Zephala Syndicate

Zephala

Zephala Xenos

Veilborn Legions

Basilisks

Other Zephala Divisions

*Some music for you to enjoy while you read, by Gaston Larrouy aka La Rouille*

 Allegiance
 Location
 Founded
 Current Leader
 Official Languages
 Major Species

The **Zephala Syndicate** is an alliance that was preparing since the dark days of the Horus Heresy before springing into action upon the opening of the Great Rift. Comprised of five main xenos species, and Veilborn Marine Legions, the Syndicate owes its origins to the Veiled Serpents. The completion of the Veilborn Project allows the Syndicate to expand slowly into the void, destroying the archenemy wherever they are found. Rather than leaving these planets to fall back into the darkness, the Zephala Syndicate continues interacting with the worlds they visit, spreading knowledge that helps such systems prosper. Even the most backwater planets receive assistance from Zephala. Though a cult is dismantled, there is no guarantee that further descent will not arise. Bringing technological prosperity is a method which helps prevent such repeat rebellions, and it is the main focus of the Zephala Syndicate after the culling of these rebellions.

## History

### Founding

The Alpha Legion laid the foundation of the Syndicate during the Horus Heresy. After Alpharius stole the plans for the Emperor's Raptor project from the forces of the Raven Guard, the Veiled Serpents, a new division of the Alpha Legion, were trusted with its care. Alpharius understood that the Legion's efforts and the indirect methods of the Cabal might not be enough to save the Galaxy from Chaos. Therefore, a contingency was needed. This contingency came in the form of an alliance with the Zephalan xenos. A group of, at the time, four species located in the Halo Stars who, though part of the Cabal, were not in favour of the manipulation of humanity. They believed that it was too dangerous to allow Chaos to burn itself out. Instead, they believed that the proactive eradication of Chaos was the only method which could save the galaxy. And they would do anything to make it a reality.

Alpharius sent the Veiled Serpents in possession of a copy of the untainted Raptor Project technology and a colony of human civilians to Zephala. With them, they brought, with the xenos' permission, a Forge World worth of Adeptus Mechanicus genators, with Magos Xenobiologist Teluul Mosswood, Interpreter of the Xenarite Sacrament, at its head. This group of Xenarites was deeply interested in the biology of xenos mutated by warp energies, and upon reaching the planet Xa-Skriark, the techpriests accompanying this warband discovered the fifth intelligent xenos race in the Zephala system, the Sub-Skriark. These quadrupedal creatures were hiding beneath the ice, and had been for some time, choosing to build settlements where they were coincidentally undetectable from space. With all xenos, and human factions now connected, a bond was created. This unlikely alliance was to be the Ark of Civilized life in the galaxy. The newly formed Zephala Syndicate.

### Kiloanna of Fear & The Veilborn Project

The Kiloanna of Fear is the long period between the Founding of M31 and the Unveiling of M41. Initially, the Zephala Syndicate hid, as instructed, and collected information about the war as quietly as possible. Later, when they learned that the Emperor had emerged victorious and the Twin Primarchs were rumoured dead, the Syndicate realized that all was lost. As predicted by the Cabal, the rise of the Ruinous Powers and the degradation of humanity was inevitable. The Syndicate was trapped without any outside territory to protect Zephala from invasion and with no allies to help them. Their every facility was dedicated not to the creation of defences but to the furthering of the Chapter's other goal. This constant state of fear of discovery gives this time period its name.

For thousands of years, the Syndicate remained hidden, working to improve the Raptors Project technology the Veiled Serpents provided. This new project came to be known as the Veilborn Project. The Xandilu and the biologists played a key role in this endeavour, as their knowledge of gene-craft allowed significant breakthroughs in understanding the Emperor's creations.

During the project, a group known as the Headless found Zephala, a feat not managed before or after this event. What the Syndicate thought would mark the doom of the Veilborn Project was instead the single greatest addition to the Syndicate's chances at success. This Warband, fleeing the persecution of the Imperium and the horrors of Chaos, uncovered a hint at the Veiled Serpents' plans. With limited knowledge, they found the Syndicate's hiding place and arrived with an offer. The Headless would aid the Syndicate by becoming a proxy, allowing the exchange of information and resources between them and the galaxy at large. They did this in exchange for supplies, gene-seed, and access to the technology of the Syndicate. This deal was too good to pass up, as the single goal of the Zephala Syndicate was conserving humanity by spreading technology. This was the beginning of the partnership between the Zephala Syndicate and the Headless. With this deal made, progress made on the Veilborn Project accelerated tenfold. Instead of manufacturing every component from scratch, requiring new machines to build them, parts could be sourced from elsewhere.

The Veiled Serpents still had a burning desire to accomplish something that the Headless could not provide, no matter how many resources they had - the ability to create their own Primarchs. However, they wanted to create new ones that could be moulded in the image of the new Empire, not clones of the previous 20. The first attempt made by the gene-smiths of Zephala was a failure. They succeeded in creating a being, but it was crippled by disastrous defects that limited its motion to an agonized limp. After studying this false Primarch, it was put down to spare it from its pain.

During an assembly called to discuss the Syndicate's next steps, a creature of the warp manifested, sprouting from the ground in the center of the room, taking the shape of a giant tree. This being was identified as Yent̪ʘa, the Zephalans' God, who had, by its own admission, been watching the system's inhabitants. The Veiled Serpents initially wanted to destroy the self-proclaimed God, seeing it as sorcery of the worst kind. The xenos discouraged this action, wanting to hear the being out. In response, Yent̪ʘa's branches began to bear fruit, which dropped onto the ground and into the outstretched hands of those attending the meeting. A gift for the Zephala Syndicate, the telepathic Arnixi said. This fruit, a piece offering of sorts from the Zephalan God of generosity, was glowing with power. Upon subsequent study and experimentation, the fruit was discovered to have a warping effect on the genetic material it came in contact with. It was a physical manifestation of the energies of the warp and a possible explanation for the tainted evolution of Zephala.

With this knowledge, the Zephala Syndicate decided. If they couldn't create gene seed of their own, they would modify the existing legions' genetic code to make something new. After setting aside a pure copy of the Emperor's work, the Veilborn Project began again. With Yent̪ʘa's gift, creating the Zephala Syndicate's generals was now possible. After millennia of work and occasional assistance from Yent̪ʘa, the project was completed, and the Basilisks were born. Each blessed and flawed in their own way, the Basilisks lead the Zephala Syndicate into the galaxy.

The Veilborn project was an unpredicted success, with gene seed being accepted by members of the male and female sexes with an equal, very high, success rate.

### The Unveiling

The Unveiling was a joyous time for the Zephala Syndicate, marking the completion of the Veilborn Project and the Basilisks' birth. The Basilisks, though not the Primarchs of the Emperor, were mighty warriors, meticulously crafted over thousands of years with the material gifted by Yent̪ʘ, using the gene technology of the Zephala Syndicate. Each Basilisk was a Paragon, ready to lead their own part of the Syndicate in their push against the Ruinous Powers. The long Kiloanna of Fear was finally over.

### Noctis Aeterna and Beyond

The Noctis Aeterna, or The Blackness, were the days right after the Great Rift opened and cut the galaxy in two in the closing year of M41. Cut off from the light of the Emperor on Terra, the Black Fangs Legion took this as a sign that marked the beginning of their crusade. The Legion pushed out into the Halo Stars, purging planets overrun by the forces of Chaos in the newly formed Imperium Nihilus.

## Territories

### Zephala

Within Zephala, the Syndicate's influence is particularly strong. They maintain a presence on all Yemaya, Sriark and Jahzara clones. The Yemayas are home to each of the four Zephalan xenos species, along with human populations on each. Xa-Skriark, belonging to the Sub-Skriarka, is the only non-Yemaya homeworld. Xa-Yemaya is home to the command structure of the Syndicate and is the permanent residence of the Black Fangs' Brood Mother and the Xandilu zətθaħasʈʂø Yenʑænɺu (Xandilu Eldest Elder). It is also where many Veilborn Chapters get natural materials for their weaponry. Xa-Skriark's facilities play a crucial role in the Syndicate's technological advancements and the production of weapons, armour, and other essential equipment. It is also the homeworld of the Seraphine Afana and where their Amowia studies the ancient technology brought back to the system. All Jahzaras are mining worlds which unearth the raw materials necessary to create many of the items produced on Skriark.

### Other Territory

Beyond Zephala, the Syndicate's territories extend to various regions throughout the sector. All planets are worth the protection of the Black Fangs Legion, and all liberated systems become part of the Zephala Syndicate if they wish to do so. If they do not want to cooperate with the Syndicate, which is often the case with greedy or incompetent officials, said officials are killed, and the governments are replaced with common people who often have a preferable outlook on their situation. The Syndicate's presence on these worlds ensures the suppression of chaos cults and rebellion while also offering protection to the local populations. Each territory is inhabited by a Quintet of the Seraphine Afana, who serve as a warning system for any threats which might appear. In these cases, when necessary, the Syndicate is quick to respond, sending whatever forces necessary to solve the issues faced. The Syndicate does not hold any of these worlds through occupation; instead, it fosters loyalty through the spreading of knowledge, which brings about prosperity within these systems.

## Organization

### Leadership

The Zephala Syndicate operates under a well-defined internal structure. Their hierarchy is carefully constructed, with clear leadership roles and specialized positions contributing to the Syndicate's overall efficiency.

At the pinnacle of the Syndicate's hierarchy stands the Mkono. The Mkono is composed of the Yemayan Brood Mother, the Xandilu zətθaħasʈʂø Yenʑænɺu, the Arnixi Isocracy, SanZik representatives, the Kufyndrak Valyndrak, the Amowia of the Seraphine Afana, the Magos Biologis of Skriark, the Basilisks, the Sub-Skriarka scholars and Sister Superior Hazel Jewell Coates. This Mkono serves as the highest governing body and is responsible for decisions for the various organizations within the Syndicate. The Valyndrak, in the absence of the Basilisks, can seize complete control of the Mkono if necessary to safeguard Zephala at the Syndicate's core. Each member brings their unique expertise and perspective to the table, ensuring a balanced approach to the Syndicate's operations.

## Technology

The Zephala Syndicate's technology is a culmination of its members' combined knowledge and effort. All xenos and human groups bring unique insights and advancements to the Syndicate.

As a culture who's technology developed without the use of servitors, no Zephala technology contains any of these creatures.

Xephala technology is constantly improving due to the efforts of its members. The Veilborn Legions and all other Zephala contingents return all ancient and xenos technology found during their movements to Zephala for study. The Seraphine Afana study these ancient weapons to unlock the secrets of their designs. The Xandilu use their understanding of the biological weaponry present on all Yemayas to enhance the performance of the Black Fangs. They also work closely with Xa-Skriark, and the Kufyndrak to discover ways to incorporate this new technology into the Syndicate's equipment. Xa-Skriark and Kuf-Skriark are the locations where most of this innovation takes place, working closely together to develop new armour and weapons. The SanZik strive to constantly improve vehicles and voidcraft.

Many fields of research exist, including those that will provide the Syndicate worlds with the ability to better provide for themselves and connect with each other. Formerly isolated worlds struggling to survive are uplifted by the agricultural, infrastructural, and other technological knowledge passed down to them by the Syndicate.

The weapon infantry level technology for weapons and armor can be found in the species' articles. Void ship technology is shared between species so it will be covered here.

### Zephala Voidship Technology

Zephala ships are classified by both size and species of the designs origin. All Zephala species have a distinct style, shape, and weaponry.

Some common aspects shared between species are:

* No servitors
* A high level of automation resulting in a reduced ship crew population
#### Xandilu Ships

The Xandilu pride themselves on their biomancy, basing much of their technology on processes which utilize shaped organic material. This species brings their expertise to void travel in a unique way. In all Zephala ships Raider class and above, the Xandilu insert small Yent̪ʘa trees, which improve the air quality tremendously and provide waste recycling, which increases the time a ship can go between resupplies.

These trees can be used to provide extra food and water on extended journeys if provided food. These trees accept all forms of biomatter as sustenance, absorbing nutrients in the form of calorie-dense bark. An interval water reservoir builds up and can be syphoned and used. These trees accept and even prefer, living creatures—especially ones bearing souls. As extensions of a minor God, these trees feed the souls of the creatures it consumes and sends them directly to Yent̪ʘa.

Though their contributions can be seen in the ships of other species, the Xandilu also created ships of their own. These ships are molded from giant Yent̪ʘa trees grown over time. They are formed around the mechanical components of a ship, and are hardened thoughtfully during the process, becoming as hard as the hulls of Imperial battleships. These structures slowly repair themselves, scabbing over with thinner material to seal hull breaches. The speed of repair can be quickened with biomancy and by providing the ship with an adequate number of souls. The more warp corrupted the soul is, the stronger effect it has. Xandilu ships are the hardest to build, making them the least common Zephala pattern Voidcraft.

#### SanZik Ships

Like their designers, SanZik ships are small, mobile and relatively fragile. They are nimble craft used for hit-and-run tactics. With sensor baffling equipment, SanZik ships can get close to enemy ships before being seen. They then release their payload and leave before they are caught.

The species' ability to predict the future makes them remarkably proficient with ballistics, with such physical weapons used on most ships. Zikolo vessels use torpedoes that impact enemy ships directly, and rounds that burst before impact, creating a cloud of fast moving shrapnel directed at the target. They also use weapons that deposit cloaked mines in the path of enemy ships minutes, or even hours before they are triggered.

#### Kufyndrak Ships

Kufyndrak ships are almost all massive and well armoured, with the minimum size being the equivalent of an Imperial light cruiser. Kufyndrak believe in the power of the individual, resulting in each ship being armed as if it were sent into combat by itself. In Kufyndrak design, there is no room for vehicles that cannot function offensively in battle.

All Kufyndrak void ships are equipped with plasma weaponry on a massive scale. Created by the Sub-Skriarka, these plasma weapons launch purple bolts of superheated purple plasma. The other, more often used weapon is a Kufyndrak superheated liquid metal cannon known as a MAGMA (**M**olten **A**lloy **G**ravitational **M**ass **A**ccelerator) cannons. Just as the name implies, these weapons use molten metals accelerated to a moderate fraction of the speed of light. These streams, when hitting the exposed hull of an enemy ship, make long gouges, shearing through external armour, and internal decks alike.

## Beliefs

The Syndicate believes in the inherent value of unity and cooperation. They understand that by working together and pooling their strength, they can achieve greater success and protect the worlds they are connected to. This belief in unity extends not only to the factions within the Syndicate but also to the planets and populations they defend. They strive to foster a sense of collective purpose, rallying the local populations and encouraging them to stand against Chaos and rebellion.

The Syndicate also upholds the importance of knowledge and enlightenment. They recognize that knowledge is a powerful tool in the battle against Chaos and ignorance. They seek to enlighten the worlds they visit, sharing advanced technologies, scientific advancements, and the teachings of the Imperial Creed. The pursuit of knowledge is seen as a sacred duty, and the Syndicate values education, research, and the preservation of wisdom.

The Syndicate values honour, discipline, and loyalty above all else, tethered by their vows.

Zephala's religious beliefs are a fusion of the system's ancient spiritual practices. The Zephalan people revere the trees of the Yemaya planets as divine figures, considering them the embodiment of order, strength, and protection. Their faith in this God, Yent̪ʘa, has become deeply ingrained in their culture and serves as a guiding force for their actions. The strength of their belief has grown since Yent̪ʘa revealed itself for the first time during the Veilborn Project.

### Yent̪ʘazəħas cʎ̝̊ʼa cʎ̝̊ʼu r̥ʌʈʂʌ

The Zephalan people maintain a monotheistic spiritual religion centred around the Bounty Trees, which lay at the center of their cities on all Yemaya planets. This religion is called Yent̪ʘazəħas cʎ̝̊ʼa cʎ̝̊ʼu r̥ʌʈʂʌ, or Yent̪ʘa for short. This religion was founded by the Xandilu and is followed by all other Zephalan xenos, as well as humans, who call it Yentha's Bounty. Central to this religion is the concept of interconnectedness with the plants and animals of the Yemaya Planets. Yent̪ʘa teaches all to appreciate the gifts received from the world and never to waste a gift received. The practitioners of Yent̪ʘa understand that the jungle provides everything they need to survive; therefore, they must take care of the jungle in turn. Yent̪ʘa, as a religion, is highly adaptable, changing with the times as Zephala changes with the environment. Flexibility is present even in some of the most restrictive tenets. The seven core tenets of Yent̪ʘa are:

#### Protect the Yent̪ʘa Tree

The Bounty Trees, or Yent̪ʘa trees, are the foundation of the entire religion. The ancient Bounty Trees have existed for longer than the Zephala xenos have been sentient, and Yent̪ʘa teaches that they should be respected above all else.

#### A Good Burial

The followers of Yent̪ʘa believe in a good burial. Regardless of the nature of one's death, at least part of the body must be recovered and returned to the planet of their birth to give back to the planet that helped create them.

#### Limit City Growth

City expansion is significantly controlled to limit the damage done to the delicate jungle ecosystem.

#### Use All of What You Take

The Zephalans have lived with the land as one for countless generations. This connectedness to such a dangerous world has made them, and their religion, value the use of all that they receive from the planet. Every resource must be used in order to survive.

#### Limit Damage to the Planet

The original five xenos of the Syndicate invented clean energy, which supplied an order of magnitude more energy than the xenos needed for the entire system. Soon after this, clean manufacturing methods were also created, eliminating pollution. The people of Zephala now know no pollution and strive to bring this cleaner way of life to share with other planets.

#### Combat Chaos

From the time of their introduction to the Cabal, the original Zephala Xenos were already very against the corrupting powers of Chaos. Because each species was warp-touched in its own way, they knew the forces of the Dark Gods were a corruption of what could be a force used for good. Now, with the power of a Legion at its disposal, the Zephala Syndicate can take the fight to the forces of Chaos.

## Original Zephala Member Culture

Though the founding Syndicate members share a core culture centred around Zephala, other syndicate members have their own cultures. The foundation of Zephala culture is rich in art and music.

### Pursuit of Knowledge

The Founding Zephala Members hold a deep reverence for learning, considering it a sacred and essential pursuit that shapes their entire society. Knowledge is highly valued and seen as the foundation of their survival and progress. From an early age, Zephala individuals are encouraged to explore the world around them, ask questions, and seek understanding. Education is a central aspect of their culture, and using Zephalan technology, they have developed sophisticated systems to facilitate the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge. They have established academies where xenos and humans alike gather to study various topics, ranging from science and technology to history and philosophy. These institutions serve as hubs of intellectual activity, fostering a culture of scholarship and curiosity. The time spent in school is much shorter for the Zephala founding xenos, but all students are allowed to take the time they need to find the understanding and hone the skills they desire. Within reason.

The Zephalans approach learning with a sense of awe and wonder, understanding that there is always more to discover and understand about the universe. They engage in extensive research, experimentation, and exploration, driven by their insatiable thirst for knowledge. They eagerly delve into the mysteries of xenos and ancient technologies, seeking to expand their understanding of the cosmos.

### Community & Cooperation

The Zephala people are naturally cooperative and communal, placing great value on unity and collective well-being. They recognize that working together and leveraging each other's strengths leads to greater success and survival. Each individual brings their distinct abilities and knowledge to benefit the entire Syndicate. This collaborative mindset is evident in various aspects of their lives, from hunting and gathering resources to sharing scientific discoveries and advancements.

The Syndicate's nature is reflected in its decision-making processes. They conduct gatherings and council meetings where significant matters are discussed, giving every representative a voice and the opportunity to contribute to decision-making. Consensus-building and compromise are highly regarded, with the aim of achieving a collective agreement that takes into account the well-being and interests of all parties involved.

Zephalan citizens engage in mutual support and assistance in their daily lives. They eagerly lend a helping hand to their neighbours, whether it's hunting for food, constructing shelters, or caring for the injured. They view themselves as partners in the fight against the galaxy's challenges, fostering a sense of camaraderie and cooperation among members.

Knowledge and information are freely shared within Zephala communities. Learning is seen as a collective effort, and the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge are highly valued. Elders, who have accumulated wisdom and experience, play a vital role in passing on their knowledge to younger generations. This knowledge transfer ensures the preservation of their culture, history, and scientific advancements. Every member of the Syndicate instinctively seeks to protect the elders of their community for this reason.

## Members

### Zephalan xenos

The Zephalan xenos' affinity for learning and their natural intelligence make them invaluable contributors to the Syndicate's efforts. They bring their unique technologies and understandings to aid the Veilborn Legions with their war effort. These xenos use their drive to gain new knowledge to unlock the mysteries of Xenos technology. They go out into the galaxy, with and without Veilborn Marine protection, to gather new information and bring said knowledge back to Zephala for study. In their own right, these xenos are a powerful fighting force, using Syndicate technology to destroy those who interfere with their studies.

### Black Fangs Legion

The Black Fangs Legion is one of the first Veilborn Marines Legions. This Legion forms the foundation of one of the main battle groups of the Syndicate, with its leadership holding the most power among all the members. They decide what new Veilborn Chapters to create and influence the gene-seed customization and overall responsibilities of these newly formed Chapters. Even though the Chapter helps govern the Syndicate, most of the Black Fangs' members are on a constant campaign. With an arsenal fueled by the warp-infused poisons of Yemaya, the Black Fangs strike out into the void, using a variety of tactics to purge chaos cults and spread faith in the God-Emperor.

### Seraphine Afana

The Seraphine Afana is the first Veilborn Marine chapter outside of the main legions. It stands as a beacon of enlightenment and protection, where the Black Fangs are a threat of fear and destruction. They serve as Zephala's scientific research leaders, partnering with the Forge World of Skriark. Away from Zephala, they help maintain the stability of planets visited by the Syndicate. As mentors and teachers, the Seraphine Afana guide local populations toward technological enlightenment, using the flames of knowledge to stave off the darkness of Chaos. When needed, the Seraphine Afana, like all Veilborn Marines, is quick to combat the enemies of the Zephala Syndicate using flame and melta weaponry of both new and ancient design.

### Headless

The Headless may remain somewhat mercenary compared to the other homegrown members of the Syndicate, but they are strongly wedded to the Syndicate by the shared dream they have, such that it overrides other matters that they would disagree on. The net cast by the Headless spreads far and wide but also seeps deep into the Imperium and Chaos factions, their access to intelligence is critical to the Black Fangs' success whose Vanguard can correlate the maps and reports of the Headless' agents with fresh reconnaissance. Their marines and untransformed agents will be behind the scenes to destabilise the Syndicate's enemies and mask the trails that lead to Zephala and its secrets. Their efforts to collect geneseed from the myriad of Chapters and Warbands at large have helped the geneseed projects of Zephala, and the reciprocal exchange of technology has built their Warband stronger than they ever could have dreamed of.