Archangels of Manasseh

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## Archangels of Manasseh

Archangels of Manasseh armorial with Chapter iconography.

Archangels of Manasseh Firstborn '*Akhi*' (Battle-Brother) of the 2nd '*Etairía*' (Company), 4th Battleline Hoplite (Squad).

## Space Marine Chapter

### **Allegiance**

Imperium of Man
(*Fidelitas ad Mortem*)

### **Successor of**

Ultramarines
(Roboute Guilliman lineage.)

### **Homeworld**

N/A; Fleet-Based (Currently)
Gilead (Formerly; Destroyed)

### **Allies**

UltramarinesAngels of SlaughterOrder of the Rising Sun

### Successor Chapter(s)

Unknown
Under Investigation

"*My akhis, take up your arms and rise from the ashes! We are the scions of Manasseh, the God of humanity in the flesh! Thus we shall not be daunted by the many voices that foolishly cry out against justice! Rather, we will blaze with an ever-growing inferno of righteous fury and vengeance as we tear down all that is wicked in this world! Just as he sacrificed the most valuable possession he had to save the souls of those who follow him, so shall we sacrifice our own in his name, for the further of the dream conjured so long ago by the embodiment of perfection!*"
—Shalom Rapha Ephraim
The **Archangels of Manasseh** is an ancient and highly respected Loyalist Successor Chapter that hails from the lineage of the heroic and stalwart Ultramarines. Created in the wake of the tragic events of the Horus Heresy and the subsequent dissolution of the Legiones Astartes, the Archangels were created during the 2nd Founding. The Archangels of Manasseh were one of several 'Primogenitor Chapters' created during this time. The Ultramarines maintained the XIIIth Legion's original name, badge and colours, while the remaining created Chapters took new names and heraldry. Shorn of their past history and livery, the Archangels were free to forge their own path.

However, due to the destruction of their planet, they have become a fleet-based chapter. They now traverse the vast, empty void of cold space, going to wherever Terra directs them. Accompanied by their allies, the Order of the Rising Sun, they have become nomads of the Imperium. Often utilized for the most critical missions, only they stand as one of the only truly, spiritually unalterable force of the God Emperor of Mankind due to the alterations to their gene seed. Known for their extreme zealot faith and absolute confidence in the divinity of the Emperor, they are the very epitome of the Imperial Creed at its core.

## History

### Origins

#### Good Tidings

The start of the chapter begins not in a gene-seed or the founding, but rather in the Age of Strife on a human colony world far from Terra, where a loyalist faction would rise in a manner most unexpected. It is from this humble world, a volcanic planet with little resources or fame to offer and hardly any famous personas, that one of the greatest supporters of the Imperium would rise.

Just like elsewhere in the far flung, spread out, interstellar civilization of humanity, the planet of Gilead was filled with strife and immorality as warlords vied for dominance. All around, blood flowed past the rotting corpses of those murdered in the streets. The causes of the massive death toll varied wildly, ranging from warlord fights, executions for complaining or not paying the outrageously high taxes, to being killed simply for entertainment. Families huddle in their homes, terrified of the stalkers outside. Streets were patrolled by the wicked mercenaries of the gluttonous warlords, each one eager to use their weapons to maim, ore even gruesomely end, unwary travelers with horrific ecstasy, even going out of their way to find an excuse for a fit of violence.

However, it was at this time that the prophet known as Ephraim spoke out against the tyranny of the warlords. Renowned for his extensive, clear psykic foresight, something sought after by all the warlords, he was held in a we for never once being wrong. It was with this sight that Ephraim preached a wonderful message full of good tidings. Summoning his full authority, he boldly spoke out of a brighter future. He spoke of one he called '*Manasseh*', which means "God incarnate", "Divine in Flesh", or "immortal to mortal" in the Gileadite tongue.

Ephraim claimed that the cosmos would send them a god in the form of a man, an immortal human whose strength would eclipse anything known to man or the rest of the wider galaxy. He would rise and, when the time was right, unify the scattered, ragged shards of humanity into the greatest race in the universe. Under his guidance, humanity would take its rightful place as the undisputed rulers of the mightiest galactic empire to ever exist. And unlike the other warlords, he alone would be perfect. Flawless in every way, he would be immune to the alluring temptations of Chaos. A champion of mankind, he would be an unstoppable force of order and justice, unable to do wrong.

He would fight out of love for humanity, seeking nothing more than the advancement of future generations, unlike like the other warlords who fought out of a lust for power, fame, and wealth. But, Ephraim cautioned, this golden age of peace and prosperity would not be his purpose. He would simply start it, giving mankind the means to continue. Manasseh would be betrayed by his closest son. And though good would triumph in the end, Manasseh would sacrifice much for the sake of his race. Forever confined to a golden throne in the Ancient Lands, their name for Terra, he would light a beacon that would allow him, even weakened, to keep the Dark Gods at bay. It would also make Warp travel safer, allowing humanity to gain the means for galactic domination, but only if they truly strove for it.

Manasseh would pass his torch down, and it would be the job of man to fulfill his dreams. Angered at these claims, the warlords attempted to kill the prophet. Having already foreseen this, though, he managed to escape with a few thousand followers. Weary of the famine, sickness, and death that came from the warlord´s petty squabbles, these followers were drawn in by the good news of the prophet´s message, believing his words not from past experience of his skill, but out of the hope that their people could still feel the relief of salvation from the corrosion that gripped mankind with an iron fist.

#### Finding Manasseh

As their fleet glided through the endless sea of space, the refugees would eventually meet with the Emperor of Mankind's fleets as he launched his Great Crusade. Witnessing his seemingly god like power and his selfless motivation first hand, they were overjoyed and utterly convinced beyond a shadow of a doubt when Ephraim declared that the Emperor of Mankind was the long awaited Manasseh. Vindicated in the beliefs that had seen them driven from their homes, the Gileadites became among the Emperor's most faithful warriors, serving as surfs and auxiliary forces.

Inspired by the feats of power the Emperor displayed; achieving an endless series of victories, an unstoppable advance that seemed to be nothing short of a miracle, the Gileadites rejoiced with each stride forward towards the completion of Manasseh's ultimate vision. So drunk on victory and certain of Manasseh's invincibility, they had forgotten Ephraim's warning of a dire end.

#### A Chapter is Founded

Darkness had long been brewing within the inner circle of the Imperium as the corrupting lies of Chaos seeped into its fracturing foundation. Whispering falsehoods into foolish, twisted souls, betrayal grew in darkened hearts seeking unrestrained thrills. Yet the Gileadites were oblivious. Then came the Horus Heresy, the tragic event that would forever shatter the unity of the Imperium. On Terra itself, when the Warmaster and his forces attacked, the Gileadites fought with every ounce of courage and valor in them.

But just as the prophet had proclaimed, they would fail to save Manasseh from his ultimate fate. Triumph from defeating Horus was tempered with heartbreaking sorrow and grief for the fallen king. They watched as he took his throne and lit the Astronomican. With heavy hearts, they remembered the final words of the prophecy even as Ephraim reminded them what lay ahead. Now the torch of civilization was passed down to them. It was now their job, their obligation to his sacrifice, to finish his race against fate on his behalf. In a time of anarchy and chaos, it would be up to them to not only keep the shadows of evil at bay, but to push for the Emperor's sake to bring peace and unity to a war torn galaxy, all through a species that didn't fully appreciate the final contribution, his final parting gift to ensure their survival.

Thus, seeking the strength to become more than human so that they could have the most impact on Manasseh's vision, they requested their special gene-seed, begging the High Lords of Terra to allow them the honor of becoming Space Marines, the superhuman soldiers of the Imperium. They would become one of his great generations of children and some of the strongest warriors fighting in his name. They would, from this moment on, dedicate themselves to what they deemed to be the Great Oath, and gladly altered themselves when Terra finally allowed them to join the Adeptus Astartes, though they were forced to break away from the Ultramarines.

### Establishment of the Fleet

#### Return to Gilead

It was soon after the creation of the chapter that Ephraim and the rest of his followers began to wonder about the fate of their homeworld. They had witnessed the fulfillment of the great prophecy and had been given their sacred decree. They had managed to successfully complete their pilgrimage and protect the holy standards and religion they had strove to uphold. Still, such light needed to be spread to every corner of the galaxy, for that was the wish of Manasseh himself. And what land was the darkest among them, ignorant of the one true god of Mankind. It was the very planet that had scoffed at the prospect of the Imperium and the ideals it was built upon. It was something that all the *Akhis* all agreed upon. The time had come to return to their homeworld of Gilead and rid it of the scum that had oppressed it for so long.

Thus the long journey back home began at M33.110. When they got outside the air space of Gilead, however, something was terribly wrong. The entire space outside the planet was filled with a sickly white mist so thick that even the scanners upon their warships could not penetrate the haze. Even worse, when the fleet attempted to get close, the surfs found themselves unable to go further, afflicted by horrific spiritual attacks. Within their minds, they were driven mad by the assaults of ghostly voices wailing in agony and sheer terror. Only the Space Marines themselves, thanks to their gene seed, remain unaffected by the powers of this mysterious Warp phenomenon. The fleet had to halt as Thunderhawks were sent out to investigate the planet's surface and scope out the situation and, hopefully, locate the source of the psykic mist.

#### Discovering the Truth

The entire atmosphere of the planet had also been enveloped by this strange, ghastly storm of malevolent energy. However, the most horrifying revelation was to come later when the 6th *Etairía* made landfall and established a beachhead on Gilead. Reporting back, their news shocked the entire chapter. The Astartes had found the world they once knew was gone, replaced by a scene of mass destruction. The volcanic planet had been reduced to nothing more than a dead world filled only with dust and barren rock. The planet, which had once been super-heated by the thermal volcanic activities and rivers of lava was now frigid as all the lava had dried up. Yet the maps and geography of the planet had not changed even one bit, something that was odd. The lava, when dried, should have changed the landscape, yet it hadn't.

In addition, all the civilizations and settlements that had been scattered around the planet were completely gone, vanished without a trace. No matter how hard they tried, they couldn't figure out where the villages had went. Not even a single ruin stood in the place of what had once been humanity. And while the fauna and flora of the planet had been lacking before, it had still existed. For thousands of years, it had adapted and survived the harsh reality it was stuck in. But now all of it was gone, but not even a single bone had been left behind. Where had all the life gone?

It was later that the Scout Marines, led by Ephraim, would find an underground chamber hidden deep within the core of Gilead. Inside of it, they found a singular text that was dated shortly after their departure, and told the tragic fate of the Gileadites that had remained on the planet. It was a revolting story, and one that brought tears to the eyes of the Shalom Rapha. But at least it gave foreclosure.

Once the followers of Manasseh had fled, the planet had spiraled further into hedonistic chaos. As the warlords battled and things drew towards an inevitable climax, something dark had started to stir beneath the spiritual decay of the Gileadites. This creature fed on the shadowy fodder that it was given. Greed and corruption grew ever more rampant as blood began to drown the civilians. Betrayal became more frequent, as did massive genocides. As the hearts of men turned wicked, and all shreds of light became extinguished, the beast rose from the darkness. It manifested its dark tendrils in the dreams of the humans before gaining control of their minds and leeching out their very souls. The echoes of that agony began to rise and manifest in a vocal fog that drove the people further towards insanity. Perverse and evil, people abandoned any and all noble ideals and further strengthened the beast until it had consumed every human soul available and taken control of the planet.

#### The Beast Wakes

As the Space Marines explored their fallen home, which was now only a husk of its former splendor, the beast sensed the arrival of new prey. Hungry after a millennia of being deprived of any fresh souls, it was eager to get the Astartes within its clutches. From the night it arose and began its gory assault, determined to claim the foolish chapter that dared to land on its territory. It became enraged as it realized its prey would not be easy to catch since it wasn't incapacitated by the soul haze that covered the land. From the mist it called all the dead echoes to create a physical form and help it fight.

The clash that resulted was titanic, shaking the very foundations of the planet. For as soon as they were cut down, the shades of the enemy simply rose back up to fight once more. In addition, the dead of the Space Marines were turning into echoes that were being turned against their brethren. The Space Marines were forced into a desperate retreat, simply attempting to find a way back to the surface from the underground passage and its institution. Fortunately, the entire force of the Librarians and the Shalom Rapha managed to pool together their strength and blast the beast with such psykic energy that it was instantly slain. In a blast of destructive power, the very planet was split to its core and utterly demolished, now being chunks simply floating through space, only held in space and orbit by their sheer gravitation force.

#### Conclusion of Conflict

Thoroughly revolted by the corrosion that Gilead had come to now represent by being the very epitome of villainy, the Space Marine's refused to use the planet's remnants as their base of operation. Instead, they chose to become a fleet based chapter and float through space, going to wherever they were most needed by the tides of eternal war. They would spread the light of the Emperor in a more efficient way than simply preaching in one area.

## Notable Campaigns

A pristine chapter, renowned and held in awe by the entire Imperium, the Archangels have made a famous name for themselves, finally escaping from under the shadow or history cast by the Ultramarines. Highly decorated through their extensive past of intense experience and the honoring of their oath in even the darkest moments that would drive any others to the hedonistic depths of depravity, the greatest accomplishment that the chapter is appraised for is the fact that they have never once been defeated in battle. Master combatants on any ground, they have managed to secure victory where the even the greatest have failed. Still, it has cost them countless Akhis. For although they have triumphed against every horror and obstacle that has been thrown at them, they have faced heavy casualties that have extended to a count so high that all their reserve companies and their 3rd battle company are comprised solely of Primaris Space Marines.

Incapable of showing disloyalty to the ultimate standards of the Imperium, these Space Marines are solid and dependable no matter what, making the perfect troops for fighting the forces of Chaos. Refusing to succumb to such dark spiritual turmoil, they are often assigned to fight the servants of the Dark Gods in critical clashes that have changed the very course and fate of the Imperium.

* **Assault of Randish V (M42.111):** Reports from the Inquisition's extensive spy network indicated that a Warp storm of immense proportions was brewing over the dead world of Randish V. Worried about what this could possibly foreshadow, the Inquisition alerted the Archangels, who were nearby and looking to eradicate the next threat to the Imperium's safety. Without hesitation, the Archangels raced over to the planet and discovered something both shocking and horrifying. The Vampyric Fangs, a heretic Astartes warband led by the infamous Mephistopheles, were leading scores of Daemonic legions that were flooding across the planet's surface. Further investigation revealed that the traitors had long held a base there and were working on a secret project, one that, if it succeeded, when summon a center of Chaos power so powerful that it would create a path of annihilation leading straight to Terra itself. Alarmed to find that the project was nearly finished, the Archangels sent a desperate invasion force to take over the planet. However, dwarfed in size, they required extensive backup. Calling upon the nearby Space Drakes for assistance, the two Space Marine chapters combined powers to launch a planetary invasion. After intense fighting that resulted in numerous casualties, most to the Archangels, the tear in the real space was fixed, the arcane project they were working on destroyed, and cleansed the planet by driving out the disgusting servants of the Dark Gods.
* **+++LOADING++**

## Chapter Homeworld

Before it was stripped into the desolate shape it currently is the the Shadow Beast, the volcanic world of Gilead was teeming with interesting and highly adapted fauna and flora. From massive rock eating dragons, to molten venus flytraps. The list of intriguing wildlife knew no end, each one captivating in their own weird way. In order to live in such an extreme, harsh environment, extensive changes have made these creatures something that would seem highly alien and nothing short of impossible in the fleeting imagination of Terra. Such includes massive lava dwelling squids and flying fire horses.

As for geography, it was covered in countless volcanoes and lava seas. Within the rocky surface of the planet lay rich mineral deposits of incalculable worth. Such a wealthy abundance of mineral resources helped Gilead maintain a high technology standard even as the knowledge, writing, and interstellar mechanics of the rest of humanity faltered in their ability to understand the devices utilized during the Dark Age of Technology. A highly contested and fought over fact, warlords constantly scrambled to control the greatest amount of area for mining.

Now, however, the entire world is dead, the surface ashen and barren, nothing more than swirling dust and lingering ores in clumped together patches. All that holds the floating pieces of rock together are the weak gravity of the former planet that has remained somewhat intact, combined with the pull of the system's stars. Barely cobbled together, the remnants of this once populated wonder are now used as a temporary mining field by the Adeptus Mechanicus.

### Fortress-Monastery

#### Citadel of Saints

The dwelling place and temple of worship for the Archangels, the Citadel of Saints is located on the prime flagship of this nomadic Chapter. A towering bastion of blindingly radiant quartz, shining silver, and glittering, bejeweled gold, it is the pride and joy, the pinnacle of human creation. With tall, sweeping halls, majestic towers, and breathtaking Corinthian pillars, this intimidating fortress reaches above to the very heavens, a bedazzling beacon of awe inspiring light when compared to the backdrop of the cold, heartless void it sails in.

The citadel consists of three different parts. The first part is the lowest, set apart from the temple itself by the Sacred Bridge of Ascendance, a polished blackstone stairway consisting of well over a thousand stairs. Set at the very foot of the holy ground within the Chapter Fleet, it is dark and dreary when compared to the rest of the blissful beauty of the rest of the place. It is here that the Archangels live, eat, train, and go about their daily work. Fires from raging forges, blasts from the target range, and clomping from marching practice, it is alive and boisterous.

The second level is cold and somber, solemn halls of lavish riches and mineral decorations. Known as the Sacred Hallway of Heaven, it is filled with tall, sweeping arches as well as massive rooms. Some of the rooms hold precious texts on things such as strategy or the Imperial Creed, while others hold the juggernauts and Terminator armors in addition to ancient relics. However, the most important are the massive, larger than life statues of the heroes who gave their lives in the name of Manasseh. Towering above even the Shalom Rapha, these awe inspiring statues stand on massive marble pedestals with bronze plates on them, inscribed with the valiant deeds completed and the righteous life lived by these fallen Archangels. Here they are honored and held in reverence, a final acknowledgement meant to immortalize them in the memory of Mankind.

The third and final part of the Citadel is located in the very center and is the tallest part of the monastery, stretching out its glistening fingers towards the very place these Astartes consider to be Paradise. At first glance, this level, known as the Holy Chamber of Manasseh, seems to be made in a similar fashion as all the other parts of the Citadel. However, going in would paint a much different picture. In truth, nobody is allowed inside the heart of the sanctuary of the Holy Chamber, unless it is with the express permission of the Shalom Rapha himself, the only one with access whenever he desires entry. Even the Inquisition and Terra have no clue as to what occurs in this mysterious chamber. It is here that he comes to meditate on the will of the Emperor and make the major decisions for the Chapter. If one were to enter, however, they would find that the interior of the walls reveals its true nature as being made by blackstone. Covering the walls is human writing that, believed to be done in forced labor to a long lost Necron Dynasty, has witch properties. The wall itself reflects psykic power back at its source till it combines with other waves with so much magnitude that they sink in the blackstone where they are then enhanced and projected around the entire Citadel. The source of this power is the Forgotten Saint, a statue of mystic origins that was brought and placed into the chamber by Shalom Rapha Ephraim himself. Beyond that, all that is known about this statue is that it is the power source for the shield that surrounds and protects the Citadel. This barrier is able to repel the most hostile of psykic attacks, dissipating world destroying spells and shredding the essence of even the strongest daemons. It also protects from physical attacks, such as explosive bombardments or marching armies by tearing apart their very souls. It is because of this that the Citadel of Saints has no defenses such as turrets, as such are impractical and unnecessary.

## Order of Battle

### Chapter Command

**Chapter Master of the Angels of Manasseh**
**Raphas**
**Nissis**
**Honour Guard**
**Command Squad:**
**Chapter Champion Juliactean Vitelus**
**Chapter Ancient**
**Techmarine**
**Trufa (Apothecary)**
**Chutzpah (Chaplain)**
**Master Napach Saran Dylos**
**Techmarines**
**Veteran Techmarines**
**Tech Tenants**
**Battle Tanks**
**Land Raiders**
**Gunships**
**Chutzpah Superior Abrah Lyteus**
**Chutzpahs**
**Keeper Chutzpahs**
**High Trupha Victorian Vitelus**
**Trufas**
**Fleet Navarch Lydia Litaay**
**Battle Barges**
**Strike Cruisers**
**Rapid Strike Vessels**
**High Challah Vylitus Sythrin**
***Challahs***
**2 Epistolaries**
**Codiciers**
**Lexicaniums**

### Etairía (Companies)

**Nissi Rapha Vivian**
**Honour Guard**
**Command Squad:**
**Company Champion**
**Company Ancient**
**Napach (Techmarine)**
**Trufa (Apothecary)**
**Chutzpah (Chaplain)**
**Sternguard Veterans**
**Vanguard Veterans**
**Terminators**
**Veteran Techmarines**
**Venator Chutzpahs**
**Veteran Trufas**
**Dreadnoughts** | **Gateway Etairía**
**Nissi Rapha Lokar**
**Honour Guard**
**Command Squad:**
**Company Champion**
**Company Ancient**
**Napach (Techmarine)**
**Trufa (Apothecary)**
**Chutzpah (Chaplain)**
**Battleline Hoplite**
**Fire Support Hoplite**
**Battle Tanks**
**Land Raiders** | **Michelean Etairía**
**Nissi Rapha Samuel**
**Honour Guard**
**Command Squad:**
**Company Champion**
**Company Ancient**
**Napach (Techmarine)**
**Trufa (Apothecary)**
**Chutzpah (Chaplain)**
**Battleline Hoplite**
**Fire Support Hoplite**
**Battle Tanks**

**Nissi Rapha Tyranus**
**Honour Guard**
**Command Squad:**
**Company Champion**
**Company Ancient**
**Napach (Techmarine)**
**Trufa (Apothecary)**
**Chutzpah (Chaplain)**
**Battleline Hoplite**
**Fire Support Hoplite**
**Battle Tanks**
**Land Raider**
**Nissi Rapha David**
**Honour Guard**
**Command Squad:**
**Company Champion**
**Company Ancient**
**Napach (Techmarine)**
**Trufa (Apothecary)**
**Chutzpah (Chaplain)**
**Battleline Hoplite**
**Fire Support Hoplite**
**Battle Tanks**
**Land Raiders**
**Nissi Rapha Natalian**
**Honour Guard**
**Command Squad:**
**Company Champion**
**Company Ancient**
**Napach (Techmarine)**
**Trufa (Apothecary)**
**Chutzpah (Chaplain)**
**10 Vanguard Marine Hoplite**
**Scout Hoplite**
**Bikes**
**Land Speeders**

## Chapter Beliefs

The primary mission, one that has turned from mere obsession to depraved mania, is the fulfillment of the Great Oath. It is this promise that defines every aspect of the Space Marine's lives and drives them to ever greater acts of heroism. The Great Oath itself is a promise to show the love of the Emperor to the strangled people of the Imperium by doing exactly what the Emperor did; giving up his life as a sacrifice. The main objective of each of their battles is to protect the innocent civilians of the Imperium of Mankind. In the same way, they strive to demolish any who dare threaten the noble purity of mankind as a whole. With a furious hatred burning inside their very souls, fueled by the memory of what the disgusting heretics did by wiping out the chance of a glorious human future, they are determined to avenge Manasseh and push for the completion of his lovely plans. Strict adherents to the Imperial Creed, they are extremely xenophobic and will not, unless in the most dire of straights, even entertain the notion of being so much as neutral to an alien. In addition, this rigid faith, combined with their gene seed, has made them incapable of mercy towards those they consider to be an enemy challenger to humanity's supremacy and the manifest destiny that the Archangels hold in reverence as one of the supreme ideas worthy of bloodshed. Killing without hesitation, these executioners are the very embodiment of loyalty and extremist ideals.

One belief that differs from the rest of the Imperial Cult is the belief in what they call Paradise. It is their belief that when they die, assuming their death came in combat while fighting for the Emperor, they will join Manasseh in the golden kingdom of heaven. In that kingdom there is no pain, sadness, or sorrow, the reward for never once wavering in their principals. Here they will live for eternity, only leaving when the Emperor calls them to fight in his angelic army and lead the future generations in the darkest of hours. Further, they also believe that he will eventuality be reborn and return to lead humanity once more.

## Battle Chant

Being the religious zealots that they are, they worship Manasseh even during the most heated conflicts. During the crucifix of battle, a symphony often will rise like a ghostly melody, the Space Marines singing with all the dried up emotions in their hearts even as they hurl themselves into the bloody clutches of battle, each verse mixing with the orchestra of death they unleash. Though the hymns they cry are as numerous as those of the Sisters of Battle, one chant stands above them all, an original composition of Ephraim that is declared with solemn reverence.

***Long ago one came to command,***
***The broken and ruined Ancient Lands,***
***Unsurpassed by any in might,***
***Came at long last to set things right.***

***Only he remained fully pure,***
***For to to others darkness held too much allure,***
***And within one horrid and fateful blow,***
***The traitors would bring us eternal woe.***

***In a battle so grand and terrible,***
***Came the sentence so unbearable,***
***A future robbed of our divine light,***
***Our people divided by the holy fight.***

***Now as Manasseh's beacon guides,***
***Let his faithful servants follow,***
***And just as he laid down the ultimate sacrifice,***
***We shall not let the darkness entice,***
***As we give our own final breath,***
***Fighting, in his name, to the death.***

***So let the great ballads ever sing,***
***And the tongue of every commoner ring,***
***Praise and glory to the holy king,***
***The everlasting lord of me!***

## Chapter Recruitment

In this Astartes Chapter, faith and belief is the most important quality and is thus the most desired. Recruits themselves are easy to pick up as countless worlds vie for a place in this distinguished and exquisite Chapter. However, not every rookie is cut out for such a rigorous life. Going down this path is irreversible and costly. Giving up love, pleasure, thrills, and the ability to seek a life enriched by experiences of choice must be completely forsaken. Thus, to ensure that each applicant is up to the demanding task before them, they must undergo a trial known as the "Chance of Blasphemy."

In this ritual, they will be administered a powerful psychological drug that lulls them to a lucid, drug induced dream that will test their mettle and potential. In this dream, their minds will turn against them as it unleashes the full potential of their lust for spiritual excess. As though all the power of the Dark Gods had flooded their minds, the most enticing temptations will claw at their psyche with ferocious claws in an attempt to drag them under and force their submission. Such enhanced impulses will drown them in waves of emotional turmoil. Most succumb to their inner weakness and prove their inability to put full dedication into become a flawless disciple of Manasseh. Those that do manage to forge an iron will and withstand the power of their greedy spirit will undergo the transformation from human to Astartes, joining the ranks of these Battle Brothers.

## Gene-Seed

The gene-seed of the Archangels is something of an oddity that has set them apart from many other Space Marine Chapters. For the most part, it is based off the Ultramarines, but with an alteration that the Archangels specifically crafted themselves. For the most part, the altercation is hardly noticeable and does nothing to their physical performance on the battlefield. Instead, it has horrendously altered their mind beyond any form of repair. After studying how the Traitor legions came to be corrupted by the twisting influence of the Dark Gods, the chapter sought to find some sort of immunity so that they would not join such fallen heroes and find their logic corrupted by impure temptations. They have succeeded, for they can no longer hear the whispers or be seduced by Chaos, but it has cost them much.

By targeting certain parts of the emotional center of these Space Marines, it has changed the very fundamental aspects of their will. It makes them incapable of disloyalty to the Emperor and the Imperial Creed. By limiting the pleasures and sensations they can truly focus on or have so much as the slightest care for, it turns them into the ultimate troops perfectly capable and undiminished no matter how low the morale level. In reality, these Astartes have lost their very humanity. No longer can they seek out new experiences, find new purposes, or care about anything beyond serving the Emperor and embodying his mission. Their only purpose is fighting in life and the eventual death they will die in Manasseh's name. Such is their only fulfillment, source of satisfaction, and passion that drives them.

The technology needed to warp the gene seed to induce such mental effects is a closely guarded secret of the chapter. In truth, Terra would love to use it for their own purposes and to cement the unity and loyalty of their troops. However, seeing how the Emperor gave every human a chance to be friend or foe and respected others opinions, even if they died for them, the Archangels refuse to allow even the High Council of Terra access to the technology. True to their core foundation, the Archangels have only used it on the Primaris reinforcements gifted to them by the Ultramarines Primarch.

However, due to the causalities and subsequent struggle at the Citadel of Saints during the attack of Muldonshire and the Midnight Hawks, a deformed copy of their gene-seed, originating from a half formed Space Marine, was lost. Fortunately, the gene-seed was recovered by Imperial forces and brought to the locked vaults of Terra. The gene-seed, only partially formed, did not have the loyalty solidifying quality of the Archangels, ensuring that the gene-seed of these Astartes remains unique. Still, considering how great the Archangels have performed, it is highly possible that Terra has secretly created new chapters based off this deficient seed, though the Inquisition, despite how much it searches on the Archangels' behalf, cannot find the truth.

## Combat Doctrine

Able to withstand the shifting tides of Daemon Worlds and observe the roiling see of madness without losing their sanity, they hold a distinct advantage over other Imperial forces when it comes to fighting on corrupted worlds. Because of this, they are most often deployed to fight on worlds fully consumed by the Dark Gods. Able to safely and calmly see the pattern of the ever changing ground beneath their feet, they are able to expertly navigate the warped ground with relative ease, escaping from traps and illusions that would see the deaths of countless others.

However, from their studies of Heretics, they have found that the safest way to deal with Chaos is to fight where the terrain is not in their favor. Despite their ability to safely traverse ruined worlds, they have found that the air is the best place to fight the enemy since the powers of Chaos rarely have as profound of an impact as the unstable ground below does. By taking away this one advantage, it makes it easier and more secure for them to deal with the enemy. Because of this, the Chapter often favors air based assaults and jump packs.

Still, they are forced to concede that battles cannot be won by air attacks alone. Enemy troops can go to areas where jump packs cannot reach, such as ducking under forests of slimy tendrils. Or the enemy may go under ground, in buildings, or other countless areas. Because of this, the Chapter ensures it also has plenty of specialized ground forces. This includes heavy support squads, vehicles, fast attack units, close quarters specialists, and other countless units.

For the most part, they have developed a way of combat that they have named "celeriter impetum". Since they have rarely been put in a position where they have to put up a static defense, they have perfected the art of offensive warfare, becoming masters of swiftly taking ground. The first part of the invasion that they conduct begins with them scouting out the enemy forces. From here, they identify the enemy's most critical and important assets and positions. Then, without warning, Thunderhawks are sent to that area, landing in a tempest of devastating fury. From it pour out the forces of the Archangels en mass. With lightning precision, they knock out the greatest advantages and stances of the enemy. By taking out targets that would allow the enemy to put up maximum resistance, it becomes easier to take care of the enemy.

With these beach heads established and secured, the Space Marines stay true to their nature and utilize mobilization to stay strong. Without pause, the forces of the Chapter strike out in coordinated and carefully planed spear heads. Such rapid bursts of unceasing aggression allow them to crash into the enemy lines before they have a chance to respond or formulate a proper response. The strikes are also used to break up the enemy forces so that they cannot combine strength or work together to resist the invading Astartes. This allows the scattered pockets of resistance to be quickly crushed with the bulk and most important part of the foe's army utterly vanquished.

## Deathwatch Service

This chapter has a long, winding involvement with the Deathwatch. For as long as they have existed, they have maintained a secret 7th *Etairía* which is dedicated solely to serving the Deathwatch. It consists of around 45 space marines divided into three different kill teams. In addition, one of their elite veterans, Joseph Abram, serves as the Watch Master for the Watch Fortress known as Invincible Bastion, located off the edges of the Ultima Segment.

The Archangels have often come to the aid of besieged Watch Fortresses and have on several occasions followed Deathwatch forces into battle. Providing back up fire support, the combined fire power of both alien hating Imperium forces have eradicated many threats to the security of the Imperium's borders. Ensuring the stability of those guard stations has prevented countless breaches, and saved Terra itself on more than one occasion.

It is also no secret that the Inquisition and the Archangels are close allies and often rely on each other for the means to complete their missions. The Inquisition will supply the Space Marines with the locations of different top priority threats as well as other classified information that allows them to better keep a constant vigil of the galaxy. With this scrutiny, the Astartes of this chapter scour the different sectors in look for their next battle. In exchange for this information, the Space Marines, despite being fully independent from the Inquisition, will engage and nullify the dangers presented by this trade. Thus they are often acting on the orders or, more accurately, the wishes of the Inquisition.

## Notable Members

With such a storied history as the one possessed by this Space Marine chapter, filled with tales of seemingly mythical heroes and legendary feats of miraculous proportions, it is no wonder that many of its members are among the most famous in the entire Imperium of Mankind. Magical tales of chivalrous prestige and honor, entrancing citizens in city commons and village squares. Whispered of in awe and hailed with glorious praise, they are shining angels in an otherwise dark time.

### Shalom Rapha Ephraim

Growing up as a kid, Ephraim was made fun of for his immense psykic might and his crystal clear foresight. However, it proved to be very useful, a gift from heaven. Thanks to the amount of attention his startlingly accurate visions granted, he was able to make a modest living, feeding his poor family and staying far away from the conflicts of the greedy warlords of Gilead. So sought after was his council, that he soon dedicated himself to the study of the Warp fully, sparing no time for other activities. As such his understanding of the very cosmos increased to the point of where he could even slow time around him, allowing him to live for an extensive period of time without the aid of altered genetics. Watching over the planet as the guiding sentinel that kept the warlords from growing too powerful as the Age of Strife descended upon humanity like an inky curtain, his outspoken beliefs soon got him in trouble with the very killers he kept in check as he proclaimed the divinity of Mannasseh. In the end, he and the disciples of his prophecy, all hopeful and determined to create a better future, fled the planet long before the slimy ambush the warlords planned could come to pass. After he was vindicated and his visions proved to be flawless and true, he was turned into a Space Marine along with those he had spent so much time and energy protecting. Now he uses his power to further the cause of the Imperial Creed and, aided by the Helm of Sight, he has become a very influential figure in Terran politics. Known also as the "Divine Messenger" and "Emperor's Prophet", he has become so powerful that even the High Lords of Terra take his counsel into serious consideration when making decisions.

### High Challah Vylitus Sythrin

As a child, Vylitus showed a prodigious amount of skill in the art of manipulating the Warp. A brilliant pupil and fiercely loyal to the ideals that the Archangels are built on due to his firsthand expereince seeing what the old ways had done to Gilead. Horrified by its destruction, he swore a sacred oath to pour in every ounce of his spiritual strength to ensure that such atrocities didn't occur in the future by those who slander the very name of the Emperor and that of Mankind. Enduring the challenge of the mind that marked the passage of the old body and the implantation of the Astartes genes, Vylitus aced it with flying colors, showing a level of devotion that surpassed any in history, making him a golden figure of unfathomable admiration within the fleet. Mentored by Ephraim himself, he soon rose in the ranks and when the old High Challah died, Vylitus took his place. His power is so great that he is still more powerful than Ephraim, even when Ephraim channels the might of the Star of Hope in addition to his own natural strength. Able to bring down mountains with but a thought, Vylitus is a terrifying and dangerous opponent, driven by a furious passion that causes him to never cease his efforts until the enemy is utterly annihilated.

### High Trufa Victorian Vitelus

The son of Ephraim, Victorian had always shown an interest and affinity with the local herbs and roots that had medical value. By the youthful age of six, he had become a master cleric. People came from far and wide to gain his advice, service, as well as teaching. By the time he was ten, Victorian had already opened a small college and was the professor, starting his own medical order known as the Brothers of Rejuvenation. Travelling with his order, it was on these fateful journeys that Victorian uncovered the true face of Gilead, finally experiencing the corruption of the warlords for himself. Appalled, he began to protest as he healed those who sought his gentle hands and cried out for healing yet didn't have the money. Such words caused him to be banned from all the major cities, though this didn't stop him. The school moved underground as the Brothers of Rejuvenation continued their saintly work in secret, their security assured by the assistance of Ephraim. When it finally came time to leave the planet, Victorian eagerly journeyed with his father, accompanied by his order. His extensive knowledge was useful during the Great Crusade, and he soon rose through the ranks. During the Horus Heresy, he healed his father from a death blow, a miracle that made many believe he had been touched by the Emperor himself, graced with supernatural powers. If that is the case though, Victorian refuses to say. After the betrayal of the infamous War Master and the creation of the stoic Archangels, Victorian became the High Trufa, put in charge of the Apothecary. His skill and mentoring has been invaluable ever since, and he has become famous within Terra for his astounding medical feats. From healing a being cut in half, to reviving brain dead beings, even to curing the deadliest sicknesses, it seems that there is nothing that Victorian can't do.

## Chapter Fleet

* ***Jirah* (Battle-Barge)**
* ***Jehovah* (Strike Cruiser)**
* ***Abraham* (Strike Cruiser)**
* ***Sarah* (Gothic-class Cruiser)**
* ***James* (Sword-class Frigate)**

## Chapter Relics

### Star of Hope

The Star of Hope is a special badge that is worn on the chestplate of Shalom Rapha Ephraim. The badge itself is made of an unknown crystal that glows with barely constrained power that, despite the prison it is trapped, still manages to leak out and affect the wearer's surroundings. According to legend, Ephraim managed to capture a small part of the Astronmicon's light within this crystal to wear as a symbol of his dedication and continued loyalty to Manasseh. The crystal itself, no matter what is made of, is an extraordinary piece of technology. The aura of order which pulses form it like a heartbeat burns away the darkness of the Dark Gods whenever their tendrils approach the bearer even as all doubt and fear are erased from the minds of allies that gaze upon the radiant form of the bearer, which now shines as a blinding beacon of hope and endurance. It also appears to have affects on the wearer, as it increases the psykic power of those who wear it as a sliver of the Emperor's power, of whose might is eclipsed by anything, pumps through their very soul.

### Helm of Sight

A masterpiece of craftsmanship, this helmet is of the classic Archangel style, made of smooth bronze lined with shining silver and studded with valuable gems. The most important part of it is, however, the plume of vibrant, glowing Phoenix feathers. According to popular belief and legend, it is said that when the Emperor of Mankind died, part of his essence, while trying to ascend through the twisting labyrinth of Chaos, got mixed up with that of a dying Phoenix held by one of his most loyal supporters. Because of the fusion of bird and man, the Phoenix did not resurrect. However, the feathers it dropped contained part of the Emperor's spirit. Because of this, whoever wears it, such as Ephraim, will have a mental connection and direct line to the Emperor himself. As the spirits mingle on the spiritual plane of the Immaterium, the Emperor is able to send thoughts and visions of his will in order to guide the person blessed with it.

## Chapter Appearance

### Chapter Colours

The colors worn by these Space Marines have a profoundly spiritual meaning that they hold dear and wear with unbearable pride. The first of the colors is Marian blue, said to be the color of the star that shone down upon Manasseh during his birth. This star, seen as a heavenly herald of divinity, is held in awe, a whispered legend that is dutifully passed down through each one of the many generations. The stories further declare that a small shard of this light is held within the Astronomican, the last remnant of hope humanity has for a future free of the plague known as the Ruinous Powers. It is this same blue star that is painted on their pauldrons as a testimony to their beliefs and their service to the God Emperor. The other colors are white, representing the might of the Emperor in terms of his psykic foresight, and the golden yellow which represents his glorious divinity.

### Chapter Badge

Another important aspect of the Space Marine's armor is their badges worn upon their chest. These badges are made of white marble and hold on them glittering diamond feathers. As the Space Marine gains honor and recognition, climbing up the ranks as their experiences expand, more and more feathers are placed on their badge. The more feathers one has, the more deep their dedication, and thus status, is.

## Notable Quotes

### By: Archangels of Manasseh

"*This, this is what humanity has been reduced to. We are hated by others, and this is why. So often we allow our ture nature to control us. We forget to whom our loyalties should be given, and it costs us dearly. You, filthy monster, are the perfect example of the true darkness within us. Yet we are more than that. We are greater. But too often we choose not to be. But that shall end. By the sharp taste of blood or the clever writ of the pen, such perversity of such naked and unashamed proportions, shall be purged from this land. As I now end you!*"
—Shalom Rapha Ephraim to The Beast as he dealt the killing blow during the fight at Gilead
### About: Archangels of Manasseh

"*Shalom, I think you should look behind you.*"
—Theo 'Ebon' Vora of the Angels of Slaughter demonstrating the Omnicide Tactic to Shalom Rapha Ephriam

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 White Scars Successors
 Imperial Fists Successors
 Blood Angels Successors
 Iron Hands Successors
 Ultramarines Successors
 Salamanders Successors
 Raven Guard Successors
 Unknown Lineage
 Renegades

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