Selwyn Jaeger

Drotti Selwyn Jaeger (pronounced DROH-tee SELL-win YAY-ger), also known by many fearsome titles such as the "Pale Rider", the "Barren", the "Scarred Lazarean", the "Pale Dragon", and simply the "Insipid" or the "Pale Father", adopted after he rose to power once assuming full control of his Legion. Jaeger is one of the twenty Demi-God Luminarchs created by the God Emperor of Man and serves as the formidable Lord and Master of the VIIIth Legion, the Scythes of Lazarus.
Selwyn Jaeger is a man marked by an aura of grim determination and cold calculation. His outlook on life is as bleak as the battlefields he dominates, viewing the innate resilience of his forces as the ultimate key to victory. Jaeger's strategic mind thrives on the brutal efficacy of relentless attacks and counter-attacks, embodying the belief that only through continuous pressure and attrition can true victory be achieved. This unyielding approach has made him a master of wars of attrition, where the endurance and perseverance of his Legion are tested to their utmost limits.
Jaeger's presence on the battlefield is both a source of inspiration and terror. His soldiers, the Scythes of Lazarus, draw strength from his unshakable resolve, while his enemies are driven to despair by his unrelenting onslaughts. His scarred visage and the cold fire in his eyes tell the tale of countless battles fought and won, each victory further cementing his reputation within the Annals of Terra. Despite the fear and respect he commands, the Drottinn's life is a testament to the harsh realities of war. His strategies are not born from a love of combat but from a necessity to survive and conquer in a universe rife with threats. In every calculated move and every relentless push forward, Jaeger's grim philosophy is evident: In the theater of war, only the strongest and most resilient shall prevail.
== History ==
=== Ritter - A Poisoned Cradle ===
Tyber-0A4, or simply Ritter, is a notorious Death World, stands as the largest among the Seven Moons orbiting the poison-wreathed gas titan Tyberous. This titan planet orbits closely to its scarlet-dimmed sun, nestled deep within the treacherous territories of the southern Proxima Obscurus. The Tyberian Moons, as these satellites are collectively known, are shrouded in thick, miasmic atmospheres laden with toxic saline chemicals, a grim consequence of their proximity to the brine-poisoned Tyberous.
The environmental conditions on these moons are exceptionally harsh. The most virulent salt-mires frequently ascend from Tyberous, infiltrating the Lunar Orbital Zones and transforming the moons into realms of perpetual gloom. This toxic miasma creates a dismal ambiance, casting a pall over the lunar landscape and rendering sunlight scarce. The winters on these Moons are particularly brutal. As during these long, harsh seasons, entire regions are often plunged into an unbroken, starless night. The already dim light from the scarlet sun is further obscured, leaving the surface in near-total darkness. These winters are often heralded by short, shadowy days that provide little respite from the omnipresent darkness. 
Many of the Tyberian Moons can be classified into two primary categories: Dead Worlds and Death Worlds. The four Desolate Dead-Worlds—Tyber-0A1-3, and 0A7—known to the Ritteans as the Verwüsten Moons, each individually known as Heinrus, Görin, Ohrma, and Alther, respectively, are utterly incapable of sustaining human life. Their environments are so hostile and barren that they remain uninhabitable. However, these moons are known to contain dense mineral deposits, attracting numerous miners to the satellite colonies orbiting these moons. From these colonies, miners venture to the subterranean mines below, braving the harsh conditions to extract valuable resources.
In contrast, the Death Worlds of Tyber-0A4, 0A5, and 0A6—referred to by the Ritteans as the Schwarze Brüder, or in Argothic as the Dark Brothers—are known individually as Ritter, Edler, and Freiherr. These moons each possess atmospheres that are breathable by Ritteans, but only at the lowest planetary elevations. These elevations are characterized by flat, fertile moors covered in deep halophyte forests that choke the equatorial river valley basins, nestled among the jagged, stony mountains that spine the moons. Due to their proximity to the gas titan Tyberous, the hydrospheres of the Dark Brothers retain a significantly higher saline content compared to many other human-habitable worlds. As a result, the so-called "freshwater" lakes and rivers in the equatorial zones are comparable to the oceans of Terra-like planets. Conversely, the "saltwater" Petty-Oceans of the northern and southern basins are more akin to poisonous salt-mires, perpetually shrouded in toxic saline fogs rather than true oceans.
These petty oceans are surrounded by ecological dead zones, desolate wastelands where only the hardiest of species can survive. The wasteland basins are characterized by harsh and unforgiving environments, often devoid of life, with extreme conditions that make survival impossible for many native Tyberian organisms. These barren expanses serve as a stark reminder of the hostile nature of these moons, presenting an insurmountable challenge for any form of colonization or habitation. 
In contrast, the verdant equatorial valleys of the Dark Brothers provide a beacon of hope amidst the surrounding desolation. These belts of isolated life grace each of the moons, known as Black-Belts among the Ritteans, they teem with hardy flora and fauna uniquely adapted to the harsh lunar conditions. These habitable areas thrive on flat moors and within deep, forest-choked valley basins nestled among the jagged, stony mountains that define the moons’ landscapes. 
The flora within these valleys exhibits exceptional resilience, having evolved to endure fluctuating temperatures and scarce water sources. These plants have developed mechanisms to thrive in the toxic environments, creating lush, dense forests that stand in stark contrast to the barren expanses beyond. The fauna of the Dark Brothers is equally tenacious, with species possessing specialized adaptations that enable them to navigate and survive in this precarious ecosystem. These valleys become sanctuaries where life not only exists but flourishes against all odds. The flat moors, though sparse, offer additional pockets of life where human settlement is possible. Here, small communities can eke out an existence, relying on the fertile land for agriculture and the surrounding forests for resources. The jagged mountains, rising with their steep, rocky inclines, provide natural barriers that shield these valleys from the worst effects of the toxic miasma prevalent at higher elevations. This geological feature creates isolated pockets of survivable conditions amidst an otherwise inhospitable lunar environment. Living upon the Tyberian Moons is no easy feat. With the constant threat of the toxic miasma, combined with the harsh winters that plunge the land into darkness, makes survival a daily struggle. Yet, within the protected valleys and moors, communities have learned to adapt and endure. They harness the limited resources available, relying on the dense forests for sustenance and the relative shelter of the valley basins to shield them from the deadly environment beyond.
Given this context, it was inevitable that the catastrophic onset of the Long Dark, which fractured humanity's once-golden empire, would have a devastating impact on the already harsh environmental conditions of the Tyberian moons. These moons, where humanity had struggled to eke out even a basic survival, swiftly regressed the remnants of the original Tyberian Mining Colonies to a state resembling a Pseudo-Feudal iteration of the era predating Humanity's Solar Expansion. The Ritteans who inhabited the Tyberian Moons would manage to maintain tenuous Interlunar Travel and Communication despite the chaos. This was achieved through the meticulous upkeep of their Rift-Net—a network crucial for intermoon communication and trade. Additionally, they utilized Low-Scale world jump-ships, which enabled them to navigate the treacherous void between the moons, albeit with considerable difficulty and risk.
=== Youth ===
Long ago, when the twenty Luminarchs of the Imperial Legions were scattered across the galaxy in a mysterious accident and metaphysically implanted into mortal mothers, one would come to be born on the largest moon of the planet Tyberous: Ritter, a moon wreathed in deadly fogs. Much of Selwyn's early life has been either unevenly or sparsely documented, and it is a matter of great debate whether the young Luminarch was born to his matriarchal family as other Luminarchs had been, or if he was later adopted by a second.
What is known is that the young Selwyn was raised by a homestead family residing within the Garrauw Kingdom's settlements of the Eastern Territories of the Ackerlandtal Valley Basin. He was the youngest and only son in a family of eight daughters. Selwyn was sired by Ignata Jaeger, a farm-maiden working dutifully within the farmlands owned by their extended family, and Zoculen Jaeger, a blacksmith and an aspiring steward of antiquity who sought to reclaim as much lost knowledge, both technological and general, as he could. Zoculen and Ignata both taught their young son all they could, for early on in his life, Selwyn displayed a keen intellect and a voracious appetite for knowledge.
From his parents, Selwyn learned a vast array of skills and wisdom. Ignata taught him the intricacies of farming: crop placement, harvest dates, and the care of livestock. She also instilled in him the values of hard work, patience, and resilience. Zoculen, on the other hand, introduced him to the ancient and arcane. He shared his knowledge of blacksmithing, teaching Selwyn how to forge tools and weapons, and imparted the ancient art of crafting artifacts imbued with mystical power. Zoculen's passion for reclaiming lost knowledge also led him to teach Selwyn about ancient battle doctrines, arcane secrets, and the rich traditions of their people.
Under the guidance of his parents, Selwyn's education was holistic and thorough. He learned about the cycles of nature, from planting and harvest seasons to the importance of environmental stewardship. His father’s lessons in battle-line stratagem and mythological lore fed his imagination and strategic thinking. Selwyn's home was filled with stories of ancient heroes and legendary battles, which inspired him and fostered a deep sense of duty and honor.
Selwyn, like the rest of his Luminarchal brethren, was not just a sponge for information but grew at an accelerated rate. By the age of 8 standard Terran years, he could fulfill all the obligations and more of the adult laborers and farmhands. He quickly mastered Rittean farming technologies with intuitive ease, modifying them with his extraordinary technical acumen to dramatically increase efficiency. By the age of 16, Selwyn, now fully grown and larger than any man, had already improved his community's productivity to such a degree that only those unwilling to help the settlement's growth went hungry. And before reaching the Terran standard age of 20, Selwyn gained the title of "Drotti," a derivative title hailing from an ancient Rittean agricultural myth. Even the Garrauw King called the young man a lord for his skill in the arts of agri-craft and metalwork. This title was not just an honorific but a recognition of Selwyn's exceptional contributions to his people.
As Selwyn grew, his intellectual curiosity only intensified. He began to experiment and innovate, blending the practical knowledge of farming with the theoretical and mystical insights from his father's teachings. This unique blend of skills and knowledge set him apart from his peers, and he quickly became known for his inventive solutions to common problems, as well as his ability to inspire and lead others. In the Garrauw Kingdom, the Jaeger family became incredibly well-respected, not only for their contributions to the community but also for the prodigious talents of their youngest member. Selwyn's reputation grew as he continued to excel in various fields, from agricultural innovation to crafting powerful artifacts and strategic military planning. His ability to synthesize diverse areas of knowledge made him a valuable asset to the kingdom and a figure of great potential.
Selwyn's influence extended beyond mere technical improvements. He fostered a culture of learning and innovation within the community, encouraging others to share their knowledge and collaborate on solving common challenges. Under his guidance, the Garrauw Kingdom saw unprecedented growth and prosperity. Farms flourished, yielding bountiful harvests that fed not only the local population but also allowed for better trade with neighboring territories. The advanced farming techniques and efficient tools developed by Selwyn were shared with other settlements, spreading his influence far and wide. Selwyn's expertise was not limited to agriculture. His father's teachings in blacksmithing and ancient artifice enabled him to craft powerful artifacts that enhanced the capabilities of his people. These artifacts, imbued with both technological and mystical properties, became crucial assets in the kingdom's defense and daily life.
Moreover, Selwyn's strategic mind and understanding of military tactics proved invaluable in safeguarding the kingdom. He developed advanced battle doctrines that incorporated both traditional and innovative elements, ensuring the kingdom's defenses were robust and adaptive. His ability to foresee potential threats and devise effective countermeasures against Kargahl incursions made him a trusted advisor to the Garrauw King. Leading forces personally against Kargahl attacks, he quickly became a respected leader among the people. Selwyn's leadership proved so effective in fact, that he soon became the de facto Lord of the Garrauw Kingdom, essentially ruling in place of the true King. And under his guidance, the kingdom flourished. Walls were constructed to protect farmers and their livestock, and organized manpower redirected and filtered rivers to bring pure water, bolstering crop development.
Migrating pilgrims from neighboring kingdoms, fleeing the encroaching Kargahl, sought refuge in the Garrauw Kingdom. As more kingdoms and nations fell to Kargahl attacks, the hordes grew from the resurrected carrion of the fallen dead. Selwyn welcomed these destitute pilgrims, providing lodging and food in exchange for their support in the area's development. This influx of new settlers further strengthened the kingdom, creating an ever more resilient community united by a common cause.
Selwyn's leadership would foster a sense of unity and purpose among his inhabitants. He established communal projects that engaged everyone, from infrastructure improvements to educational initiatives. The shared efforts not only enhanced the kingdom's defenses but also created a thriving, self-sustaining society. Selwyn's innovations in agricultural practices and technology continued to yield impressive results, ensuring that the kingdom remained well-fed and prosperous.
As the population grew, Selwyn implemented strategic plans to accommodate the influx of people. New settlements were established, each carefully planned and fortified. These settlements acted as buffer zones, providing additional layers of defense against Kargahl incursions. The coordinated efforts between these outlying settlements and the central kingdom created a formidable network that was difficult for the Kargahl to penetrate.
Selwyn's diplomatic skills also came to the forefront as he forged alliances with neighboring kingdoms still standing against the Kargahl. He shared his knowledge of defense and agricultural techniques, strengthening the regional resistance against the Kargahl. These alliances created a united front that could better withstand the relentless assaults of the necro-automata hordes.
=== The Garrauw Tragedy ===
As Selwyn and his trusted retinue embarked on their missions to uplift neighboring settlements, bringing sustenance and knowledge, a dark threat loomed over the Garrauw Kingdom. Unbeknownst to them, deep within a nearby mountain, a malevolent force stirred. A Kargahl Phiperion, known to History only as the Kalox King, sensing the concentration of souls and life essence in Garrauw due to its growth and prosperity, prepared a sinister retaliation.
While Selwyn was away on one of his humanitarian expeditions, the Phiperion's forces lurked within the deadly mists that shrouded the mountainous region. These necrotic entities, twisted by dark sorcery and driven by hatred, plotted to unleash havoc upon the now under defended Garrauw Kingdom. Their malevolent plans were fueled by a desire to extinguish the burgeoning beacon of hope and prosperity that Selwyn had painstakingly cultivated. As the Phiperion's forces massed and prepared to strike, the unsuspecting residents of Garrauw continued their daily routines, unaware of the impending threat. The kingdom, left temporarily vulnerable without Selwyn's vigilant leadership, faced a dire test of its defenses and the resilience of its people.
The onslaught that befell the Garrauw Kingdom was devastating beyond measure. Despite the presence of heavily armored guards stationed on the settlement's walls—men who had been trained by Selwyn himself in the art of defense, led by battle-hardened veterans—the vile hordes of the Kalox King pressed on relentlessly. These undead masses, grotesquely bound together with metallic sinews, surged forward with an unyielding determination. The defenders of Garrauw fought valiantly, their weapons swinging with precision honed through years of training and combat experience. They clashed fiercely against the necro-automata and their twisted leaders, striving to protect their homes and loved ones from the encroaching darkness. Yet, for every fallen enemy that they managed to bring down, more seemed to rise from the ranks of the dead, animated by the dark magic of the Phiperion. 
Amidst the chaos of battle, the cries of the wounded mingled with the clang of swords and the roars of the undead. The once-peaceful settlement echoed with the sounds of destruction and despair as the defenders struggled to hold their ground against overwhelming odds. The walls, once a symbol of security and protection, now bore the brunt of relentless assaults, their stout defenses tested to their limits.
Amidst the uncountable horde assaulting Garrauw, the Kargahl were bolstered by a grim addition: Living-Rittean soldiers corrupted into thrall-bound servants and known as Vion Kralls. These once-proud Ritteans, ensnared by promises of strength in their moments of despair, now fought clad in otherworldly armor empowered by sinister forces, relentlessly beat against the gates of Garrauw with devilishly fueled artillery salvos. Their corrupted forms and twisted resolve made them formidable adversaries, driving forward despite the defenders' fierce resistance. 
Within the besieged settlement, valiant men and women fought with all their might against the onslaught. Trained by Selwyn himself, these defenders wielded their weapons with skill and determination, striving to repel the enemy from breaching their walls. They hacked and slashed at the desecrated flesh and bone of the Kargahl, their efforts bolstered by the relentless fire from wall turrets raining down death upon the encroaching horde.
Yet, the horror of the battle escalated with each fallen enemy. In a flash of psionic green light, fallen Kargahl were resurrected, returning to the fray with renewed vigor. This unholy resurrection defied the defenders' efforts to gain ground, turning the battlefield into a relentless cycle of death and rebirth. Despite their bravery and tenacity, the defenders faced overwhelming odds as the siege wore on, their stamina and resolve stretched to the breaking point. 
The once-peaceful settlement of Garrauw now echoed with the cacophony of war, the clash of weapons, and the anguished cries of the wounded. The defenders fought not only for their lives but for the survival of their kingdom, standing firm against an enemy that seemed unstoppable. As the battle raged on, hope flickered like a dying flame, yet they persisted, driven by loyalty to their homeland and the memory of Selwyn's leadership.
In the heart of the chaos, amidst the swirling mist and relentless carnage, the fate of Garrauw teetered on the brink. The defenders knew that their struggle was not just against flesh and blood but against dark forces that sought to consume their world. Whether they could withstand the relentless assault and turn the tide of battle remained uncertain, yet they fought on with unwavering determination, their spirits unbroken even in the face of overwhelming darkness.
Under the relentless siege, the defenders of Garrauw began to falter, their resistance weakening with each passing moment. The final blow came with horrifying clarity—the appearance of the Phiperion itself, the Kalox King. Gaunt and malevolent, the Phiperion emerged amidst the swirling poison mists like a specter of doom, its presence casting a pall over the besieged kingdom. 
With psychic flames and an ever-shifting scythe, the Phiperion wrought devastation upon the land and its defenders. Its dreadful weapon tore through the armored forms of the valiant warriors, the silver-white metal of the Armament darkening with heart's blood as the warrior's fell one by one. Heroes left martyred in defense of their people, their sacrifices marked by the relentless advance of the Kalox King. Driven by dark purpose, the Phiperion targeted the kingdom's defensive bunkers where civilians sought refuge. And with each strike of its ever-changing blade against the bulkhead, reinforced metal was rent asunder, the structures groaning under the assault. The chilling laughter of the Phiperion echoed through the settlement, a cruel symphony amid the chaos and despair. Despite the defenders' efforts, the last bastion of resistance crumbled before the relentless onslaught. 
Screams mingled with the laughter of monsters as the bunker's interior was met with vile void-fire, the Phiperion burning its prey to cinders. Only when the final screams were silenced by the ashes did it depart, moving on to the second bunker to repeat its cruel operation. Like a twisted surgeon, it tore into the steel walls, its scythe shrieking with each strike, until it discovered its terrified prize. And in another cruel blast of void-fire, these screams would have been silenced once more, had not for the fact that, In a flash, the Phiperion's form disappeared from the sight of the harrowed eyes.
Fate's cruel dagger seemed to have smiled upon the men and women of the Garrauw Kingdom. As the Drottinn and his retinue had barely been a few miles from Garrauw territories when they turned back due to a miscalculation in their supplies. According to historical Rittean remembrances, once they were close enough to the settlement, about ten miles away, Selwyn ordered silence from all who followed him. They complied, and the Drottinn stood there, transfixed in an almost daze-like state as he looked to the sky. Only when his most trusted confidant, Khoron Zurroathe, questioned his actions did he react.
In a show of speed impossible for mortal warriors and even those of the Imperial Legions to replicate, Selwyn charged back to his home. The journey was a blur of relentless pace and urgent determination, driven by a gut-wrenching fear of what he might find upon his return. The air thickened with a sense of dread as they approached, the acrid stench of burning flesh and the echoes of fading screams spurring him onward.
Upon reaching the outskirts of the Garrauw settlement, the sight that met Selwyn's eyes was a scene of utter devastation. The once-thriving community lay in ruins, the walls breached, and the ground scorched. The vile horde of the Kargahl was in full force, shambling drones following the warriors of the Vion Kralls as they battled the Rittean defense guard. Selwyn's heart pounded with a mix of rage and sorrow as he surveyed the battlescape, the echoes of void-fire and the laughter of monsters still lingering in the air.
Fueled by wrath, Selwyn tore through the horde with a fervor never before seen by his people. His sword sliced into the monstrous forms, its steel edge blackened by the burning blood of his enemies. He fought his way to the Phiperion itself, reaching the fiendish creature just as it prepared to immolate the terrified survivors of the second bunker. With unmatched fury, Selwyn engaged the beast, his every strike a testament to his resolve and strength. As Selwyn battled the Phiperion, his retinue of two hundred of his greatest warriors arrived, having followed their lord back to the settlement. They tore into their hated enemies, protecting the surviving civilians and providing much-needed relief to the haggard defenders. Their valor and the sight of their lord fighting with such ferocity emboldened the spirits of the remaining warriors. Cries of Selwyn's name and praises of honor filled the air, renewing the resolve of those still in the fight.
The Phiperion, a gaunt, spindly, many-limbed entity cloaked in tattered black robes, wielded its ever-shifting scythe with deadly precision. Psychic flames erupted from the creature, sundering the lands of the Garrauw Kingdom. Selwyn matched the creature blow for blow, his strategic mind and warrior's instincts guiding him. The battle raged, each strike a clash of titanic wills. The air crackled with energy as Selwyn's blade, now blackened and bloodstained, cut through the Phiperion's defenses.
Selwyn's wrath knew no bounds as he moved with lightning speed, each blade-stroke a testament to his agility and strength, defying his immense size. Void fire blazed from his eyes, casting an otherworldly glow as he clashed relentlessly with the monstrous sorcerer, the Phiperion. Their battle tore through the Garrauw Kingdom, Selwyn's strikes punctuated only by brief pauses to direct his warriors to evacuate their people to safety.
The Phiperion, undeterred by Selwyn's fury, matched him blow for blow. Their duel ranged across the kingdom, the sorcerer's taunting laughter echoing through the streets and valleys alike. And in a devastating moment, the Phiperion's mighty scythe struck Selwyn with tremendous force, hurling him into a sturdy building. The impact shattered stone and mortar as Selwyn's armored form crashed through the walls, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake. 
With a mocking shriek, the Phiperion unleashed its dark power once more, conjuring a funnel of terrible void fire that engulfed the building and its surroundings in a blaze of eldritch flames. The unnatural inferno spread rapidly, consuming wood, steel, and stone alike. Soon, much of the kingdom's streets were ablaze, the intense heat scorching everything in its path.
Amidst the chaos, Selwyn emerged from the burning wreckage, his left side grievously wounded by the searing void fire. The pain was intense, marking him with a lasting scar that would endure for centuries to come. Despite his injuries, Selwyn's resolve remained unbroken. With grim determination, he continued to lead his warriors, rallying them to press on against the relentless onslaught of the Kargahl.
The Pale Prince arose once more, bleeding and scorched but standing, his resolve unwavering. He readied his sword for another bout, the growing flames casting an eerie light on the battlefield. And despite his impaired vision, the blurred sight of the fiend's grinning maw filled him with an ever-renewable hatred. Through the city streets, homes, buildings, and storefronts, the demigod clashed with the vile beast. Selwyn's strikes tore into the Phiperion's cloaked form, the bite of artificed Rittean steel making the necromechanical creature bleed black, bile-like blood.
The battle raged on, each blow and parry echoing through the burning city. With unrelenting ferocity, Selwyn fought, his determination fueling each strike. Yet, the thrice-damned beast managed to throw him through another building, and as Selwyn crashed through the debris, he finally heard it. Amidst the roaring flames of the burning structure, his gene-enhanced ears picked up the faint cries of a child. Selwyn turned to see a crib, the hellish flames inching closer, ready to consume the innocent infant. The Phiperion saw it too, and with a cruel smile, the monstrosity moved with glaring speed towards the crib, its scythe raised, ready to bring down upon the child. 
The sight of the impending doom galvanized Selwyn. And in a burst of desperate energy, he launched himself at the Phiperion, moving his body into the arc of the descending scythe. The blade pierced through his chest, lacerating and burning, its psionic edge searing his Demigod flesh. Pain surged through him, but the Drottinn saw his chance. Exploiting the now lessened range of his enemy, Selwyn launched his sword deep into the Phiperion's chest. The beast's pained screech confirmed that he struck true.
With a mighty effort, Selwyn pulled his blade upward in a killing arc, freeing the foul creature's head from its shoulders in a crackling execution. The Phiperion's body crumbled, the fell magics that had sustained its life expelled in its death. As its head hit the ground, the light in its eyes faded, and the sinister laughter echoing through the streets ceased.
The death of their Phiperion left the scrambling horde without a synaptic leader to revive the fallen. Panic spread among the Kargahl forces, their once-cohesive assault now a chaotic retreat. The surviving warriors of the Garrauw Kingdom, emboldened by Selwyn's victory, rallied and struck back with renewed vigor. The undead mass, now disorganized and leaderless, was routed by the defenders, who cut through the shambling drones and living thrall-bound with righteous fury.
As dawn broke over the smoldering remnants of the settlement, a new sense of hope began to take root. These valiant survivors, in their victory cries, witnessed their Lord emerge from the dying empyrean flames of the immolated city, the ruined structures collapsing behind him. In one hand, he held the looted scythe of the Phiperion, its sinister form a testament to his victory, and in the other, he cradled the infant he had saved. Selwyn's chest was split wide open, ruined and bleeding, the severity of his wounds evident in every agonizing step he took.
As he approached his warriors, his strength began to wane. He buckled, the pain overwhelming him, and had to use the ever-shifting armament of his enemy to catch himself. His wounds, normally quick to heal, had not closed as they should have, a grim reminder of the battle's intensity. But despite the agony, Selwyn knelt triumphant before his people.
=== The Archo Lazarean ===
Selwyn was determined to have died by his people, along with the child he tried to save. In a mournful Rittean burial procession, they laid their Lord and their dead to rest within a tomb in the heart of the Kingdom. And for six days and nights, the survivors wept for the passing of their Lord as they tried to rebuild their shattered home. 
On the seventh day, a terrible storm reached their settlement. For another six days and nights, the storm raged, relentless and unforgiving, as if the heavens themselves mourned the fallen Drottinn.
On the final, fourteenth day, as the storm finally dissipated and the sun rose, a miraculous sight met the eyes of the grieving people. Selwyn stood there, the burial wrappings of his entombment wreathed upon his barren and scarred body, flowing aimlessly in the poisoned winds of Ritter. Under the tattered wrappings, his perfect form was seen by all. Despite the newly acquired scars of the conflict, Selwyn stood renewed and invigorated. His skin was without blight, and his pale eyes were pools of placid gray. In his hand, he held the metamorphic blade that had taken his life, and cradled in his other arm was the orphan child he had saved during the Phiperion's siege.
The sight of their Lord, returned from the throws of death, filled the people of the Garrauw Kingdom with awe and reverence. They saw in Selwyn's resurrection a divine sign, a testament to his indomitable spirit and the favor of the very gods. His presence, both ethereal and commanding, brought a renewed sense of hope and purpose to the survivors.
With Selwyn's return, the rebuilding efforts took on a new fervor. The people, inspired by their resurrected leader, worked tirelessly to restore their homes and fortify their defenses. Selwyn himself, now more than ever a symbol of resilience and strength, led them with unwavering determination.
Selwyn stood shimmering in the pale light of the Rittean dawn, a sentinel over the cooing infant girl in his hand. For hours, he stood there, acknowledging those few who passed him, until the child finally fell asleep in his arms. Only then did he move, embarking toward the largest building in the settlement. In the fourteen days of Selwyn's death, it had been transformed into a makeshift hospital where the few surviving wounded were housed.
Upon entering the makeshift hospital, Selwyn brought with him an aura of hope and renewal. The sight of their resurrected Lord filled the wounded with a sense of relief and inspiration. Selwyn immediately set to work, using herbs that had grown thick in the area surrounding his burial tomb to create a potent aid that healed even the worst of wounds. The herbs, infused with a mysterious energy, seemed to draw upon the very essence of life, knitting flesh and bone with remarkable speed.
For hours, Selwyn toiled in the hospice, a Lazarus in a house of dying. He moved from bed to bed, administering the healing salve to those who had fought valiantly in defense of their home. To those whose wounds were too severe, he brought a final peace, comforting them with words of solace and placing them gently into a restful slumber. His presence was a balm for their souls, and his hands, though scarred and worn, brought a touch of the divine.
As he worked, the infant girl remained close, a symbol of the future he fought to protect. The wounded survivors, inspired by Selwyn's dedication and resilience, found the strength to endure their pain. The sight of their Lord, tirelessly tending to their wounds, reinforced their resolve to rebuild and protect their home.
Selwyn, now more than ever a symbol of resilience and strength, continued to lead his people with unwavering determination. His actions in the makeshift hospital solidified his status as not only a warrior and protector but also a healer and savior. The legend of Selwyn, the Pale Prince who returned from death, grew with each retelling, his deeds etched into the hearts and minds of his people. And as the Rittean dawn gave way to a new day, the Garrauw Kingdom looked to the future with renewed hope, guided by the unwavering light of their resurrected Lord.
=== Pilgrimage of The Rittean Wastes ===
With the settlement cleaved of most of its life, fields burned, and farm animals slaughtered, there was nothing left for the survivors of Garrauw. Many had perished in the onslaught, and even more succumbed to disease in the aftermath. Selwyn, leading the final few survivors, embarked on a journey to the Rittean valleys, taking less than six hundred battle-ready men and women and around three thousand farmers, laborers, and working people. Together, they navigated through the poisonous mists and pale forests of Ritter, their rebreathers filtering the worst of the toxic atmosphere. 
As the pilgrims moved through the land, they discovered the devastation wrought by the Phiperions extended far beyond their own settlement. Villages and kingdoms had fallen prey to these monstrous beings, leaving a trail of death and despair. They found that many soldiers, once honor-bound to defend their people, had abandoned their depleted communities. These deserters stripped the villages of their remaining resources, leaving them defenseless against the encroaching hordes and living out their days as roving warbands.
Worse still were the valiant few who had remained true to their oaths. These defenders were often corrupted by the Phiperions, transformed into monstrous beasts. Their armor became living coffins, animated by daemonic magics, turning them into thralls of the very evil they once fought against. This horrific sight only strengthened Selwyn’s resolve, fueling his determination to protect and lead his people to safety.
Through the treacherous journey, Selwyn's leadership was vital. He provided not only physical protection but also moral support, constantly encouraging his people to push forward despite the overwhelming odds. His knowledge of the land and strategic mind enabled them to avoid the worst of the dangers lurking in the toxic mists. Along the way, Selwyn and his warriors would sometimes engage with smaller Phiperion forces, ensuring the safety of the main pilgrim group as they continued their journey.
Upon reaching the Western Valley Basin of Edelfruchttal, Selwyn and his people found a temporary reprieve from the horrors they had left behind. This region, an agricultural heart of Ritter, boasted the densest, nutrient-rich black soil, making it an ideal place to establish a new settlement. Selwyn’s immediate focus was on ensuring his people had shelter and could begin to rebuild their lives. However, the existing kingdoms of the Edelfruchttal Valleys—the Andis, Daravech, Hadrabas, and Voyu Kingdoms, along with various minor villages and vassal nations—were initially slow to accept these gaunt strangers arrayed in armors and banners from lands far beyond their own.
The chance to prove their worth came when creatures enthralled to another Phiperion attacked a nearby village. Seeing the peasants unable to effectively fight back against the horde, Selwyn and his retinue joined the deadly fray. Wielding the massive morphing blade as his own, Selwyn made short work of the weaker horde of flesh beasts. The attacking Phiperion, a multi-faced monstrosity composed of clicking tendrils and interlinked fingers, retreated to the apparent safety of the deadly mists when Selwyn advanced upon it. Unyielding, Selwyn pursued and butchered the fiendish creature, displaying his inhuman resilience and cementing his role as a defender.
Accepted into the Western Territories without much further reservation, the pilgrims began to settle in the lands. Selwyn and his warriors, along with his elite laborers, artisans, and general workers, started to train the civilians of the Western Kingdoms in all they knew. Soon, representatives from villages across Edelfruchttal journeyed to learn from Selwyn and his pilgrims, transforming the scattered kingdoms into strongholds.
The most trusted of Selwyn's retinue traveled from settlement to settlement, teaching, building, and raising militias to defend their people. These seasoned warriors and artisans instilled a sense of resilience and self-sufficiency in the once-vulnerable villages. They imparted their knowledge of agriculture, crafting, and warfare, ensuring each settlement could thrive and protect itself against future threats.
But conflicts would arise elsewhere. The fortified strongholds, now emboldened and capable of defending themselves, would no longer forfeit their supplies and resources to the oppressors of the roving Warbands. These Warbands, who had previously taken from those unable to defend themselves to fuel their thieving war-machine, were enraged by this defiance. In retaliation, they launched attacks on those who denied them their prize. However, the villages, now strengthened and united under Selwyn's leadership, fought back.
These skirmishes swiftly escalated into pitched battles as more villagers gained the strength and courage to defend themselves. The collective power of the Warbands began to crumble under the pressure of this newfound resistance. Unable to sustain themselves, the Warbands disintegrated. Many of the former raiders were assimilated by the villages they once oppressed, becoming known as the "Penitents of The Daravek," or simply the "Daravek Penitents." A few became roving marauders, living short, bloody lives within the valleys and low cliffs, while others fell under the cruel employ of the Phiperions, seeking power only to be transformed into something far less than human.
Selwyn, ever the pragmatist, saw an opportunity to further strengthen his people. He began recruiting the physically toughest and most resilient would-be warriors from the villages he encountered, forming them into small to medium unit militias that trained under his primary supervision. He enlisted the aid of blacksmiths, craftsmen, and artificers to create suits of armor and weaponry that would allow these men to travel through the poisonous fog and battle the horrors lurking within. Each battle fought in the mists provided valuable lessons. Selwyn and his growing force, now known as the "Scythes of Lazarus," continually adapted their armor and tactics to better withstand the poisonous heights of their world's moon. They became adept at moving through the toxic fog, their rebreathers filtering out the worst of the atmosphere, allowing them to engage with enemies previously thought unreachable.
As the Scythes of Lazarus grew in number and skill, they ventured deeper into the treacherous mists of Ritter, cleansing the cradle of their people of the Kargahl threat even as expeditionary forces left Ritter to travel to the other Moons of the Triad. Their mission was to help cleanse these moons of the Kargahl threat as well. In these expeditions, they encountered new and more dangerous threats, each with a plethora of monstrous capabilities.
Across Tyberian Space, Selwyn and his growing forces traveled, working tirelessly to unify the Tyberian Moons once again. They reestablished links to the Verwüsten Moon Mining-Colonies, ensuring a steady influx of valuable resources. With these resources, Selwyn and his Scythes fought relentless battles against grotesque beasts and corrupted beings. Each fight honed their abilities and strengthened their resolve. The armor they used, initially cumbersome, became lighter and more effective with each iteration, incorporating advanced materials and designs that provided greater protection and mobility.
Selwyn's leadership and the dedication of his warriors inspired others across the Tyberian Moons. Kingdoms began forming their own armies once again, training under the guidance of the Scythes of Lazarus. These armies were gifted schematics for creating ever-greater armor, weapons, and vehicles. The once-fractured moons transformed into a network of fortified kingdoms and settlements, each newly capable of defending itself and contributing to the collective security of the Tyberian Region.
The unity and strength brought about by Selwyn's efforts resonated deeply. The Scythes of Lazarus, once a single band of warriors, now represented a movement spreading across the moons. Kingdoms that had once been isolated and vulnerable now stood fortified and allied. Trade routes were reestablished, and commerce flourished, further bolstering the region's defenses. Selwyn's strategy extended beyond mere military might. He understood the importance of a robust infrastructure and worked tirelessly to rebuild the economies of the Tyberian Moons. Agricultural projects were initiated, utilizing the fertile valleys and advanced farming techniques to ensure food security. Educational programs were established to train the next generation in both combat and essential civilian skills.
The Scythes of Lazarus, with their unmatched combat prowess, also took on the role of peacekeepers. They mediated disputes between kingdoms, fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. Their presence deterred opportunistic attacks from remaining Kargahl forces and rogue elements, ensuring the stability of the region.
But eventually, the Moons of the Dark Triad were cleansed of Kargahl taint, and the Verwüsten Moons were firmly under the control of Selwyn's forces. The Rittean people were united and defended under the Drottinn's banner. He even salvaged the giant galleon of the Kürzung, the same colony vessel utilized by the ancient Eros Skorval during their original intrusion into Tyberian space. This very ship was salvaged by Selwyn's forces, dragged from the far edges of Tyberian space, and rebuilt, repaired, and upgraded into the flagship of the Tyberian Armada.
Yet even then, only one site of corruption stood resolute against this ever-growing and impending unity. Known to history as "The Unbarmherzig," this mass of ever-shifting metal plating and writhing daemonic meat was the corpse of the ancient Kargahl satellite-station colony-cities wherein the Horde had been sired. Once kept silent and asleep during the millennia of the Black Torment, but with the cleansing of its children from Tyberian space during Selwyn's campaigns, the creature had now begun to stir. It began creating ever more of its hated spawn, it's sired beasts beginning to take ever-more horrifying forms as the Unbarmherzig attempted to hound the Tyberian moons once again. Though now it was under a high-security military cordon with endless surveillance to ensure its spawn were contained.
=== Coming of the Stellar Imperium ===
Selwyn, ever vigilant and resolute, focused his attention on the looming threat posed by the Unbarmherzig, the last stronghold of Kargahl corruption in the Tyberian Moons. He understood that the eradication of this malevolent entity was crucial to securing lasting peace and security for his people. However, amidst his preparations for the decisive siege, he was compelled to heed the counsel of his most trusted friends, confidants, and advisors.
Among them was Khoron Zurroathe, whose wisdom and foresight cautioned Selwyn against rushing into battle prematurely. Khoron, a steadfast voice of reason, emphasized that the Scythes of Lazarus were not yet fully prepared to confront the Unbarmherzig in a full-scale naval siege, despite the advancements in their armor and the bolstering of the Tyberian Armada. His counsel urged Selwyn to reconsider the timing and strategy of their assault.
Reluctantly, Selwyn acknowledged the prudence in Khoron's words. While his heart burned with the desire to confront and vanquish the source of so much suffering, he understood the importance of patience and strategic planning. With a heavy yet determined heart, he redirected his forces to the orbital port-stations of the Verwüsten Moon of Ohrma – strategically positioning to a point closest to the Unbarmherzig.
The Verwüsten Moon of Ohrma served as the ideal rallying point for Selwyn's forces. Here, amidst the orbital port-stations, they would regroup, refine their tactics, and further fortify their defenses. The moon's proximity to the Unbarmherzig provided a tactical advantage, allowing them to observe and assess the enemy's movements while preparing for the inevitable confrontation.
But it would be there that Selwyn and his command retinue had their moods darkened when it was found out that the Port Workers were found to be talking not of their victories achieved throughout the Karghant Campaigns, but of the arrival of a benevolent stranger, tall and wrapped in foreign silks and resplendent jewels, his head crowned with scarlet hair and who promised salvation to the people of Tyberous.
Selwyn's brow furrowed with concern as he learned of the stranger's presence and his audacious proposition. The port workers' whispers carried a sense of awe and hope, contrasting sharply with the somber mood that had settled over Selwyn and his retinue. Despite their undeniable successes in the Karghant Campaigns, the looming threat of the Unbarmherzig weighed heavily on their minds.
With resolve etched into every line of his battle-worn face, Selwyn strode purposefully towards the Elders, Kings and Statesmen gathering where the stranger had now awaited. He was a towering figure, adorned in foreign silks and jewels that spoke of a distant realm untouched by the trials of Tyberous. His scarlet hair crowned him with an air of authority and mystery that commanded attention.
In the presence of the elders, Selwyn's voice rang out with a mix of authority and restraint. "We need no outside help," he declared firmly, his gaze unwavering as it met the stranger's intense scrutiny. The tension in the air was palpable, the weight of their responsibilities heavy upon them both.
The stranger, undeterred by Selwyn's defiance, spoke with a calm confidence that belied the gravity of his challenge. "Even you and your Scythes struggle against the Unbarmherzig," he remarked, his tone carrying a hint of empathy amidst the underlying challenge. "If you can defeat the Overmind at the heart of the Unbarmherzig, I will depart from Tyberous," he proposed. "But if you should fail, you must swear fealty to me and the Stellar Imperium I represent."
Selwyn's jaw clenched with determination. He understood the stakes of the stranger's challenge – not just a battle against the Unbarmherzig, but a test of his leadership and the resilience of his people. The choice was clear: accept the challenge and secure their autonomy, or risk subjugation under the stranger's unknown authority.
The Rittean Kings, silent witnesses to this exchange, awaited Selwyn's response with bated breath. They had placed their trust in him as their leader, the Drottinn who had led them through countless trials. Now, in the face of this unexpected challenge, Selwyn's decision would shape the future of Tyberous and its people.
With a steady gaze fixed upon the stranger, Selwyn spoke, his voice carrying the weight of his resolve. "Very well," he accepted, his tone leaving no room for doubt. "I will face the Overmind of the Unbarmherzig. And when I emerge victorious, you will leave Tyberous, and your Stellar Imperium will trouble us no more."
The stranger nodded solemnly, acknowledging Selwyn's resolve with a hint of respect. "So be it," he agreed, his scarlet hair catching the scarlet light of Tellus as he turned to leave the gathering, leaving Selwyn and the elders to prepare for the daunting task ahead.
As the sun set over Ohrma, casting long shadows across the port-stations, Selwyn's mind raced with strategies and preparations. The challenge laid before him was daunting, but with the unwavering loyalty of his Scythes and the resilience of the Tyberian people, he was determined to face it head-on. The fate of Tyberous hung in the balance, and Selwyn would not falter in his duty to protect his homeland from all threats, whether ancient or new.
Emboldened by resolve and purpose, Selwyn brushed aside the protests of his commanders and called forth the Scythes of Lazarus with renewed vigor. Their ranks had swelled with recruits from the united kingdoms across Tyberous, each warrior ready to face the looming threat of the Unbarmherzig. Leading them was the formidable Tyberian Armada, with the salvaged Kürzung serving as their flagship.
The approach to the Unbarmherzig was treacherous, fraught with perils unknown even to the seasoned veterans of Tyberous. As within the tightly secured military cordon, the Unbarmherzig had erected a formidable defensive perimeter. Monstrous spawn prowled its borders, fueled by daemonic energies that twisted the very fabric of reality. This barrier presented a seven-fold challenge that the Tyberian Fleet must surmount to breach the fortress-like defenses.
With precision born of countless battles, the Tyberian Armada executed a series of coordinated strikes. Selwyn himself led the vanguard, his presence a beacon of unwavering resolve amid the chaos of battle. As the fleet engaged in a relentless assault from the skies, ground troops mobilized to secure a perilous landing on the Daemon-Vessel's surface. Their objective was clear: penetrate the heart of the Unbarmherzig and confront the Overmind that lay within.
Against a backdrop of swirling mists and crackling daemonic energies, Selwyn's voice boomed over the din of war, rallying his warriors to press forward. Each step closer to the Unbarmherzig's core brought them face to face with horrors beyond comprehension—beasts spawned of nightmares and technologies twisted by malevolent forces.
The battle raged on, an epic struggle between the indomitable will of Selwyn's forces and the unrelenting malevolence of the Kargahl corruption. Wave after wave of monstrous adversaries fell before the relentless advance of the Scythes of Lazarus, their armor and weaponry tested to their limits and beyond. Yet, for every victory won, the toll was measured in blood and sacrifice, a stark reminder of the stakes at hand.
Amid the chaos, Selwyn remained a steadfast figure of leadership and inspiration. His sword cleaved through the ranks of the enemy, his strategic brilliance guiding the Tyberian Armada through the labyrinthine defenses of the Unbarmherzig. Each victory brought them closer to their ultimate objective, even as the Overmind's defenses grew more desperate and deadly.
As they battled through the nightmarish creatures guarding the heart of the Unbarmherzig, the extent of the corruption became horrifyingly clear. The satellite-station's core pulsed with dark energy, an amalgamation of ancient Kargahl technologies as well as malevolent sorcery that defied comprehension. Selwyn and his elite warriors pressed on relentlessly, their blades cutting through wave after wave of grotesque abominations that seemed to spawn endlessly from the darkened depths.
Upon finally breaching the inner sanctum of the Unbarmherzig, Selwyn confronted the source of the corruption—a monstrous entity that defied description. It was part-machine, part-daemon, a horrific fusion of ancient Kargahl engineering and unholy magic. The air within the Hellish Core was thick with poisonous fumes that corroded even the reinforced armor of Selwyn's warriors, forcing them to retreat momentarily to regroup and reassess their strategy.
Surrounded by pulsating tendrils of daemonic flesh and swirling vortexes of corrupted energy, Selwyn stood firm, his mind racing with tactical calculations. The Unbarmherzig's defenses were formidable, surpassing anything he had faced before. Each step closer to the entity revealed new horrors: mutated monstrosities that clawed at reality itself, and arcane traps that threatened to ensnare him in eternal torment.
Yet with grim determination, Selwyn signaled his warriors to retreat even as he furthered his advance. And therein he unleashed a lone assault, his weapons and abilities honed by years of relentless training and battle-hardened experience. The clash was titanic, as Selwyn's blade struck true against the twisted forms of the entities, severing appendages that regenerated with unnatural speed.
Yet, for every victory gained, the Unbarmherzig retaliated with devastating force. Waves of dark energy lashed out, testing the resilience of Selwyn to his upper limits. And Selwyn alone bore the brunt of the onslaught, his armor scorched and battered, his endurance tested beyond measure.
Selwyn began to stagger within the antechamber of the Unbarmherzig, his body battered and weary, yet his spirit ablaze with defiance. With a bellowing challenge, he beckoned the Overmind to face him in a final duel. Limping and nearly collapsing from exhaustion, Selwyn prepared to meet his fate. The monstrous entity, mocking him for his perceived weakness and impending failure, raised its weapon to strike a fatal blow.
But in that critical moment, a piercing clash of war-claws erupted, halting the Overmind's lethal advance. Selwyn, on the verge of unconsciousness, glimpsed the stranger from the Star-Port—now fully armored and ready for battle. With a commanding order that cut through the chaos, the stranger spurred Selwyn back into action.
Together, with an almost instinctive synchronization of their movements, Selwyn and the stranger engaged the Ghastly Overmind in a deadly dance of blades. The stranger wielded a curved sword and hooked claws with lethal precision, rending deep into the creature's multi-limbed, spider-serpent form. Meanwhile, Selwyn followed the larger man's lead, his own weapon—a morphing blade of mystical origin—shifting through a myriad of deadly forms. He aimed for vital areas, piercing deep into the beast's midsection and severing limbs with calculated strikes.
The battle raged on, the combined bladewind of Selwyn and the stranger tearing through the Overmind's defenses. With a final arching slash of his war scythe, Selwyn delivered the decisive blow, cleaving through the entity's neck. The Overmind convulsed violently, its corrupted form destabilizing as the dark energies that sustained it were disrupted.
Amidst a deafening roar, the entity collapsed in on itself, dissolving into a charred nothingness. The Unbarmherzig, deprived of its controlling intelligence, began to crumble around them, its monstrous architecture unraveling without its guiding mind.
Exhausted and spent, Selwyn looked to the stranger who had fought alongside him, their enemy vanquished. As the poison-laden air of the Unbarmherzig took its toll on Selwyn's weakened body, he collapsed, his last reserves of strength spent in the battle that had saved Tyberous from its greatest threat.
When Selwyn finally regained consciousness, he found himself in a hospice on Ritter, far from the crumbling ruins of the Unbarmherzig. His body, ravaged by the toxic air of the Daemon-Vessel, slowly began to heal under the care of Rittean healers. Yet, it was not the familiar faces of his Scythes who greeted him upon his awakening, but a figure shrouded in the same mysterious aura that had guided him through the final battle against the Overmind.
To Selwyn's surprise and disbelief, the stranger revealed himself to be none other than a supposed long-lost brother, Asadullah bin Sayf—the Luminarch of the Scarlet Lions Imperial Legion. Asadullah, clad in the resplendent armor of his Scarlet Lions, spoke solemnly of their shared heritage and destiny, of the Stellar Imperium, of the Other Luminarchs and the Emperor himself. And in a gesture that resonated deeply with Selwyn, Asadullah offered him command of the VIIIth Borne Imperial Marine Legion—a prestigious unit known as the Twilight Harbingers. Recognizing the valor and leadership Selwyn had displayed both throughout his life and especially in the battle against the Unbarmherzig, Asadullah saw in his brother the embodiment of their father's legacy—a warrior of unmatched courage and resilience.
Selwyn, humbled by the trust placed in him by his brother and the Imperium, accepted the command with a renewed sense of purpose. The Lazarean Scythes, his loyal warriors who had followed him through the darkest of trials, now merged seamlessly with the Twilight Harbingers. They adopted the iconography, dogma, and unwavering resolve of Selwyn's Scythes of Lazarus, forging a new identity under the banner of the Stellar Imperium.
=== Legion Unity ===
True to his oath, Selwyn would bend the knee to his new-found Brother as soon as he was sufficiently recovered to do so, although his final act of defiance on Ritter-0A4 would leave physical scars upon him that could never fully heal. A skilled warlord in his own right, Selwyn was immediately given command of the VIII Legion of Angelus which carried his genetic inheritance, and did so on his own terms.
Gathering them before him, a grim and spectral figure robed and bearing the great black war scythe that had once belonged to his first nightmarish enemy, it must have seemed to the Terran-born sons of the Pale Rider that an ancient, graven image of the Grim Reaper had come before them as their new-found father and master. His words were simple and delivered in a creeping harsh whisper that nevertheless carried to each and every one: "You are my unburdened blades. My Scythes. By your hand shall the universes justice be delivered, and the doom we will bring shall stalk a thousand worlds harboring the enemies of man."The Legion's name was then changed in accordance with this decree, and Selwyn's words were engraved above the airlock door of the Throne Ship; The Pale Scythe in honor of that moment. By this simple decree the Twilight Harbingers were no more, and the records and annals from that day forward would carry this new name as one to strike fear into the hearts of Mankind's enemies.
The VIII Legion's Marines had been primarily Terran-born before Selwyn took the helm of the Legion; after that time almost all of the Legion's Initiates were drawn from the Feral World of Ritter-0A4. This changed the culture and traditions of the Legion somewhat drastically, so much so that by the beginning of the Armageddon Wars, there had been increasing tensions between the Ritter-born Angelus and the Veteran Terran minority who remained in the Legion and who remembered the Twilight Harbingers' earlier martial traditions brought out of Old Terra.
== Personalty ==
Selwyn, like most Rittean Natives has a grim outlook on life, but as such has a heightened reliance and respect for Familial bonds and ties and due to this he is also highly driven in purpose. He believes that for humanity to be truly free of oppression and terror that the total extermination of mankind's enemies has to be done without mercy no matter the cost. Often believing the Ends to fully justify the means of bringing about this goal, much to the chagrin of his brethren. 
He also has an intense disdain for not just those innately psionic in nature (though he is willing to accept the Imperial Psiots of the Legions and his own Brethren), but also an undying hatred for the Necromechanical Xenos of the Destroyers, due to the vile acts committed by the oppressive Necro-Phiperions of his home planet upon the populous. 
He is cold and calculating, but unlike the aloof razor-like coldness of Viscardi Ingram, Selwyn does not possess the emotionalism and pettiness of his brother. 
The 'Drottinn' is often viewed as an outcast and a freak by Imperial Scholars when comparing him to the Radiance of his fellow Luminarchs, but that is farthest from the truth. However aloof Selwyn seemed when brought before the public eye, behind closed doors Selwyn was known to be a most trusted confidant of many of his brethren. 
He believes that resilience and relentless attacking is the only true way to victory, and is a master at wars of attrition.
== Wargear ==
* The Animus Anathame/Decimatus:' A weapon of truly ancient mystery, the ever-shifting spear of Selwyn has gone by many names. To the Remembrancers of the Great Crusade, it is called ‘Decimatus, a dark legend carried during the Age of the Long Dark where it passed through the hands of warlords and tyrants. But to the Lazarean Scythes of Ritter it has always been The ‘Anathame’ -- the Scythe of the Pale Rider -- taken in battle as a blood-brought prize of victory. Ultimately, Decimatus is a metamorphic weapon, capable of shifting its shape to meet the needs of its Master - often taking the form of a Master Crafted twin-sided Power Glaive, a thing of terror and blood against which no armor can stand as the Weapons sliver-white blade inexplicably darkens as it kills, first to the deep red of heart's blood, and then to a fathomless, glittering black.
* Resurrections End: An ancient archeotech Krak-Light pistol, salvaged and retrofitted by Selwyn, its origin is shrouded in mystery.
* The Lazerian Ward: Selwyns war panoply is of his own design, drawing cosmetically little from standard Imperial patterns. Yet by fusing ancient Power Armor technology upon his own lore, he has rendered the esoteric functionality of Ritter-0A4 in adamantine and carbonite. Its systems would be near continuously overhauled due to the damage inflicted through exposure to rad-weaponry, the Luminarchs physiology proving more resilient than his own wargear against such baleful energies.
* The Valthunite Harness: Selwyn, for all the destruction he wrought in battle with the use of his and his Legions Wargear, was a man of balance and rebirth. As such the Valthunite Harnesses of the VIIIth, named after an ancient Agrarian God, an Archeotech Agri-Generation Tool of truly Arcane function whose Schematics were found upon Ritter itself, are capable of generating a miasma of Agrokinetic vapors around its bearer - these vapors are capable of reverting an Irradiated Battlefield -Even those sundered by Compound-P- into a verdant grassland, often in the same moment.
* Extraplanetary Life Support Systems: Due to the atmosphere of the Tyberian Moons forcing mankind to specifically evolve to adapt to their specific atmospheric conditions, Selwyns armor, similarly to most native Ritteans, is designed not only to protect him in battle but augment the local atmos for his own singular physiology and environmental needs, synthesizing trace elements of Rittean atmospheric vapors to mix with the air he breathes, in a sustained effort to ever adapt to local atmospheric properties. Though, as the Drottinn is a Luminarch it should be noted that his preternatural physiology should be more than capable of surviving the most harshest of conditions, it is believed his choice of War-Gear is one of either nostalgia or solidarity with Rittean natives, rather than pure efficiency or necessity.
Category:Luminarch
Category:Character
Category:Imperium