbright version of the "Iron Cage (which is now Olympia)." Dorn's Absence from Terra allowed the Alpha Legion to sneak in and cause a ruckas on Terra. [/Suggestion]

Curze

Malalian? Up for debate atm. Going on a "fuck all a' y'all" Crusade against everyone.

Angron

Khorne. Unchanged? Maybe we could do something fun with the Butcher’s Nails.

Mortarion

Nurgle. Any ideas? Don’t have much.

[Suggestion] You could switch Angron and Mortarion. Wouldn't be that much of a stretch for Mortarion. Loves ruthless murder and extermination of worlds, and he hates psykers. It would actually be a neat tonal shift giving the blood god a champion of calculating ruthlessness rather than outward rage.>

In the case of Angron, perhaps Nurgle makes an offer to Angron to finally escape his hellish life, to be free from the pain of the Butcher's Nails. So Angron becomes a willing servant of Nurgle, with a giant disgusting bloated flesh cyst where the butchers nails used to be. He's also been reunited with his old comrades from Nuceria. Nurgle is such a good grandpa he fetched their souls out of the warp and put them into Zombied bodies.

As far as Loyalists go you could do Corax, i guess, but that would just be Diet Mortarion. Dorn idea would be neat. Crazy Nurgle Dorn building massive fortresses of Flesh. Alternatively you could make Luther and the Fallen (or The Lion) outright Nurgle Worshippers, but instead of the pox theme they have a more "dark enchanted forest" look. The Lion Could succumb to the voices of the Forrest who turns out to have just been Nurgle. [/Suggestion]

Lorgar

Chaos Undivided. Arch-Traitor. What does he do different form Horus as Heresiarch? Less Primarch, but zeal gives him more Daemons, allowing him to pull off the Drop Site Massacre, but this doesn't compensate for the legions that didn't flip, which is why the Lorgar Letdown lost far more decisively than the Horus Heresy.

Alpharius & Omegon

Tzeentch. The mustache-twirling, cat-petting “I’ve been expecting you”-ing villains of 40k. Guide WAAAAAGHS! to poorly defended yet important worlds, triggering uprisings in previously thoroughly loyal sectors, generally creating copious amounts of JUST AS PLANNED. May or may not have triggered the Dark Angels’ schism. Masquerading as Loyalist. Did they have a hand in the creation of the Tau as an annoyance to the IoM?

[Suggestion] Lorgar only thought he was in charge. Really Alpharius was masterminding the whole thing (the whole Lorgar Letdown wasn't really an assault on the Imperium of Man, it was just Tzeentch's move in the Great Game).

Alpharius utilized the elements of the Lorgar Letdown.

• Death of Gulliman by Mortarion and the Fall of MacCragge
• Warp Storms around Ultrimar
• Chaos on Calliban
• The Space Wolves' Sack of Prospero
• Betrayal at Calth, and attempts to frame the Ultramarines as Traitors
• Angron's Nurglite attack on Chemos
• Dorn's Battle at Olympia
• "Omegons" Fleet "Rebelling"
• The Mechanicum Civil War (which didn't take place on mars) was a Dark Mechanicum invasion and secession of Forgeworlds in the Segmentum Obscurus and Pacificus

To have the entire Imperium (and the other 3 Ruinous Powers) focused on the idea that the Imperium was about to Split down the Middle. Instead, Alpharius took advantage of all of the chaos to have his "Loyal" legion come to Terra. There he performed his Coup de Grace

• Death of Malcador
• Bomb that destroys half of the Imperial Palace (As well as most of Asia) destroying most of the Custodes, the Sisters of Silence, as well as dozens of Hive Citties in what was once the Continent of Asia.
• Terran Based Defense Guns were pointed at the moon and were used to bomb the "Bright Side of the Moon" At least half of the Population of the Moon is dead.
• Tzeentchian Demon incursions looting the treasures of old earth.
• Alpharius stealing the Right hand and Heart of The Emperor of Mankind and consecrates them to Tzeentch. Before disappearing into the Web way.
• Disabling the Golden throne for at least a week. Causing untold numbers of lost ships to the warp.

So not really as devastating as The Horus Hersey was, it was still pretty bad. The remaining Custodes were there to save the Emperor, and Losing a heart in the 31st millennium isn't the debilitating injury it is in the 2nd. Alpharius didn't give the Emperor a "Soul-wound" or whatever.

This is also the reason that Chaos has been less active for the past 10 millennia. The other Chaos gods are still smarting from Tzeentch's devastating play in The Great Game, that most are either completely unwilling to work with each other, or work with each other against Tzeentch. Giving the Imperium more breathing room. [/Suggestion]

Xenos

Just like in regular 40k, xenos play a big role in the galaxy, but unlike regular 40k, the fact the Emperor is still around means Mankind's contempt and hatred for most things aliend doesn't devolve into utter xenophobia, which can smooth things out through diplomatic relations.

Eldar

With the Emperor still around, and the threat of Chaos considerably smaller than in the OG 40k, the Eldar may go two ways: either they are as uptight as ever, and thus be hunted down in any of their form, or they become a some sort of shady ally for the Imperium. In the first case, the Emperor knows that Eldar souls are quite powerful and feed chaos when unproperly stored, so exterminating them all once and for all might stop them from feeding Slaanesh, and thus heavily hurting one of the main Chaos gods. Considering the Emperor is still alive and Magnus is still loyal, the Imperium probably has multiple access to the Eldar Webway, and enough firepower to threaten Commorragh itself. Then again, the Webway is still a project worth consider, so the Emperor may negociate with the Eldar in exchange of Webway knowledge, as well as to help fighting Chaos, tyranids and many other threats. As well, there is the problem of having a hotzone that the INQUISITION can just visit and keep an eye on.

[Suggestion] The Eldar have some semblance of unity through their shared desired to keep the webway secure. The Imperium has some access to the webway but for the most part, the Emperor's Webway Project has been indefinitely postponed until the Emperor can fully recover.

The project itself is fine, unlike in Vanillahammer, but one of the consequences of the Lorgar Letdown was Alpharius' destruction of part of the Imperial Palace and an influx of Tzeentchian Demons raiding terra. Perhaps even some traitor legions were able to escape into the webway gate. This spooks the Eldar, who are terrified that Human recklessness with the Webway will cause it to become breached by the Ruinous powers. Seeing the penetration of the webway as an existential threat to the Eldar, The Craftworlds and even the Dark Eldar have got together to aggressively patrol the Webway gates from Imperial and Chaotic incursions.

The Imperium can still use the Webway, but it is heavily restricted. The Emperor and Magnus have been able to negotiate for limited official use of the webway. The Imperium is only permitted certain entrances to the webway (terra and perhaps 2 others per segmentum). Only Rogue Traders with joint Imperial-Craftworld Licenses are permitted travel through the webway. These highly prized licenses are incredibly rare (no more than 10 have been issued by a single craftworld through its 10 millennium existence) and are the most prized possession one could inherit. In terms of wealth, prestige, and clout, The Web Trader is to a Rogue Trader what a Rogue Trader is to a planet bound merchant.

Overtime, the Eldar and Imperium have worked out agreements for individual Astartes Chapters, and even an Imperial Legion (The Thousand Sons) to be granted limited permission into the webway. Jaghatai Khan, Fulgrim, and Ferrus Manus have also been granted Permission to enter the Web way, but he is never permitted more than a force the size of a Chapter to accompany him. Vulkan is permanently banned from The Webway (which suits him just fine). The Inquisition has very limited access to the Webway, and their activities are closely monitored.

The Webway Project thus still exists, and still exists to the benefit of the greater imperium. However, rather than the dream of mankind's future it was hoped to be, it is a shadow of its potential. Little more than a limited access HOV lane, for emergency logistics, limited trade and as an emergency channel. The Human Webway Project has ground to a screeching halt, crushed under the weight of treaty obligations, political opportunism, and eldar micromanagement. Perhaps once the Emperor is fully healed the project can roar back to life, but for now, the current arrangement helps keep some semblance of diplomacy between the humans and eldar, and offers enough benefits to be considered a positive improvement.

[/Suggestion]

Orks

Some things never really change, and orks are not an exception. In MidHammer, orks are still a constant threat, but the more organized state of the Imperium means they can be dealt with much more effectively. The War of the Beast was much less damaging, although it still was quite a dangerous event. Perhaps, though, the truly insane feats of survival that orks (or at least the ones with plot armour) seem capable of carrying out are toned down fairly heavily-orks are still tough, but not incinerate-my-upper-half-with-plasma-and-I'll-stomp-you-to-death tough.

Tyranids

The Great Devourer still lurks around the galaxy eating planets, but there are many things that can challenge their presence in the galaxy. For one, the Emperor is alive, and while he can't really direct his troops personally against the nids, he is still the most powerful psyker in the galaxy, and it stands to reason he can devise multiple strategies to mess with the tyranids' sense of direction. Not to mention Magnus is still loyal, and he could be one of the greatest assests Mankind has against the Hive Mind.

Necrons

The Necrons are waking up after millions of years of rest, but instead of a galaxy fully embroiled in war, they find a damaged, but still strong Imperium, that could counter the slowly awakening Necrons before they become too dangerous. The Emperor may try to do something about the C'Tan shards, considering he has the Void Dragon prisioner in Mars. Considering newer fluff, possibly tentative negotiations?

Writefaggotry

Vox-Recording Found on Terra, M41

John Alvok, final recording on Terra. "To Meredith, my lovely wife, so vast a distance away. I saw him today. After so many years of waiting. The Master of Mankind, our most glorious Emperor of Man. Though he once willed it not, I believe in his godhood.

Today, I have been vindicated.

Such a man. Tall, towering over the procession. His face carved from perfection, set in a strong yet calm visage, his eyes scanning over us pilgrims. Do you know the most amazing thing, Meredith? He spoke. Our immortal Emperor spoke to us. I am truly at peace now. Fifteen years awaiting and every instant was worth it, for the thirty seconds I could lay eyes upon him.

His words? "Be at peace."

The Dawn of Hades Hive

Sergeant Iastus - no, Lieutenant Iastus, he corrected himself - of the Hades Hive XVIth Militia Platoon surveyed the men and women under his command. Civvies, mostly, though a couple Arbites were mixed in - he’d put those to work as sargeants. A lot of his troopers looked hungry. Most looked tired. All were clearly afraid. Iastus shared that sentiment; he’d fought the Orks before, and it wasn’t something he enjoyed. He winced and reflexively ran his finger over the scar on his leg left there by one of the brutes.

Still, the Hive needed its defenders; the XVIth would have to do. He clutched the Imperial Aquila hanging around his neck, thinking of his home, his wife, and his son.

“Men,” he said, his voice shaky, “on this day, the world of Armageddon stands in the dark of night. Ghazghkull Thraka has returned to plague this noble world once again, and his armies are banging on the gates as we speak.” Several of his troopers went a couple shades paler as he spoke. “Today, the Emperor calls upon you to fight, and perhaps die, for the Imperium.” His voice grew quieter; he’d never been the best at inspiring speeches, and it was showing. He frantically cast around for anything to say that might inspire the civilians under his command to hold the line when the time came. His eye fell on a little girl, holding her mother’s hand, standing next to the parade square at which the XVIth had assembled.

“You there, little one,” he said softly, his vox-amplifier ensuring everyone could hear him.

“Please, join me.”

Looking at her mother, then back at him, the little girl trotted up to the stage, nervously. He noticed she kept glancing into the masses of troops on the field.

“What is your name, little one?” Iastus rested a hand on her shoulder comfortingly. The girl looked down at her shoes as she muttered her response.

“R-Rasa, sir. Rasa Halen.” At once, her furtive looks at the troops made sense.

“Trooper Halen! Step forward.” Iastus barked an order in his stern Sergeant voice. Speeches weren’t his forte, but orders... orders he could do.

A wiry man dressed in the uniform of the Arbites nervously stepped forward. “I-I’m sorry, sir, I told her to stay home today but-”

“Trooper Halen! This is your daughter, correct?” The man stood shaking in his boots, unsure as to where this was going

“Y-yes, sir.”

Iastus put on a friendly smile. He had no idea where he was going with this, but for once, his tongue seemed to have found him. He clutched his Aquila a little tighter and patted Rasa’s head.

“She’s got guts to come here today. Got that from her dad, for sure.” He turned his gaze towards the assembled Hive Militia platoon.

“Men! Before you, you see the daughter of one of your own. You might have come to know Trooper Halen during our training together, or perhaps in the cafetarium. Perhaps you knew him from before this mess, perhaps this is the first time you’ve heard his name. It matters not. He comes from our Hive, from our planet - he’s one of ours!” His voice grew steady, taking on volume as Iastus’ confidence grew.

“Trooper Halen! Would you let any green-skinned barbarian near little Rasa?”

The soldier, who had relaxed a little now the Lieutenant’s attention was no longer on him, snapped back into attention. “Never, sir! They’d have to go through me!”

“Excellent. I would expect nothing less. Those Orks out there, though, seem eager to spill the blood of your daughter and your wife. Are you going to let that happen?” Trooper Halen’s earlier fear seemed to ebb away as righteous anger asserted itself. “Frak that, boss! I’ll fight ‘em all with my bare hands if I need to - they ain’t gettin’ Rasa and Eleanne!” Some troopers cheered at this, though it quickly died down.

“Men, before you you see Trooper Halen - not one of the Emperor’s Avenging Angels, not one of his fine Guardsmen, nor a PDF soldier. Trooper Halen is just a citizen of the Imperium, one amongst trillions. Yet, he is so much more than that. Through him, and all others like him, the Imperium is made manifest! Through him, and those like him, the tides of treason and bloodshed have been turned back time and time again! Together with him, we shall turn it back once more! These savages come to butcher our friends, our sons, our daughters - will we let them?”

“NO!” A resounding echo resonated through the square. The cheers returned, stronger this time.

“Men - nay, soldiers, HEROES of the Imperium! Today, we stand against carnage! We stand against the darkness, bearing the light that our Emperor has spread through the galaxy since He has led Humanity to claim its destiny! ‘Tis true, night has fallen on Armageddon, but every night must give way to dawn - today, WE end the night! TODAY, MEN, WE ARE THE DAWN, AND THESE FOUL SAVAGES SHALL KNOW IT!”

Like a volcanic eruption to rival the fiercest volcano on Nocturne, defiant cheers erupted from the men and women of the XVIth. Shouts of “We are the dawn!” “They ain’t getting my son!” and

“His Will Be Done!” filled the air. Little Rana, confused and scared by all the shouting, began to cry and hugged her dad, still standing out of rank. Iastus patted her on the back.

“It will be alright, little one. Dawn has broken today.”

The Emperor's Fury

“The Emperor’s Fury? Aye, I’ve seen him fight. Why are you staring at me like that? Close your mouth, boy, or your jaw’s gonna fall off. ‘Awesome’? Son, it was terrifying.

Sure, he might not seem that scary - imposing, certainly, he’s one of the Emperor’s children, after all - but scary? Nah, surely not, he’s the Emperor’s foremost diplomat. He hardly ever deals with combat on a personal level, rarely even duels. Surely he can’t be that scary? Listen up, boy, you’ve probably heard the rumours that that thrice-damned arch-traitor knocked something wrong in the Angel of Baal, hence his avoidance of combat. Lemme tell ya, that’s a bigger load of groxshit than you’d find in an agri-world fertilizer ship.

It was on Coronus V, Garguan sector, some ten, twenty years ago. I was still just PDF back then, stationed in the capital hive. We’d been dealing with an upsurge in mutant births, rogue psyker activities, cult activity, the whole package.The Planetary Governor, that traitorous fuck, was acting a bit miffy too. Seemed intent on seccession, and the Imperium would have none of that. So, over came Sanguinius, t’see if he could straighten things out.

Now, if I’d tell ya things went to the Warp in a handbasket, I’d be underestimating to the point of groxshitting you. I was stationed near the Governatorial Palace at the time, and saw the Emperor’s Fury himself enter to meet with the Governor. I could see why they call him the Angel; I’m still not convinced he ain’t got an actual halo around his face. Face like an angel, too.

Anyhow, so the moment he enters, a series of explosions rock the palace and the Hive as a whole. Within a minute, our positions are stormed by hordes of mutants and freakish zealots, barreling down at us with hardly more than cobbled-together junk as armor and rusty knives for weapons. They weren’t the problem. The problem was that pretty much every trooper in there with me, save for my own squad, the glorious bastards, made to shoot at us, screaming about offering our skulls to the Blood God.

Now, we were damn lucky that the Angel of Baal had bought a honour guard, or I wouldn’t be sitting here. Jervis was down, Petula had a slug in his shoulder and I was running out of ammo, and these freaks have almost bashed down the gates. So we’re sitting there, thankfully having cleared the traitors out of our position, but with a horde of mutants banging at the door, praying to the Emperor for salvation - what? Yeah, yeah, I know, He didn’t want to be prayed to, but trust me, you’d do the same if you saw some harlot with a face that look like it had melted promising to do unmentionable things to your spleen. Now stop interrupting me.

Okay, so, the door gives way, Yerrin goes down to some freak with four-and-a-half arms - yeah, I don’t know how that worked either - and we’re sure we’ve faced the end. Thankfully, it seemed the Emperor listened to my prayers, and the moment I’m jumped by one of those freaks, its chest explodes in a shower of gore. It wasn’t pleasant, but I’m sure it was preferable to the alternative. In storm the red-armoured sons of Sanguinius, wreaking absolute fucking havoc on the enemy. Within ten seconds, every last mutant in that room had died.

The Space Marines order us to follow them - not sure in what way we could help Astartes except draw fire away from them, but I’m not going to question a command by one of the Blood Angels. So, we grab our gear and follow them, fighting through a literal sea of mutants to get back to the palace - well, in fairness, they did most of the fighting, we just tagged along in the corridor of corpses they created.

Anyhow, we’re almost at the front door of the Governor’s place, and we see a dark, giant form crashing through one of the stained glass windows at the fifteenth floor. Turns out the Governor tried to summon Daemons to help fight the Son of the Emperor, but fucked up somewhere along the line and got possessed by one of them instead. I think they called it a Bloodthirster or something. I can’t quite recall after all those bottles of amasec I had after that event. Anyhow, after the Daemon, the Angel of Baal jumps out and starts punching the shit out of that abomination in mid-air. They crashed into the ground together, right in front of us. That Daemon never stood a fucking chance.

After punching it until its face stopped resembling a face, the Bloodthirster vanished in a puff of sulphur, and Sanguinius looks up. I still think I’m damned for him looking me directly into my eyes. There was something angelic about him still, but not the type of angel that exemplifies kindness anymore. This was the kind of angel that storms out of the heavens with a giant flaming sword to fuck you up in all sorts of ways. His eyes… oh Emperor, his eyes. Hand me that bottle of amasec, will you? Yes, I know it’s my fifth. I’m your superior, son, so just shut the fuck up and give me the alcohol.

Ah, that’s better. Where was I? Oh, right. So the Emperor’s Fury looks up at us, snarling for some reason. I looked at his Marines for guidance, and what I saw almost scared me more than Sanguinius himself. In all my years of service, I’ve seen Astartes on more occasions than many in the Guard, but this is the only time I’ve seen one afraid.

Never thought I’d say it, but I thanked the Emperor when a right proper army of heretics showed up and began to shoot at the Angel of Baal. He turned around to face them and charged. What he did… wasn’t pretty. The streets were crammed with heretics, but he just butchered them all in seconds. He waded into the city, out of sight. He pretty much single-handedly executed every traitor in the Hive that day.

I’ve seen The Emperor’s Fury fight, and let me tell you, son, he’s got that name for a reason”.