Enlightened Sons

Enlightened Sons armorial with Chapter iconography.

Enlightened Sons Primaris Intercessor.

"*We are our Primarch’s Masons;
We are our Primarch’s Wisdom;
We are our Primarch’s Torchbearers;
Praise to Dorn!
We Illuminate the Darkness.*"
— *Catechism of the Enlightened*
The **Enlightened Sons** are a *Codex Astartes*-compliant Loyalist Space Marine Chapter created from the lineage of the proud and stoic Imperial Fists during an unknown Founding, though some Imperial scholars suspect it may have been in the Age of Apostasy M36. This suggests they hail from the rebuilt Imperial Fists Chapter following the near-disastrous War of the Beast.

## Chapter History

The Enlightened Sons are a secretive chapter with much of their early Imperial records lost during the Age of Apostasy. The Chapter is known to have associations with the Imperial Fists and deathwatch chapters including strong ties to the Inquisition Ordo Xennos. They also have an alliance with the Adeptus Mechanicus which has benefited both chapters.

The Enlightened Sons have gained an uninterrupted supply of equipment and technology for their armouries while the Adeptus Mechanicus have gained access to many of the recovered artefacts including unfathomable ancient technology. This alliance enabled the Enlightened Sons to harness the power to imprison and contain large quantities of humanoid, robotic skeletal warriors that laid dormant in stasis-tombs. It is claimed that the Adeptus Mechanicus members are actually part of the radical and secretive sect of Xenarites. Who are conducting experiments on the planet of Bevrore Ifrinn in the quest for knowledge but this has never been confirmed or is quickly discredited by the Ordo Xennos.

The undeniable truth is that the Enlightened Sons have successfully located, eradicated and fortified a multitude of planets recorded to have been perilous to the Imperium of Man. The Enlightened Sons are remorseless in their hunt to illuminate the darkness.

> *“We now hold the keys to unlocking their knowledge, We will be victorious.” - Astron Merek: Chapter Master.*
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### Origin

The discovery of an ancient chest filled with artefacts at the time of the Great Crusade by a warrior tribe of Inwit would later unlock a much larger lethal discovery. The responsibility of understanding the ice tribes' artefacts would be placed on hold due to the events of the wider Horus Heresy and the Siege of Terra. The ice tribe chieftains did eventually achieve a better understanding of the artefacts. The most valuable items were the scriptures that revealed the coordinates of a concealed planet with tails of unfathomable ancient technology and religious supreme beings.

The bond between the tribal warriors and the VII Legion can be traced back to the origins of Primarch Rogal Dorn. This alliance led to an Imperial Fists strike cruiser commanded by Astron Merek implementing these claims of ancient technology. The Imperial Fists granted a number of tribal warriors to accompany them, as they were looking to advance their reach and reclaim any discovered riches. The strike cruiser encountered a multitude of anomalies while locating the planet's position, colossal electromagnetic storms before hitting asteroids that surrounded the frozen planet. The population seemed bleak from initial reports with only primitive settlements showing on the surface. The planet's landscape was full of crevasse tunnels, frozen mountain ranges, plains of frost dunes and colossal ice oceans.

The Imperial Fists in time unearthed that the mountains were actually giant structures encrusted within ice. What they discovered deep within this frozen world enlightened its sinister nature. The secrets of the structures' technology had to be identified and what they inadvertently found were the original makers entombed within, this was in fact an ancient Necron Tomb World. The investigation lead the Imperial Fists to make contact with the Bevrore clans for further understanding. The Ifrinn kingdom would also reveal theirselves for the very first time. The knowledge Astron Merek gained about this land and the Tomb Word in these meetings before taking any forceful action was incredibly vital. The Bevrore and Ifrinn would also honour the Imperial Fists to increase their battle force size. Astron Merek crafted an operation plan before allowing Tech priests to travel deeper within these structures. Unlocking new passageways eventually coursed part of the tomb to erupted into life.

This awakening soon broke into contact between the Imperial fists and the Necrons. Astron Merek’s strategy of using the available resources, technology and physical features of the planet to his advantage was inconceivable to some but resulted in the defeat of the enemy. It was said that Mereks command was without doubt what turned the war of colossus into the favour of the Imperial Fists.

Astron Merek was severely wounded in the last moments of the battle resulting in substantial bionic enhancements being fitted. Merek survived the surgery and had honoured his Chapter with pure inventive zeal. It was said that within the deepest bunkers of the planet held vast amounts of scripts, drawings and relics gathered and collected from not just one race but several. This valuable information would over time be converted into a manuscript. The contents within this manuscript would consequently take the Enlightened Sons on a conquest to eradicate this threat. The manuscript would be known as the *Illumination Codex*.

The terrifying discovery and with the chaos of the Imperium at war with itself during the Age of Apostasy M36, would resulted in the high lords approval that the threat was critical and that it required the creation of a new Adeptus Astartes chapter. This chapter was named the Enlightened Sons.

The Adeptus Mechanicus were made aware of this newly founded chapter and their discovery of valuable technology. This initially creating tension between them and the Enlightened Sons as the exact findings were classified. By the time of Goge Vandire was executed in 378.M36 and order restored in the Imperium, the Enlightened Sons had for the most part been forgotten with the planet and it's "magical" technology. Except now the Enlightened Sons had established themselves on this planet making it their homeworld. The Adeptus Mechanicus did not forget about the Enlightened Sons and their discovery. To prevent conflict, an agreement was made with an Adeptus Mechanicus to have equal footing in the quest to illuminate the darkness. The Enlightened Sons fleet would also be fitted with an Adeptus Mechanicus Ark ship with senior tech-priests and adepts.

## Chapter Home World

### Bevrore Ifrinn

Bevrore Ifrinn is the homeworld of the Enlightened Sons chapter. The Ice Planet is surrounded by asteroids and colossal electromagnetic storms. The surface is incredibly hazardous with arctic cyclones and sub zero temperatures. The raw landscape comprises of crevasse tunnels, plains of frost dunes and frozen mountain ranges. The majority of the planets surface consists of colossal ice oceans and if the raw landscape does not kill the average human the horrifying creatures roaming above and below its surface most likely will.

### Branthenus

Branthenus is the closest planet to the Enlightened Sons home-world and was given to the Knight House of Ifrinn as a gesture of friendship after the war of Colossus. House Ifrinn has constructed a formidable fortress to defend their kingdom and planet. They also continue to have close ties with the Enlightened Sons chapter and aid in the safeguard of this region.

## Fortress-Monastery - Classified

The Enlightened Sons fortress- monastery stands within the unforgiving embrace of a V-shaped mountain range. Constructed on the shattered remnants of a frozen, collapsed peak—an enduring testament to their unwavering commitment to honour their Primarch Rogal Dorn. Proudly positioned to withstand the icy onslaught, the stronghold boasts concealed gun emplacements, shimmering void shields that mock the threat of orbital bombardments, and a formidable arsenal of macro-cannon turrets, heavy bolter bunkers, and missile batteries. This bastion of knowledge is a stark reflection of their dedication to unlocking the mysteries of an ancient and ominous threat.

Sealed entrances, fortified with adamantium, ceramite, or stone gates, bear the weight of time and the shroud of secrecy, their locks intricately attuned to the Chapter's unique genetic code. Below the icy surface, the fortress delves into a subterranean labyrinth—a sacred repository where the chapter's history, knowledge, and the key to unraveling the enigmatic menace are guarded with zealous devotion.

In this grim darkness of the 40K universe, the Enlightened Sons stand as a secretive space marine chapter, forged to shield their planet and defend it from what looms beyond the veil of knowledge. Yet, the fortress-monastery is not their sole line of defence. The entire surrounding landscape, a frozen expanse fraught with danger, has been meticulously fitted with mines and hidden automated gun systems. Each snow-covered plain conceals a deadly secret, reinforcing the chapter's commitment to safeguarding their most vital structure. Every stone and chamber within the fortress echoes with the weight of responsibility, and the perilous landscape beyond its walls serves as a testament to the lengths the Enlightened Sons will go to protect the key to understanding the dark forces that threaten to engulf the Imperium.

## Planetary Defence

### Cerulean Guard

The home world of the Enlightened Sons chapter following the war of colossus underwent extensive transformations dedicated in its fortification capabilities. This also included the construction of the chapters own planetary guard. The Fantoma were once the personal protectors to the royal Ifrinn households. This force of highly trained soldiers demonstrated their worth and fought with strategic might and unity in the colossus war. By virtue a selection of highly ranked individuals were chosen to stay on Bevrore Ifrinn instead of following their Knight house to Branthenus. These decorated soldiers would become the fundamental exemplar to a newly formed regiment.
This regiment was named the Cerulean Guard. The rank of Lord General would be given to a newly chosen Mocan Blade in keeping with their traditions by Chapter Master Merek.
The order to increase recruitment for the protection of Bevrore Ifrinn was given this however did not restrict the challenging selection process. It was of the upmost importance that only the most capable candidates were selected to enter into the training camps. The Cerulean Guard later become an elite planetary defence force and one of the largest military forces in the protection of the planet. Zadrius Haktor 2nd company captain once declared that the small unit that were responsible for the protection of high ranking officials accompanying the Chapter on a mission demonstrated order, fortitude and were unyielding in their duty even in the face of unquestionable defeat.

The Cerulean Guard have honoured the Enlightened Sons with dedicated service.

## Specialist Units

### **Lazarus**

> “ It is said only the dead have seen the end of war, but this is false, you are a Lazarus and death is only a fleeting moment before resuming your duty ”
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Sargent Hannibar of the obsidian Lazarus unit.

Lazarus is a specialist operation force within the Enlightened Sons chapter, governed directly by the Chapter Master. Only the very finest recruits that demonstrate the strongest connection to the chapter's gift of enlightenment will go on to become Lazarus space marines. These marines would undergo extensive testing and specialised training to ensure that they could cope with additional intense mental and physical strains.

The Knowledge and wisdom gained gives a Lazarus marine a deadly advantage on the battlefield. In some individual cases, secrets and information have been passed on through their gene seed dating back to the construction of the chapter. The Lazarus Gene-Seeds have become a valuable resource to the Enlightened Sons Chapter. The ability to access an entire lifetime supply of memories or even in critical moments awaken a fallen champion was truly seen as a great gift from the Emperor to fight the enemies of the Imperium.

The Enlightened Sons would witness the vast capabilities of these specialised Lazarus squads, so to enhance the chances of a successful re-connection. The Enlightened Sons Chief Apothecary with the help from the Xeneraties carried out comprehensive research and tests on early Lazarus Marines. This allowed a larger number of chosen aspirants to become part of what was named the Holy Blood gene seed and to continue developing this gift of enlightenment. Lazarus marines are placed into squads, normally consisting of five marines, to create one deadly force. These marines do not display company colours but are identified by the Lazarus twin skull symbol and their red shoulder and leg armour.

Once part of a squad, the Marines gene seeds will never leave, creating a sacred bond. Each force has its own unique name to identify each different Lazarus squad. In the case of a Lazarus marine's demise with the total loss of their gene seed, only then is a newly developed Lazarus marine selected to join the squad. In the rare circumstances where only one remaining Lazarus veteran marine survives and all other gene seed is lost, a new protocol would be activated. They would be given two choices, to rebuild or to go forth as an unaided champion of the Enlightened Sons.

If the Lazarus marine chooses to continue alone, then they are now guided by war and war alone. They would be assigned to a company and normally tasked with destroying any highly valued targets within the enemies forces.

> Lazarus database : 1392.721.2
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> Journal log: 9847
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> Name: Vendrar Abderix
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> Squad: Syracuse (expunged)
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> Unaided Lazarus: 4th company
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> Inner peroration.
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> Brother Hanun once more providing a much-needed injection of sprit.
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> “In the darkest hour, when evil closes in on all sides – remember, brother, you are not alone. We shall unleash our wrath upon these abominations. My strength is yours, and we shall expunge all that stands against us. Illuminate the darkness!“.
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## Combat Doctrine

In the foreboding prelude to conflict, the Enlightened Sons, descendants of the Imperial Fists lineage, embody a strategic divergence steeped in dark pragmatism. Mastery of clandestine operations unfolds, unfurling a shadowed ballet through the enigma of impending battles. Employing meticulously placed traps and the surgical removal of key adversaries, the chapter orchestrates a symphony of uncertainty.

Breaking with the stoic traditions of siege, the Enlightened Sons deploy a versatile fleet of flyers, shrouded in the cloak of shadows. This airborne armada descends upon the theatre, dropping specialised units with precision to secure pivotal positions. Simultaneously, precision drop pods deliver operatives deep into the enemy's midst, initiating sudden, unforeseen disruptions. The flyers, with their ominous silhouettes, transcend conventional expectations, serving as harbingers of unpredictability. They provide indispensable aerial support with swift, unanticipated strikes. Amidst the tumultuous methodology, the favoured tactic emerges—a nuanced assault born of surprise, a stark departure from the methodologies traditional siege.

Yet, when the exigency arises, the Enlightened Sons seamlessly pivot to honour their father's siege tactics. A synchronised four-arrowhead assault unfolds, converging to relieve the enemy's onslaught on their favoured flyers. The battlefield quivers under the weight of heavy ordinance, diverting attention and creating voids within the adversary's defences. The airborne armada retains its significance in this calculated choreography. Exploiting opportunities crafted by surprise attacks, they traverse the skies with lethal precision, striking precisely where the enemy is least prepared. The eerie hum of their engines transforms into a symphony of disarray, foretelling the unsettling unraveling of adversaries. Through calculated finesse, the Enlightened Sons dictate the tempo and location of engagements, turning the threat into a canvas where ancient traditions meld with the dark artistry of modern stratagems in a relentless dance of lethal surprise.

## Chapter Culture

The Enlightened Sons would honour the realms that fought beside them, naming the ice world Bevrore Ifrinn. Humanity would continue to survive and strive on this planet.

## Bevrore

### **Initial Lore.**

The Bevrore are giant warriors, vastly taller and heavier built than an imperial man. These deadly warriors called this frozen hell their home far before the Ifrinn or Astartes stepped foot on it. The planet's savage climate, along with its horrifying creatures, hunting for their own survival on land and sea is thought to be why the Bevrorian people are so large in stature. This hostile environment naturally favours the largest and strongest humans - and over countless generations would result in their increasing size.

The Bevrore do not take pity on the weak, and this includes their own blood. Many of the young do not survive past the age of 11 solar years - those that do go on to become hardened warriors are still not guaranteed a long existence. The Bevrore also grow vastly quicker than imperial humans, but their intellectual growth capability is similar to humans.

“Welcome the challenges of life, for every challenge is a gift for growth. To survive you must want to truly live, and to become a hunter you must first not become the prey.”

* *Bevrore Chieftain, Breken*

This means at a very young age, a child is physically strong enough to honour their clan in a baptism of Ice, and hunt with their clan. This is seen as an important test for any young Bevrore warrior to prove their worth. The saying "hunt or be hunted" is prolific throughout all clans, as only the strongest have the enhanced self-preservation to survive. The most powerful clan is called Regnum. Their vast settlement is built on valuable ground due to its sacred origins. It was created by the clan’s original ancestors and located were the Orman sea meets the vast Porton forest. The dense black forest is the only one found on the planet and shields the Gift of the Ancestors.

### **Gift of the Ancestor's Origins**

There is an ancient wooden carving located in the imposing hall of Regnum - it is thought to be the only existing portrayal of the Gift of the Ancestors.

This carving is said to depict the moment Chieftain Halstein witnessed a lustrous bright star traveling across the night sky before crashing into the planet's surface. Halstein saw this as a sign from the ancestors, and embarked on the journey to locate the fallen star. The bright light was not a star, nor was it an ordinary space rock. It was a remarkable object imbued with mystical energy. The impact caused a powerful wave of energy to ripple through the planet's atmosphere, penetrating deep within the ice and rock, unlocking an ancient substance that had long been hidden.

As the energy spread, it triggered a strange and wondrous transformation in the planet's landscape. A glowing liquid substance began to rise from deep down within the impact crater. This was not all that had changed - the bare frozen ground surrounding the crater began to crack with the emergence of dark charcoal shoots. Later this became known as the Porton Forest. The Regnum clan would eventually locate the impact location, and it was said that the unnatural energy the star pool gave off was profound. Halstein's curiosity about the fallen star, and what had risen in its place, coursed him to explore its meaning further. The order was also given later to relocate the clan and establish a new settlement.

Tales described that the warriors soon found themselves becoming more attuned to the planet and shockingly, gaining a horrifying ability. The warriors stated that they had begun to communicate with what they thought to be their ancestors, tapping into the wisdom and knowledge of *Those Who Came Before*. At first, the communication was chaotic and confusing as they struggled to make sense of the strange visions and voices that filled their minds. Due to the intensity of these mental strains, many died by their own actions - but as the strongest began to learn how to control and focus the energy, they discovered that they could use it to access a vast storehouse of information about their thought to be ancestors, planet, and in some rare cases, even visions of the cosmos.

Over time, the Regnum Clan became the most dominant force and their population grew, with many able to harness the power of the ancients and using it to unlock new levels of understanding and knowledge. Regnum was able to tactically overwhelm any clan attempting to destroy their progress, but there enlightenment could not stop the in inner conflicts. Large numbers of warriors would eventually break away from the rule of Halstein. This eventually led to an all-out war against the many new clans across the planet. In the elapsing of time, many clans were completely wiped out - and the ones that survived were now showing the signs of suffering the consequences of endless war. Eventually, there were only four remaining clans that survived: Regnum, Akulli, Leeu and Horski.

At the end of the Colossus war the Enlightened Sons ordered the clans chieftains to unite the remaining clans under one name. This chosen name was Bevrore, which means ‘*As one’*.

### **The future of Bevrore**

The Astartes thought that the Bevrore only had physical strength on their side as they did not display any substantial technological advancements. It was not until later that they would discover the Bevrore had a substantial and more powerful gift. The source of this spiritual power and its capability was later identified by the Chapter and became restricted knowledge.

The Bevrorians called it the Gift of the Ancestors, which had been passed down over generations. This powerful ability, once harnessed, could further improve the survivability of any Bevrore warrior. The young that managed to survive long enough to be chosen by their chieftain would only then begin these spiritual trials. After the Clan wars, it was decided that all young Bevrorians would be given this gift. It would take place in the Sacred Monastery, built around the star pool deep within the Porton forest. The young warriors were taken and subjected to several ritual ceremonies given by the Shaman's of Porton. These ancient rituals would transfer and connect the spiritual gifts. This process was incredibly dangerous and may warriors die in the overwhelming ordeal of the ritual.

The Gift cannot be removed from the individual as it attaches itself directly to the host’s genetics. It is said that over time, the warrior would be able to harness the Spiritual Gift to converse with their ancestral spirits. The connection can be weak or strong depending on the individual, but a warrior with a strong connection is able to understand and react to new threats instantaneously - as if they had already lived the moment before. This powerful gift would later be witnessed to rapidly evolve and survive even passed its original host.

## Bevrore Clans

Even though the clans are united under one name, each clan still has its own unique distinguished customs, traditions and history.

### Akulli Clan

The Akulli are thought to be the smallest surviving clan of the Bevrorians. They are, however, fierce and independent people who are proud of their history and ability to survive in the dark forest environment of Porton. They are skilled climbers and have developed unique equipment and techniques for navigating the vast forest.

Losing your way in the forest is very dangerous and normally results in certain death because of the many threats that exist within. The Akulli’s largest settlement is named Zerua, located on the northern side of the Porton forest, which opens out onto the Ostrica Ice Dunes. The few outsiders that ever venture into the forest often fail to find the clan's hidden tree-village.

The village is built high up in the trees to protect themselves from predators and rival clans. The frozen forest warriors use a complex system of ropes and ladders to climb from tree to tree, and have even built bridges and platforms to connect their homes. From their lofty perches, the clan can see for miles onto the open lands of the Ostrica Ice Dunes and can detect any approaching danger. The clan’s favoured weapon is a powerful bow with splinter sharp arrows, which helps to protect them against the dangers that dwell on the forest ground.

The Clan's true expertise lies in the making of medical supplies. The clan has discovered many rare herbs and plants that grow only in the icy soil, and they use these ingredients to create powerful medicines and healing balms. The clan's healers are highly respected throughout Bevrore, and many people will brave the dangers to seek out their aid.

## Regnum Clan

The Regnum are the largest and most formidable clan on the planet. Their esteemed chieftain, Halstein, advanced Regnum’s power and dominance to a level never witnessed before. Even after Halstein’s death, the Regnum Clan’s supremacy has never been stronger.

The Regnum people have demonstrated extreme aggression and a keen willingness to fight for their sacred land. Religious leaders within the clan believed it was their divine right to protect and to retain their sacred gift. The belief that Regnum were chosen by the stars to control and lead all to salvation spread across the clan. The Regnum’s supremacy was credited to this strong belief and the powers of the star pool. This would make them a formidable force of warriors to fight against.

Regnum is also the name of their settlement, which spreads across a vast and sprawling territory. The clan is protected by a giant structure of high wooden walls, which starts at the southern end of the Orman sea and runs north into the Porton forest, surrounding the clans most prized land: the Star Pool. Decades of clan wars would finally end with the fate of the human population in jeopardy and a treaty was crafted to end all war.

Regnum warriors are known for their unbreakable weapons. They favour large, heavily constructed weapons and armour which are constructed by master weaponsmith’s. These are often decorated with detailed designs and even bones from their enemies. They also have reputation for being incredibly aggressive and enjoy fighting raiding and killing other clans warriors just for their own entertainment. They are still feared by many, even after the treaty was agreed.

## Leeu Clan

The Leeu Clan practice two distinct traditions. They are nomadic hunters who roam the tundra and ice fields in search of prey, using their keen senses and knowledge of the land to track, kill and capture the deadly creatures that roam this frozen planet. In addition, they build and pilot incredibly fast skimmer ships on the planet.

They are used for hunting and traveling across large areas of frozen sea ice. The silhouettes of these great creations have put fear in many that have come into conflict with the clan. The Leeu clan's main settlement is named Barcaza and is located on the fringes of the Orman Sea. This settlement is constructed of two huge ancient vessels lashed together and encrusted in ice. These vessels have not moved in decades and now hold the clans' most valued warriors, creatures, relics and weapons.

Surrounding Barcaza, many other structures stand that house the rest of the clan's people. The second largest structure holds the chambers and creature training camps. Along the outer edges of the colony, large quantities of skimmer ships are docked ready to cast off at the first sign of threat. The Leeu have a spiritual connection to the beasts that survive on this frozen planet. They have mastered the ability to not only trap these deadly creatures, but to also train and domesticate them into the clan's culture. These creatures were once used in war to devastating effect against other clans. This power would see the Leeu clan become the most powerful and threatening clan on the planet.

This age of strength would not last forever - with war against outnumbered rivals and the threat of their most valuable beasts becoming extinct resulting in the Leeu's retreat. This time is known to the clan as the Beasts of the Past. At present, the majority of trained creatures are commonly used to assist in hunting. These creatures have allowed the clan to take down much larger prey at a vastly faster pace. This has resulted in the Leeu Clan having a high standing in its own right, supplying vast quantities of meat and furs to the other clans in trade exchange.

## Horski Clan

The Horski Clan’s early history was shrouded in mystery, with the majority of the other clans believing that they had disappeared or had all died centuries ago. The truth was that the clan's early chieftain gained the knowledge of, his ancestors, which led him to make a remarkable discovery, he locating a natural river cave system beneath the thick ice. Theses systems spread large distances and connect the two main oceans on the planet. This allowed the Horski clan to survive in secrecy with very few outsiders of their community knowing about their existence.

The vast tunnels were used to the Horski advantage, covering large distances and allowing surprise attacks against other clans encroaching on their territory. The vast chambers were rich in minerals and nutrients, allowing them to thrive. The Clan created an agricultural system to grow crops from algae and other plants. They used the river's flow to power mills and other machinery.

The underwater clan learnt how to drill deeper into the ice until they could break through and flood large areas with sea water. They would then entice sea creatures into these caves and set traps using harpoon devices and nets to catch their prey. These hardy warriors would create clothing for these sea creatures to allow them to bare the freezing temperatures of the ice water. They would also file their teeth to become sharper, allowing them to consume the raw flesh of the sea creatures they killed.

The Horski warriors have adapted to the frigid temperatures of living below the ice surface. The truth of their existence would eventually emerge, as they developed a complex system of trade and diplomacy with the surface-dwelling clan of Leeu. Despite the challenges of their isolated life, the Horski have gained a strong connection to the mysterious depths of the sea. Not only becoming masters of hunting sea creatures but travelling vast distances underground.

## **Clan Chieftain’s**

The Chieftain is the head of each Bevrore clan. This position of power is not typically passed down through a bloodline, but taken by the strongest. This means the death of a Chieftain is rarely through natural courses and typically through conflict. If a chieftain is challenged in rare occurrences, any clan warrior has the right to challenge their chieftain if they see weaknesses in their ability to lead. Only the most powerful warriors can gain the respect needed to lead their clan's people - and a fight to the death is the traditional method. The Chieftains are powerful leaders and are as unforgiving as the planet they live on. They lead from the front and embody what it means to be a Bevrore.

“I shall show you our Apothecarion. We have nothing to hide.”

## **Chapter Aspirants**

The Bevrore are physically strong, spiritually gifted and have enhanced self-preservation to survive. They are some of the most fearsome warriors in the Imperium, resulting in the Enlightened Sons choosing large numbers to become Aspirants for induction into the chapter. Unconfirmed records suggest that over half of the original chapter's marines were taken from the Bevrore clans.

## **Enlightened Sons Gene-Seed**

The ability that was harnessed by the Bevrorians was still untold and unknown to the newly formed Enlightened Sons Chapter. The main purpose of this young chapter was to safely guard and provide an understanding of its deadly discovery. Several decades would pass with the training of new recruits. The Chapter would succeed in 1,000 sets of healthy organs. The Gene-Seed had a great deal of religious significance to the Enlightened Sons as it represented their identity and future. Without the Gene-Seed, the Chapter would have no hope of honouring its duty. The organs were genetically implanted into Aspirants, who were mostly of Bevrorian descent. It would not be known for many years but their hidden secret would go on to evolve dramatically and attach itself directly to the implanted Gene-Seed.

This evolution would only become known after the deaths of Bevrorian space marines. Their Gene-Seeds were removed with the Progenoid gland prepared and implanted back into a new Aspirant that was not of Bevrorian decent. These mistakes were accredited to the chapter being at war, which meant that the checking for mutations was not performed efficiently enough. The Bevrorians’ gift was powerful and managed to fuse itself directly into the genetics of the Progenoid gland. This co-dominance of genetic material even changed the characteristics of the primary Bevrorian ability.

These new marines demonstrated incredible feats on the battlefield without any signs of damaging the mutation in the early years. It was only later that marines were unknowingly building connections with this mysterious gift. The majority would gain the ability of elevated intuition, but in the more complex cases, if this spiritual connection strengthened, the marine would begin to hear voices and even converse with the Gene-Seed’s previous fallen battle brother. These mental strains would be the first documented struggles and would continue until the connection was fully formed. The evolved Bevrorian gift had also changed, becoming somewhat reset. It was now only able to provide connections to its original hosts, and not as far back as the ancestors of Bevrore.

**(Classified) Lazarus Examination Log/4793:**

We have had acknowledgment that in these cases, if the connection is strong enough to a fallen brother, it can take complete control of the host's physical body. This seemed to be as if their knowledge of a situation drastically outweighed their hosts in their desire to survive. During this time of war, the Gene-Seed production had become mutated and spread across the Chapter. This resulted in changes in the exact nature of the artificially cultured organs.

The changes that had occurred would later become part of the very essence of the Enlightened Sons. The Xeneraties, now aiding in the chapters' crusades, conclude that the mutation was stable and unequivocally beneficial to the marines' performance. Ultimately, this resulted in the Enlightened Sons Gene-Seed becoming part of the Chapter's sacred enlightenment. The strong alliance with the Xeneraties provided help when purity checks were needed. The Astarte’s with the most dominant connection to their previous gene seeds host would be assisted to a dedicated unit named Lazarus. These marines would undergo extensive testing and specialised training to ensure the strongest performance and to ensure they could cope with the intense mental and physical strains. The Lazarus Marines would gain customised amour and weapons to suit each unit.

The Enlightened Sons would witness the vast capabilities of these Lazarus units, becoming one of the deadliest weapons against the Imperium’s enemies. The Lazarus Gene-Seeds became a valuable resource to the Chapter. The ability to awaken a fallen champion was truly seen as a great gift given by the Bevrorians. To enhance the chances of a successful connection, the Enlightened Sons Chief Apothecary, with help from the Xeneraties, carried out comprehensive research and tests on early Lazarus Marines. This allowed a larger number of chosen aspirants to continue developing this gift of enlightenment. These units are thought to be one of the strongest armaments in the Enlightened Sons Chapter.

### **Lazarus**

***Brother Vendrar Abderix.***

Journal log: 9847 - Inner peroration.

Brother Hanun once more providing a much-needed injection of sprit in the darkest times of war.

“In the darkest hour, when evil closes in on all sides – remember brother, you are not alone. We shall unleash our wrath upon these abominations. My strength is yours and we shall expunge all that stands against us. **Illuminate the darkness!**“

The Bevrorians’ DNA is deeply carved into the Enlightened Sons’ culture and history. It is a testament that such a race could survive – let alone thrive in this universe.

## Gene Seed - Connection

The Enlightened Sons have truly been gifted the chance of enlightenment but this fate depends on the individuals own ability to master their gene seed.

A Space Marine's connection to their fallen brothers through the gene seed is a profound and unique aspect of their existence. The process begins with the implantation of the gene seed, a sacred ritual that infuses the recruit with the genetic legacy of the Chapter's past warriors. This event marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey for the neophyte. Initially, the connection is faint, like a distant whisper in the Marine's consciousness. As the gene seed matures and integrates with the Marine's biology, the connection strengthens. This process is not without its challenges, and each Marine must undergo rigorous mental and psychic training to adapt to this influx of memories and emotions.

Visions of past events are a common occurrence for Space Marines as their connection deepens. They may experience vivid flashbacks of battles, ancient ceremonies, or moments of valor from their fallen brothers' lives. These visions serve to impart knowledge and experience, enabling the Marine to tap into the wisdom of those who came before them. These glimpses of history can be overwhelming, as the Marine may feel as though they are reliving those moments. In the rarest of cases, a Space Marine may experience a level of connection so profound that it borders on the supernatural. In these instances, their fallen brother's consciousness seems to merge temporarily with their own. It's as if the fallen brother is standing beside them, offering guidance, advice, or reassurance. These moments are revered and considered blessings by the Chapter, as they provide invaluable insights and unwavering support in the heat of battle.

However, this deep connection also comes with a significant mental strain. The constant influx of memories and emotions from fallen brothers can be emotionally taxing. Some Marines struggle to maintain their individuality amidst the sea of voices and experiences. It takes immense mental discipline to channel this connection productively and not be overwhelmed by it. To cope with the mental strain, Space Marines engage in various meditative and psychological exercises. They learn to compartmentalize the memories and emotions, focusing on the specific knowledge or abilities they wish to harness. This mental fortitude is vital, as it allows them to harness the full potential of their gene seed while remaining grounded in their own identity.

In conclusion, the connection to their fallen brothers through the gene seed is both a blessing and a challenge for Space Marines. It grants them unparalleled knowledge and strength but also requires tremendous mental discipline to manage the influx of memories and emotions. Those who master this connection entirely become the Lazarus, a formidable force of warriors whose bonds with their fallen brothers transcend the boundaries of life and death. Imperial medical documents have even suggested in some rare instances if the spirits knowledge of a situation outweighs the hosts it could actually take complete control of their physical body in the desire to survive. Ultimately this resulted in the Enlightened Sons gene-seed being strictly undisclosed as well as becoming part of the chapters sacred enlightenment to assist them in defeating the imperiums enemies.

### The Holy Blood Mutinous gene seed failure.

The gene-seed connection among Space Marines is a double-edged sword, a gift that can yield tremendous power or spiral into uncontrollable madness, depending on the mental discipline of the Marine involved.

Under normal circumstances, a Space Marine's gene-seed would provide a connection to the last fallen brother who shared that particular gene-seed implant. This connection is a potent source of strength and knowledge. It allows the Marine to tap into the experiences, skills, and memories of their fallen comrade, effectively gaining the wisdom of those who came before them. This bond is a deeply cherished aspect of their brotherhood and a way to honor the legacy of their fallen brethren.

However, if a Marine's mental state deteriorates or becomes unstable, the gene-seed's connection can mutate, unleashing a destructive force. When this happens, instead of connecting solely to the last fallen brother, the Marine becomes a conduit for the entire lineage of warriors who shared that gene-seed implant. This unleashes the collective emotions, memories, and experiences of all those who have ever been linked to that gene-seed. The result is an overwhelming surge of emotions, knowledge, and memories flooding the Marine's consciousness. It's as if the thoughts and experiences of countless warriors are bombarding their mind simultaneously. This deluge can be utterly chaotic and destructive, threatening to consume the Marine's own identity and sense of self.

The Marine may find it impossible to distinguish their own thoughts, emotions, and memories from those of their fallen brothers. The line between self and other blurs, leading to confusion, identity crises, and potential personality disorders. The sheer volume of emotions, especially if they include pain, anger, or despair from fallen warriors, can be mentally excruciating. In essence, the gene-seed mutation due to a Marine's mental instability acts like a Pandora's box of collective memories and emotions, releasing a torrent of psychic turmoil that can shatter the strongest minds. It highlights the critical importance of mental discipline and control for Space Marines, for the same connection that grants them strength can become a devastating weakness when mishandled.

## Chapter Recruitment

The selection of ihonour viduals from each clan of Bevrore into the Enlightened Sons has become a universal source of great honour. Across the Regnum, Akulli, Leeu, and Horski clans, a shared sense of pride emerges as their members embark on the journey to become mighty warriors within the chapter. This cosmic affiliation has evolved into a symbolic battleground, where each tribe competes with a spirit of dominance and prowess, showcasing the strength and resilience of their unique traditions on a galactic scale. The universal recognition of their members joining the space marines has become a testament to the honour and might of each clan in the grand tapestry of the universe.

While the chosen individuals ascend to the prestigious ranks of the Enlightened Sons, life within the clans continues to thrive for those who remain. Unselected members play a crucial role in sustaining and growing their respective clans. The resilience and skills of these individuals contribute to the ongoing prosperity of the Regnum, Akulli, Leeu, and Horski communities.

Within their clan settlements, the unchosen members contribute to various aspects of daily life. Their survival skills, learned from the harsh environments that define their clans, continue to be invaluable. Females and males not chosen for the cosmic journey often become the backbone of their societies, engaging in hunting, crafting, and resource management, ensuring the clans' sustenance and development.

Moreover, the physical prowess of these individuals does not go unnoticed. The Enlightened Sons, recognising the strength and size of the Bevrore people, may call upon unselected members for manual labor or specialised tasks. This collaboration creates a symbiotic relationship between the clans and the space marine chapter, where those who remain in the clans contribute to the collective growth, while also supporting the chapter's logistical needs with their unique abilities.

Thus, the clans persist as vibrant, self-sustaining communities, fostering a sense of unity and purpose. While some venture into the cosmic unknown as space marines, others continue to forge the legacy of the Regnum, Akulli, Leeu and Horski clans on their frozen planet, each individual playing a vital role in the intricate tapestry of Bevrore society.

### Chasms of Desolation

Within the heart of the chapter's frigid realm lies the dread-laden spectacle of the "Chasms of Desolation," an artificial expanse meticulously designed to plunge recruits into a disorienting blend of reality and illusion. This nightmarish abyss, vast yet mutable, defies comprehension as the environment shifts in the blink of an eye. Ground crumbles beneath, and the disconcerting realisation dawns that what seemed unreal is an unforgiving fusion of both reality and nightmare.

Recruits, initially skeptical of the authenticity of their surroundings, soon confront a malevolent convergence of genuine horrors. The creatures that manifest within this disconcerting space are all too real, as are the perilous tasks and elements thrust upon them. The very ground beneath their feet becomes treacherous, transforming at a whim, and the once-doubtful recruits grapple with the unsettling truth that the line between illusion and reality is gruesomely blurred. As they navigate this ever-shifting nightmare, the frozen wastelands transform into a sinister theatre of torment. The orchestrated challenges transcend mere illusions, with each layer survived inflicting horrifying torment upon their senses and minds. The air they breathe freezes their lungs if drawn too hard, and the frozen seas burn their flesh. Creatures hunt in the shadows, stalking with relentless malevolence, while unknown machines silently observe, lurking in the darkness.

The mysterious "Abyssal Ascendance" looms as a cryptic enigma, its darkness whispered among the chapter's veterans. Recruits, plunged into this grim ordeal, grapple with sanity unraveling and unspeakable horrors materialising with a malevolence that defies description. The space, once believed by some to be a mere construct, reveals itself as a harrowing reality where survival demands a ruthless reckoning with the grotesque challenges at hand. The artificial frozen expanse resonates with haunting echoes of those who succumbed, a chilling testament to the toll exacted by this meticulously engineered amalgamation of shifting reality and authentic nightmare. Only a small number endure and survive this nightmarish odyssey, and for them, acceptance into the next phase awaits—to become an aspirant of the Enlightened Sons. This was only the beginning of their harrowing journey into the depths of the chapter's dark enlightenment, where each layer of survival scars both body and mind.

## Notable Members of the Enlightened Sons

### Chapter Master Astron Merek - 'Lord of the Enlightened'

Astron Merek's early life is unclear, but once he found his way into the Imperial Fists Chapter it was recorded that he excelled as an Adeptus Astartes. Merek seemingly gaining the attention of his superiors by his natural ferocity in killing enemies of the imperium, but what set him apart from his brothers was his natural ability to rationally understand tactical deployment and the use of fortification.

In every part of Merek's existences his hunger for knowledge is unending. He would study each decision made, logging it's outcome. This could be in a heated conversation between two senior marines or a full blown orbital planetary attack. This cognitive training allowed him to survey the battlefield with excessive attention to detail and act instantaneously, this unique ability saw Merek rapidly gain the rank of Sargent.

Merek went on to gain considerable experience in the service of the Imperial Fists chapter. It was recorded that Merek had shown a personal interest in weapon technology spending time reading data- slates and conversing with tech marines. Later on in Merek's service he was chosen to become part of the elite 1st Company and trained in the use of terminator armor. During Merek's time in the 1st company the order was made for Him to represent the Imperial Fists by joining the Deathwatch Chapter. This was seen as an honour by most but initially Merek was not favourable with the decision.

Many years passed but Merek did finally return to his brothers. He rarely spoke about the Deathwatch and the time spent deployed but it had certainly refined his calculated understanding of war and Xenos races. Merek's exceptional intellect combined with his skill in combat did not go unseen by high ranking officials. Merek was consequently chosen to serve his Captain as an Astartes Honour Guard. He served his Captain and chapter in many battles until an order was given that would change Astron Merek's future forever. An investigation to claims of ancient technology had to be implemented, but this order would result in not only war but the founding of a new chapter.

The terrifying discovery and with the chaos of the Imperium at war with itself during the Age of Apostasy M36. Resulted in the high lords approval that the threat was critical and that it was requisite for the creation of a new adeptus astartes chapter. Accounts of Astron Merek's strategy of using the available technology and physical features of the planet to his advantage, was inconceivable to some but resulted in the defeat of the enemy. It was said that Merek's command was without doubt what turned the battle into the favour of the Imperial fists. Merek was severely wounded in the last moments of the battle resulting in substantial bionic enhancements being fitted. Merek survived the surgery and had honoured his Chapter with pure inventive zeal.

Astron Marek's had extensive achievements in war including his understanding of xenos threats while deployed with the deathwatch lead to many high ranking Imperial Fists officials giving their approval to the decision of making Astron Merek Captain and placing him in charge of this newly founded chapter named the Enlightened Sons. The Enlightened Sons kept close ties with the Imperial Fists but also gained assistance directly from the Inquisition and later the Adeptus Mechanicus. The planet and the chapter was made classified.

Astron Merek weapon - The energy-blade was a gift to Astron Merek Chapter Master of the Enlightened Sons, crafted by the Tech-Priests. The Warscythe was a tangible connection to the life the Necron Lord once knew; and for him who desired to someday return to the flesh, it was a symbol of hope that such can be achieved, This mighty weapon now in the hands of the Lord of the enlightened is a symbol of power against any enemy of the Imperium of man.

### Captain Arius Mana

Captain Mana was part of the original force that took control of the planet Bevrore Ifrinn, which later became the homeworld of the Enlightened Sons Chapter. Mana is known to advise in the Chapter Masters personal council, his faith and long service to the enlightened sons has been unyielding. The zeal within Mana has seen numerous battles turned against all odds into the favour of the enlightened. Captain Mana has a reputation within the chapter for his successful leadership and battlefield tactics but tails of his brutality within battle has spread even beyond the chapter. Records within the illumination codex held in vaults of the Enlightened Sons monastery elucidate to an early expedition. Tech priests identified a planet that was suspected to be harnessing ancient technology.

The Enlightened Sons were deployed with a squad lead by Arius Mana docking on the planet's surface. Mana pinpointed the ancient devices signal which was coming from deep within the planets abandoned mining facility. The squad worked there way down many levels and passageways until all national light faded into darkness. They entered what looked to be a large dilapidated shrine hall with the devices found placed on large decorative stands like they were once seen as pieces of art or holy relics. They had been positioned around the parameter of the hall with a large pyramid type structure in the centre.

The marines began securing the key items for transportation and laying explosives on the larger devices, but before they could complete their mission the auspex alerted to multiple targets moving toward the main hall. What emerged from the darkness was an infestation of Tyranids spewing from caves deep within and out through the tunnels. The attack resulted in a devastating battle for survival with the Sons drastically outnumbered, the hall lit up from the rounds of bolter fire. The marines had no choice but to seek a defensive position still firing auto bolt rounds and detonating the explosives into the oncoming onslaught. Mana and his sons working in a circle formation made their way up the steps to higher ground and held positions at the top of the shrine structure.

Tales of Captain Mana barely alive overcome by rage even bloodlust still holding his ground against the endless hordes. His zeal and intense hatred for xenos species saw him take down vast numbers working his way around the circle of defence. In the thick of battle Captain Mana appeared to take on an altered state of consciousness. Even foreknowing each strike and instantaneously countering it with his own lethal assault. Adjust sidestep block, block again thrust kill. Block, evade swing kill, drop thrust swing decapitate. Mana within this state is a lethal weapon. His killing ability managed to keep the devices and later his wounded sons from getting dragged down into the darkness. The mounds of Tyranid bodies built up around them actually became a form of defence and eventually helping to slow the attacking strikes.

By the time reinforcements had responded to the distress call their was only one light still visible at the top of the shrine surrounded by what appeared to be overlapping waves of darkness. The reinforcement squads immediately opened heavy bolter and meltagun fire into the waves of Tyranids, finally forcing the hordes back into the tunnels. The marines noticed that the Captain saw this as a chance to advance down into the darkness hungry for even more violence and death. It was thought that Mana was finally compelled to break his uncontrollable desire to fight and take a tactical withdrawal returning with the technology his Sons had sacrificed their lives to obtain.

Mana is know to favour the use of a jump pack to allow him to cover ground quickly he also arms himself with two gifted relics, a storm shield and a power weapon named the tomb smasher. Combined with these weapons his mastery in combat and his unwillingness to fail has made Arius Mana a formidable force to be reckoned with. Captain Arius Mana believes in sharpening a warriors mental state through intense combat saw him ask for the blessing from Chapter Master Astron Marek to establish the Ring Of Fire trials.

Only the very best Astartes are given the choice to enter these trails and only the very best survive. Mana believes it is one of the greatest honours a Son can receive and if proven worthy of incredible Valour become part of the venerated units of inexorable warriors. The Brethren named flames of Mana are mighty heroes and are said to have embodied the pure mastery of their Captain in combat. The sight of these warriors together is rare as they are only deployed to the most crucial objectives on the battlefield, tasked with the destruction of all who stand in the way of the Enlightened Sons.

Arius Mana even assigned one of his most honoured brethren’s Nadios Zorest of the flames of mana to become his right hand as a Lieutenant in the Enlightened Sons company. Imperial scholars have documented sightings of Zorest leading squads of Bladeguard Veterans into battle with a blazing flame attached to his armour eliminating the darkness.

## Chapter Relics

### Illumination Codex

This sacred manuscript was crafted on the inception of the Enlightened Sons chapter by elite scholars. Their task was to document the chapters history as an official record. This included gathering all gained knowledge about the ancient civilisations, technology and the wars fought in the name of the Imperium. This endeavour was named the Illumination Codex.
The original Codex continues to be crafted by hand but nevertheless it also evolved into a highly powerful data system crafted by the Adeptus Mechanicus with unclassified allegations of assistants by a species named the Jokaero. This data system would be accessed by the chapters high officials to aid in the chapters crusades.
The Illumination Codex and its knowledge has never been accessed by anyone outside of the Chapter but tales of it guiding the way to other hidden Tomb Worlds have been speculated. The Enlightened Sons with a detachment of Xeneraties now carry out this crusade in the search of other planets and its secrets.

### ***The Ganhor Glaive***

The Ganhor Glaive, my esteemed colleagues, is a remarkable testament to the intricate tapestry of history and power within the Imperium. This venerable weapon, gifted by the Xenarites to Astron Merek, Chapter Master of the Enlightened Sons, holds within its cold, metallic grasp a multifaceted narrative of significance.

First and foremost, it embodies the unity that exists between the Adeptus Mechanicus and the Enlightened Sons Chapter of the Adeptus Astartes. In its form, we witness an alliance forged in the crucible of brotherhood and technological mastery. The Xenarites, masters of arcane technologies, bestowed this relic upon Merek's Chapter, signifying a bond rooted in mutual respect and cooperation.

However, it is in the weapon's origins that its true potency lies. Forged from the remains of a Necron Lord defeated in combat by Astron Merek himself, the Ganhor Glaive becomes more than a mere instrument of war. It becomes a symbol of triumph over ancient, otherworldly forces that once posed a threat to humanity.

But let us not overlook the significance of its name, "Ganhor," meaning "Dominion Through Faith." This choice of nomenclature holds profound implications. It suggests that the power of this weapon is not solely derived from the technology it wields or the victory it represents. Instead, it signifies the unwavering faith of Astron Merek and his Chapter in their duty to protect the Imperium, a faith so unyielding that it can lay claim to dominion over the very forces of darkness.

In essence, the Ganhor Glaive stands as a testament to the power of unity, triumph over ancient malevolence, and the indomitable faith that fuels the Imperium's champions. Its significance extends beyond the physical realm, serving as a reminder of the enduring spirit that propels us forward in the service of the Emperor. It is not just a weapon; it is a living relic, a symbol of our unwavering resolve in the face of the galactic abyss.

### ***The Tomb Smasher***

The weapon in its original form was crafted and used by the native Ice tribes of Bevrore. The Enlightened Sons noticed that the weapon seemed to take huge punishment without becoming blunt. The weapon was even said to be strong enough to crack ceramite armour. The Ice tribes master bladesmith was questioned about the forging process of the weapon by the chapters Tech-priest. The bladesmith was only granted the permission to use this sacred metal by the chieftain. The crafting of this weapon was part of an ancient ritual and gifted only to the most honoured warriors.

The Tech-priest identified the location of were the metal had been mined from and ran tests. The result was a material of unknown origin, its molecular structure possessed the extraordinary ability to regenerate almost all damage instantaneously. This material was later known as Necrodermis. The Tech-priest was given the undertaking of crafting a weapon similar to the ice tribes but larger and more suitable for use by high ranking space marines. The weapon was without doubt strong but still a simple melee weapon, the master bladesmith increased the size of the weapon with the Tech-priest adding a power field generator that was concealed within the shaft of the weapon this transformed it into a powerful device.

Once active It produced a hazy field of bluish energy that wraps around the primary impact region of the weapon. The head was now capable of disrupting the molecular bonds of matter when it strikes its prey. The weapon was given its name ‘Tomb Smasher’ by the Bevrore Chieftain, it is said that only one was crafted in this forum. The relic now belongs to Captain Arius Mana.

### The Necraflux Shield

The Necraflux Shield was developed by the Mechanicus and the Enlightened Sons chapter. The quest to bridge the gap between the Ion Shield and the formidable Void Shields was successfully achieved and implemented into the planetary defence system.

This Necraflux Shield still retained the foundational principles of the Ion Shield – projecting an energy field to deflect and slow incoming enemy shots. However, it diverged significantly in its ability to interact with the incoming energy. Instead of merely dissipating or redirecting the energy, the Necraflux Shield was equipped with advanced energy conversion and absorption systems. When enemy projectiles struck the shield, they were met with a lattice of specialised capacitors and energy conduits. The energy was then skilfully channeled into the planarity defence weapons. These devices were also vastly smaller in size compared to the conventional void shields

Chapter master Astron Merek gave his blessing for the Mechanicus to install a  Necraflux Shield that would help protect the imperial Knight known as Arcanolith and its pilot princess Yandee. This allowed the Knight's primary weapon, the powerful Necrapulse, effectively turning the very force of an enemy's attack against them.

## Chapter Appearance

### Chapter Colours

The Enlightened Sons primarily wear light blue power armour with the Aquila or Imperialis affixed to their plastron (chest guard) is silver in colour. In recognition of their Imperial Fists heritage, the main portion of their plastron is emblazoned in the original bright yellow of the ancient VII Legion. The tertiary colour of their armour is white, including both armoured pauldron and both poleyns.

#### Company Colours

Company colours are displayed on the edges of an Enlightened Sons pauldron and top of poleyns, which are as follows:

* **1st Company** - Gold
* **2nd Company** - White
* **3rd Company** - Black
* **4th Company** - Silver
* **5th Company** - Red
* **6th Company** - Purple
* **7th Company** - Yellow
* **8th Company** - Bronze
* **9th Company** - Blue
* **10th Company** - No colour shoulder trim, only the Chapters white shoulder pads.

#### Specialist Markings

A large black coloured Squad Specialist symbol stenciled on the right armorial inset denotes a battle-brother's assigned tactical role – Battleline, Close Support, Fire Support, Veteran or Command.

#### Helmet Markings

A combination of helm patterning and colouration, along with the symbol on each right pauldron, indicates the rank of the Enlightened Sons Battle-Brother in question.

* **Captain** - Gold helmet with a white vertical stripe with two smaller blue vertical stripes on either side.
* **Lieutenant** - White helmet with a light blue vertical stripe with two smaller silver vertical stripes on either side.
* **Veteran Sergeant** - Red helmet with a white vertical stripe centered upon it.
* **Veteran** - White helmet.
* **Sergeant** - Red helmet.
* **Battle-Brother** - Blue helmet.

### Chapter Badge

The Enlightened Sons Chapter badge is similar in appearance to their Progenitor's Chapter icon, taking the form of a clenched gauntlet with a small keyhole located on the palm. This central symbol is surrounded by an Iron Halo icon, a pair of lightning bolts emanating downwards.

## Allies

### Adeptus Mechanicus

The Enlightened Sons have gained an uninterrupted supply of equipment and technology for their armouries while the Adeptus Mechanicus from the Forge World of Stygies VIII have gained access to many of the recovered artefacts including unfathomable ancient technology.
This alliance enabled the Enlightened Sons to harness the power to imprison and contain large quantities of humanoid, robotic skeletal warriors that laid dormant in stasis-tombs. It is claimed that the Adeptus Mechanicus members are actually part of the radical and secretive sect of Xenarites. Who are conducting experiments on the planet of Bevrore Ifrinn in the quest for knowledge but this has never been confirmed or is quickly discredited by the Ordo Xennos.

#### The bond that binds them together.

The relationship between the Enlightened Sons and the Adeptus Mechanicus on Bevrore Ifrinn is a complex interplay of necessity, mutual benefit, and strategic maneuvering. While both forces recognize the value the other brings to the table, their interaction is characterized by a delicate dance of power and diplomacy.

Residing on a planet saturated with the mysterious knowledge encapsulated in the Illumination Codex, the Enlightened Sons control every facet of Bevrore Ifrinn. The Adeptus Mechanicus, seeking to unravel the secrets of the Necron race alongside the Space Marine chapter, operates within a space carved out for them but under the vigilant gaze of the Enlightened Sons. This dedicated research zone, although granted by the Space Marines, is guarded meticulously to ensure that the Adeptus Mechanicus operates within boundaries set by the chapter. The interaction between the two forces is marked by a pragmatic understanding of their interdependence. The Adeptus Mechanicus acknowledges the martial prowess of the Enlightened Sons, relying on the Space Marines for protection and the enforcement of their common goals. In turn, the Space Marine chapter recognizes the technological expertise of the Adeptus Mechanicus as crucial to unlocking the potential within the Illumination Codex.

Respect, though nuanced, exists between them. The Enlightened Sons appreciate the Adeptus Mechanicus for their technological acumen, understanding that this knowledge is essential for comprehending and utilizing the Necron race's secrets. Conversely, the Adeptus Mechanicus respects the Space Marines as formidable warriors, recognizing that their might is indispensable for safeguarding the research and enforcing any shared objectives. The delicate balance is maintained through constant communication, negotiation, and occasional displays of strength. The Enlightened Sons, while allowing the Adeptus Mechanicus to contribute, remain vigilant to prevent any encroachment on their autonomy. The Adeptus Mechanicus, in turn, carefully navigates their role, ensuring their technological insights benefit both parties without challenging the Space Marines' authority.

The alliance between the Enlightened Sons and the Adeptus Mechanicus revolves around the sagacious leadership of Astron Merek, the chapter master. Merek's strategic brilliance extends beyond the battlefield, encompassing a nuanced understanding of political dynamics. This proficiency proves essential in orchestrating a harmonious partnership between the Space Marines and the Adeptus Mechanicus, with the enigmatic Illumination Codex at the core of their collaboration. The Illumination Codex, a meticulously documented digital repository, harbors findings, blueprints, and technological developments. However, a significant portion of its information is intentionally obscured from the Adeptus Mechanicus, unbeknownst to them. This secrecy serves as a safeguard for the chapter, adding a layer of complexity to the alliance.

Within the chapter, internal tensions arise as some high-ranking officers dissent against the Adeptus Mechanicus using their influence to sway the direction of agreed-upon missions. In this intricate dance of politics and conflicting perspectives, Merek emerges as the linchpin holding the alliance together. The narrative also revolves around the highest-ranked Tech-priest overseeing this partnership, Nirak Therantos. Merek and Therantos find mutual inspiration, recognising their shared goals and responsibilities within the alliance.

Astron Merek's ability to align disparate perspectives resonates with Nirak Therantos’s approach, creating a synergy that transforms potential discord into cooperative success. Both leaders understand the importance of the Illumination Codex, and the power it inherently holds. Together, they navigate the delicate balance between autonomy and alliance, ensuring the Enlightened Sons thrive not only in war but also in the complex realm of diplomacy, while Astron Merek maintains a respectful understanding of the Mechanicus and their common goals. In essence, the relationship between the Enlightened Sons and the Adeptus Mechanicus is a finely tuned alliance born out of necessity, where each force plays a crucial role, and mutual respect is tempered by the awareness of the delicate power dynamics at play on the enigmatic world of Bevrore Ifrinn.

### Alliance

In the secluded chamber resonating with the hum of ancient machinery, Astron Merek and Nirak Therantos engage in conversations that transcend the formalities of their roles within the alliance between the Enlightened Sons and the Adeptus Mechanicus. Their discussions delve deep into the essence of their divergent yet harmonious approaches, revealing a unique camaraderie forged through shared goals and an unwavering commitment to the Imperium.

Merek, with his resolute leadership rooted in human intuition, expresses a profound interest in halting the enemies of the Imperium. His passionate dedication to safeguarding humanity fuels discussions on strategic maneuvers and the imperative to quell external threats. Therantos, embodying the precision and logic of the Mechanicus, brings a different perspective. His focus is on understanding and improving ancient technologies, a quest that goes beyond immediate threats to the long-term betterment of their arsenal. This dichotomy between Merek's fervent desire to protect and Therantos’s relentless pursuit of technological advancement creates a unique synergy. Their conversations weave together the threads of human resilience and the ceaseless march of progress. Though their methods may differ, both leaders find common ground in the overarching goal of serving the Imperium.

Yet, beneath this shared purpose lies an unspoken understanding. Merek's respect for the Mechanicus does not blind him to the potential complexities that arise in the pursuit of technological enlightenment. Therantos, in turn, acknowledges Merek's unwavering commitment to stopping threats against the Imperium. This intricate relationship introduces a layer of tension, underscoring the delicate balance they must maintain. The alliance becomes not only a strategic necessity but a fragile pact between two leaders driven by different passions within the broader scope of the Imperium. In this complex dance of camaraderie and potential conflict, Merek and Therantos navigate the alliance, ensuring the survival and prosperity of the Enlightened Sons while honouring the Imperium they both serve—one driven by the imperative to protect, and the other by the relentless pursuit of ancient technological mastery.

## Knight House **Ifrinn**

### **Initial Lore**

The Ifrenn are loyal to the imperium and were a powerful, influential and honourable house on their knightly home-world but even this would not stop them from fleeing for their lives.

### **High Lord’s**

The Ifrinn royals were powerful leaders with a clear and concise vision for the survival of House Ifrinn. The high lord ruled over all royals and nobles of Ifrinn and had been passed down over generations through a royal bloodline.

This bloodline had produced offspring that were gifted with psychic powers. This was not uncommon but their abilities became vastly more advanced than any other which might have been seen by the other Ifrinn families as their divine right to lead over their kingdom. The Ifrinn were an important and powerful house and decided long ago to keep this royal family secret from others.

They appointed Arkham Mudar High Lord after the passing of his father. He would violate tradition and use his psychic abilities to enhance his position over other houses. He would eventually become the most celebrated figure in Ifrinn history when they appointed him governor of the entire planet. Around this time Governor Mudar used his influence to orchestrate strategic attacks on other houses that placed a threat on his position of power. They have even suggested that the complete annihilation of a House with its entire history eradicated was ordered by Mudar. Within decades Mudar had increased quality of life, developing the economy and made advancements in the planet's infrastructure. All royal houses loyal to Ifrinn prospered more than ever imagined but even this could not stop prolonged and bitter feuds between houses. The empire also suffered invasions from unknown entities which various Nobles attributed to the Governors ruling to abolish the culling of suspected Human psykers.

The collapse of order would ultimately occur with many Knightly houses braking communications with each other and deciding to field large numbers of men-at-arms to defend their land. House Ifrinn was located high in the mountainous region of the planet and allowed the ever-growing psyker population to shelter within their defences. Around this time, Lord Mudar experienced a powerful recurring premonition. It would take much focus and the lives of many innocent psykers until he was enlightened about its meaning. Mudar spoke of a great fleet of Black Ships and the entire destruction of their house.

Mudar would accomplish immortal acts of power over the years to come. He ordered that all resources to be focused on the resurrection of a monstrous creation know as the kingdom ship. Two of the great houses with claims of treachery, deceit and corruption were placed against High Lord Mudar and began their march on House Ifrinn after discovering their plans to flee this world. House Ifrinn would honour and entrust three highly decorated ancient knights accompanied by eight battle ready men-at-arms and four armoured horseback battalions with their lives. These soldiers would march on the oncoming slaughter to allow for their escape. House Ifrinn would rise from the mountains in their kingdom ship, but it was not without sacrifice.

The kingdom ship would retreat from their planet's solar system but not before witnessing Mudars premonition becoming reality. The Kingdom ship took heavy fire and damage escaping from the unknown Black Ships entering the system. House Ifrinn evaded capture and would eventually land on a new world, never to rise again.

### **Frozen Planet - Before the war of Colossus.**

The discovery of a frozen planet that could sustain the Ifrinn colony in secrecy was paramount. High Lord Mudar had finally brought his people to safety and later would craft a document stating the future organisation of Ifrinn. Years after his death, his successors would follow the original guidance scripted by his hand.

> “This world is not our promised land, but climb high out of the abyss. Break through and up past the thunderous storm clouds and ferocious ice winds. There, you will witness a moment of consciousness, a vision of our freedom. We will be part of this world and carve our name deep within the very heart of it. "
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Mudar the High Lord of House Ifrinn.

### **Mountain Settlement**

The Ifrinn landed high in the mountainous region of the planet, as they had once known the benefits elevation gave in defence. The Ifrinn people would eventually dwell deep within the rock face, away from the harsh environment. Excavating, expanding and engineering caves for habitation. Their initial examination of the planet identified only one other human race surviving in this incredibly harsh world, they would later be known as the clans of Bevrore.

Hundreds of years would pass with the Ifrinn society thriving in a now technically advanced subterranean city network. As the population increased, this forced the High Lord to start constant development of the city networks, which included the enlargement of feedstocks.

### Feedstock Infrastructure

The feedstocks sectors generated the fundamental supply of hydration and feed for the majority of the colony. They built industrial scale structures with vast water purification pipeline systems sourced from the planet's colossal seas. Most feed was created by using the bacteria found in the cave's soil. These bacteria were multiplied in laboratories and using the diatomic molecules extracted from the purified water as its energy source.

They then fed this into large metal churning tankers until it produced a frothy liquid substance. Someone then siphoned this through pipes and squirted on to heated rollers turning it into a rich congealed paste. This paste was then modified, creating the specific proteins needed to substantiate the colony.

### Rare Minerals

Subsequently, the constant development resulted in the discovery that the planet was mineral rich. They mined many of these rare materials for the construction processes or for financial trade. One material however, was excluded. A vast quantity of a smooth dark rock substance which was detected to have a suspicious pulse of energy. This substance became classified with access given only to high-ranking officials. Once safely mined, they securely placed the substance in research laboratories for further investigation. The Adeptus Mechanicus would later confirm the material as Blackstone.

### Surface Concealment

On the surface of the planet they had successfully managed to conceal the fact a large population existed. Domed structures were at the base of the mountainous landscape. These domes raised out of the ground when large surface access was required. Several structures existed around key locations of the Ifrinn colony with automated defence weapons systems. Located high in the mountains, large hatchways opened to give access to vessels for landing. These hatchways were camouflaged to look like the rock face but were rarely used.

### Secure Trading Routes

The High Lord was forced to identify secure trading routes as they needed essential resources for the expansion of House Ifrinn. These were only undertaken by a cruise of Fantoma soldiers accompanied by high-ranking officials.

Thanks to these missions the subterranean city of Ifrinn eventually became immeasurable, stretching great distances because of continuous expansion. The Ifrinn people accomplished an engineering feat. The city network was technically advanced in design and construction by the clever adaptation of the parts from their Kingdom ships that they incorporated into the cave systems. This technology enabled them to live deeper underground.

### Ifrinn Colony

Lord Mudar believed in life through unity each individual must fulfil a specific role for the survival of the colony. They organised the sectors in a pyramid system with the High Lord of house Ifrinn placed at the top. Each sector is commanded by a high-ranking official assisted a Fantoma unit to enforce strict obedience.

The workers in more expendable lower ground sectors such as miners, lived in their own sub sectors which in turn  generated specific cultural identities. Due to the dangers of mining their average lifespan was dramatically reduced. Therefore elders became very much respected within these sectors, passing on their skills, knowledge and tales of the past to help the young navigate their future. Most of these Ifrinn people would never step foot outside of the security of the city networks and onto the planet's surface. Alternatively, the higher located sectors ranked in paramount positions, such as scientists and engineers, working to prolong the ever growing Ifrinn population. These individuals were given better living accommodations and the freedom to stimulate their creative minds.

### Psykers

Psykers were no longer compressed or shunned. Individuals that displayed these psyker abilities were now trained in controlled environments. These gifted individuals would advance the Ifrinn kingdom's capabilities in future advancements. In later history the most powerful psykers would go through rigorous screening and training to bend the powers of the Warp to their will for the benefit of their fellow battle-brothers. These individuals would become Librarian space marines and fight in the name of the Enlightened Sons chapter.

### Subterranean Evolution

The Ifrenn race had become naturally smaller in stature over many generations of subterranean living. Still strongly built with lean muscle but now also noticeably lighter than their Ifrinn ancestors. Visually the majority have pale skin tones with white hair. The lower sectors however developed greater lung capacity and enlarged eyes with increasing sensitivity to low light. This allowed for better vision and breathing ability in the grim mining conditions.

### Colony Defences

#### Knights of Ifrinn

The most powerful resource known to the defence of house Ifrinn after concealment has always been their ancient knights. In the early years of the colonisation Knights were used for more mundane duties. For example blasting apart rock with their rapid-fire Battle Cannons to assist in the growth of the subterranean kingdom but they normally delegated this to those of lesser ranks. These gigantic war machines would not see action for decades but continue to be stored and located at the heart of the Ifrenn kingdom.

The knightly stronghold was the largest open underground area known simply as "the Sanctuary." This incredibly ancient structure was where the gigantic suits of Knight armour were stored, maintained and worshipped. The Sanctuary was constructed using many key parts from the kingdom ship in the early age of the colonisation and would be continuously upgraded over time. The Nobles who were gifted the chance to become a pilot of these bipedal walking machines would have to undergo a terrible rite known as the Ritual of Becoming. These rituals would also take place inside the Sanctuary where the Noble would fuse their mind with the Machine Spirit of the Knight, a union of flesh and metal.

Once a Noble, Throne, and Knight armour had united, the three became as one and the Imperial Knight would power up into life. Vast doors would open of the Sanctuary and the Knight strode forth into the training ground of the Vault Transcendent. Training rituals prepared pilots for action and continued even if generations would never walk into battle. These training programs allowed knight pilots to keep their skills and took place in the massive hangar known as the Vault Transcendent, which formed the ground floor of the Sanctuary.

#### Fantoma

The Fantoma were once the loyal personal guard to the Ifrinn royals trained in the ancient art of Ifrinn combat.

The Mocan Blade general of the Fantoma reported directly to the High Lore of house Ifrinn. Mocan Blade is the deadliest individual soldier and highest authority of the Fantoma. They alone over saw the multi-layered defences of the colony. Lord Mudar understood that with the freedom of psykers would increase the danger to the rest of the population. Mudar ordered that it was the ongoing responsibility of the Mocan Blade general and his Fantoma warriors to take lethal action on any individuals showing a lack of control and deemed dangerous to the kingdom.

The need to recruit for the Fantoma became an annual ceremony with the Mocan Blade honouring each sector the ability to enter applicants. The recruits were normally the youngest or strongest individuals and knew that this might be the only opportunity to change their path within the colony. They then subjected recruits to brutal rounds of hand to hand combat against each other with larger numbers not surviving the early stages.

They then submitted the small quantity that succeeded to intense combat training, tests and examinations. Biogenetic enhancements were also part of the final step. This increased the individual's senses, becoming stronger and faster. If prevailing this final stage, the recruit is given a Fantoma initiation ritual, receiving their first honour marking ink onto their skin. The Fantoma soldiers secure every sector in the colony. The most honoured were chosen for reconnaissance missions and to survey the surface area, typically this was a solo operation. House Ifrinn was honoured by the Enlightened Sons receiving Branthenus the closest planet to the chapters home-world, a gesture of friendship after the war of Colossus. House Ifrinn has constructed a formidable fortress to defend their kingdom and planet. They also continue to have close ties with the Enlightened Sons chapter and aid in the safeguard of this region.

## Knight Arcanolith.

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> ###### A powerful Knight of House Ifrinn has assisted the Enlightened Sons chapter in many wars this is the story of Arcanolith.
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Deep within the icy heart of Bevrore Ifrinn, where the scars of ancient battles etched deep into the frozen landscape, the Adeptus Mechanicus uncovered a relic of profound significance. It was a fallen Ifrinn Knight, its fate sealed in the crucible of the Battle of Colossus. But this was no ordinary Knight, for it held a pivotal role in a grand design orchestrated by the Mechanicus. With the enigmatic assistance of the Xeneraties, they set their sights on attempting to integdefence a fearsome weapon known as the Necrapulse, a fusion of forgotten technologies. Originally intended as a planetary defence weapon, the Necrapulse's purpose was about to take a sinister turn.

House Ifrinn, extended their benevolence to the Mechanicus due to their shared home-world connection with the Enlightened Sons. They also recognised the weapon’s incredible potential, granting the Mechanicus permission to integrate it into the Knight’s arm, a decision not made lightly. They entrusted the sacred task of reanimating the fallen Knight which was named Arcanolith to the crimson-robed Tech-priests. With unwavering dedication, they laboured to mend the battered frame of the Knight, bearing the scars of the Battle of Colossus. Yet, the true marvel lay in the Necrapulse, a weapon of immense power intricately integrated into the Knight's rebuilt chassis.

Knight Arcanolith would become a unique marvel, a formidable weapon of war unlike any other, but it would also be the only one of its kind. The Enlightened Sons, who governed the Mechanicus based on their planet, decreed that all newly created weapons should henceforth be exclusively employed for the chapter’s direct purposes. The Mechanicus, relentless in their pursuit of perfection, embarked on a multitude of experiments to master the intricate bond with the Knight. Many valiant Ifrinn pilots attempted to meld with the reborn colossus, only to be met with tragedy time and again. The machine rejected all attempts, deeming their systems incompatible. The Knight would claim the lives of many noble souls and, ultimately, be consigned to the forgotten depths of the Ifrinn palace.

As the grim darkness of the 41st millennium cast its long shadow, the once-vibrant alliance between House Ifrinn and the Mechanicus dwindled into obscurity. The ambitious plans for Arcanolith languished, while the great Knight lay concealed within the shadowy recesses of the Ifrinn palace. In the midst of ceaseless torment, a young princess named Yandee, a scion of House Ifrinn, harbored a fervent desire to engage in battle. However, she was barred from risking her life due to her pivotal role as one of the last living royal members of House Ifrinn. It was her brothers who bore the responsibility of battle, while she was left yearning for a chance to prove her mettle.

Nevertheless, Yandee possessed an unrelenting determination, fueled by her longing to stand beside her brothers in the fight. Seeking solace, but also to challenge herself against the eerie unknown of darkness, she ventured ever deeper into the palace's vaults untouched by daylight for eons. It was there that chance called out to her, a faint, haunting whisper that resonated deep within her soul. In the heart of those forsaken vaults, Yandee stumbled upon a hidden chamber bathed in an eerie blue light. Within it, the mysterious Knight stood, pristine yet forsaken, a relic of crushed aspirations and forgotten power. As she approached, voices not of this world resonated in her very essence. The machine spirit spoke, urging her to seize control, to awaken it from its eternal slumber, as if it had been waiting for a pilot who could comprehend its malevolent essence.

With trembling hands and unwavering resolve, Yandee ascended the Knight and into the command seat. The connection defied human understanding, melding flesh and machine, mind and spirit. Yandee glimpsed the Knight's memories, the horrors of the Battle of Callus, the tales of suffering and glory etched in its past. Yet, she did not waver. Yandee embraced the machine spirit, forming a symbiotic bond. The Knight's colossal form quivered, ancient systems stirred to life, and eerie lights cast a chilling glow. It had awakened. Word of Yandee's improbable triumph echoed through the dark court of House Ifrinn. The princess, once constrained by her lineage, had defied all odds. She had tamed the once unyielding Knight, an act of defiance that defied reason. News of Yandee's success reached the Mechanicus, igniting a spark of innovation within their ranks, albeit one shrouded in dread. The ancient machine, reborn, had found a pilot capable of unlocking its powerful potential.

The Magi revisited designs and reassessing the schematics of the Necrapulse weapon, a harbinger of unspeakable energy. In their reexamination of the Knight's systems, they discovered dormant flaws and discrepancies. Engineers meticulously fine-tuned the machine's malevolent systems, enhancing its responsiveness and performance. The Mechanicus and the Enlightened Sons had now also achieved a far greater understanding of the ancient technology found on the planet of Bevrore Ifrinn. One such advancement was the quest to bridge the gap between the Ion Shield and the formidable Void Shields. This new defensive mechanism was known as the Necraflux Shield which was implemented in the chapters planetary defence systems.

Chapter master Astron Merek gave his blessing for the Mecanicus to integrate a Necrafkux Shield into the Knight to help protect this important machine and its pilot princess Yandee. This Necraflux Shield still retained the foundational principles of the Ion Shield – projecting an energy field to deflect and slow incoming enemy shots. However, it diverged significantly in its ability to interact with the incoming energy. Instead of merely dissipating or redirecting the energy, the Necraflux Shield was equipped with advanced energy conversion and absorption systems. When enemy projectiles struck the shield, they were met with a lattice of specialised capacitors and energy conduits. The energy was then skilfully channeled into the Knight's primary weapon, the powerful Necrapulse, effectively turning the very force of an enemy's attack against them.

The Arcanolith knight represented a delicate balance of offense and defense, a testament to the ingenuity of the Adeptus Mechanicus. It allowed Yandee to not only withstand even the most formidable of enemy fire but also to unleash devastating counterattacks with the harnessed energy, a capability that set her Knight apart on the battlefield. However, this technological marvel came at a price – greater complexity and power demands, which meant that it was often reserved for only the most prestigious and revered of the Questor Imperialis.

Princess Yandee, now the symbol of House Ifrinn's spirit, with her knight Arcanolith  became a symbol of the Mechanicus's relentless pursuit of technological supremacy. Together, they carved a path through the death of their foes.

## Successor Chapter The Obsidian Sentinels

The Obsidian Sentinels is a successor chapter of the Enlightened Sons.

Amidst the suffocating shroud of uncertainty and the haunting whispers of a history erased by the relentless tide of war, the indomitable space marine chapter known as the Obsidian Sentinels a successor chapter of the Enlightened Sons with Imperial Fists Lineage emerged as unyielding bastions forged in the crucible of ceaseless conflict. The founding brethren, valiant warriors who stared defiantly at countless foes, met their demise, casting a somber shadow upon the unforgiving chronicles of time. Their saga unfolded against a backdrop of prolonged chaos onslaughts that scarred the very fabric of their existence.

The relentless Ork invasion loomed as an ominous challenge, further intensified by the dwindling gene-seed reserves, underscoring the irrefutable gravity of their dire predicament. Death, a constant and macabre companion, walked in tandem with the Obsidian Sentinels, whose existence had never known respite from the ravages of war on their desolate home world. Rooted in a past obscured by the fog of conflict, they clung fiercely to a sacred oath etched into the very core of their being—a covenant guided by sacrifices made for an elusive cause.

Among the ruins of their devastated homeworld, unassailable vaults stood as stoic witnesses to their purpose, protected by enigmatic technology known solely to their creators—the elusive Enlightened Sons. Veiled in secrecy, the treasures concealed within remained a mystery, yet an unspoken covenant to guard them endured. The chapter's indomitable resilience was honed in the crucible of the Ork invasion and the preceding Chaos conflict, the echoes of which reverberated through their grim history. In the crucible of conflict, the Obsidian Sentinels forged a brotherhood born of tragedy. Each fallen comrade became a poignant testament to sacrifices made for causes obscured by a sacred but elusive oath. Grief and valour intertwined to weave a tapestry of untold stories, adorning the chapter's chronicles with shades of enigmatic mystery.

Paying solemn homage to the fallen, the surviving Primaris Marines of the Obsidian Sentinels found a purpose that transcended the blood-stained battlegrounds. The lingering echoes of lost brethren resonated, a haunting reminder that their existence held meaning beyond the carnage. Standing as silent sentinels over the mysterious vaults, the chapter embraced destiny with stoic determination, unwavering in their commitment to safeguarding the secrets entrusted to them by the mysterious Enlightened Sons.

Yet, within the ranks of the surviving Primaris Marines, a profound chasm of understanding persisted. The newcomers, bereft of the memories of their original brethren, stumbled through the cultural intricacies that shaped the chapter. Despite this, they executed their duties with a grim resolve, preserving a tradition that spanned decades. Isolated and alone, they represented the last remnants of a once-mighty chapter, shouldering a legacy that transcended generations, even as the specter of nearly depleted gene-seed stock loomed ominously overhead.

### The Rebuilding

In the haunting respite amid shattered ruins, the Obsidian Sentinels undertook the grim task of rebuilding their desolate homeworld. A spectral fixation gripped them as they meticulously tended to the looming vaults. This ritual felt like a haunting struggle against a sinister craving, rather than a mere act of preservation.

Within the sacred chambers, an unsettling hunger for war festered, an insidious desire refusing to be quelled. Their tireless efforts to maintain the vaults seemed a desperate dance with darkness, a futile attempt to pacify the malevolent yearning lurking in the depths of their souls. Bound by an unspoken pact, the chapter teetered on the edge of a perilous precipice, haunted by an insatiable appetite for the brutality of conflict. Forged from a blend of Enlightened Sons' marines and bolstered by a fusion of Imperial Fists and Enlightened Sons gene-seed, the Obsidian Sentinels would emerge to swell their ranks. However, the passage of time revealed an unexpected twist – the unique gene-seed mutation of the Enlightened Sons began to assert its dominance over the surviving warriors.

The relentless rate of fatality during the war ensured that the gene-seed connection to their fallen brothers' memories primarily revolves around the grim theatre of conflict, rather than offering a broader understanding of the chapter's history. This unique gene-seed mutation confines the surviving marines to witness only the memories of war from their fallen brethren. Their perspective becomes singular, fixated solely on the brutality and chaos of battle. This limitation, rather than providing a comprehensive view of their chapter's legacy, instils in them an insatiable hunger for combat.

The surviving marines of the Obsidian Sentinels, driven by this war-centric gene-seed, find themselves compelled by an intense desire to fight. The memories imprinted within them act as a relentless call to arms, fuelling their readiness for battle and amplifying their aggressive stance in the face of any potential threat. In the shadow of their fallen brothers' war-torn recollections, the hunger for conflict becomes a defining aspect of the Obsidian Sentinels' existence.

### Chaplain Master

In the somber passages of the Obsidian Sentinels' fortress-monastery, the surviving Chaplain named Brother Seraphis, a symbol of unyielding dedication, found himself thrust into an unforeseen role. Acknowledging his steadfast commitment to the chapter's purpose and his deep understanding of the sacred relic, the surviving marines selected him as their unwavering leader.

Seraphis embraced the responsibility with solemn determination and would command his chapter until a suitable successor could take his place. His tenure marked an era where hyper-discipline became the linchpin holding the Obsidian Sentinels together. Entrusted with safeguarding the holy relic and ensuring the sanctity of the vaults, the Sentinels delved into rituals and heightened security measures. As periods of peace endured, the dormant desire for war lingered beneath the disciplined surface. Seraphis, mindful of the delicate balance needed to prevent unbridled aggression, orchestrated tasks and orders to keep the fervour for battle in check. Meticulous security measures became a way of life, a shield against the insatiable appetite for conflict embedded within their war-centric gene-seed.

Tranquillity shattered when an unforeseen force encroached upon the authority of the Obsidian Sentinels. The marines, long restrained by discipline, felt the surge of aggression boiling within them as the notion that this new foe sought the coveted vaults ignited their instincts. In an instant, the disciplined facade crumbled, revealing the ferocious forces that lay dormant within the Obsidian Sentinels. Seraphis, understanding the gravity of the situation, unleashed the marines with a singular focus – to defend the holy relic at any cost. The deep-seated hunger for war, suppressed for so long, surged forth as the Obsidian Sentinels transformed into an aggressive and formidable force, fixated on the perceived threat to their sacred vaults.

The ensuing battle tested not only their combat prowess but also the resilience of their newfound discipline. Seraphis led with a strategic mind honed in the crucible of conflict, determined to fulfil the sacred oath etched into the very fabric of the Obsidian Sentinels' existence. As the echoes of war reverberated through the halls, the chapter stood at the precipice, a living testament to the untold stories woven with shades of mystery and the indomitable spirit that defined the guardianship of their sacred relic.

### Chapter Command Structure.

Ascending to the esteemed role of Chaplain Master Seraphis, for his unwavering dedication, he discerned the latent urge for conflict within the Obsidian Sentinels, rooted in their war-centric gene-seed. Instituting extreme discipline, Brother Seraphis carefully selected nine revered marines, trained them as chaplains, and appointed them as Captains for each of the 10 companies. These chaplains not only guided the spiritual aspect but also maintained martial discipline within the chapter.

Gathering at a special, secretive, and holy location within the fortress-monastery, known as the Sanctum of Silent Vigilance, Brother Seraphis and his appointed Captains convened to discuss matters of strategy, discipline, and the delicate balance needed to navigate the chapter's aggressive instincts while safeguarding the sacred vaults. Recognising the necessity for a silent enforcer, Brother Seraphis and the Captains employed a Judiciar - a Primaris Space Marine training to become a Primaris Chaplain. Sworn to silence, this Judiciar preached a litany of righteous fury through deeds, adding a vigilant presence as a lieutenant within the Captains' command structure.

Seated at the table of Brother Seraphis within the Sanctum of Silent Vigilance, these nine Captains deliberated on the challenges faced by the Obsidian Sentinels. Ensuring the delicate equilibrium between their hunger for war and the necessity for restraint was maintained, they strategized in the holy sanctum, ready to defend their sacred legacy against any looming threat. United under the disciplined leadership of Brother Seraphis, the Obsidian Sentinels stood resolute, their legacy guarded with unwavering determination.

Note: See Main Article: *Obsidian Sons*

## Notable Quotes

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> We are our Primarch’s Masons
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> We are our Primarch’s Wisdom
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> We are our Primarch’s Torchbearers
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> Praise to Dorn!
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> We Illuminate the Darkness.
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> ''Catechism of the Enlightened''
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> ###### The battle cry of the Enlightened Sons rang out lustily across the battlefield.
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> ###### “Illuminate the Darkness”
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> ###### In that very moment every weapon was fired simultaneously resulting in the world erupting into fire bringing down such violent destruction never witnessed by the enemy standing against the Enlightened Sons.
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> ###### “To threaten the Imperium of man can only result in one outcome. The total annihilation of that enemy.”
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> ###### Cosimo Strakor 5th Company Captain Master of the Marches.
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## Notable Tales

### Inquisitor Thorne

Imperial Inquisitor Thorne had dedicated his life to the relentless pursuit of heretics and those who dared defy the Emperor's will. His latest mission led him to the desolate wastelands of a forsaken planet, where rumours spoke of a heretical group that had unearthed a piece of ancient technology, intent on gifting it to a Chaos Space Marine chapter. As Thorne arrived at the scene, what greeted him was a scene of unimaginable horror. The once-heretical group lay slaughtered in gruesome fashion, their bodies strewn across the barren landscape. Amidst the carnage, a lone survivor knelt, muttering incomprehensibly to himself. Thorne approached cautiously, the flickering light of his power sword casting eerie shadows.

After much effort, the Inquisitor managed to coax some coherence from the trembling survivor. The man spoke of space marines, their armour adorned in colours of blue, yellow, and white, bearing the twin skulls insignia on their shoulder pads. Despite being outnumbered ten to one, these mysterious warriors had decimated the heretics with a brutal efficiency that defied reason. Heavy weapons had proven futile, leaving no trace of their presence but ensuring the heretical technology was secured. Intrigued and perplexed, Inquisitor Thorne embarked on a relentless investigation to uncover the identity of these enigmatic Space Marines. His journey led him through hidden archives and shadowy contacts within the Imperium's deepest recesses. Slowly, the pieces began to fall into place, revealing a chapter that existed only in whispers—the Enlightened Sons.

The Enlightened Sons were a secretive and loyalist Space Marine chapter, created in the darkest days of the Imperium to safeguard it from an ancient and malevolent threat. They operated in absolute secrecy, hidden from prying eyes. The twin skulls symbol was not just a mark of their chapter but signified their elite unit within—Lazarus. Thorne's research uncovered a startling revelation: it was the Inquisition itself that had played a pivotal role in keeping the chapter's existence hidden from the galaxy. The Inquisition's motives were shrouded in secrecy, but it was clear that the Enlightened Sons had been covertly working alongside them, gathering vital information and technology to protect the Imperium from ancient threats that lurked in the shadows.

As Inquisitor Thorne unraveled this web of secrecy, he realised that he stood at the precipice of a revelation that could change the course of the Imperium's history. The Enlightened Sons and their Lazarus unit were the hidden guardians of humanity, operating in the darkness to ensure its survival, a secret safeguarded even from the Imperium's own watchful eyes.

### The Demise of the 6th

In the grim darkness of the 41st millennium, the Imperium of Man witnesses the Necron threat loom larger, with ever greater numbers rising from their hibernation. The fate of humanity especially on these planets hang in the balance. It was in these dire times that the Enlightened Sons chapter received a signal though to have been no longer in existence, from an area of space where they had never seen any activity from before. The planet designated as Valtaris Prime was immediately placed under surveillance. The Enlightened Sons managed to decipher messages received by other nearby planets reporting distress calls from the beleaguered planet of Valtaris Prime. The Imperial world had become the epicenter of an intense conflict.

The Enlightened sons Imperial scholars and the Xeneraties believed that the signal could be transmitted by a device thought to hold a secret crucial to the chapters crusade against the Necron race. The order was given to send the Enlightened Sons 6th company to reinforce the beleaguered defenders and to ensure the security of this important device. The 6th was led by Captain Kephrim, the company of battle-hardened space marines boarded their battle-barge, the "Luminous Wrath," and ventured into the treacherous sea of the Warp.

As the ship transitioned into the swirling madness of the Warp, the astropathic choir sang their arcane hymns to guide them. But within the twisting currents of unreality, something went horribly wrong the closer they became to their destination. Reality itself seemed to tear at the edges, and the "Luminous Wrath" was hurled into a dimension beyond time and space. Weeks turned into months, and the once-mighty vessel drifted in the endless void of the Warp. The psychic strain took its toll on the space marines, and they battled not only against the daemons and horrors of the Warp but also against their own growing despair.

Captain Kephrim remained resolute, his unwavering faith in the Emperor a beacon of hope for his company. He ordered his tech-priests to scavenge any knowledge or clues from the ship's cogitators and ancient tomes. Slowly, they pieced together cryptic passages hinting at a hidden path through the Warp, a secret known only to the most ancient of navigators. With their newfound knowledge, the space marines attempted to navigate the Warp's maddening currents once more. This time, they emerged on the other side, but not as they had hoped. Valtaris Prime, the planet they had been sent to safeguard, was now a desolate wasteland, its defenders all but dead unable to re take control of the Necron threat.

The situation was truly bleak the Necron awakening would be unstoppable in days but Captain Kephrim, now wearing an ornate suit of Terminator armor, declared that their mission was far from over. The Enlightened Sons, now waged a guerrilla war against the Necron forces. The marines target was eventually located but the device was not recoverable. They were also taking huge amounts of damage and losses. They were forced to hold their ground for as long as possible while Techmarines used specially designed devices crafted by the Adeptus Mechanicus to extract information directly from the technological artefact.

In the end, the Enlightened Sons' sacrifice was not in vain. Through their actions, they uncovered a weakness in the Necron technology, a vulnerability that would be exploited by the Imperium in the battles to come. Though the 6th company had all but fallen, their legacy endured as a beacon of hope in the darkest of times. The 6th Company would be re built with their fallen brothers becoming a testament to the indomitable spirit of the 6th in the face of insurmountable odds.

### The tragic tale of Brother Tychus.

In the dimly lit chambers of the Lazarus fortress outpost, Brother Tychus, once a stalwart Space Marine of the Enlightened Sons, now grappled with the torment of his shattered mental discipline. The gene-seed connection to his fallen brothers, once a source of strength, had become a turbulent maelstrom threatening his very identity.

It began with a fateful mission to purge a vile xenos infestation on a remote, desolate world. In the heat of battle, as his bolter roared and xenos blood spattered his cerulean armor, a harrowing psychic shockwave washed over him. A powerful, lingering psychic presence, the remnants of a fallen brother, swept into his consciousness like a tidal wave. As the battle subsided, Brother Tychus found himself haunted by fragmented memories, emotions, and thoughts that weren't his own. The alien experiences of his fallen brother, along with the countless others bound to the gene-seed, now surged within him. At first, he thought he could harness this torrent of knowledge and strength, as the Lazarus were renowned for doing.

Yet, it soon became clear that something was terribly wrong. The influx of memories and emotions from his gene-seed overwhelmed him, as if a legion of voices cried out in unison within his mind. He struggled to distinguish between his own past and those of his fallen brothers, leading to confusion that gnawed at his sanity. Every night, Brother Tychus wrestled with haunting nightmares that merged the pasts of a hundred warriors into an incoherent blur. He would wake, his brow slick with cold sweat, questioning his own existence. The memories of fallen comrades and their emotions weighed him down, making him question his own loyalty, purpose, and even his sense of self.

In the training halls, his combat skills faltered, for the surging emotions of his fallen brothers often drowned out his own instincts. His battle brothers began to notice his erratic behavior, as he sometimes acted in ways that contradicted his long-established personality. The camaraderie that once bound them together now withered as they feared the unpredictable nature of their brother. The Enlightened Sons Apothecaries and Chaplains, recognizing the danger, sought to help Brother Tychus. They subjected him to rigorous mental conditioning, hoping to restore the discipline needed to control the gene-seed's tumultuous legacy. But the gene-seed's mutation had progressed too far, and the anguish within Tychus was now an inseparable part of him.

Desperation grew, and the chapters Librarians were called upon. They delved into the depths of his psyche, attempting to isolate and contain the torrent of memories and emotions. Their psychic powers clashed with the roiling madness within his mind, creating a battle of wills that threatened to shatter Tychus entirely. As weeks turned into months, Brother Tychus’s condition worsened. He teetered on the brink of insanity, trapped within a mental labyrinth where the past, present, and future merged into an indistinguishable haze. The gene-seed's mutation had fused his identity with those of his fallen brothers, leaving him a fractured, tormented soul.

The tragic tale of Brother Tychus served as a grim reminder to the Enlightened Sons of the precarious balance they must maintain with their gene-seed. The connection to their fallen brothers, while a blessing, could become a curse if not harnessed and controlled. For Tychus, the formidable warrior who had once been a beacon of hope, had now become a shadow of himself, lost in the tumultuous sea of memories and emotions from the gene-seed, a tragic testament to the challenges that Space Marines must endure in their eternal battle for humanity's survival. Brother Typhus’s fate hung in a delicate balance, a reflection of the uncertainty that plagued his tortured mind. The Chapter's leadership faced a challenging decision. Killing him outright was a last resort, for they still held hope that a solution could be found to salvage what remained of their fallen brother.

Tychus was placed in seclusion within the deepest chambers of the Lazarus outpost, far from the prying eyes of his battle brothers. The Chapter's Apothecaries and Librarians continued their relentless research, seeking to unlock the mysteries of his condition. Every scrap of knowledge and ancient text related to the gene-seed was scrutinized in the hope of finding a cure or a method to restore his sanity. Time passed, and the Chapter's efforts showed some promise. They developed experimental treatments and conducted psychic rituals in an attempt to stabilise Tychus' shattered psyche. However, progress was slow, and the path to his recovery remained uncertain. The weight of his fractured identity and the memories of countless fallen brothers still bore down on him, causing him immense suffering.

As the years stretched on, Tychus became a symbol of resilience and hope for the Chapter. His condition was a stark reminder of the risks they faced, but also a testament to their unwavering commitment to their fallen comrades. The Chapter's dedication to finding a solution never wavered. Ultimately, Brother Tychus' fate remained unresolved, caught between the potential for recovery and the threat of permanent, tormenting madness. His life hung in the balance, a testament to the enduring determination he demonstrated to conquer even the most insidious challenges that threatened his life.

### Beasts of the Past

    The Frozen Seas whirled with ferocious winds, the hard and bleak open land was covered by an icy dusting of swirling white. The Icewalker engines carried Lord Merek and the Leeu Clan into the flurrying vastness of Bevrore Ifrinn. They followed a meandering road of parallel scars in the ice, left by the heavy and worn steel blades of their hunting vehicles.

The Adeptus Astartes had provided and installed simplistic jet engines for the Leeu Clan’s Icewalkers, upgrading them to have far superior speed.

The Leeu Clan once used only wind power before the Space Marines arrived. Out of respect for their hunting prowess, the upgraded Icewalkers remained silent, but they could not avoid the billowing icy mist left in their wake. The Icewalkers made no noise and left minimal traces in the ice, allowing them to remain unrivalled stealth hunters and trackers.

Lord Merek of the Enlightened Sons had spent much of his early age, since being appointed Chapter Master, securing, and fortifying their new home world with highly sophisticated planetary defences. Such was his way, driven by the looming threat of war that came from across the infinite, war-ravaged galaxies. Additionally, large amounts of resources were spent on the construction of the Chapter's Fortress Monastery, and the organisation of their military force, including recruiting and training the new Aspirants. A large number were selected from the various Bevrore Clans across the planet.

Lord Merek was continually informed of all Knowledge gained about his people, including the Clans of Bevrore. He had learned of the Leeu Clan's turbulent history, their weaponry, and the deathly odds they overcome in combat. They had an unrivalled ability to tame, kill and harness the power of the savage beasts found on this planet, and Lord Merek found their methods impressive for such a primitive species. Lord Merek sent for Chief Odunn to escort him to their settlement far out in the Frozen Seas, and to learn first-hand of their hunting techniques and their fabled Ancestral history.

The cold snapped at their thick, heavily scarred, and muscular necks as they skimmed across the dark and uninviting ice. Odunn, Master Tracker and Chief of the Leeu Clan led Lord Merek further into the bleakness, heading straight to the Leeu Clan's main settlement. Odunn, adorned in the customary thick animal furs and intertwined wooden and metal-plated armour, stood beside Lord Merek in awe of such an oppressive and looming figure. The Bevrorians followed only the strongest, most powerful, and largest of warriors, but Odunn also respected Lord Merek’s military stature and ferocious warfare expertise. After the Great War of colossus, Merek ordered representatives of the chapter to obtain a better understanding of the Bevrore and Ifrinn people through contact and communication. The knowledge gained by these representatives was integral to the integration of these people resulting in a united society.

Lord Merek instructed the Chapter's Tech-Priests to install a Bevrorian Language Cypher, allowing him to converse at ease. All Bevrorian Clans had their own unique ways of traversing the hostile planet’s surface and waging war, but Lord Merek was especially fascinated with the Leeu Clan’s history of taming deadly beasts. He was driven by a great need to understand more if this had any military merit.

Chief Odunn’s alert and restless eyes darted back and forth, noticing a wounded Hyenock, a large predatory doglike creature, usually found in dangerous packs. Dragging its hind legs, gauged by huge claw marks, blood traipsed behind it leaving a long trail from where it had made its escape. Lord Merek watched the Hyenock limping away from the Ice Walker, desperate to survive. He felt nothing for this wounded animal, yet he knew to end the suffering of a dying creature.

The Leeu Clan’s Ice Walker Pilot brought their vessel to a stop as they started conversing loudly with each other. Lord Merek understood their conversation; that this creature would not usually be solitary and whatever had caused such damage must be vastly larger in stature. They inherently wanted to investigate where its pack was and what had happened to the creature. Merek was about to lift his Bolt Gun and take aim at the Hyenock, but before he could even lift his weapon, a giant Leeu Clan Hunter leapt down from the Ice Walker to advance on the Hyenock. It began to snarl and growl threateningly, raising its spiky armour-like coat as best it could with its mortal wounds.

These pack hunters were renowned to the Bevrorians as effective hunters. Their dark blue and scaled skin reflected the small light in the Frozen Seas, glinting off the spiny external armour needles that they flexed menacingly to warm off prey and predators alike. The Hunter pulled his axe from his thick leather belt and swiftly dodged the Hyenock’s deadly claws as it swiped at him admirably. With one clean and decisive blow, the axe head was impaled in its skull and the beast dropped to cold ice where it would lie for eternity. Lord Merek watched on, quietly impressed with the hunter’s clean kill, and sweeping movement and graceful agility on the ice. The stories he had heard of their hunting prowess were seemingly all true.

The Hunter pulled a bloodied fang from the Hyenock’s jaws remorselessly and attached it to his necklace of claws and fangs around his neck. Each Bevrorian wore trophies of their kills. Some were used as neck chains, some as piercings in their ears, noses, and even through the skin of their powerful arms and legs, showcasing their strength. The word Jericho was spoken quietly between the hunters and Lord Merek had to find out more. ‘What kind of beast could make these injuries?’ asked Lord Merek directly in Bevrorian dialect. Odunn responded saying it was unclear. But his realisation after closer examination of the Hyenock’s wounds was that they might witness a legend this day.

'The largest of Bevrore’s land beasts, one seldom seen or tracked, are named Jericho,’ explained Odunn. ‘Our most revered and legendary ancestor, Master Tracker, Destrion Blackclaw, is known to have been the only Bevrorian ever to capture and control a Jericho. He was the biggest threat to all the other clans, for if you control one Alpha Jericho, you control the pack. And in turn, all the Jericho.’

‘What happened to this warrior?’ asked Lord Merek, intrigued by the power this ancient tracker had over these beasts and what threat it deemed for the other clans.

‘A Jericho can crush boulders with their jaws and rip any animal or man in half with one swipe of their claws,’ answered Odunn in subdued admiration. ‘Chief Destrion had control over eight Jericho beasts, with many under the command of his Alphas, making him the most powerful warrior in our history.

Like the Jericho’s, our people follow the strongest of them all. The other clan leaders saw this overwhelming strength to go against the sacred Bevrorian way, as the control over Jericho packs was too big of a threat to their collective survival. So, before he could control more, they set about killing him.’

‘What resulted?’ asked Merek solemnly.

‘Death,’ answered Chief Odunn just as grimly. ‘Blackclaw would defend his power in many battles and was a ferocious force, unlike anything we have ever seen, killing all in his path. With unimaginable losses and many battles lost, the other clans focused on his power source - the Jericho’s themselves.’ Lord Merek listened intently, for this kind of history intrigued him more than anything else.

‘Countless Bevrore warriors died in Jericho Hunts,’ continued Odunn, ‘Yet they continued, and it was thought that nearly all the Jericho were slain over several years of war, and even more of the Leeu Clan. Chief Blackclaw had to put an end to the Jericho War to save our clan. With less than a quarter of our people remaining, he set the last of the Jericho free from his command, never to be controlled or tamed by a Bevrorian again. It was the closest anyone has ever come to complete domination over the creatures and people of Bevrore.’ Lord Merek stood silent for many moments staring out into the vast, violent hellscape of the planet pondering this tale. Finally, he spoke, ‘I will see the power of the Jericho’s. We must follow the trail,’ ordered Lord Merek sternly.

‘Grakka!’ shouted Chief Odunn loudly to the Ice Walker Pilot, meaning onwards in Bevrorian.

They followed the tracks of the dying Hyenock - thick glistening green blood sprinkled over the ice for miles. The Leeu Clan became restless in the Icewalker as the trail led them far into the Frozen Seas, where the danger from above and below the ice increased dramatically in these regions. Lord Merek watched as the Leeu Clan braced from the cold, holding their fur lining tightly and cautiously checking their surroundings. Merek caught sight first of many dead Hyenock in the distance, lying ripped apart in great pools of their blood. ‘This must have been the site of the conflict,’ announced Lord Merek, ‘Whatever fought these Hyenocks must have been a large, powerful and efficient killer, get us closer.’

The Pilot brought the Icewalker to a sliding stop and they all disembarked, remaining cautious for the overwhelming danger they may be in if their suspicions were true - that a Jericho was near. The sound of agonising whelps filled the blustering air as the Leeu Clan finished off tens of wounded Hyenock, helpless and alone. Lord Merek gazed over these bloodthirsty creatures' frozen and frenzied battlefield, inspecting the ground and wounds on the Hyenock. He knelt and then followed a set of gigantic tracks through the ice mists to a hard formation of snow piled up. White fur blew in the wind, flickered with blood. Lifeless and cold lay a female Jericho, the first to be spotted, dead or alive, for an age. Lord Merek gazed upon this colossal beast and thought he could hear a sound coming from the dead Jericho. The Leeu Clan approached him and surrounded the beast. They fell to their knees in worship for the dead Jericho. They each held out their hands and nicked their palms with their small sacrificial blades.

They clenched their fists as the blood dripped down their fingers to their forearms. The Leeu Clan began to chant in Bevrorian whilst placing their bloodied hands upon the Jericho’s flawlessly white fur.

‘Blood of the people. Blood of the beast. Blood of the ancestor. Blood of the future.’

A slight noise sounded from underneath the Jericho once more. Lord Merek acted quickly but struggled to lift the Jericho’s colossal arm and paw up from the ground. The sheer size and weight of this creature tested even one as strong as Lord Merek, though he tried his best not to show any weakness amongst the Bevrorians. To their surprise, they found a living Juvenile Jericho cub lying under its dead mother. Chief Odunn stood abruptly and raised his axe as the cub could still be a threat. ‘Unprotected by its mother, it will not survive. It is best we act with honour and kill it at once, none have the power to control it,’ said Odunn regretfully.

Lord Merek was gripped by the possibility that the tales of Destrion Blackclaw were true and saw a great opportunity.

‘No Chief Odunn, we shall take this beast as our prize, and you will honour me in reclaiming control over the great Jericho’s of Bevrore together. I will name this miraculous gift...Nanook.’

Written by ES & T.O. Griffiths

### About the Enlightened Sons

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