The Solariate

The Solariate Guard are the elite veterans of the Firstborn Imperial Marine Legion, the Sons of The Morning, handpicked by the Luminarch Llucerian Morningstar as his chosen Honor Guard. Comprising not only the mightiest warriors and blades-men, the Solariate also includes expert tacticians and leaders who excelled in guiding and tempering their fellow Legionnaires’ ferocity. They serve a dual purpose: as the personal Honor Guard of their Gene-Father, and as the guiding shepherds for their brothers during the chaos of war.
== Overview ==
==== Honor Guard - The Solariate Dhezyèmha ====
The Solariate Praetorian Guard Dhezyèmha stand as living embodiments of the Legion’s ideals and the oaths they swore. Selected, trained, and armed similarly to their brother Solariates of the Praetor Brotherhood, the Dhezyèmha Troops are the sworn retainers and personal Honor-Guard of Llucerian Morningstar. Their presence is a testament to the might and unity of the Legion, symbolizing the unwavering commitment to their leader and their cause. The Dhezyèmha are divided into a collection of Troops, each numbering nine Marines. Among these, three Troops are always stationed to accompany their Luminarch into battle, providing a formidable shield against any threat that dares approach him. The remaining Troops are strategically deployed to defend key Legion assets, such as the Legion's Palace Monastery, or to safeguard individuals of significant importance to the Legion.
In their role as protectors, the Dhezyèmha demonstrate unparalleled loyalty and prowess. Their training regimen is rigorous, ensuring they are always at peak physical and mental condition. They are equipped with the finest weapons and armor, crafted to enhance their already formidable combat abilities. Each Dhezyèmha Marine is a master of warfare, skilled in various forms of combat, from close-quarters engagements to strategic battlefield maneuvers. Their dedication to Llucerian Morningstar is absolute. They stand vigilant, ready to lay down their lives for their leader without hesitation. Their presence at his side is not only a symbol of protection but also a declaration of the Legion’s strength and unity. The Dhezyèmha embody the spirit of the Solariate, representing the highest standards of honor, duty, and courage.
In battle, the Dhezyèmha are a force to be reckoned with. Their coordination and discipline are unmatched, allowing them to operate seamlessly as a single entity. They move with precision and purpose, each Marine anticipating the actions of their comrades, creating a near-impenetrable wall of defense around their Luminarch. Their combat strategies are honed through relentless training and real-world experience, making them adaptable and deadly opponents. The Dhezyèmha’s responsibilities extend beyond the battlefield. In times of peace, they serve as advisors and enforcers of Llucerian’s will, ensuring the stability and security of the Legion’s territories. They are involved in key decision-making processes, offering their insights and expertise to shape the future of the Legion. Their loyalty and wisdom make them invaluable assets to Llucerian, who trusts them implicitly.
==== Sheepdogs of the Legion - The Solariate Praetors ====
In the heat of battle, the Solariate of the Praetors Brotherhood play a vital role in guiding the superhuman wrath of their brothers. Ensuring that the Legion’s fury is well-directed and controlled, they act as beacons of leadership and discipline. Their presence on the battlefield not only a symbol of strength but also a practical necessity for maintaining order and achieving victory. The Solariate of the Praetors are adept at channeling the Legion’s intense aggression, ensuring that it is focused on strategic objectives rather than dissipating into uncontrolled violence. They employ a combination of tactical commands, inspiring presence, and personal intervention to keep their brothers’ killing urges in check, preventing friendly fire and unnecessary casualties.
Serving as living symbols of the Legion’s ideals, the Praetors lead by example, embodying the discipline, honor, and ferocity expected of the Sons of The Morning. In the thick of combat, they often take the forefront, demonstrating the correct application of force and tactics, inspiring those around them to emulate their actions. When other commanders falter or are absent, the Praetors step in to fill the leadership void, ensuring continuity of command and cohesive execution of battle plans. With their extensive experience and training, they can seamlessly assume command, rallying the troops and directing the flow of battle to maintain momentum and pressure on the enemy.
The chaotic nature of battle often leads to confusion and disorder, especially when the afflictions of the First Legion's Prey Drive rears it's ugly head. Therein a Praetor’s ability to navigate through this chaos is crucial to the Legion’s sustained success. Using a combination of keen situational awareness, strategic acumen, and psychic abilities, they cut through the confusion, providing clear directives and maintaining order amidst the chaos. The Solariate Praetors often position themselves at the forefront of the battle, leading charges and engaging the enemy directly. And in key moments, the Solariate intervene to break enemy lines, rescue surrounded units, or exploit weaknesses. They employ decisive and calculated strikes, using their elite skills to execute maneuvers that disrupt enemy formations and create opportunities for their brothers to exploit.
=== Wargear and Appearance ===
==== Armor ====
The Solariate Guard are equipped with highly artificed power armor, a masterpiece of both protection and enhancement. Their armor is adorned with Umbral Black Psi-Reactive Obsidian-like plating, a material that amplifies their innate psychic abilities. This armor not only provides physical resilience but also enhances the psychic null fields that pulse from their bodies, making them formidable foes against both physical and psychic attacks.
==== Ash-Born Death Masks ====
A distinctive feature of the Solariate is their Ash-Born Death masks. These Lecarrite relics are carved in the images of warriors who fell during the Thirteen Years War, particularly the first warriors of the Ashen. The masks depict the faces of these fallen heroes in the throes of battle against the Machine Legions, serving as a poignant reminder of their sacrifice and the enduring legacy of the Ashen. Each mask symbolizes the valor and determination of those who fought to liberate Lecarro from subjugation.
=== Training and Selection ===
Becoming a member of the Solariate is a grueling process, reserved only for those who shine the brightest in battle and leadership. The selection process is rigorous, testing not only physical prowess but also strategic acumen and the ability to lead and inspire others. Only the best among the Sons of The Morning can hope to join the ranks of the Solariate, making it a highly coveted and prestigious position.
=== Influence ===
The Solariate Guard are more than just warriors; they are symbols of the Legion’s highest ideals. Their presence on the battlefield inspires their brothers and strikes fear into the hearts of their enemies. Through their actions and sacrifices, they continue to uphold the legacy of Llucerian Morningstar and the Firstborn Imperial Legion.