Asadullah bin Sayf

"I fear you will indeed not agree to do this deed, and I and my Legion alone shall have to pay the penalty of this great sin."
~ Asadullah bin Sayf hesitates about the plan to siege the Crimson Gates of The United Aularite Sovereignty.
Asadullah bin Sayf, or known as the “Sayy' Al-suma'a,” and the “Al-ladhi yusami,” which can be roughly translated as "The Infamous," also known as "The Great Lion," “The Tide Breaker,” "The Scarlet One", is the Luminarch of the First-Born Imperial Marine Legion; the Scarlet Lions.
Lord Sayf, the second largest of the Luminarchs, being almost eye to eye with the Luminarch Shaka Zawadi Mzuzi although Asadullah isn't anywhere near as broad and robust as Zawadi (mainly due to Zawadi's almost titanic frame.
And while an inspirational presence for his Legion and Auxiliaries as well as holding no slouch as a tactician, Asadullah is at his most dangerous in the scarlet fray of close combat and he is, alongside Aesmedon Rinallis and Orestis Neritos, seen as one of the best close quarters fighters amongst the Luminarchs. Because of this, he chooses not to hang to the wayside in battle and is instead seen in the vanguard, seeking out the enemies leaders wherever they might be in an effort to bring them low.
== History ==
=== Homeworld ===
Jala’nour Thaniyah, or JN .3 as Imperial historians—for ease of remembrance—call it, is one of four terrestrial worlds that orbit the Green Giant of Zainsamir within the Nur Allah System, having once been a thriving world with an atmosphere not dissimilar to that of Old Terra. The world now bears the scars of a long-forgotten conflict fought during the forgotten millennia of the Long Dark. In ancient days, JN .3 flourished with life and vitality. However, the Dark Ages of the Long Dark would cast a shadow over the planet, leading to irreversible damages. 
During this tumultuous period, whether due to the relentless onslaught of Xenos Attacks or the internal strife of Civil War, JN .3 bore witness to the devastating flames of destruction. The world's tragic fate unfolded in obscurity, for its relative isolation—for better or worse— had shielded it from the attention of the wider universe. Swiftly and mercilessly, JN .3 was reduced to ashes, consumed by the inferno of Rad-Fire. Countless lives perished, and the once-great cities of JN .3 crumbled into ruins. Legends of the land speak of ancient and fearsome weapons, whose unimaginable power forever altered the face of the planet. Lush and verdant grasslands transformed into arid deserts, while the seas were vaporized by relentless waves of rad-caster saturation and precise lance strikes. Like many worlds unfortunate enough to share its destiny, JN .3 remained an irradiated hellscape for countless millennia, its lands covered in Rad-wastes and its oceans poisoned.
However, in the millennia preceding the birth of Luminarch Asadullah, his Homeworld began to slowly heal. Gradually, the most severe irradiated areas receded, giving way to grassy plains that provided a relative semblance of safety. Less than 30% of the oceans remained as rad-poisoned waterways, bearing the scars of the planet's tumultuous past.
Throughout its history, the equator of JN .3 has served as the primary habitation zone, while formidable atomic storms persist over the northern and southern poles. The unmutated inhabitants of JN .3 nomadic populace are known collectively as the the 'La Magiri' - the "Unconquered", although this term encompasses various native groups. The La magiri, are fractured and diverse, and as such have multiple names for themselves. These tribes lead a semi-nomadic existence, compelled by the sporadic raids of the "Fanged Djinn" clans that emerge from their mountainous enclaves during the summer and spring months, when the Rad-Storms allow their advance. These enigmatic "Djinn" would later be identified by Imperial Scholars as a splinter Clan of the Fel Orrukai, a warring Xenos race.
The survivors of JN .3 are haunted by the horrors unleashed during the Long Dark, and their existence has regressed into a pre-feudal state. They constantly struggle for survival against a corrupted environment and harsh elements. The population teetered on the brink of extinction, until the last remnants of humanity came together, forming pockets of survival. These survivors adopted a nomadic lifestyle, traversing the land in search of scarce sources of sustenance and water. Only the strongest among them endured, finding refuge amidst the mountains and hidden valleys, eking out a meager existence amidst the remnants of their once-great civilization.
Eventually, fortune smiled upon certain groups of survivors who managed to rebuild the ruins into colossal fortress cities. Within these imposing structures, a complex feudal society emerged, governed by mighty warlords known as the 'Sarda-Jangs'. These warlords ruled over vast territories known as the 'Dhaali Ghar', which encompassed not only their fortified strongholds but also the surrounding lands. The Dhaali Ghar became home to formidable warrior hosts, originally sworn to defend against pirates and xenos raids, but now finding themselves increasingly engaged in conflicts with rival Dhaali Ghar. In exchange for their service in the armies and a share of the spoils of war, the Sarda-Jangs bestowed upon these warriors various hereditary rights based on their feudal clans, as well as individual rewards for their valor on the battlefield. In all aspects of life, from their attire to the honors bestowed upon them, the people of JN .3 strictly adhere to these ancient traditions.
==== Warrior-Bred ====
The warriors of JN .3 are indeed a proud and noble people, deeply rooted in the values of courage and honor. Within their society, the path to advancement and recognition lies solely through combat and the pursuit of glory on the battlefield. It is a never-ending cycle of death and bloodshed, where individuals must continuously fight to maintain their rights within the Dhaali Ghar, ensuring their position within JN .3n society.
But it is not only power and glory that drive the inhabitants of JN .3 to fight. They also bear the weight of a profound reverence for the great warrior king of heaven, known in their clan lore as the 'Al-Malik', and his son, the 'Ar-Rahīm Shair'. According to ancient legends, the celestial god-king would one day send his greatest son down from the sky, descending upon a column of heavenly flame, to deliver the people of JN .3 from their enemies in a purifying baptism of blood. These legends also foretell the eventual return of the Al-Malik's armies to JN .3, where they will gather the worthy and embark on fresh conquests across the heavens.
From a tender age, the children of JN .3 are instilled with the teachings and ways of war, in preparation for this glorious return. At the age of seven summers, they are placed under the guidance of the Dhaali Ghar's Janissaries, where they undergo an arduous education and training regimen mandated for all male citizens of JN .3. This training is gruelingly intense, with only the most esteemed clan warriors entrusted with instructing the new recruits. The curriculum encompasses battle tactics, the cultivation of loyalty ('Asabiyya'), the bonds of brotherhood ('Ikhwan'), the traditions of the Pride ('Khabar'), as well as military training, endurance, hunting, and basic survival skills. Discipline is unwavering, and the young males are encouraged to engage in combat amongst themselves, to determine the strongest among them. The Janissaries aim to produce physically and morally resilient individuals who will serve in JN .3's standing Planetary Militia Forces.
Each Dhaali Ghar maintains its own militia force, responsible for safeguarding its region from pirate attacks, xenos raiders, and occasional incursions by the Djinn. However, it is not only the sons of the clans who are conscripted into the Janissaries. Every five years, the Sarda-Jangs dispatch the warriors of their Dhaali Ghar to scour the deserts and mountains in search of the 'La Magiri' - the "Unconquered" - the ancient nomadic tribes that, over time, have adapted to JN .3's brutal environment. These tribes have honed their skills in the continuous fight for survival and have emerged as formidable warriors, utilizing their superior combat abilities and profound knowledge of the treacherous landscape to fend off adversaries possessing advanced technology and formal training. The loyalty of these warriors, once indoctrinated and trained by the Dhaali Ghar's Janissaries, is unwavering, making them highly favored by the Sarda-Jangs and often enlisted as personal guards.
The feudal clansmen of JN .3 wield an array of weapons on the battlefield, including khanjar knives and curved scimitar blades. These weapons vary in condition and function, ranging from meticulously preserved relics to blades that have been repaired countless times over the years. Many of these weapons hold great significance within familial lines, passed down from fathers to sons. According to JN .3 tradition, once a blade is drawn, it cannot be sheathed until it has drawn blood. The warriors believe that every weapon harbors a spirit yearning for battle, and it is essential to maintain this spirit for the weapon to aid them in combat. Therefore, older and proven weapons hold immense value to these warriors, serving as both relics of the Sarda-Jang's armies and personal treasures for the fighter and their clan. They go to great lengths to retrieve damaged weapons from the battlefield, seeking to preserve the spirit within. However, if a weapon is beyond repair, it is ceremonially salvaged so that the spirit may continue to live on, honoring the weapon's legacy.
In the relentless pursuit of combat prowess and adherence to their martial traditions, the warriors of JN .3 embody the spirit of the Al-Malik and the Ar-Rahīm Shair. They fight not only for personal glory but also to honor the celestial god-king and his son, eagerly awaiting the prophesied return of their armies. With each swing of their blades, they strive to prove themselves worthy of the Al-Malik's favor and the opportunity to join his conquests across the heavens. In their unyielding devotion to the ancient ways and the pursuit of martial excellence, the warriors of JN .3 embody a legacy that intertwines the celestial and the mortal, forging an indomitable spirit that propels them forward in the never-ending cycle of honor, bloodshed, and the pursuit of a glorious destiny.
=== The Luminarch Project ===
The Imperial Marine Legions had been the arduous creations of the God Emperor of Man. But before humanity's immortal, God-like leader would go on to craft incredible Demi-God warriors to aid Him in his plan to conquer the galaxy and reunite Mankind's lost colony worlds in the wake of the Long Dark. Amongst these 20 Imperial Legions had been the Scarlet Lions, who from their earliest days fought staunchly in the service of both the Emperor and their missing Luminarch.
Like all the great Imperial Marine Legions, the Scarlet Lions were born from the dying flames of the Long Dark, and cradled in the radiance of the Imperiums birth. This newly risen Emperor would unite the warring factions of Terra through his Unification Wars, yet His vision did not end with one mere planet, nor even with the solar system in which it lay. His goal was nothing less than the reunification of a long since scattered Mankind, to bring the sundered worlds and realms of humanity under a single beneficent rule. To do this, He would need a mighty army, an army unlike any the galaxy had ever seen, an army whose warriors knew no other loyalty than to their Emperor, and whose bodies and minds were hardened to withstand unceasing war. And so the mighty Imperial Marines were created.
The Emperor had long since refined the techniques of genetic manipulation, and He set these skills to work once again, forging twenty extraordinary transhuman super-warriors, each an embodiment of an aspect of war and destined to be His generals in the coming campaigns of the stars, and deep within His secret gene-labs hidden beneath the Kilaminjanto (Kilimanjaro) Mountains. Thus in this cradle of steel and glass the Luminarchs of the Imperial Marine Legions were born, incredible beings whose ability of war were to be second only to the Emperor Himself. 
Yet, as with all great labors, the genesis of the Imperial Marines did not go entirely according to design -- the Emperor's plan for His Luminarchs was to be undone even before it had properly begun. Without warning, the Luminarchs disappeared in a fury of light, stolen from the Emperor's laboratory, their gestation capsules emptied, their essences scattered throughout the galaxy through the Empyrean Void by an unknown force.
=== JN .3 Ascendant ===
In the aftermath of the Emperor's creation of the Luminarchs, unseen forces, enshrouded in darkness and malevolence, snatched away the embryonic Demi-Gods and spirited them away through the vast expanse of the Empyrean. These hidden powers, unable to obliterate the Luminarchs outright due to the Emperor's formidable arcane safeguards, sought to manipulate and corrupt the Emperor's creations for their own nefarious purposes. Thus, even the mightiest of the Emperor's offspring became tainted from their very inception.
Within the sprawling domain of JN .3 Dominus, and amidst the sinewy veins of its natural formations, lay what would become the resting place of the Luminarch essence destined to be known as Asadullah. In a psychic column of Heavenly fire, the Ethereal Essence of Asadullah melded with the ancient lands, imbuing them with a mystic resonance that would forever bear the name Lion's Rising. In a peculiar twist of fate, the embryonic Luminarch emerged into the world alongside a mortal twin brother from a Mother who was already carrying another child. The touch of the Great Ocean, encountered during his perilous journey, wrought changes upon Asadullah's bloodline. As he drew his first breath, he bore tiny claws, fangs, and a tasseled tail akin to that of a newborn lion cub sprouting from his mouth, hands, and rear. Such anomalies led many among the proud tribe of the 'Gharoor' - one of the ancient nomadic La Magiri tribes that, over time, had adapted to JN .3's brutal environment - to view him as a mutant, harboring thoughts of eliminating the newborn, despite his otherwise perfect form.
Yet, the innate compassion that resided within his Mother and the prevailing sentiment of the Tribesmen averted such a tragic fate. They recognized the rarity of this extraordinary child and his flawless physical and spiritual being. Asadullah, infused with the teachings, parables, and psalms passed down by the La Magiri, held these treasures close to his heart. With his tribesmen by his side, he embarked on a pilgrimage, traversing distant lands and absorbing the wisdom of other tribes. His quest was to meticulously transcribe the oral traditions and stories still recounted by the various tribes of the La Magiri into a single tome, preserving their cultural heritage for generations to come. This sacred work, the culmination of his arduous endeavor, would one day be entrusted to the Scarlet Lion Librarians. They, with unwavering dedication, safeguarded the original copy, preserving it with profound reverence within the hallowed shrine-archives of the Lionhold.
While the specifics of Asadullah's early life have faded into the mists of time and memory, the remarkable events of his childhood have been recounted endlessly by the JN .3n tribes, ingrained deeply within their collective consciousness. Like his fellow Luminarchs, Asadullah underwent a staggering acceleration in his maturation, accompanied by the growth of his more "beastial" features. His once tender claws hardened and sharpened, rivaling the toughness of an JN .3n Lion's, and soon matched the indomitable strength of the talons borne by the Tri-headed Imperial Aquila itself.
==== The Giver of Names ====
"All hail,
First Born,
Giver of Names,
Steward of Tyrants,
Protector of the House of Man,
Long shall be his days,
And Heavy shall be his cup."
* - Gharoor Dua of Rites in Dedication to the Ar-Rahīm Shair
In the treacherous world of the Gharoor Tribe, formalities such as names seemed superfluous. The dangers of their environment forged a people who valued survival above all else. As Asadullah absorbed the knowledge bestowed upon him by his family within the Gharoor, he experienced an unprecedented growth rate, rapidly reaching the size of a four-year-old child from Terra and mastering the art of walking in a matter of weeks under the scorching JN .3n sun.
Legend tells of a pivotal moment in Asadullah's life, occurring during the darkest depths of an JN .3n night. At this tender age, he confronted and triumphed over a colossal Marauder Scorpion that had plagued his people for years, relying solely on his bare hands and claws. As the moon bathed him in its ethereal light, Asadullah, with his mane drenched in the blood of his formidable adversary, gazed up at the starry expanse above. In that transformative instance, he caught a glimpse of his own reflection and embraced a name — Asadullah.
Word of his incredible feat spread like wildfire among the tribesmen of the Gharoor that night, leaving them awestruck and filled with a mix of reverence and fear. One by one, Asadullah beckoned his people to approach him, and as they did, they instinctively bowed before his magnificent presence. The first to step forward were his Mother and Twin, and in the embrace of the moonlight, he anointed them with the blood of the vanquished Marauder, granting them names just as he had bestowed upon himself. His mother became Eulli, and his brother, Nidanish, and together they adopted the name bin Sayf. This ritual continued, as Asadullah granted names to all those who sought his blessing, becoming the bestower of names — a lord, a king, and a newborn Sarda-Jang to the Gharoor. There were none before him, and there would be none after.
As Asadullah reached the age of six standard years, he stood as a commanding figure among his people, resembling a man in the prime of his youth. Unencumbered by the need for radiation suits, he fearlessly ventured into the poisoned and radioactive wastelands of JN .3, demonstrating his indomitable spirit and unparalleled resilience. He swiftly surpassed his teachers in the mastery of all weapons, effortlessly cleaving through rockfalls with the edge of his hand and subduing wild animals with a mere glance. As Asadullah matured, his tribe flourished under his wise guidance, thriving in the face of adversity.
Under Asadullah's leadership, the Gharoor Tribe discovered newfound hope and purpose. His extraordinary abilities, coupled with his profound wisdom, became a beacon of inspiration for his people. With each passing day, Asadullah's influence grew, leaving an indelible mark on the fate of JN .3 and its inhabitants. The tale of the prodigious child who became a formidable leader would be recounted for generations to come, a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the ability to rise above the harsh challenges of their irradiated world.
=== The Blood Lion's Wrath ===
During an cool JN .3n winter, a formidable band of roving Dhaali Ghar Janissaries set out on a daring mission to capture a noble Tyrant Lion — a creature of legendary status known for retaining its unmutated form throughout the tumultuous eons of the Long Dark. This war-band, emboldened by their success and newly driven by the desire to present their Sarda-Jang with their prized specimens along with La Magiri initiates, launched a surprise attack on Asadullah's tribe during one of their nomadic movements under the cover of moonlight.
Sensing the imminent danger that threatened his kin, Asadullah was consumed by an unparalleled fury. Single-handedly, he annihilated the entire Janissary force, defying overwhelming odds that numbered in the hundreds. The members of the Gharoor Tribe bore witness to the Lion of Blood as he unleashed the full might of a Luminarch, his being enveloped in a crimson nimbus of power.
With his talons drenched in Janissary blood, Asadullah tore through the ranks of the Dhaali Ghar, while his comrades evacuated the area. The details of what unfolded next remain shrouded in the fog of memory, known only to the deceased left in his wake or whispered in frightened ramblings by the Janissary Survivors. They speak of a giant beastly figure with a crimson-headed mane, a fearsome sight that struck terror into their hearts.
Whispers abound that the scarlet lion, heavily wounded but indomitable, returned to his tribe cradling three Tyrant cubs in his arms — a testament to his triumph over the Janissaries and a symbol of hope for the Gharoor Tribe.
Asadullah's valor and prowess continued to distinguish him in the fateful years that followed. Ascending to the pinnacle of the primitive society of the La Magiri, he became a unifying force, rallying the splintered JN .3n tribes against the encroaching hordes of mutants and Djinn pouring in from the south and northern poles, as well as the formidable armies of the Dhaali Ghar.
The legend of the Beast Warrior, accompanied by the thunderous roars of the three Tyrant beasts, spread far and wide across JN .3. Tales and rumors circulated about a tall and fair Lord, distinct from the stunted and radiation-scarred inhabitants of the plains, and the militant lords of the mountain kingdoms. Ferocious in battle and wise in times of peace, Asadullah appeared as a vision of bygone glories reborn on JN .3—a beacon of hope and a promise of a future nearly forgotten by the people of La Magiri and Dhaali Ghar.
His presence symbolized a resurgence of ancient greatness, inspiring the downtrodden and rekindling the spirits of those who had long lost hope. The stories of his bravery and leadership served as a rallying cry for the JN .3n tribes, uniting them against the encroaching darkness and restoring a sense of purpose and unity in their struggle for survival.
=== The Black Summer ===
Amidst an unbearably scorching JN .3n Summer, the Northern Djinn hordes broke free from the atomic storms that had once imprisoned them, unleashing their fury upon the land. However, this particular Horde had undergone a sinister transformation, empowered by the forbidden arts of Fel Sorceries. The Djinn Warriors had grown to twice their normal size, fueled by their consumption of other Djinn Hordes during the long year of atomic storms. They had stolen advanced technology and weapons from their kin during the Winter months, and now, with the arrival of Summer, they were unleashed upon the Plains and Mountains of the Equator.
In the sweltering heat of the JN .3n Summer, the Djinn marauded across both the tribes of the La Magiri and the cities of the Dhaali Ghar, leaving devastation in their wake. Their colossal War Beasts toppled mighty fortifications, while the warriors of the Horde laid waste to settlements and villages. Led by the enigmatic and fearsome Fel Daeva, the Djinn War-Boss, this Green Tide surged across the plains of JN .3, a merciless force of destruction and chaos.
In a relentless series of savage assaults, the brutal warriors of the Horde mercilessly slaughtered tens of thousands of JN .3n citizens, reveling in wanton destruction and murder as a tribute to their Fel Gods. This cycle of carnage persisted for years, as the once-protective Atomic Storms at the Poles had mysteriously dissipated, leaving the Equator vulnerable to the relentless onslaught of the Djinn. Amidst the constant onslaught, Asadullah, the Lion Lord of the Gharoor, fought valiantly to protect his tribe. With their survival came a stream of refugees fleeing the calamity brought by the Horde. The weight of responsibility rested heavily upon Asadullah's shoulders, as the influx of refugees further burdened his already heavy heart. Yet, he pressed on, resolute and determined, for he was made for this very purpose.
The Lion Lord fought for months on end, his warriors standing side by side as the children of the La Magiri and Dhaali Ghar, setting aside centuries-old blood feuds in the face of this existential threat. The fate of humanity hung in the balance, and unity became their only hope. Yet, even with the dissolution of ancient enmities, Asadullah found himself on the brink of exhaustion, carrying the weight of millions of souls tied to his unwavering perseverance against the relentless Horde.
Though he denied any claims of godhood, Asadullah was deified by the people of JN .3, who owed him their lives and revered him as a divine figure. They believed fervently that his power was of divine origin, viewing him as a god of war who defended them against the Djinn Hordes - Ar-Rahīm Shair is what they called him, the chosen son of the Al-Malik, the great warrior king of heaven. He knew this reverence to not be misplaced, for how could any deny some form of Divine strength that coursed through him. As such, they clung to the unwavering conviction that he could lead them to a new paradise, a prosperous realm in the midst of their desolation, as so they persevered. Ever following the crimson path blazed by the Lion God of War.
And so, upon the formidable Ridges of Shadu Darna (Mt. Darna), Asadullah found himself thrust once more into the throes of a desperate defense as his people evacuated to safety. His scimitar and iron-tipped claws tore through Djinn after Djinn as his comrades fought valiantly at his side. Yet, the true test awaited as the Fel Daeva emerged onto the field of battle, its colossal form overshadowing even the Titanic lesser Djinn. The beastial creature radiated with arcane and fel strength, its emerald form rippling with power as it unleashed torrents of poisoned flame upon the field, challenging Asadullah and his courageous allies.
Asadullah and the Fel Daeva clashed for hours on end, locked in a cataclysmic battle of emerald and ruby. The colossal beast confronted the Lion King, but Asadullah's preternatural ferocity and unyielding determination propelled him through the chaotic melee. Yet, weariness plagued him. The Lion King had fought tirelessly for months, and now, pushed to the limits of his endurance, even his bioengineered muscles cried out for respite. Nevertheless, he persisted. He endured the punishing strikes, the searing pain, and the overwhelming stress. Amidst the agony, whispers of failure echoed in his mind, both from within himself and from an unknown source.
But his efforts proved insufficient. In a moment of fatigue-induced vulnerability, Asadullah overextended himself, leaving himself open to a devastating strike from the Fel Daeva. The beast's mechanical claw tore through his perfected flesh, sundering him in a display of triumph. Propelled by the Fel Daeva's force, Asadullah was flung from the precipitous Ridges of Shadu Darna, hurtling towards the desolate sands below, seemingly destined for a fatal end. However, fate interceded once more. The warriors who had fought alongside Asadullah in the defense rallied to retrieve his fallen body. Led by the Hearth Lions, they fought valiantly to save their fallen god from the clutches of death, sacrificing themselves in the process.
Guided by their unwavering loyalty, a group of soldiers spirited Asadullah away into the night, evading the minions of the Horde who sought to deliver the final blow. They embarked on a journey that lasted for an extended period, traversing treacherous terrain until they reached the distant mountains where the refuges of La Magiri and Dhaali Ghar had sought solace - a sanctuary where the Daeva could not find them. Within the ruins of a once-magnificent fortress city known as the Haydar Al-Qasr, the Lionhold, they found refuge. 
As the Lion Lord rested, his wounds slowly healing under the watchful eyes of his loyal comrades, he found himself visited by a mysterious entity from a realm unseen. This being was unlike anything he had encountered before — a daemon with the countenance of an angel, radiating an ethereal light and adorned in resplendent armor. It extended an offer to Asadullah, promising him unparalleled power and protection, but at a great cost: the sacrifice of his own heart.
Within the depths of his comatose state, Asadullah's mind wrestled with this momentous decision. Time seemed to stretch endlessly as he contemplated the consequences of accepting such an offer. Images and memories flashed through his mind, intertwining with the whispers of the daemon and the echoes of his own doubts.
Yet on the twelfth second, of the twelfth hour, of the twelfth day, as if guided by a force beyond his own comprehension, Asadullah's resolute response resounded in the ethereal realm within his psyche: 
"No."
=== The Blood Lion's Requiem ===
It is said that even the bravest are struck with fear three times by a stalking lion — first by its tracks, then by its roar, and finally once face to face. And so it was with those who witnessed the rise of the Great Lion on that day. Frightened tales of Asadullah's resurrection speak of ripples in space forming across his body as his chamber maids wiped the sweat from his brow. And it wouldn't be long before an otherworldly growl emanated from his throat.
Cloaked in an ethereal and otherworldly red aura, Asadullah roared to the heavens from his inner sanctum, defying the will of the Daemon that threatened to consume his mind. The Daemon, enraged by the dismissal wormed it's way into realspace, and now it battled the Lion king as it wore his face in a sickening mockery.
And in the desperate struggle, Asadullah fashioned bronze-wrought chains, binding himself and the Daemon within his bedchamber as he battled against the insidious presence. And for countless days and nights, he toiled relentlessly, suppressing the beast within, determined not to succumb to what would later be known as the Khof Khana—Daemonic Possession - by his Legion. 
In the depths of his anguish and rage, he forged a single symbol using his own divine blood mixed with the Daemons upon the ground —a lion bearing the wings of an eagle—and there he prayed to an unknown entity. The nature of his prayers remains a mystery, but what is known is that Asadullah was granted divine insight.
With the same symbol, he banished the Daemon, severing the bond between the otherworldly beast and its devilish lord. Utilizing an unparalleled acumen unseen by JN .3, he bound the now ever-bleeding Daemon to the power of his indomitable will. In doing so He condemned the Daemon to an eternal existence within an Ascendant Realm crafted from his own blood. And there it has remained, a testament to Asadullah's unwavering resolve and strength of character. 
The Lion King emerged from this harrowing ordeal as a transformed figure, bearing the scars of battle and the weight of his sacrifices. From that moment onward, he embraced his role not only as a warrior and leader but also as a guardian against the encroaching darkness that threatened to consume JN .3. And like a raging torrent of death, Asadullah emerged once again onto the battlefield, his armor and weapons refurbished and gleaming. He led his forces with renewed determination, their target being the formidable Green Tide. But Asadullah was no ordinary warrior; he had become a Beast unlike any other. 
His veins pulsed with the essence of a trapped Daemon of sanguine might, transformed into a weapon of unimaginable power. With daemonic ichor coursing through his veins, he forged terrifying blades and harnessed the otherworldly properties of Daemon-blood. Through his mastery, he tore holes in the fabric of reality, creating localized Micro Void-Rifts for strategic advantage on the battlefield.
Recognizing the valor and loyalty of his trusted soldiers, Asadullah shared the gift of the Heartblood with them, allowing them to wage war against the Horde. However, he also shattered the Daemon's being, weakening its power and diminishing the threat it posed to the world. With this newfound supernatural strength, his forces surged forward, unleashing waves of red and green upon the horde. On a fateful day, Asadullah faced the Fel Daeva once more and brought the monster down, its life extinguished beneath the weight of his mighty Scimitar. The death of their War-leader sent a shockwave of psychic backlash through the Djinn ranks, shattering their minds and fracturing their synapses.
In the following years, Asadullah's warriors pursued the remnants of the Horde, routing and quartering them. Only scattered warbands survived, reduced to a life of subsistence on the desolate plains. Asadullah had ascended to the positions of Hero, King, and God of the La Magiri and Dhaali Ghar, yet such titles held little significance now. The boundaries of society faded away as JN .3 stood united under Asadullah's rule. The land embraced the concept of Ikhatta Karna, the United, where divisions and differences ceased to exist. Yet just as victory and peace seemed to prevail, fate intervened once more, casting its shadow upon the land.
=== The Emperor Returns ===
In the aftermath of the loss of the Luminarchs, the Emperor refused to be disheartened. Though the Luminarchs themselves could not be recreated, their genetic records and samples of their genetic material remained. From these precious remnants, the Emperor forged a mighty force known as the Imperial Marine Legions—the armies that were always meant to be led by the Luminarchs. With the Imperial Marine Legions at the forefront, the Emperor embarked on His Great Crusade, determined to restore humanity to its former glory.
The onslaught of the Imperial Marine Legions was unstoppable. Despots, aliens, and daemons all crumbled before the relentless advance of these formidable armies. Worlds that were once enslaved and terrorized now willingly embraced the banner of the nascent Stellar Imperium. It was during the Great Crusade that the lost Luminarchs were finally reunited with their Father and Emperor, taking up their rightful places as the masters of the Imperial Marine Legions.
As the Emperor strove to reunite the scattered worlds of humanity in His grand endeavor, His search for His lost children extended across the galaxy. Guided by an unparalleled psychic link to their lost masters, the Imperial Throne ships of the Legions navigated the cosmos, homing in on the worlds where the lost Luminarchs resided. Through the currents of the great ocean, the Emperor and the IIIrd Legion were led to JN .3.
The Emperor's personal ship touched down at the Great Conclaves of Lions Rising, a vast natural amphitheater carved from the central Mount Hedu-Anna by the JN .3n tribes. Accompanied by a retinue of IIIrd Legion Veterans, the Emperor entered the grand amphitheater, where tens of thousands of members of the Pride, the JN .3n tribes, had gathered. Among the tattered warriors and tribesmen, the Emperor stood, a radiant figure of golden splendor. Despite His divinity, the Emperor embraced humility and listened attentively, as mortal as any man present. Asadullah, standing alone in the central arena, flanked by two of his Tyrant Lions, spoke with an ivory voice that resonated across the amphitheater. His speech uplifted the souls of his people, instilling in them more than hope. And when it concluded, though he towered over them, Asadullah stood among them, and a resounding shout echoed through the crowd.
In that moment, the Emperor became convinced beyond doubt that the Lion was one of His lost sons. While some of the other rediscovered Luminarchs initially fought against the Emperor, Asadullah recognized Him immediately. It is believed that Asadullah's rumored ability to peer into the souls of others had already informed him of the Emperor's impending arrival, explaining his reaction. Overwhelmed, Asadullah fell to his knees, tears of ruby crystallizing and falling upon the crimson dust of his world. Where the tears touched the barren and toxic soils of JN .3 Dominus, alabaster flowers bloomed. The Emperor bid Asadullah to rise and looked upon the multitude of proud and resolute faces raised to Him, witnessing the nobility and strength that resided within the men and women of the Pride.
The finest warriors of Asadullah were chosen to become Angelus, bestowed with the very essence of Asadullah's physical being—a precious and pure Genetic Inheritance engineered by the Emperor from the Luminarch's own genome. These warriors were elevated into the ranks of the IIIrd Legion, now known as the Scarlet Lions, and joined the Emperor's Great Crusade alongside their Terra-raised brethren.
Those who remained on JN .3 Dominus were entrusted with the vital task of defending humanity's birthright on the planet and ensuring that future generations of warriors were indoctrinated in the Imperial Truth and learned of the Luminarch who had once walked among them, restoring their hope. Even to this day, years after those momentous events, the Scarlet Lions recruit all their Aspirants from JN .3, ferrying them to the freshly colonized moons that orbit the world.
Clad in resplendent armor of gleaming metals, Asadullah, now known as the Lion, embodied nobility in its physical aspect. Adorned in crimson mane and shining armor, he stood as a paragon of confidence, banishing all shadows of doubt in his radiant presence. The intricate details of his Artificer Armor were rendered flawlessly, revealing the sculpted edges of golden and red battle-plate, along with exquisite etchings gracing the brassarts, shoulder guards, and breastplate.
=== The Great Crusade ===
The Luminarchs were not mere warriors; they possessed a depth of wisdom, astuteness, and cunning that made them exceptional leaders of vast armies. Under their command, the might of the Imperial Marine Legions grew exponentially, propelling the Great Crusade forward like an unstoppable force. With the guidance of the Luminarchs, new battlefronts were opened, and thousands of worlds were reclaimed in the name of humanity, casting aside the shackles of oppression.
Amidst the grand campaign, the Scarlet Lions and their revered Luminarch, Asadullah, fought valiantly at the Emperor's side, assuming the honored role of his personal guardians. Endowed with a fiery temperament, the IIIrd Legion swiftly earned a fearsome reputation as exceptional shock troops, instilling fear in the hearts of their enemies. This prowess naturally bred a rivalry with the assault-oriented Pre-Orestis Warhounds Legion, known for their ferociousness on the battlefield. However, the Scarlet Lions, under the wise influence of Asadullah, never succumbed to the same unbridled bloodlust, channeling their primal instincts into disciplined action.
As Asadullah was introduced to his fellow Luminarchs, strong bonds were forged over the course of the long and arduous Great Crusade. Decades of shared battles and triumphs brought him particularly close to his brothers Llucerian, Aesmedon Rinallis, Anikanov Zakharik, Orestis Neritos, and surprisingly Te'Razlok Voyu Kalga. They shared a profound understanding and camaraderie, their unity strengthening the resolve of the Luminarchs as they faced the challenges that lay ahead.
The Scarlet Lions also developed deep connections through the crucible of war, fighting alongside the Astral Marauders, the Warhounds of Anatelikós, and the Carcharodon Sons Legions. Bloodshed and shared sacrifices forged unbreakable bonds between these brotherhoods, as they fought shoulder to shoulder, earning each other's respect and loyalty.
Despite his rising legendary status, Asadullah remained humble and in constant consultation with the Emperor. Even Llucerian, the proud Imperial High Chief of the Great Crusade and Luminarch of the Sons of the Morning, recognized a purity of spirit in Asadullah that he himself could never attain. Asadullah's connection to their genetic "father" surpassed that of any other Luminarch, granting him a profound understanding and oneness with the Emperor's vision.
While many of his brethren reveled in the thrill of battle, Asadullah fought not only for victory but also to secure a future golden era of peace and prosperity. His visionary ideals aligned harmoniously with the Emperor's grand design, encapsulating a shared hope for a united humanity, free from the shackles of darkness and ignorance. It was this unwavering conviction and noble purpose that set Asadullah apart, making him the epitome of honor, wisdom, and compassion among the Luminarchs.
== The Beast-Kin of Asadullah ==
Lamassu the Tyrant, Shamash the Terrible, and Anzu the Cunning — these were the names whispered with awe and reverence throughout the lands, for they were the Three Tyrant Cubs, the steadfast companions and wards of Asadullah, the Beast King. From some of the earliest decades of his existence within the desolate and radioactive wastelands of JN .3, these mighty creatures, known as the Hearth Lions, walked by his side.
In the realm of JN .3n fauna, these three entities stood as anomalies within their species. They possessed a colossal size that dwarfed their counterparts, an intelligence that surpassed mere instinct, and a physical power that defied the natural order of their kind. They were manifestations of the extraordinary, the epitome of formidable beings forged by the whims of fate. Entrusted with the sacred duty of guarding the Beast King's domains, they assumed their roles as guardians with unwavering loyalty and dedication.
When the clarion call of battle resounded, the Three Tyrant Cubs heeded their master's summons, becoming his stalwart companions on the fields of battle and through the valleys of death. Their presence becoming a tangible symbol of the Beast King's power and regality in combat, a living testament to the martial prowess and disciplined spirit of the Scarlet Lions. With each mighty stride, they embodied not only their own savage nature but also their spiritual connection to the indomitable tenets of Imperial self-discipline.
Through countless campaigns and blood-soaked battlefields, these loyal creatures followed their vermilion maned master, serving as friends, protective bodyguards, and keen observers. They reveled in their role as guardians, tearing apart the hated foes of their Legion with fangs and claws infused with an unnatural power. Their every sinew, honed through rigorous training and the fires of conflict, resonated with an unwavering determination to safeguard their king and ensure victory.
The tales of Lamassu, Shamash, and Anzu spread far and wide, whispered around campfires and recounted in the chronicles of the Scarlet Lions. Their names echoed in hushed tones, evoking both fear and admiration. They were more than mere beasts; they were legends incarnate, embodiments of strength and loyalty. In the annals of JN .3n history, their names were etched with pride and honor, forever entwined with the legacy of the Beast King, Asadullah, and the enduring spirit of the Scarlet Lions.
== Personalty ==
Asadullah, the revered Luminarch of the Scarlet Lions, possessed a multifaceted personality that commanded respect and admiration from all who knew him. At the core of his being, there burned an unyielding spirit, fueled by an unwavering dedication to the cause of the Emperor and the salvation of humanity. It was this fervent devotion that shaped Asadullah's character and guided his every action.
Noble and regal, Asadullah exuded a commanding presence that inspired loyalty and reverence among his comrades and followers. He carried himself with a dignified grace, his every movement marked by a sense of purpose and unwavering determination. Though endowed with tremendous physical strength and martial prowess, there was a serene and contemplative air about him, as if he carried the weight of the world upon his broad shoulders.
Wisdom radiated from Asadullah like a beacon, illuminating the path ahead amidst the darkest of times. His keen intellect allowed him to discern the complexities of warfare and strategy, making him a shrewd and insightful leader. With a discerning eye and a strategic mind, he could unravel the intricacies of a battlefield and guide his forces to victory with calculated precision.
Yet, beyond his tactical brilliance, Asadullah possessed a deep well of compassion and empathy. He understood the importance of preserving not only the physical well-being of his troops but also their morale and spiritual fortitude. He would take the time to listen to his warriors, to understand their concerns, and to offer words of encouragement and solace when needed. His words carried weight, resonating with a profound understanding of the trials and tribulations faced by his brethren.
Beneath the surface of his noble bearing, Asadullah harbored a fierce determination and an unyielding spirit. When the heat of battle engulfed the field, he would lead from the front, his crimson-maned figure inspiring courage and resolve in those around him. He embraced the chaos of combat with controlled ferocity, channeling his primal instincts into disciplined and devastating strikes against the enemies of humanity.
Asadullah's character was also marked by an unwavering sense of duty and honor. He was guided by a strict code of conduct, always striving to uphold the principles of justice and righteousness. He held himself to the highest standards and expected nothing less from those who fought alongside him. Loyalty and integrity were paramount virtues in his eyes, and he rewarded those who displayed unwavering dedication and adherence to these values.
In the presence of the Emperor, Asadullah exhibited a profound reverence, recognizing the divine authority and wisdom of his genetic "father." He was a trusted confidant, engaging in thoughtful and insightful discussions with the Emperor, offering counsel born of experience and wisdom.
== Wargear ==
* JN .3s’ Laceratus: A monstrously unsubtle weapon, The Laceratus is best classified as a Serrated Scimitar. Lacking the inherent elegance found in many Luminarch’ blades, It was instead steeped in a raw, primal violence of a culture that never had the chance to truly conceal it in its fight for survival.
* The Lions Teeth: A set of lightning claws reclaimed and retrofitted by Asadullah after his slaying of the Demon Men Warboss, this pair of proportionally micro lightning claws has undergone extensive modification at the hands of its bearer. With each finger tipped by a great, and retractable hooked claw, and armed with a monomolecular edge and disruptor field each, it is among the most brutal weapons borne by any Luminarch.
* The Kiru'tan Panoplia: Favoring primal mobility over protection, save inbuilt magnetosphere shields for the immense Luminarch, the Kiru’tan Panoplia nonetheless was an incredibly strong tool of protection and symbol of the Legion. A product of several months’ toil in the IIIrd Legion's forges, a suit of artificer armor based in JN .3n myth but vastly improved by the artificers. Its already sophisticated systems were even further augmented with extensive medicae devices fashioned by the Leonine King himself.
* Frag, Nervebane, Defensive & Smoke Grenades
Category:Imperium
Category:Character
Category:Luminarch