Argent Eagles

*Some thematic music to accompany your reading. Lowering volume is suggested.*

Armorial of the Argent Eagles with Chapter iconography.

Argent Eagles Battle-Brother of the 3rd Host, 10th Icanor Squad arrayed in Mark X, (Icanor sub-pattern) power armour.

## Space Marine Chapter

### **Allegiance**

Imperium of Man
(*Fidelitas Pietas*)

### **Successor of**

Blood Angels
 (Line of Sanguinius)

### **Allies**

* Blood Angels
* Ultramarines
* Order of the Argent Shroud
* Various Guard Regiments

### **Specialty**

* Void and Aerial Warfare
* Decapitation Strikes via Aerial Drop Assaults

### **Battle cry**

"For the Dawn's Light! For Aeon and Angel!"alternatively:
"Dawn will come again!"

### Successor Chapter(s)

Incarnadines

"*Hearts of silver cannot fall.
Hearts of wisdom shield the mind.
Hearts of faith unite us all.
Hearts of light cannot go blind.*"
— Ceremonial Prayer of the Argent Eagles Chapter
The **Argent Eagles** are a Space Marine Chapter created during the 23rd 'Sentinel' Founding as a Blood Angels Successor Chapter. Hailing from the world of Auroria within the Ultima Segmentum, the Argent Eagles specialize in Void Warfare, Aerial Warfare and Decapitation Strikes via Aerial Drop Assaults. While they adhere to the *Codex Astartes* on some occasions they also follow their own set of rules laid down in the *Legisla Auroris*, a scripture that dictates the traditions, beliefs and war doctrines of the order.

After losing the vast majority of its Battle-Brothers during the Devastation of Baal and the events leading up to it, the Chapter now consists of mostly Primaris Space Marines, although almost all of the higher ranks and offices remain staffed by those Firstborn who survived the battle.

While they trace their origins to the gene-line of Sanguinius, the Argent Eagles are affected by a strange mutation that supposedly lessens the grip of the Red Thirst and the Black Rage. As such the Chapter's Death Company has always remained somewhat smaller than those maintained by other Chapters of the Blood. However, this mutation also causes every single Space Marine of the Chapter to be afflicted by a phenomenon called the *Blinding Radiance* which manifests as a silver light emanating from their bodies and renders them blind over time unless they subject themselves to excruciating training to control it. Though if trained and gifted, one may learn to use the Radiance as a deadly weapon.

The Argent Eagles are thouroughly dedicated to their beliefs and traditions, such as the intricate philosophies once cultivated by the population of their homeworld. They have also inherited the Blood Angels' love for the creation of art.

It is a core belief of theirs that all subjects of the Emperor are deserving of their protection, provided they contribute to the continued survival of Mankind. That said, they are no strangers to sacrificing the few for the salvation of the many.

Unlike most Astartes they are deeply devoted to the *Argent Faith*, their world's incarnation of the Imperial Cult which venerates the immortal God-Emperor as the *Argent Aeon*.

## Chapter History

### Founding

During the Sentinel Founding in the early 38th Millennium the Argent Eagles were created to help secure the sector surrounding the Auroria System located in the northern part of the Ultima Segmentum, not far from the worlds of Alaric, Valhalla and Baal. The Administratum initially proposed that the Chapter settle on the small moon of Trireme, but Chapter Master Urikles Levion Hohenlicht, first Pantokrátōr of the Silver Hosts, insisted that the Fortress-Monastery would be built into the great mountain sitting at the centre of Auroria's capital city of Silverdawn instead.

Since any Astartes homeworld is exempt from the collection of Imperial tithes, this would have meant that the famed wealth of Auroria would have been denied to the Adeptus Terra, which caused great outrage and subsequent debate between the Space Marines and the representatives of the Administratum. The trade routes running through the system and the riches of the planet's industry qualified it to fall under the tithe grade of *Exactis Extremis***.** The two sides eventually reached a compromise. The world would be classified under the reduced tithe grade Exactis Prima, on the condition that a portion of Auroria's resources would always remain at the disposal of the Argent Eagles, used exclusively for the purpose of supplying and maintaining their combat operations. The Chapter would also retain authority over most of Trireme and a third of its shipyards.

Before moving into the vastness of space, they first needed to correct the foulness that had taken hold of the planet in the form of a thriving criminal underworld. The planetary government was either indifferent to the problem or incapable of solving it, and so the Space Marines took it upon themselves the bring about order. Whilst the construction of the Fortress-Monastery was underway, the Space Marines began their work of unearthing and rooting out the crime syndicates, cults and corrupt organizations present in the capital city of Silverdawn, confining those who were not killed outright to a newly created prison and factory complex deep beneath the city's surface, where old mining Arcologies gaped wide.

After 25 years the planet's underworld had been purged and the most essential installations of the Argent Eyrie completed. Not much is known about the order#s exploits immediately after the completion of the Fortress-Monastery, though the reason for this is unlcear. Incomplete documentation and vague accounts of minor campaigns is all to give any indication as to the early years of warfare waged by the Argent Eagles. It would not be until the campaign infamously known as the Crusade of the Claws that the Chapter would be truly baptised in fire and blood.

### Crusade of the Claws

The Crusade of the Claws was, as far as historitors can discern, the first major campaign conducted by the Argent Eagles Chapter. Alongside the Guardsmen of the Valhallan Ice Warriors and the Voidsmen of the Imperial Navy, the Space Marines of Auroria fought a fierce castigation Crusade to free the worlds of the Surtar System from the rule of a Chaos Warband known only as *the Unbannered*.

Many battles in the cold of space and upon the earth of the system's planets tested the young Chapter, and great losses were sustained before the final blow was struck and the Lord of the Unbannered lay dead in the ruins of his fortress. Millions of mortal soldiers had given their lives in this war, a sacrifice that the Argent Eagles would never forget, for only through their heroism was final victory achieved.

The conflict had destroyed half of the Chapter, though each fallen brother had given their life to liberate the people of Surtar. The Argent Fleet too had taken heavy damage in the brutal void battles. Not all scars inflicted by the war would heal, as many of the surviving brothers continued to struggle with the loss of their comrades and the fatigue of the campaign. It was clear to the officers of Chapter Command that change was needed, and so a Time of Reforging was declared to mend the wounds of Surtar.

### Time of Reforging

After the Crusade of the Claws had left the Chapter depleted, the Argent Eagles were forced to consolidate their forces and reorganize their combat doctrines. In the time it would take them to replenish their numbers and replace their lost armoury and fleet elements, the remaining Battle-Brothers would have to operate in smaller strike forces with greater autonomy and flexibility. During this period of rebuilding the Chapter adopted many of the strategems and doctrines laid out in the Codex Astartes which they had previously disregarded, and incorporated them into their Chapter's way of fighting.

For several decades the Chapter carried out small campaigns against minor Xeno threats and aided different imperial forces in theirs, acting as a supplementary force to whatever army they attached themselves too. As the Chapter Fleet suffered comparatively little during the Crusade of the Claw, it was the Argent Eagles' greatest weapon, further honing the Void Warfare tactics they had previously adopted.

Many of the Battle-Brothers that had survived Surtar were pained by restless thoughts and emotional scars. The Red Thirst and Black Rage had grown stronger and harder to control in their hearts. Though many attempted to flee into the routines of training, they found little comfort in things that naught but reminded them of the slaughter that caused them uneasy dreams. Knowing that they were born to fight and die in such atrocities, there was a desire for something to give them a purpose beyond destruction. It was during this time that the philosophies of Auroria, something the Chapter had originally left behind them after their founding, were once more brought to their attention. What they had believed to be a practice of their old lives, revealed itself as something their superhuman minds could use to ease their troubled souls. Questions that the warriors of the Argent Eyrie had never even thought to ask emerged in the invigorating discussions and debates now held in the newly reconstructed ceremonial hall, appropriately renamed to the Odeon of Acuity. Not only were their minds renewed, their flaws became easier to restrain with every moral dilemma and existential conundrum they contemplated.

And for those who could not find peace in the pitfalls of philosophy, another door opened itself to them. The creation of art was a tradition the Argent Eagles had retained from their Founding Chapter, the Blood Angels, yet it had always been a form of tradition, training against the psychological affects of the Red Thirst and the Black Rage. None saw it as anything more than a convenient source for ceremonial objects or a practical method of meditation. Yet suddenly, the Angels of Silverdawn found a new purpose in this craft. Creating art not as a means to an end but as a form of self expression, an appreciation for the beauty of the galaxy which they inhabited. Suddenly their fight became more than a duty thrust upon them by their god. It became a means to protect and preserve the beauty of the universe, to tell their deeds, to sing their songs and to embellish their surroundings with chisel and brush. As the number of Battle-Brothers who delved into the creation of art rose, the world of Auroria was gifted with even greater majesty than it had already known. Entire customs and traditions of the Chapter gradually evolved around these new marks of identity the Space Marines had discovered for themselves. Their expeditions, patrols and campaigns changed to include secondary objectives of finding and retrieving art pieces and objects of beauty from different worlds. Decades passed in which the Chapter regained its strength and honed its specialties.

The Livery of the Argent Eagles also evolved to reflect these changes. It is said that mortal blood had been spilled so abundantly during the Crusade of the Claws that it had completely stained the Chapter Master's right arm in a crimson red. Forevermore the livery of the Argent Eagles would bear a stain in the colour of their company on their right arm, as tribute to the mortal blood spilled in the war, and as a reminder of the Chapter's eternal charge: the protection of humanity. This was but one of the alterations to the markings and colours of the Argent Eagles that would emerge over the centuries.

### Tale of Two Angels

In the year 467 of the 38th Millenium, the Phanes Sector came alive with reports from numerous worlds about raids conducted by an unknown Renegade Chapter of Astartes. Looted ammunition depots and abducted civillians left a trail which the Argent Eagles resolved to follow. Pantokrátōr Urikles himself led the 5th, 6th and 10th Hosts in pursuit of the traitors, chasing them across the length of the Phanes Sector. Eventually, the traitors fled to the last place Urikles had expected: the very home-system of Auroria itself. Both perplexed and outraged, the Argent Fleet made haste to engage the ships of the Renegade Chapter, later identified as the Crimson Hunters, and wipe them from the void.

At the height of the naval engagement, several realspace ruptures presaged the arrival of two more flotillas into the Auroria System. The first, whose craft somehow eluded identification, was being pursued by the second, a strike force of the Tidebenders Space Marine Chapter. Seeing no reason to split his forces, Pantokrátōr Urikles, somewhat agitated by such disruption in his own domain, decided to first defeat the vessels of the Crimson Hunters before giving chase to the mysterious newcomers. He hailed High Chieftain Lupelen, Chapter Master of the Tidebenders and lord of the Ocean World Kalypse, and demanded their immediate assistance against the Renegade Marines.

Though perhaps somewhat hesitant, the Tidebenders agreed to join forces and swiftly engaged the Traitor Fleet in a devastating assault from all sides. With the renegades dead, the Tidebenders explained their presence to the warriors of Auroria. The enigmatic fleet, which had already turned its course towards the inner worlds of the system, was suspected to be a force of Drukhari slavers belonging to the Kabal of the Black Heart. Indeed, the Dark Eldar had managed to evade all scans and detection systems of the core worlds, for a distresss call soon rang out from the local Agri-World of Herava. The Argent Eagles had never before engaged the aliens of Commorragh, and so favored a more measured and cautious approach in attacking the foe. But High Chieftain Lupelen, angered by such dishonourable acts of pillaging innocents, brashly ordered his ships toward the tormented world with the Argent Eagles struggling to follow, Urikles increasingly irritated by Lupelen's recklessness.

The Tidebenders deployed en masse with their drop pods, allowing them to immediately begin their work on Herava's surface. Lupelen and his elite honour guards, along with the full forces of the Tidebenders 2nd Crew, proved devastating against the Drukhari and were even able to liberate recently captured slaves. But the raiders were prepared and enacted a counterattack of numerous Incubi Warriors and Pain Engines which massacred the 2nd Crew, even taking some of their Tide-Brothers as prisoners. Lupelen himself and his Devil Whales would be surrounded by a group of Incubi, resulting in the High Chieftain engaging their Klaivex in single combat. Formidable though the young Chapter Master was, he could not best the Incubi Warleader, losing his left arm in the duel and being brought low. As the Dark Eldar prepared to deliver the killing blow, more drop pods split the clouds to deliver the Argent Eagles as reinforcements. Urikles, with the combined might of the 5th and 6th Hosts behind him, was able to fight off the raiders and retrieved what was left of the Tidebenders, including a barely conscious Lupelen, bringing them back into orbit where the 10th Host had driven off the enemy fleet.

Not wishing to disrespect his fellow Chapter Master in front of his men, Urikles instead reprimanded Lupelen behind closed doors, and legend has it that the Chapter Masters engaged in a fierce duel, both venting their frustration in a clash of blades to assert their authority over the other. Despite still recuperating from his wounds and missing an arm, Lupelen was said to have put up a truly commendable fight, but the more experienced Urikles proved mightier still, yet it is said that this duel was meant to be a more of a lesson for the young Lupelen than anything else. Indeed, the Pantokrátōr of the Argent Eagles saw great promise and potential in the High Chieftain, but he also saw that he had not realized the greatest lessons of all: those of patience and humility.

Nobody truly knows what exactly happened between them, for there were no witnesses to the confrontation, but after being given a bionic arm, High Chieftain Lupelen changed, becoming less reckless and more attentive in this new joint campaign.

With the Drukhari Kabal now on the run, but still rampant in the Auroria System, both fleets were put on high alert on where the Drukhari would strike next. Those ships and warriors of the Argent Eagles stationed on Auroria itself began to prepare for a possible invasion of the Chapter Homeworld. Over several years, both Chapters would fight the invaders in a cat and mouse campaign in which the enemy would appear suddenly at various locations in-system, only to quickly disappear after being engaged. The masters and officers of the Argent Eagles and Tidebenders would slowly perfect a counter-strategy to gradually corner and eliminate the Dark Eldar, casting a "fine net of death" over the system, as one Tide-Brother had styled it.

Eventually, the long-fought war culminated in a final battle upon the Civilized World of Castata, a huge population center and a prime target for the raiders of Commorragh. The 10th Host was the first to engage the Kabalite Warriors, though they were merely a distraction to allow the combined Argent Eagles and Tidebenders forces to strike at the core of the Black Heart's operations. This move proved devastating to the Drukhari, with many of their slaves freed by the Astartes as their alien opressors were killed in massive numbers. At the apex of the battle, High Chieftain Lupelen and Pantokrátōr Urikles found themselves matched in a duel against the twin Archons Furenyr and Fehsasher who, with their coordinated attacks and blinding speed, proved to be the equals of both Chapter Masters. Despite this disadvantage, Lupelen and Urikles were much more durable and patient, and had formed a rigid bond of trust over the years. Fighting in superhuman unison, the two masters slowly whittled down the twins until finally Lupelen slew the wicked Furenyr, after the latter had made a miscalculated strike. With her twin dead and their remaining forces being slaughtered by bolt and blade, Fehsasher ordered her warriors to retreat back into a Webway Portal that had layn hidden beneath the cities of Castata, swearing revenge against both Chapters before collapsing the portal behind her. Both Chapters roared in victorious celebration at the craven flight of their enemies, knowing that the conflict had at last ended in a decisive triumph. High Chieftain Lupelen, who had grown to see Chapter Master Urikles as both a friend and mentor, invited him and his participating warriors of the Silver Hosts to a feast on Kalypse, which Urikles gladly agreed to.

Murals and stained glass windows of numinous beauty within the Argent Eyrie still record the deeds of the two masters, and the bond that was formed therein. One such artwork in particular still watches over the entrance to the personal quarters of the Pantokrátōr, a grand carving of white marble depicting Lupelen and Urikles standing as one, cups raised high and blades drawn in victory. Inscribed beneath are the words etched by Urikles himself:

"May it serve as a warning to all foes that be, beware the Two Angels of Heaven and Sea."

### Devastation of Baal

In the closing months of the year 999.M41, the Argent Eagles were recalled to Auroria from every Crusade and campaign currently being fought by their Hosts, as an urgent call for aid had been sent to all Successor Chapters of the Blood Angels. Baal, the home of the Great Angel and the seat of the Blood Angels, was under threat by the monstrous Hive Fleet Leviathan. Faced with utter annihilation, Commander Dante asked all Chapters of the Blood to gather at Baal and stand against the Xenos threat.

Chapter Master Aléxandros called the Grand Convocation in the Argent Eyrie's sacred Odeon of Acuity. Every single one of their number came to decide on whether to heed Dante's call. Almost 1,000 Astartes of the Chapter, which had been close to overstrength for some time now, were present to voice their thoughts. Most of those present thought that such a discussion was wholly unneccessary. Surely the Chapter was honourbound to immediately send aid to their brethren, no matter the cost. Yet some voiced their opposition, especially those warriors of the 6th and 10th Hosts. While even they agreed that they should send at least some kind of help, it quickly became a heated topic for debate as to just how extensive the forces sent should be. A small taskforce? A third of the Chapter? Half? After long discussion, a conclusion was reached. If Baal were to fall, the Tyranids would be free to feast on all worlds in the wider Ultima Segmentum, including those of the nearby Auroria System. Beyond that, their honour dictated that they help their beleaguered brothers and protect the homeworld of their gene-sire, the Great Angel Sanguinius. The Pantokrátōr was aware of Leviathan's might and had little confidence in their victory, though he wished to fight for the Blood Angels all the same. After a rousing speech, he asked the assembled Hosts of the Silver City who among them would fight for the fate of the Blood. Though some still had their doubts, when they were called upon by their master all Space Marines sitting in the vast hall rose as one, bellowing the Chapter's war cry and pledging their lives to the coming battle. None of them expected to return. Most of them wouldn't. Having resolved themselves to go and fight for the Blood Angels upon the worlds of Baal, the Argent Eagles left only a handful of veterans and dreadnoughts behind, along with a garrison of their most trusted Chapter Serfs to preserve the legacy of the Chapter. And to help rebuild it, should their worst fears come to pass.

Due to their close proximity to Baal they were one of the first Chapters to arrive. As per the instructions of Commander Dante, the Chapter's fleet was deployed all over the nearby sectors of the red scar to keep watch for the arrival of the Tyranids. They also bore the unpleasant duty of performing Exterminatus upon worlds that lay in the immediate path of the Hive Fleet and could not be evacuated in time. To deny the Tyranids further biomass to consume on their way to Baal, billions of imperial citizens were purged in flame by the ships of the Argent Eagles. Even knowing its necessity, it was a task performed with heavy hearts, and the Marines who took part in this cleansing etched the names of the now dead worlds into their armor. It was during one of these missions that a large part of the Argent Fleet was unexpectedly ambushed and almost completely wiped out by a stray part of the Hive Fleet's Vanguard. Nearly five companies worth of Battle-Brothers were lost in a fighting retreat before the strike force could escape.

Soon all the Chapters of the Blood were assembled at Baal and preparations were made. The 6th Host would take up defensive positions in the mountains of Baal Primus while survivors of the 7th and 8th would help in fortifying and holding the Astropathic Relay on Baal Secundus. The 9th and 10th were given command of the Chapter Fleet while the remaining Astartes joined the Pantokrátōr and his Phaethonian Guard to stand in defense of the Arx Angelicum upon Baal itself. During this, many psykers of the Dawnsayer Librarius, the Dawnlord included, were conscripted by Chief Librarian Mephiston of the Blood Angels for an important mission of undisclosed purpose. It was known that the aerial swarms of the enemy would make it impossible to maintain air superiority, thus ridding the warriors deployed on the planets of their ideal method of fighting. A war waged mainly on the ground, a defensive one no less, was not the way in which the Argent Eagles usually operated. They had assumed as much even before coming to Baal but chose to stand beside their brethren all the same, knowing that they would be at a severe disadvantage.

When the voidwar began, Kubernete Kaius, captain of the 10th, was confident in the combined fleet's ability to blunt the teeth of the great devourer. It was one of the greatest Astartes fleets ever assembled, crewed by thousands of scions of Sanguinius. Yet as the battle dragged on, and ship after ship was overwhelmed and broken by the tendrils of millions upon millions of hive ships, it became abundantly clear that this tempest of biomass would not be halted. After three days of fighting in the cold space, the fleet had been pushed back and reduced to a fraction of its former strength.

The beautiful *Eye of Luster* was enveloped by enormous tentacles and crushed. The swift *Wing of Light* was swallowed whole. Even the once mighty Chapter Flagship, the *Dawnclaw*, was torn apart piece by piece. In this dark hour, the tide of battle turned from desperate to hopeless as a second Hive Fleet approached Baal from the other side of the system's edge.

Orders were given to all surviving ships to fall back and continue harassing and dividing the enemy from afar. Of the Argent Eagles, only the *Storming Protector* remained, for all other ships of the Chapter's armada had been devoured or destroyed, with the entirety of the 9th Host aboard*.* Only three men of the 10th were still alive, Captain Kaius among them. With the voidships of the Astartes vanquished and scattered, the enemy began to descend upon Baal and its moons.

They attacked as they always did. As a massive swarm of billions of insectoid monsters and beasts, perfectly evolved to kill and consume, washing over the land and filling the air. For a long time the outer wall manned by mortals and Astartes held, supported by the never ending barrage of thousands of cannons and lasers coming from the mighty Fortress-Monastery. Even as the outer defenses were abandoned and the warriors withdrew to the curtain wall around the Arx Angelicum, it felt like victory was attainable.

Then, through some foul infiltration by the Tyranids, the Void Shield was brought down. And with its fall, the Astartes of the Blood were forced to fall back from the curtain wall into the enormous Fortress-Monastery itself, where they struggled to hold off the unending hordes of Xenos breaking over them like a tidal wave. Any sense of coordination or strategy between the Chapters fell apart as brother was cut off from brother and Chapters held their ground in self-appointed territories. The Argent Eagles were no different, battling through a hell of organs and blood both human and alien, as they desperately fought to protect and preserve as much of the Arx's magnificent works of art as they could, together with the few mortals that remained. Chaplains led sorties out of the Chapter's fortified positions into the swarm to locate and rescue as many serfs and baalite conscripts as time would allow. Some of these brave men returned to fight on. Most did not.

With every hour the defense became more and more brutal and taxing on body and mind, the Space Marines struggling to hold back the curses of their blood from the influence of the mad slaughter engulfing them from every direction. They were one of many lights in a sea of hungering darkness that still held on, still held out. Captain Venuphros of the 3rd fell with most of his warriors in front of a herculean archway that was so finely crafted it had made him weep when first he beheld it. Captain Lanior and the Battle-Brothers of his 2nd Company escorted the humans they had saved to the few scattered places within the Arx that could still be considered somewhat safe, though none were ever seen again. Nor did anyone witness Lanior's death. To this day it is still unknown where or even how he died, as his body was never found, presumed eaten by the Tyranid brood.

The warriors of the 5th Host fought tooth and nail to try and hold a landing pad in the upper levels of the Arx, firmly believing that the Chapter's Dawnsayers as well as the Librarians of the other Chapter's would soon return from their secret mission in the wastelands. The Dawnsayers, who had almost all perished during a secret ritual in the mountains, never made it in time for the battle. The highest ranking survivor of the Dawnsayer Librarians, Brother Kallior, later personally recovered the bodies of his brothers, which were strewn about the landing pad like leaves in the wind, torn limb from limb. The veterans 1st Host as well as the brothers of the 4th stood together with Chapter Master Aléxandros and the Phaethonian Guard not far from the main keep, though actually reaching it seemed an impossible task. The 4th suffered grievous losses as more and more of their Battle-Brothers were succumbing to either the Black Rage or the Blinding Radiance. Many of them had abandoned restraint and chosen to wield the powers of the Radiance openly and without heed for their own safety. The veterans of the 1st had managed to retain much of their fighting strength, since they had fought extremely defensively throughout the fight over the Arx, accurately predicting the movements of the swarm to counter it whenever possible. Yet all around them their brothers died, from their own brotherhood as well as from every other Sanguinian Chapter present. Soon the entirety of the Arx Angelicum was but an ocean of murderous aliens and Space Marine corpses.

During this ravenous war, suddenly something changed. Without warning, every being in the Baal System paused, a heavy pressure building in their heads and shortening their breath. Then, they began to choke and stumble and fell to their knees. Not knowing what strange phenomenon was befalling them, thousands of Astartes began to slowly collapse as the few psykers that still drew breath began roaring in maddening pain and agony. Many fell to the Rage, the brothers of the Argent Eagles felt the Blinding Radiance flowing through them and struggled to contain it. Reality itself began to quiver and shake as if a multidimensional earthquake was rocking the very fabric of the galaxy. The Tyranids were not spared from this psychic cataclysm either, for the beasts of the Hivemind were suddenly halted. In perfect unison they stopped, looked skyward, and began to scream. Billions of throats cried out in a terrible wail as Tyranids and hiveships alike died by the hundreds of thousands from the psychic feedback rushing through their telepathic network. The Hivemind itself was uttering a death-screech across the stars of the milky way. The battle simply stopped. For the Great Rift had opened, and the galaxy had been split in two.

For a few days, the Hivemind was absent, and the Space Marines had a period of respite in which they could easily slaughter the now unorganized and mindless Tyranids. Though much of the Arx was still in enemy hand, all those Astartes and mortals who were still alive managed to regroup and gather in the great keep of the Fortress-Monastery. No more than 2,000 of the gathered Blood Angels Successors still drew breath in that place. The Argent Eagles numbered barely two hundred Battle-Brothers. Chapter Master Aléxandros and some of his honour guard still lived, as did the First Captain Artorius. The High-Apollian Vangelis of the Argent Priesthood, and remains of the 1st, 2nd and 4th Silver Hosts were present as well.

Slowly but surely the Hivemind began to stir once more, reorganizing its hordes and resuming its assault. Believing their fates to be sealed, they resolved themselves to one last counterattack to kill the leader-beast of the creatures, the Swarmlord. One last blow to the Tyranids, one last defiant charge. Together with the mad Death Company Battle-Brothers released from the tower of Amareo, the survivors from every Chapter sallied out of the keep as one.

There, on the scorched desert earth of Baal, they fought and died, most in the grip of the Thirst or the Rage. The last remnants of the Argent Priesthood unleashed their Blinding Radiance one last time, turning countless alien eyes to ash but quickly succumbing to the flaws of their blood themselves. High-Apollian Vangelis was knocked unconscious before he could fall, being saved from a Carnifex by Captain Sonrin of the 4th, who took the deathblow in his stead. Great numbers of the 2nd Company fell to the Black Rage, and were last seen ripping a massive siege beast limb from limb with their bare hands before being felled. The Phaethonian Guard did whatever they felt was needed to preserve the life of their Pantokrátōr for as long they could, marching at his side into the depths of the horde. Artorius and his 1st Company too came to aid Aléxandros, although many could not resist the temptation of hurling themselves against the writhing mass of aliens in front of them. As they saw Commander Dante disappear into the heart of the swarm, they thought all to be lost and prepared to face a glorious end.

Then, against all odds and expectations, the skies were suddenly cleared. An imperial warfleet of impossible size had translated into system, led by a living Primarch. Roboute Guilliman, the avenging son of Ultramar, had been reborn from his deathly slumber to lead the Imperium once more, and he had brought with him the armies of the Indomitus Crusade. The swarm of the Tyranids had been crippled by the defenders of Baal so severely that it was easily disposed of by the combined might of the Crusade's forces, and the hordes of the hivemind were hunted down and destroyed all throughout the system. Victory had been achieved at last, though several Chapters of the Blood were wiped out, most had been devastated or reduced to only a handful of warriors.

In spite of this, Guilliman had brought with him reinforcements in the form of the new Primaris Space Marines that would serve to restrengthen and rebuild all the Chapters that had been shattered in the defense of the Ultima Segmentum. Of the Argent Eagles, less than a hundred Astartes had survived. Of the fleet, only the *Storming Protector* had made it through the battle somewhat intact. The *Calamity Sanctus*, a Grand Cruiser belonging the 10th Host, was found to still be salvagable and was brought back to Auroria for repairs. Victory had broken them. Even so, the Primarch and his unnumbered sons promised a chance to see their Chapter reforged, their ranks filled with brothers of a new breed, though not all in the Chapter welcomed this development.

The Argent Eagles departed the worlds for which they had shed so much blood and returned to their home. Rest was not something they could afford. The galaxy was torn in half, and the northern half, Imperium Nihilus, would need to be reclaimed. The Chapter would need to be restructured in many ways. Hosts would have to be organized, ranks managed, resources amassed and warriors trained. A new fleet would need constructing and a galaxy split in twain would need protecting. All these things would have to be done with hundreds of new brothers who barely knew the ways of Auroria and its Silver City, for they were Primaris and would need to find not only their place in the Chapter but also the acceptance of their seniors.

## Notable Campaigns

* **Crusade of the Claws (080-081.M38) -** With the assistance of the Valhallan Ice Warriors and the Imperial Navy, the Argent Eagles launch a Crusade against the Heretic Astartes that had taken control of the 13 worlds of Surtar. Despite heavy losses, the imperial forces emerge victorious. In the aftermath, the Chapter undergoes many changes to its culture and organization.

* **Bellrath Crusade (182-453.M38)** - Minor Assistance to the Crusade forces and the Sons of Medusa by the 6th Host.

* **Tale of Two Angels (467-471.M38)** -

* **9th Black Crusade (573.M38)** - A combined strike force of the Chapter helps to relieve Corillia as part of an Imperial battle group lead by the  Ultramarines and White Scars.

* **War of the Maelstrom (612.M38)** - Elements of the 5th, 6th and 10th Hosts venture into the Maelstrom and successfully destroy several pirate strongholds as well as a large contingent of Renegade Space Marines. Trade routes to and from Auroria experience an economic boom as a result.

* **Siege of Bertesis (884.M38)** - Aided by two Regiments of the Elysian Drop Troops, the 1st and 9th Hosts of the Argent Eagles utterly obliterate a traitor fleet and relieve the besieged planet of Bertesis. Impressed by the performance of the Elysians, the Captain of the 9th permits the soldiers that took part in the fighting to bear the Icanorii Sigil worn by the Chapter's elite Icanor Warriors.

* **Cleansing of the Northeastern Ultima Fringes (900.M38-322.M39)** - [RECORDS SEALED BY ORDER OF THE GOD-EMPEROR'S HOLY INQUISITION]

* **Ronovs Genocide (595-600.M39)** - Discovery and subsequent eradication of a minor Xenos breed named the Ronovs suspected to be in posession of multiple STCs. The majority of the Chapter's total fighting force is deployed and joined once more by several Elysian Regiments as well as a large Adeptus Mechanicus strike force from the Forgeworld of Rhea. Two STCs are recovered and given to the Mechanicus, who reward the Chapter with five newly constructed Vanguard Cruisers as well as their continued assistance in the maintenance of the Chapter Fleet. The specifics of the STC designs are kept secret by the Adeptus Mechanicus.

* **Failure of Prism (560.M40)** - Parts of the 2nd and 11th Hosts are ambushed by a combination of Emperor's Children and Alpha Legion Warbands, leading to the complete loss of the Chapter's scouts and the death of all but two Battle-Brother's of the 2nd. Reinforcements from the rest of the Chapter are sent and a two month long war in the system of Prism devastates much of the Argent Eagles before the traitors suddenly vanish, leaving the Chapter humiliated and defeated.

* **Rhamnusian Crusade (561-761.M40)** - The 6th , 5th and 10th Hosts embark on a 200 year long Crusade of retribution across the Ultima Segmentum to kill any and all traitors, rebels and heretics they can find. While many systems are successfully purged, the effects of the Red Thirst and Black Rage on the Chapter begin to worsen as a consequence, leading to the Council of Dawn proclaiming a temporary edict of restraint and ordering all Hosts to refrain from carrying out prolonged campaigns until the Chapter's strength is rebuilt.

* **Disaster at Drusioth (700.M41)** - A strike force tasked with quelling an insurrection on the world of Drusioth VIII. is overwhelmed by the sudden appearance of an enormous Ork Waaagh!. The warriors of the Argent Eagles are taken completely by surprise and take heavy losses as the survivors attempt to offer up a valiant last stand against the green tide. The beleaguered Astartes are at last saved by the Blood Angels and a contingent of sisters belonging to the Order of the Argent Shroud. In the end, the battle wiped out the whole of the 5th and 8th companies. Only a handful of Astartes from the 7th were fortunate enough to survive.

* **Genestealer Uprising of Trireme (801.M41)** - A Genestealer Cult infiltrates several worlds in the Auroria System and begins an uprising focussed on the moon of Trireme. Many lives are lost throughout the system and the moon's great shipyards are laid to waste. Eventually the uprising is crushed, but the entire Scout Company is lost in the Warp after the Astronomican briefly flickers.

* **Renegade Wars (899-910.M41)** - A series of campaigns against a network of Renegade Astartes Chapters and rebellious systems that culminate in the Battle of the Rosehaven and the Exterminatus of Marisa. Though victorious, the Argent Eagles fail to completely exterminate the traitors, leading to some of the Renegades escaping. The Chapter is greatly depleted by the long fighting and spends several years recovering its strength.

* **Third War for Armageddon (998.M41)** - A strike force is sent to help reinforce the Astartes fleet defending the world of Armageddon. Thanks to the brilliant maneuvering of Kubernete Kaius, no losses are sustained, but the Ork fleet ultimately prevents them from making planetfall, forcing the Chapter to withdraw.

* **Battle of the Hidden Vale (998.M41)** - A small contingency of the Argent Eagles 3rd Host enacts a reconnaissance-in-force on the jungle world of Hezaghin after receiving reports of unidentified xenos activity there. Though cautious at first, the members of the Castata Viscounts become more and more reckless in their attempt to flush out the enemy from the shadows of the swamplands and forests. Not long after a base of operations is established the Space Marines come under vicious attack from stealth units of the T'au. Despite their courageous resistance the Astartes forces are slowly erroded and destroyed to a man, their distress call never escaping the jamming frequencies of the enemy.

* **Zeist Sector Crusade (999.M41)** - The 1st Host is sent to assist Ultramarines Captain Cato Sicarius in his Crusade to halt the expansion of the Tau Empire, but are soon recalled to Auroria following the Blood Angels' call for aid.

* **Devastation of Baal (999.M41)** - The full strength of the Chapter heeds the call of the Blood Angels to defend Baal from the Tyranids. Most of the Chapter's warriors are killed and the majority of its fleet is destroyed, leaving less than a hundred survivors. The remaining Argent Eagles are reinforced by the Primarch Guilliman and his Primaris Marines, and return home to rebuild the Chapter.

* **Campaigns of the Angel's Halo (???.M42)** - Following the Devastation of Baal and the arrival of Roboute Guilliman, Lord Commander Dante commands the successor Chapters of the Blood Angels to aid in the endeavor of securing the sectors around Baal, forming an ever-expanding area of control known as the Angel's Halo. The Argent Eagles have since been involved in ongoing campaigns throughout the Red Scar and beyond to consolidate as much of Imperium Nihilus as possible.

* **Euphorion War (003.42M)** - After receiving a call for aid from the Euphorion Sector, the Argent Eagles send out the 2nd and 7th Hosts to help them stand against an encroaching Tyranid fleet. Forces from the First Scions, Abators Golden, Crystal Lions and Argent Executioners also answer the call. With the Argent Executioners leading the charge the Astartes face the onslaught of the great devourer, eventually driving back the alien threat at the world of Armagon with help from the 98th and 35th Keltan Mechanized Guard and the 42nd Rignaran Solar Warlocks, purging the xenos from the system.

## Chapter Homeworld

The imperial world of Auroria is a civilised world known for its great mountain ranges and vast plains. It is roughly twice the size of Holy Terra but shares the throneworld's mass, therefore making the planet's gravity equal to the Terran-standard. One massive supercontinent, which vaguely resembles the shape of a twelve pointed star, is centered directly on the planet's equator and dominates its surface along with hundreds of comparatively miniscule Islands scattered across the vast ocean.

The ocean covering 53% of the world's surface appears as a pale, milky shade of blue while the continental landmass shares an even amount of mountain ranges and grassy pains covered with green and purple plant life. According to the Imperium's historical records, the purple colouring found on much of Auroria's plants is due to a series of experiments culminating in the *Broken Peak Incident* in the late 36th Millennium, which caused large parts of the native flora to become retinaldehyde-based as opposed to chlorophyll-based.

Though the main continent enjoys a pleasant climate with warm summers and cool winters, many of the islands and archipelagos found across Auroria are known for their more unforgiving wheather conditions. Some are more akin to isolated deserts, while others can be likened to dry tundras or dots of frozen wastes. These isles have only few inhabitants as a result, and tend to be less wealthy. Even so, they are valued for their unique ecosystems which hold a great variety of animals and plantlife.

Many animals call this sphere of plenty their home, the most famous being the many different species of Icanorii and Sherbeasts. The Icanor (also known as the Aurorian Eagle) is a massive predatory bird, who can grow to stand at a staggering height of six meters with a wingspan of up to twelve meters. Their vast forms stand on thick legs ending in razor sharp claws. Their feathers come in various colours, the most common types being purple and green. While humanity has killed or driven out most of them from the planetary center, they still thrive in the mountain peaks of the continent's outer territories and on the most remote islands. Hunting them in order to use their feathers and bones for ritualistic and creative purposes is a common practice for the Astartes of the Argent Eagles. It is also seen as a test of strength within the Chapter, for even a Space Marine may struggle against the oldest specimen, whose claws and beaks are more than capable of penetrating Ceramite.

The same can be said for Sherbeasts, the great herbivores covered in silky wool and brandishing mighty horns capable of impaling Space Marines with ease. Their wool is a highly sought after commodity, as are their horns. Nowadays both the Sherbeasts and the Icanorii are kept away from the city through modern armaments and defense grids, and even just finding them in the continental hinterlands is a journey all on its own.

The great mountains ranges of Auroria are most famous for the sheer abundance of precious gemstones that can be unearthed from their depths. Their use in jewelry, clothing and even architecture became a staple of the world's culture and art, tracing back all the way to the earliest human settlers. While the jewels themselves were never seen as overly valuable by the Aurorians, due to how common they were, merchants from other parts of the Imperium soon discovered this planet's luxurious goods, paving the way to a wealthy future. However, it was not just the great quantity of gemstones found on Auroria that made them so desired, but rather their unique properties. Aurorian gemstones are famed for their incredibly varied appearances that can turn even the most monotonous jewel into a play of colours. These appearances differ greatly, bringing forth wonders like rubies that look as though small galaxies were trapped within them, or diamonds that shine like stars when they are beheld in darkness. Some are of a single colour, pure and vivid, others are iridescent plays of many brilliant hues. Their beauty is one not seen in any other minerals found throughout the Imperium, and so they are deeply coveted by powerful and wealthy individuals from Scintilla to Macragge.

The world's supercontinent is home to the enormous megacity of Silverdawn. Much of the city has been built around, into, or even on top of the many mountains strewn across the terrain. High towers towers resting on mighty foundations dominate the skyline, made from white rock and marble-like concrete, accented with silver steel. As Auroria is home to only a handful of large forested areas, timber was difficult to come by. This forced early settlers to make do with the stone of the mountains, thereby creating a culture of masterful masonry. Silverdawn stretches far from the continental centre and covers roughly half of the great landmass with its shining walls. Despite its scale the city should not be mistaken for a Hive-City, though depending on which part of the city one calls home the quality of life may be just as gruesome.

Deep underground one can find the Undercity, home to numerous manufactorums, mines and prison facilities of unimaginable scale. The justice system of Auroria is a merciless one, for even the smallest criminal offense is enough to be sent into the dark pits of the Undercity to toil away for the benefit of the imperial warmachine. It is not uncommon for even those who were arrested by mistake or proven innocent to still be condemmed into the dark underground of the planet's industry, for the manufactorums need every worker they can get to replace those that have died while working the enormous assembly lines and forges. It is a place that creates nightmares as readily as it does resources. The surface of the Silver City shimmers brightly, masking shadows below.

### Planet Culture

The planet's culture is one that imperial scholars still try to trace back to its origins. While it is most likely derived from an ancient Terran civilization, it is unclear which of the many cultures of old Earth served as its main influence. Few clues remain, and the ones that have persisted bring naught but puzzlement to historitors . One of the oldest surviving texts of Auroria states that the early settlers sought to re-establish a long lost religion that was once practiced on humanity's homeworld. It appears that this mythology was based around the worship of god-beings said to have been the offsprings of Titans. This led to the popular hypothesis that the religion in question was actually Martian in origin, an altered version of the faith practiced by the Adeptus Mechanicus. But as to why the early people of Auroria would worship the children of god-machines as gods, instead of simply worshipping the Titans or the Machine God himself, remains a mystery. The fact that the world's architecture shows no traces of martian or otherwise mechanicus influences is also an unexplained element. It has been likened to the styles employed by architects on the world of Macragge, and though there are many similarities, the distance between Auroria and the Realm of Ultramar does raise questions as to how these two could have influenced each other. That the culture could have drastically deviated during Old Night or in the aftermath of the Heresy is a considered possibility, though evidence is scarce.

Every person born on Auroria is given three names. The first name is meant to only be used if one is chosen to ascend to the ranks of the Emperor's Angels, reminiscent of a similiar tradition practiced on Baal's moons. The second name is used as the standard given name for baseline humans, with the third name being the family name. Only the Astartes of the Argent Eagles may openly proclaim their full names, though one custom linked to this is that referring to a Space Marine of the Chapter with solely their second name is considered a way of shaming them. Therefore, when a Battle-Brother is being reprimanded or censured by his superiors, he will only be addressed with his second or "middle" name.

Aurorian society is one defined by its mining industry, and its ancient traditions. Though the planet was once known for its unorthodox philosophies, such practices have since become nothing more than a fleeting hobby for the rich elites and nobles of the world. The city of Silverdawn is a place that showcases a focus on general education that is rarely seen across the Imperium. Those with prestigous employment are known to be granted schooling that far exceeds the knowledge required for them to fulfill their roles at the workplace. Beyond even that are the grand academies of the planetary elite, where nobles and wealthy merchants enjoy the luxury of truly sophisticated study. In theory, anyone with enough coin is permitted to attend these facilities, though the workers of Silverdawn tend to slave away their days in hopes of at least sending their children to such places. These academies are as varied as they are expensive and are seen as gateways to many sought after positions in esteemed Imperial organizations. Some even offer courses to prepare potential aspirants to the Argent Eagles, though the results of said courses are questionable at best. It should be noted that these luxuries are entirely limited to the overground portions of Silverdawn, as the denizens of the Undercity and the many outlying islands suffer lives that could never allow such priviliges.

These scholastic systems emerged from an old philosophical principal that has held on in the hearts and minds of the population throughout the millenia, despite the fact that the common rabble has long since abandoned the tennants of the old teachings. This principal is known in High Gothic as the ***Paideias Extremis***. It essentially describes an Aurorian that encourages intellectual thinking, spiritual harmony and physical readiness. Even the poorest scribe or factorum worker on the surface attempts to pass such values on to their decendants, in the hopes that it will allow them to accomplish great things and lead better lives. For the people of Auroria it also represents the pathway to fulfilling one's purpose in life, to be complete and truly content. While the common mortals of the world may cling to this ideal in hopes of attaining a higher social status or a better life, the Astartes of the Argent Eagles have taken it to its highest and purest form. They strive to embody the *Paideias Extremis* in every aspect, honing themselves to be the deadliest weapons they can be. To them, it is an absolute way of life.

### Auroria System

The planet of Auroria is not without siblings, for it shares its solar system with several other planets and moons:

* **Trireme -** Auroria's moon, home to the largest shipyards and space ports in the system. Despite its small size, it harbors a large population, second only to Auroria itself.

* **Rhea -** The closest planet to Auroria and a mechanicus forgeworld tasked with supplying the Argent Eagles with supplies and machinery.

* **Castata -** This civilised world was hit hard by the *Genestealer Uprising of Trireme*, which saw many millions dead at the hands of the alien infiltrators. In the two centuries since, Castata has been rebuilt into a major population hub.
* **Voltis Vara -** Castata's moon. It was once a prosperous hive-world but was largely abandoned after a devastating plague killed most of the inhabitants in the year 532.M41. The opening of the Great Rift has stalled plans to repopulate it.

* **Avgi -** A dwarf planet serving as a dedicated shrine world to the Argent Faith and the Imperial Cult.

* **Soúrouni -** A frozen mining world in the outer reaches of the system. Though largely inhospitable, its resources are valuable enough to justify the presence of several mining settlements occupied by penal workers.

* **Fotiá -** The closest planet to the solar system's silver sun. It is a world of fire and ash that is deemed worthless by the Imperium.

* **Urikla -** The fourth largest world in terms of population. This agri-world, once called Herava, was renamed in honour of Chapter Master Urikles shortly after his death.
* **Eovar -** Urikla's moon. It is a cemetery world which was designated as *Mausoleum Valorum* by the Ecclesiarchy on request of the Argent Eagles following the Crusade of the Claws. Here the fallen heroes of the Auroria system, both mortal and Astartes, are laid to rest in the sanctified earth.

* **Achlys -** A gas giant lingering on the very edge of the solar sytem. Its surface is marked by constant storms of green and purple gases.

* **Aion -** The oldest planet in the system, according to imperial scholars. A barren wasteland best left alone, for the few explorers that occasionally venture onto its surface soon find themselves riddled with myterious diseases that result in a slow death. A high price to pay for ignoring the warning beacons scattered in orbit by the Administratum.

Many of these serve as recruitment worlds for the Chapter, yet Auroria, Trireme and Eovar are the only domains over which the Argent Eagles hold direct authority.

### Fortress-Monastery

The Argent Eyrie was originally constructed in a way that sought to demonstrate the artistic skill inherent in the Blood of Sanguinius. While the craftsmanship used to build this towering structure surpassed that of many other Space Marine Chapters, it did not quite manage to measure up to the skill of the Blood Angels.

Indeed, the architects of the Eyrie intended for it to rival the Arx Angelicum itself in elegance and majesty. To their credit, those ambitious men did indeed create an amazing fortress of rare beauty. Yet it is still a far cry from the ancestral home of the Blood Angels in several ways. The greatest difference between the two is in terms of scale. As awe inspiring as the Argent Eyrie is, it was constructed to support but a single Chapter of Astartes, whereas the Arx once housed the full might of a Space Marine Legion.

Even so it stands as a monument to the glory and beauty of mankind, being situated in the very heart of the Aurorian capital city of Silverdawn, built into the world's highest mountain, which stands as a lone spire of stone at the continent's centre. The Fortress-Monastery reaches from the mountain's deepest roots to its highest peak, inseparably fused with the white rock.

Its outer Plascrete wall forms a great ring around the mountain and is lined with countless Macrocannons, Autocannons, Plasmacannons, Gun turrets and Defence Lasers. Within the outer wall lie the parade grounds, vehicle Hangars, landing fields and general maintenance facilities of the Chapter.

Surrounding the central Spire-Keep is the inner curtain wall, equipped with similar defenses as the outer structure. Running along the inner wall is an electric defense grid capable of killing any living creature foolish enough to come into contact with it. The central Spire-Keep itself is an enormous tower complex built into the great mountain, which stretches far into the sky and houses all major facilities used by the Astartes who dwell there. Thousands of gantries, balconies and walkways pertrude outwards from its steep cliffs, along with countless smaller towers containing shrines, training halls, private quarters and extensive anti-air defenses such as Hydra Platforms and Icarus Pattern Lascannons.

In many places the architectural style mirrors the traditional gothic appearance commonly employed by the wider Imperium, especially in the numerous shrines and chapels scattered throughout the Eyrie. Despite this, the Fortress-Monastery features mostly characteristics of Aurorian architecture, like tall, fluted, doric columns engraved with depictions of rising suns, eagle skulls, swords and blood soaked wings. Symmetrical patterns and designs can be seen in every part of the fortress, and complex mosaics depicting ancient myths and forgotten legends are strewn across every floor in its vast hallways. Every gate and doorway found in the home of the Argent Eagles is headed by stylized arches or triangular tympana that are specked with shining pearls, rubies or amethysts and have protective blessings carved into them. The many pointed, high rising roofs and smooth domes adorning the Eyrie's exterior appear in many colours, gleaming like brilliant gemstones of emerald, saphire and opal.

The interior of the Eyrie is similarly extravagant, as the passages through which the Battle-Brothers of the Chapter stride are imbued with shades of purple, red, gold and most dominantly white and silver. Glass windows stained in the same hues shine the radiant light of Auroria's argent sun onto the walls, turning the hallways into lustrous orchestras of colour. Elegant carpets cover large parts of the floors, and tapestries telling of the Chapter's glories and heroic deeds line the walls. Even the numerous staircases built into the Fortress-Monastery are fashioned of white marble and lined with railings of gilded metal. In the *Sanctum of Creation,* where the artisans of the Chapter bring forth their greatest works, one will find frescos of impossible detail and coloration that stun the senses of mortal men with ever evolving fractal patterns displayed on every surface.

Snaking its way upwards through the mountain is the famed Promenade of Legends where the statues of the Chapter's heroes line the walls in a long processional way of glory and aged marble. Carved by the talented hands of the Amaranthine Artisans, these sculptures are placed whenever a member of the Argent Ealges distinguishes himself beyond all others. A brother's statue is often replaced with an updated version every time he performs another great feat, unless the warrior in question chooses to keep his old stone likeness.

Located at the very top of the skyward rising structure is the titanic complex known as the *Apex Mytikas,* consisting of facilities like the *Centrum Strategis*, the *Daybreak Cathedral*, the *Odeon of Acuity*, the personal quarters of the Pantokrátōr and the chambers of the Chapter's two ruling councils.

Just like most buildings on Auroria, the Argent Eyrie is also partially constructed with Asími-Steel. Though its artistic surface already shines brightly on its own.

#### Odeon of Acuity

One of the most important aspects of the Chapter's Culture can be observed in the enormous chamber known as the *Odeon of Acuity*. It is the single largest hall in the entirety of the Argent Eyrie and serves as the Chapter's Assimularum. It is a place for debates of philosophy and critical thinking, contests of wit or poetry, ceremonies, duels, rituals and a gathering place for the event known as the Grand Convocation. It is here where they deliberate on important decisions such as the election of the new Pantokrátōr following the death of the previous one, and it was within the Odeon that the Chapter decided to heed the call of Commander Dante. The debates and arguments held in the Odeon, while often heated, never erupt into violent confrontations or hateful grudges, thanks in part to the fact that there is always at least one of the Sages presiding over the Odeon.

The Odeon is a circular structure whose massive dome and western walls can be seen protruding from the mountain side. In many ways it resembles an arena, with rows of seating tiers that surround the central space where lectures are spoken and duels performed. The seats themselves are divided into twelve distinct sections. Eleven of these serve as the seating for the members of the Silver Hosts, while the twelfth is reserved for the Pantokrátōr, his Phaethonian Guard, and various guests that the Argent Eagles may be entertaining. The central space, sometimes referred to as the crystal stage, is built with mechanisms that allow it to alter its elevation and shape at will. Each intricately worked crystal tile of the stage's floor can be raised into a pillar or lowered into a pit. Through this, individual speakers or participants of debates are able to be elevated above ground level and Sages presiding over the Odeon may keep an overview of all that happens in the Chamber. It also helps in creating challenging environments for duels and other martial performances by opening deep pits or raising steep terrain. The central stage is vast enough to comfortably fit 2,000 Astartes with room to spare.

The donning of power armor or the carrying of weapons outside of the confines of a duel is strictly forbidden inside the Odeon. Sages and Chaplains are exempt from this ban, as they are tasked with maintaining the order of the Odeon. The Phaethonian Guard are, of course, also duty-bound to remain armed.

#### Dusken Vault

The gloomy depths of the Dusken Vault are the place where the damned brothers who have succumbed to the Black Rage are confined until they can be expended in battle. The rough, unrefined walls of this hidden prison are devoid of art and beauty, only the faint shimmer of crystaline lamps bringing any light at all to the ashen rock forming the vault. It is guarded by a mere handful of Black Priests, overseen by the Blind Prophet, whose duty it is to bless the unfortunate souls of the Hadean Host and guide them in battle, ensuring that their unbridled wrath is aimed at the foes of humanity. The Dusken Vault's exact location is a well kept secret that only few in the Chapter are privy to, though it can be assumed that it lies somewhere deep below the Argent Eyrie.

## Chapter Recruitment

The neophytes of the Chapter are chosen from the aspirants who present themselves for the trials of ascension during the annual festival known as *The Day of Apotheosis,* which is celebrated within the confines of the Chapter's Fortress-Monastery. Though while the festival itself is held once a year, the selection of new recruits is only undertaken when the Chapter is in need of fresh blood to fill the ranks. Many of the aspirants stem from the city of Silverdawn on the aurorian mainland or from the countless smaller islands scattered across the planet's ocean, while others hail from the world's moon of Trireme or one of the other celestial bodies present in the Auroria System. Those unable to travel to the Argent Eyrie by themselves are given the opportunity to board transports situated in the heart of each major city and population hub across the system. Some have described this service as an unnecessary luxury for the aspirants, though the Chapter is mostly concerned with gaining talented individuals and not with making the journey itself a trial.

Those compatible with the genetic gifts of the Argent Aeon face their first trial on the parade ground of the Eyrie, where the Chaplains walk among them in search for any indication that one's determination or willpower is lacking. A simple twitch or drop of sweat could be enough for an aspirant to be cast out. Only those who truly wish to join the Emperor's Angels with all their heart are allowed to advance to the next stage of selection. The trials ahead are greatly varied in number and nature, meant to expose the strengths and weaknesses of the youths undergoing them. Some are riddles that test faith as much as intellect, others strain the physical limits of the recruits. While several of the tests, especially the final trial, hold more than enough dangers to kill the aspirants, death rates have always been relatively low when compared to other Space Marine Chapters. This is because the Sages and Chaplains do not allow aspirants to advance to the next trial if they have even the slightest doubt that they are unable to survive the coming challenges. The Astartes of Auroria want warriors, not a mound of corpses.

The final challenge the youths have to overcome is the *Trial of the Winded Peak*. Each aspirant is given a simple task: to climb one the continent's many mountains and retrieve a single Icanor feather. Components for the construction of a rudimentary glider are scattered across these mountains, and the aspirants are expected to use them in their escape. The necessity for such an espace stems from the fact that Icanorii greatly treasure and collect their own feathers as materials for their nests, and therefore guard them carefully from potential thieves. These beasts can pose a threat to even a fully grown Space Marine, meaning that escape is the only option available to the youths who find themselves stranded on the high peaks that the majestic birds call their home. Once an aspirant has successfully retrieved a feather and brought it back to the Eyrie, he is presented with one last question. This question, usually philosophical in nature, is different for each aspirant and marks his acceptance as a neophyte of the Argent Eagles. The implantation of the Gene-Seed as well as the other components required to complete the ascension to an Astartes is consistent with the traditional procedure common amongst Codex-compliant Chapters, even if certain stages of said process may be combined or accelerated if there is an urgent need for new warriors.

After their ascension to the ranks, the Argent Eagles are encouraged to leave the memories of their old lives behind them, and to fully commit themselves to their duty as Space Marines. Reshaped into a living weapon, their dedication must be absolute and unwavering, something that old attachments only stand in the way of. However, there is a loose exception to this rule. Actively seeking out one's past may be strictly prohibited, but if a brother, by some twist of fate, were to encounter an old friend or family member during his patrols on the homeworld, he would be allowed to interact with them, even reveal his identity. It is a rare occurence to be sure, but in the eyes of the Chapter such reunions must be ordained by the Argent Aeon, and should therefore be allowed to pass. There are several accounts of Argent Eagles happening upon aquintances from their old lives and bringing them closure through the knowledge that a loved one of theirs succeeded in his quest to join the angels.

## Chapter Gene-Seed

The gene-seed of the Argent Eagles is something that has been puzzling Genetors of the Mechanicus ever since its flaw was first discovered. The Gene-Seed used during the 23rd Founding was said to be of the purest degree, selected from only the most stable stocks in the possession of the Adeptus Mechanicus, to prevent another disaster like the Cursed Founding from occurring.

Yet even so, it was soon discovered that the Astartes of the Argent Eagles Chapter were suffering from a mutation in their genetic code, causing something referred to as the Blinding Radiance.

A secondary feature seemingly unique to the Chapter's genes is their hair. Gene-Seed of the Argent Eagles seems to reshape its recipients in a way that always and without fail lends them long hair of either vividly golden or bright white colour. While some among the Chapter's ranks regularly cut their hair, most refrain from doing so as it tends to grow back to its previous length in a matter of days.

### Blinding Radiance

"*The light is my mantle and I bear it gladly.
 The light is my haven and I welcome its refuge.
 The light is my guide and I cherish its embrace.
 The light is my salvation and I herald its arrival.
 The light is my ally.
 The light is my blade.
 The light is the river from which I draw the waters of strength.
 I must let it flow freely, yet I must not let it surge unrestrained. I must invoke it willingly, yet I must remain its master.
 Radiance through balance.
 Radiance through control.
 Radiance through faith.*"
—Training Mantra for Neophytes struggling against the Blinding Radiance.
The Blinding Radiance is an unexplained mutation in the Gene-Seed of the Argent Eagles that manifests as silver light emanating from their bodies and renders them blind over time unless they subject themselves to intense physical and spiritual training in order to control it. First signs of the Blinding Radiance usually start to appear one year after a recruit has been implanted with the Chapter's Gene-Seed. At first it will only show as a feint shimmer on the individual's skin, most commonly during situations of great stress. This shimmer wil steadily increase in luminosity over time but fade quickly. After three years a Marine will begin to notice occasional feelings of nausea and an impaired sense of equilibrium.

After five years the Marine will be forced to conduct regular training exercises and meditation seesion that will teach him both physical and mental control over the Radiance, suppressing and in some cases even harnessing it. One such excercise involves balancing across a thin beam of smooth steel hanging over a large pit, while countless flashing lights of varying intensity and colour bombard the trainee without pause.

Failure to suppress the Radiance will result in it intensifying to the point where a Marine's eyes start shining with a light so intense that it renders them blind. In the worst case it can lead to a Battle-Brother's eyes being completely burned away and liquified, as well as his sense of balance and orientation being destroyed so completely that he becomes crippled beyond salvation. Any Battle-Brothers who suffer this fate and survive are administered the Emperor's Peace or interred within a dreadnought.

Unfortunately, even the most determined of brothers may still fall victim to the burning of his inner light, despite his efforts. Some see this as the divine judgement of the Argent Aeon, a way to purge the unworthy from their ranks and maintain the purity of their brotherhood.

Only the most gifted in the ranks of the Chapter are able to not only keep the Radiance at bay but to also channel it as a weapon which they can turn on their foes to cause temporary or even permanent blindness. In the most extreme cases, brothers have been reported as being able to completely burn out the eyes of multiple combatants at once, often with lethal effect. There have also been rare instances in which Battle-Brothers who were harnessing the Radiance fell to the Black Rage while doing so, turning them into shimmering beserkers capable of blinding dozens of enemies merely by screaming.

Using the Radiance in an offensive manner is done by focusing the light being generated in one's body, and channeling it against one's foe. This can be done through deadly gazes, gestures or even shouts. If carried out successfully, a bright light will suddenly appear within the eye sockets of the target, blinding them temporarily or permanently, and in some cases burning away their eyes with a force strong enough to kill them.

The duration and intensity of the blindness as well as the number of affected people differs from brother to brother, depending on the Marine's physical condition, willpower, focus and mental state. A Battle-Brother's psychic powers do not seem to affect this in any way. Some of the Chapter's most powerful psykers have had little to no success in trying to harness the Radiance. Some Argent Eagles can blind a single opponent for but a few moments, others can strike down multiple enemies with deadly efficiency.

Whenever a Marine channels his inner light in such a manner, his eyes begin to glow and his entire body emits a silver light. While undoubtedly powerful given the right wielder, the Radiance should never be used excessively or multiple times in quick succession, as this may cause the Marine to go blind regardless of how extensive he trained to prevent this. Most Marines of the Argent Eagles never master the offensive potential of the Blinding Radiance however, and only focus on their training in order to retain their sight.

## Chapter Combat Doctrine

" *Rule the void and you rule the sky. Rule the sky and you rule the world.*"
— Chapter III. of the Legisla Auroris
The preferred way of waging war for the Argent Eagles is one that utilises large amounts of void vessels and aerial craft to gain control of a planet's orbit and skies from which they will unleash their fury. When relieving, conquering or retaking a world, the standard strategy is to first overwhelm any orbital defences with the Chapter's fleet to achieve void supremacy. If the Chapter is, for whatever reason, unable or unwilling to obliterate the foe via orbital bombardment, they will deploy numerous fighters and transport craft to the planet's atmosphere. Said craft will be able to take control of the skies, as well as strike at priority targets and positions from above, either with devastating firepower or the rapid deployment of troops to the surface. This deployment may include any number of combat units depending on the situation, with the most common and effective ones being the Chapter's Icanor Squads, whose vicious decapitation strikes and swift drop assaults will strike down the enemies of man without fail.

To use their skillsets as efficiently as possible, the Chapter often works in concert with other Imperial forces like the Guard and the Navy. Close coordination is key in order to achieve common goals on the warfronts of the Imperium, which is why strike forces are at times deeply embedded in allied armies and voluntarily serve in the command structure of any given Crusade or war operation.

Of course even then the warriors of Auroria remain an independent entity, but if it serves the needs of the Imperium, they are willing to obey orders from officers not of their order, at least for the duration of the fighting. How closely this policy is followed will always be the decision of whichever captain holds command over the strike force in question. This doctrine can be more difficult to achieve when battling alongside fellow Space Marines, as there are Astartes Chapters which prefer to be left alone, and are therefore often opposed to working in tandem with other forces.

Only rarely does the Chapter carry out operations entirely on its own, unless a threat can be quickly eliminated without the need for assistance or if the time to unleash the insane berserkers of the Hadean Host has come.

## Chapter Organisation

The Argent Eagles had originally envisioned themselves as a Chapter that would wage war following the image of the great Angel Sanguinius and the Legion of yore, without the shackles of Guilliman's dictates. So was born the Legisla Auroris and its commandments. Due to the devout nature of the Chapter, parts of the tome resemble a religious script more than a millitary guidebook. It teaches strict ways of perfecting one's skills and specialties and lectures neophytes on the importance that their piety carries in battle.

As the Legisla Auroris lays out, the Argent Eagles value the art of striking their enemies unexpectedly from above, showing the might of their guns and blades after descending from the heavens as swiftly as the predatory bird that is their namesake. As a result, most of their motorpool consists of aerial transports and fighters with only the most crucial of land based machinery being employed for offensives that require a more sturdy approach.

The early conflicts of their history taught the Chapter that there was a need for flexibility and for broadly applicable guidelines, such as those written down in the pages of the Codex Astartes. Throughout the ages attempts to remain Codex compliant have seen mixed results, leading to a strange combination of combat doctrines and rulesets drawn from both the Codex Astartes and the Argent Eagles' own Legisla Auroris.

While the Codex Astartes firmly dictates that no man should ever command more than 1,000 Space Marines at any given time, extraordinary circumstances have led to the establishment of an 11th Company, so that the Argent Eagles always have a sufficient number of neophytes waiting to fill the ranks of their Hosts. Even so, the number of combat-ready Marines rarely every exceeds the limit by any significant margin, since the Chapter's agressive doctrines ensure that most companies are rarely ever at full strength.

### Chapter Command

The Argent Eagles are governed by the Chapter Master, more formally known as the *Pantokrátōr*, and his two councils. The Council of 12 is made up of the Pantokrátōr himself and his 11 Host Captains. The Council of Dawn consists of the High-Apollian, the Dawnlord, the three Apollians of the Argent Priesthood and three Epistolaries of the Dawnsayer Librarius. While the Council of 12 makes decisions pertaining to the waging of war, the Council of Dawn watches over the Chapter's spiritual integrity. Depending on the situation, both councils may be held as one, collectively forming the Great Council.

Both the Asímion and the Lord of Plenty, the two officers tasked with the logistics and maintenance of the Chapter, serve as advisors to the councils when needed.

Ultimately, the final word on most matters falls to the Chapter Master, but with the opening of the Great Rift and the return of Roboute Guilliman, the Pantokrátōr and his councils are subordinate to not only him but also to Commander Dante of the Blood Angels, who was named warden and regent of Imperium Nihilus.

In the event of the Chapter Master's death the joint rule of the Chapter is temporarily held by the First Captain and the Dawnlord, until a new Pantokrátōr of the Silver Hosts is elected during the Grand Convocation. Unlike other Chapters where the mantle of Chapter Master is automatically handed down to the Captain of the 1st Company or decided by the Chaplaincy, the Argent Eagles allow all Battle-Brothers, except for the scouts of the 11th, to cast their vote for whomever they believe to be the best among them. There can only be a maximum of ten candidates which must be approved by the Great Council.

Host Captains are elected by the members of their respective Host, though the candidates must be approved by either the Pantokrátōr or the Council of 12. This is not the case for the Captain of the 11th, also known as the Master of Recruits, as he is appointed directly by the Pantokrátōr.

### The Silver Hosts

The Silver Hosts, individually referred to as Hosts, are what most Space Marine Chapters define as companies and are separated into two groups.

The Chosen Five, who make up the overall most skilled and experienced of the warriors and consist of mainly Icanor and Intercessor Squads, and the Dutiful Six, who are more specialised and focus on specific areas of warfare such as aerial combat or defensive warfare. The latter are often used to supplement or support the former.

The Chapter as a whole is organised into eleven Hosts, each consisting of roughly 100 Marines and lead by a Captain.

The 1st Host is home to the Chapter's most experienced veterans. The 2nd through 5th Hosts are the Chapter's Battle Companies, meaning that they outrank the lower Hosts in terms of overall experience and are viewed as seniors. They are the most versatile and reliable warriors found within the Argent Eagles. These five Hosts are collectively known as the "Chosen Five" and are treated with much respect and reverence by their brothers.

The remaining Hosts are known as the "Dutiful Six" and house the Chapter's specialised Companies as well as the Scout Company. Each of the Six is focussed on a certain type of warfare.

The 6th Host is comprised of both Chapter specific Icanor Squads and Reiver Squads. It specialises in brutal and sudden terror attacks, striking from the shadows to break the enemy where they think themselves unbreakable. They are uncharacteristically eager to engage in violent butchery, especially for brothers of the Argent Eagles. Yet they excel as psychological shock troops and are therefore the only company in the Argent Eagles where one will encounter barely restrained savagery, terror tactics and Vox-amplified roars.

The 7th is mainly made up of Heavy Fire Support Squads, known as Calamiter Squads, that are often tasked with holding defensive positions and securing chokepoints. They possess the most Dreadnoughts in the Chapter and regularly supplement the Battle Companies. The brothers of this Host are also known for the widespread use of Boarding Shields as well as Storm Shields, further emphasizing their role. Even if some of their peers claim that they only wield their shields so that they may paint them extensively.

The 8th Host is the closest thing to a stealth based fighting force the Chapter has, and excels in the art of unexpected night assaults and patiently laid out ambushes. Their specialty fits well with the skillset employed by Primairs Infiltrator Squads, though the company still uses Intercessors and Icanorii alongside its stealth troops. In some cases this Host does not conceil their presence once they have struck, proudly announcing themselves and challenging their suprised foes to face them in battle. Such behaviour is valuable when aiming to distract the foe, and is often utilised in order to create diversions.

The 9th consists mostly of Icanor Squads and serves as the Argent Eagles' chief aerial force. They field a small number of mobile fire support units such as Vanguard Supressors to supplement their forces when needed. As the company that makes use of the Chapter's vast motorpool more than any other, an appropriate amount of Techmarines are permanently attached to them as pilots and maintenance staff. The Heavenbound Eagles specialise in aerial combat and drop assaults. Seeing as this manner of waging war is the Chapter's speciality, the formations of the 9th Host are by far one of the deadliest the Argent Eagles have to offer, provided their talents are correctly applied.

The 10th Host is a special case. Officially, it is classified as a Reserve Battleline Company, yet it is rarely referred to as such. Rather, the 10th is known as the Void Company, a force of warriors who feel most at home in the coldness of space. They are masters of the void as they have perfected the art of performing boarding actions against enemy vessels and know all there is to know about ship to ship combat. They deploy a number of Fire Support brothers alongside their Battleline Squads and have a lot of influence in all things concerning the Argent Fleet. As a rare exception, the 10th Company has been granted the privilige of fielding Terminator Squads, an honour that is normally reserved for the Holy Dominions of the Veteran Company. These have been put to good use, seeing as the Vengeful Void-Warriors know precisely how to best employ Terminators in lighting strike tactics against enemy ships.

Finally, the 11th Host is the future of the Chapter where the scouts hone their skills in the Space Marine way of war. Even though the scouts are not yet fully trained Space Marines, their skills are highly valued. Every strike force will likely have at least one or two squads of scouts attached to it.

Argent Eagles strike forces will often be composed of several squads from different Hosts, assembled on an *ad hoc* basis according to the mission at hand. Such strike forces are normally given code names, such as Sunspear, Argent Victrix or Eagle's Fury.

In addition to the personal armor and weaponry required by its Battle-Brothers, each Host also maintains a sufficient number of ground vehicles, although most of the Chapter's missions will be carried out using aerial craft such as Ptéryga Pattern Thunderhawks and Interceptors. Unusually for a Space Marine Chapter, the Argent Eagles command a truly enormous number of customized aerial crafts of all kinds, ensuring air superiority and swift deployment to any battlefield. Where they acquired such a fleet of intra- and extra-atmospheric craft can only be guessed at, though it is theorized that past dealings with the Mechanicus may have played a part in it.

In such cases where the Chapter fights a ground assault or garrisons a defensive position, it deploys per the *Codex* *Astartes*.

#### Host Organization

A Host is generally commanded by its Captain, who tends to take the field accompanied by his command squad. The members of this command squad act as the Captain's advisors and Honour Guards, and are selected from only the most experienced veterans of their company.

* **Captains -** The captains of the Argent Eagles are like those of every other Space Marine Chapter. They are the greatest of tacticians, the most cunning of strategists and the most brilliant of warriors. Second only to the greatness of the Chapter Master, these warriors lead their companies with a great degree of autonomy to overcome whichever obstacle they face. It is custom for every Captain of the Argent Eagles to be given the Lordship of a world within the Auroria system. Though this is more of a ceremonial honour bestowed upon them, rather than a role of actual governance.

* **Lieutenants -** The Lieutenants are experienced warriors and competent battlefield commanders, whose foremost duty is to expedite and sometimes supplement their Captain's commands and optimise their Battle-Brothers' performance in the field. Each Captain is served by two Lieutenants, the first Lieutenant within a Host is known as the "Shield of the Aeon" and is charged with assuming command if his superior has fallen to either the foe or the flaws. This position requires strategic control and cool thinking, whereas the second Lieutenant's position -- that of the "Blade of the Angel" -- calls for a more direct mindset. To this Lieutenant falls the duty of leading dangerous assaults from the front, planting the Host's banner atop captured positions or holy sites, and slaying enemy commanders if a Host's Champion is unable.

##### -Champions and Heralds-

The Champions and Heralds of the Host are some of the greatest fighters in the Chapter, approaching and in some cases surpassing the skills of their captains. The individuals chosen for this position are expected to be masters of bolt and blade, to be swift and decisive warriors able to dispatch of any foes that dare threaten their superiors.

The champions take the field to deliver the Emperor's judgement so that the Captains and Lieutenants are free to command their brothers without needing to fear being interrupted by hostile challengers. As dueling is a popular pastime for the Argent Eagles, the competition for the position of Champion is fierce. Champions of the Host as well as the Chapter Blademaster are named during the Celebar Gladio. While there is only one Blademaster, some claim that attaining the status of Champion is more difficult, seeing as one must master far more skills to even be considered as a candidate.

The standards carried by the heralds are treasured with an almost fanatic intensity, and each standard is a beautiful piece of art woven from the finest silk and covered with the most valued materials. Decorated with glimmering gemstones, embroidered with threads of gold and fashioned to depict ancient champions, famous victories, or the angelic Primarch himself, these banners are the crown jewels for many Amaranthine Artisans of the Chapter, and precious beyond the worth of worlds. They inspire those Astartes that witness them to ever greater acts of righteous fury and holy valor. Accordingly, each of these sacred banners is entrusted to a Battle-Brother, known as a Herald, who has displayed true piety and selfless heroism in the face of mankind's enemies. Such warriors must defend their banner at all costs. To allow their precious relic to fall into the hands of filthy Xenos or accursed Heretics would be an utterly unforgivable failing, and so the Heralds will gladly and without hesitation give their own lives if it somehow ensures the preservation of the banner they bear.

* **Host Herald -** The chosen Battle-Brother charged with carrying and protecting the banner of his Host. A Host may have multiple Heralds depending on the number of banners the Host in question posesses.

* **Chapter Herald -** The Battle-Brother chosen to carry the banner which depicts the Chapter's Coat of Arms. Only one man in each Host is given this honourable position.

* **Exalted Herald -** This Battle-Brother is most commonly selected from the ranks of the Phaethonian Guard, and tasked with holding aloft the personal banner of the Pantokrátōr.

##### -Close Support Squads-

"*Oh, how we love the skies. When we soar through the high heavens we direct our eyes to whatever prey lays beneath. And how glorious to behold are we, when we strike down the foes of the Aeon from above. Flashing lights and bloodied wings. That is all the enemy will perceive before the end.*"
—Sergeant Uraseus Hato Hyris, Argent Eagles 9th Host
Ever since the early days of their founding, the Astartes of the Argent Eagles have always held a deep love for aerial combat assaults. Brandishing their masterfully crafted weapons and wielding their elegant bolt pistols, the Assault Squads of the Argent Eagles drop out of the Chapter's gunships and transports from high above and gracefully descend into the centre of the enemy's battle lines and fortifications, reducing all that stand against them to butchered meat with bolt and blade.

* **Icanor Squads** - The Icanorii are the most commonly used squad formation present in the Argent Eagles. They are Close Support Troops of unsurpassed lethality, bringing death and devastation from the skies. They are somewhat more versatile than normal assault troops, and are known to carry all manner of tactical equipment into battle. If needed, they can operate as highly mobile Intercessors, be that in the ranged, assault or heavy variant. Many of the Icanorii prefer the use of their custom Mark X Icanor sub-patter, but some have found the lighter Omnis-Pattern variant to be highly suited for them. All of this serves to differentiate this assault unit from the Codex norm. They deploy by leaping out of transports and gunships high in the air and fall onto their targets weapons at the ready like birds of prey. They are most common in the 3rd and 9th Hosts, though all the companies field at least one squad of these warriors.

* **Inceptor Squads** - Although these new Assault Troops of the Primaris were initially viewed with disdain by the upper echelons of the Argent Eagles, they have since been recognized as valuable assets to the forces of the Silver City. Their prowess in battle was proven to be exemplary and their utility in the doctrines of the Chapter has been recognized by even the most conservative of veterans. They now descend from the clouds ahead their Icanor brethren as flashing dots of silver, racing through the high heavens of the galaxy to deliver overwhelming blows unto the foes of man.

##### -Fire Support Squads-

There are those in the Galaxy that believe the solution for every problem to be the judicious application of overwhelming firepower. While the Argent Eagles Space Marine Chapter may disagree as a whole, it cannot ignore the fact that sometimes a hammer is indeed more suited for a task than a scalpel.

* **Calamiter Squads** - Calamiters were once the term for the Chapter's Devastator formations. Yet with the Era Indomitus this has changed to a mixed combat unit which is a merging of old and new fire support squads. Devastators, Eradicators, Hellblasters and Aggressors are all represented in this hybrid force, though most Calamiters prefer the Plasma Weaponry of the Hellblasters over the boltrounds of the Aggressors or the flame blasts of the Eradicators.

* **Vanguard Supressor Squads** - The brothers serving as Vanguard Supressors are Fire Support troops that are closely linked to the Icanorii. Despite the fact that the Icanor warriors often carry heavy weaponry with them, they still sometimes require more specialised Fire Support in the form of the Vanguard Supressors, who use similiar grav-chute technology to that of the Icanorii, and are therefore best suited to accompany them into the fight at a moment's notice.

#### -Specialist Formations-

The Argent Eagles' order of battle contains specialist formations and officer positions not present in other Space Marine Chapters:

* **Hadean Host -** All Chapters that share the blood of Sanguinius maintain a Death Company in which those Battle-Brothers who have fallen to the Black Rage are used as mindless shock troops, so that they may find their deaths with purpose.

* **Phaethonian Guard -** As scions of Sanguinius, the Argent Eagles field their own version of the famed Sanguinary Guard. These warriors are handpicked by the Pantokrátōr to serve as his personal protectors and carry the name of the Phaethonian Guard. Clad in deep purple, these elite Battle-Brothers wear the finest artificer armor and wield the mightiest weapons the Chapter has to offer. Many of their number are equipped with the finest wargear in the vaults of the Chapter Armoury. To even be considered for this honour, one must undergo the *Trials of Kephalos*, a series of twelve tests meant to determine if the chosen individual is indeed worthy. Some of these trials include steering an assault bike through a dense forest during a raging thunderstorm whilst blindfolded, retrieving the feather of an Icanor from each of Auroria's 12 highest peaks and several other tests of martial, spiritual and intellectual prowess.

* **Argent Priesthood -** This institution combines the Chaplaincy and Sanguinary Priesthood of the Blood Angels into one entity. Though the roles of Chaplains and Sanguinary Priests remain separate and distinguished, they are united under a single individual known as the High-Apollian. Further, the Argent Priesthood includes a cadre of philosophers known as Sages. There are ten of each suborder in the priesthood, along with three Apollians who head each suborder.

##### -Specialist Ranks-

* **Sages -** Alongside Chaplains and Sanguinary Priests, the Sages make up one third of the Argent Priesthood. These brothers are the philosophers and scholars who cultivate the intellectual heritage of Auroria. They are wise men who guide the Chapter in many ways, for their fields of study are as numerous as the stars in the night sky. From millitary theorems, to religious schools of thought or the abstract considerations of ontology, their role is to advise and give counsel in all things, as well as to preserve that which the mortals of Silverdawn have long discarded.

* **Crypteia -** The Crypteia are a small group of independent agents that monitor the High-Apollian and the Argent Priesthood as a whole. Many duties that would normally be taken up by several separate branches in an Astartes Chapter have been combined to form the Argent Priesthood. It holds sway over all medical and spiritual matters, save those related to the perils of the warp. The Crypteia were founded to ensure the complete and utter loyalty to the Chapter and the Imperium. They investigate and observe, reporting only to the Lord of Auroria, for Crypteia are appointed by the Pantokrátōr directly. Although a select number of chosen individuals within the Chapter are aware of their existence, none but the Chapter Master himself know their identities.

* **Dawnsayers -** The sanctioned psykers of the Chapter that fulfill the role of the Librarius. Though the blood of Sanguinius runs strong in the Argent Eagles, the Dawnsayers have always been few in number, often amounting to only a handful in the entirety of the Brotherhood. The fact that all of the Chapter's most powerful psykers were well versed in its philosophies has lead to the belief that they hold principles which can be used to better comprehend the mysteries of the immaterium. Though many tasks usually reserved for a Chapter's Librarius are overseen by the Argent Priesthood, they still see to the recording and logging of the Chapter's History and advise their brethren in matters of the Warp.

* **Apocryphan Ancients -** Among the sacred Dreadnoughts of the Argent Eagles, the oldest and most venerable are known as the Apocryphan Ancients, each one being affiliated with a specific Host or suborder and given a corresponding title such as Apocryphan Ancient of Wrath, Apocryphan Ancient of Radiance etc. Sleeping in the high chambers of the Eyrie, these machines of war are unparalleled in their holy fury and hold the important duty of remembering the Chapter's history, values and cultural identity to prevent them from ever being lost. As such, they are never deployed en masse and are only awakened in times of great peril.

##### -Artisan Orders-

There exist two Artisan Orders in the Chapter's structure which do not constitute as their own combat formations, but rather small sub-orders that the brothers of the Argent Eagles may be part of in addition to their regular roles. Be they warriors of the battle companies, members of the priesthood, or honour guards, regardless of rank and duty all those deemed worthy may join one or both of the artisan orders to hone their crafts. Neither order has a fixed number of inducted, which differs from year to year. It is not unheard of for some to leave the Artisan Orders and to fully dedicate themselves to other tasks.

* **Asími-Wardens -** Asími-Wardens are those brothers who have chosen to pursue further study in the fields of architecture and engineering. They are adept at maintaining, repairing and at times expanding the facilities of the Argent Eyrie and the surrounding city of Silverdawn. They are also masters at establishing, fortifying and reinforcing defensive positions in the field. The Asími-Wardens are scattered throughout the various companies and institutions of the Chapter, though many of their number belong to the Techmarines. In any case the Armoury often calls on their talents for many tasks, which is why the Master of the Forge is more commonly known as the Asímion. It is his decision who may be allowed into the Asími-Wardens. Being masters of working with Asími-Steel they know the most effective ways of reinforcing structures without tarnishing their visual vibrancy. Though they are supposed to focus on a building's structural integrity and actual use, many of them still implement artistic elements into their designs and repairs, usually in cooperation with the Amaranthine Artisans.

* **Amaranthine Artisans -** Even though all Astartes of the Argent Eagles have artistic interests, only a chosen few are privileged to dedicate themselves more deeply to this calling. Of the many carvings, mosaics, arches, gates, glassworks and other brilliant pieces of craftsmanship seen throughout the Eyrie, a great number were made by the hands of the Artisans. They are the ones who compose the greatest ballads and poems telling of the Chapter's glorious deeds and only they are trusted to immortalise their brothers with chisel and brush.

##### -Specialist Officer Ranks-

* **Blind Prophet -** The Blind Prophet is what one might consider the closest thing to a Captain within the Hadean Host. He guards the Dusken Vault deep beneath the Argent Eyrie where the mad warriors which he leads are confined.

* **High-Apollian -** Master of the Argent Priesthood and therefore the head of the Chapter's philosophers, priests, and Chaplains. He holds the keys to the most secure Gene-Seed stocks found in the Argent Eyrie and is unmatched in the apothecarian ways of medicine. It is he who holds responsibility for the safekeeping of every relic held inside the Chapter Reliquary. As the leader of the Argent Priesthood, he seeks to inspire devotion to both the Argent Faith of Auroria as well as the Chapter's ancient philosophies. The High-Apollian helps all those whose struggle with the gene flaws is most severe. Having fully mastered the Blinding Radiance he instructs all who wish to harness its full potential. His voice hold tremendous weight in the Chapter, for the soul of the Argent Eagles lies, for the most part, in his hands.

* **Apollians** **-** The Apollians are three senior members of the Argent Priesthood who perform duties like training acolytes and carrying out important duties related to their roles. There is one for each division in the Priesthood. The Apollian Chaplain, the Apollian Sanguis, and the Apollian Sage. They are respected and revered masters of medicine, philosophy and spiritual purity that guide their fellow brothers in all things. The Apollians sit alongside the High-Apollian on the Council of Dawn to offer counsel regarding matters of the Chapter's physical and spiritual wellbeing.

* **Dawnlord -** Head of the Dawnsayers, sanctioned psykers wielding the powers of the Warp. Like most other Chief-Librarians he serves as a close confidant and advisor to the Chapter Master, though it is unclear whether his voice is heeded as much as that of the High-Apollian. Recording and studying the Chapter's history also falls to him and his order.

* **Asímion -** The Asímion is the Chapter's Master of the Forge as well as the leader of the sub-order of builders known as the Asími-Wardens. All building and maintenance operations of the Chapter's structures and the managing of its Armoury fall under his jurisdiction. This person is also considered the highest authority when it comes to the defense of the Fortress-Monastery.

* **Master of the Arts -** Head of the Chapter's artists known as the Amaranthine Artisans. He chooses which warriors will be allowed to join the Artisans and teaches them to hone their skills. Though it is currently held by the captain of the 3rd, the title is not bound to a specific rank. Even a mere battle-brother could, in theory, be granted this honour if he is judged worthy by merit of his skill.

* **Kubernete** **-** Commander of the Argent Fleet.

### Order of Battle, Era Indomitus

#### Headquarters

**-Chapter Master-**
**Aléxandros Themistocles Aetós**
***Pantokrátōr of the Silver Hosts***
***Lord-Resplendent of Silverdawn and Auroria***
***"The King of Sages"***

**Phaethonian Guard**
**-Commander of the Phaethonian Guard-**
**Brother Peritas Tio Dawros**

**14 Phaethonian Guards**

***-Asímion-***
**Brother Terrestus Tel**

**Asími-Wardens**
**30 Techmarines**
**2000 Servitors**
**5 Predators**
**3 Whirlwinds**
***-High-Apollian-***
**Brother Vangelis Tsoliades Adamos**

**3 Apollians**

**10 Sages**
**10 Chaplains**
**10 Sanguinary Priests**

***-Master of the Arts-***
**Captain Kalykus Hephael Memnon**
***-Dawnlord-***
**Brother Kallior Odyz Karvarados**

**5 Epistolaries**
**6 Codiciers**
**8 Lexicaniums**
**3 Acolytum**
**2 Furioso Librarian Dreadnoughts**

***-Kubernete-***
**Captain Kaius Andromachus Vergamemnon**

**1 Battle Ship**
**1 Battle Barge**
**1 Grand Cruiser**
**5 Strike Cruisers**
**3 Vanguard Cruisers**
**40 Escorts**

**55 Ptéryga Pattern Thunderhawk Gunships**
**3 Thunderhawk Transporters**
**60 Stormraven Gunships**
**300 Ptéryga Pattern Interceptors & Assault Bombers**
***-Lord of Plenty-***
**Brother Zagryl Vohrst Clymedes**

#### Companies

***"Holy Dominions"*** | **2nd Host**
***"Grievous Paladins"*** | **3rd Host**
***"Castata Viscounts"*** | **4th Host**
***"Prophets Radiant"*** | **5th Host**
**Captain Artorius**
**Aethlios**
**Castus**
***"The Prince of Trireme"***

**2 Lieutenants**
**Host Heralds**
**Champion of the Host**

**5 Veteran Close Support Squads**
**2 Veteran Fire Support Squads**
**3 Veteran Battleline Squads**

**Terminators**

**3 Furioso Dreadnoughts**

**Captain Aeacus**
**Dorius**
**Patroclus**
***"The Eye of Fire"***
***"The Tear-Blooded"***

**2 Lieutenants**
**Host Heralds**
**Champion of the Host**
**Host Veterans**

**5 Close Support**
**2 Fire Support Squads**
**3 Battleline Squads**

**3 Dreadnoughts**

**Captain Kalykus**
**Hephael**
**Memnon**
***"The Arabesque Blade"***
***-Master of the Arts-***

**2 Lieutenants**
**Host Heralds**
**Champion of the Host**
**Host Veterans**

**6 Close Support Squads**
**2 Fire Support Squads**
**2 Battleline Squad**

**3 Dreadnoughts**

**Captain Cassadrus**
**Aristos**
**Crethan**
***"The Star-Touched Scholar"***
***"The Argent Presager"***

**2 Lieutenants**
**Host Heralds**
**Champion of the Host**
**Host Veterans**

**4 Close Support Squads**
**4 Fire Support Squads**
**2 Battleline Squads**

**4 Dreadnoughts**

**Captain Callus**
**Aeneas**
**Moritrus**
***"The Scythe of Justice"***
***"The Reaper of Heresy"***

**2 Lieutenants**
**Host Heralds**
**Champion of the Host**
**Host Veterans**

**2 Close Support Squads**
**3 Fire Support Squads**
**5 Battleline Squads**

**3 Dreadnoughts**

**Reserve Assault Company**

**Captain Arikles**
**Varn**
**Arenox**
***"Of the Terror-Shine"***

**2 Lieutenants**
**Host Heralds**
**Champion of the Host**
**Host Veterans**

**1 Fire Support Squad**
**9 Close Support Squads**

**2 Dreadnoughts**

**Reserve Fire Support Company**

**Captain Melenael**
**Penthesikles**
**Advus *"The Unsundered"***

**2 Lieutenants**
**Host Heralds**
**Champion of the Host**
**Host Veterans**

**1 Close Support Squad**
**9 Fire Support Squads**

**6 Dreadnoughts**

**Reserve Battleline Company**

**Captain Gabrichel**
**Dyon**
**Tetus**
***"Of the Unseen Dawn"***

**2 Lieutenants**
**Host Heralds**
**Champion of the Host**
**Host Veterans**

**2 Close Support Squads**
**8 Battleline Squads**

**2 Dreadnoughts**

**Reserve Assault Company**

**Captain Eonos**
**Tetrith**
**Vara**
***"The Sword of Heaven"***
***"The Cloudbreaker"***

**2 Lieutenants**
**Host Heralds**
**Champion of the Host**
**Host Veterans**

**10 Close Support Squads**

**1 Dreadnought**

**Void Company**

**Captain Kaius**
**Andromachus**
**Vergamemnon**
***-Kubernete-***
***"The Blood-Harpy"***

**2 Lieutenants**
**Host Heralds**
**Champion of the Host**
**Host Veterans**

**2 Close Support Squads**
**3 Fire Support Squads**
**5 Battleline Squads**

**Terminators**

**4 Dreadnoughts**

**Minodwin**
***-Master of Recruits-***

**2 Lieutenants**

**Scout Squads**

**Brother Tarizel Avandum Crato**
***-Blind Prophet-***

**Black Priests**

***Undisclosed number of fallen Battle-Brothers***

**All Argent Eagles Space Marines who have succumbed to the madness of the Black Rage serve in the Hadean Host, including Dreadnoughts.**

### Host Characteristics and Specialties

* **1st Host "Holy Dominions"** - The most skilled and usually oldest warriors of the Chapter. The Holy Dominions have mastered more combat doctrines, strategies and forms of warfare than any other Host, their name earned through the experience of centuries. They are expected to excel at whatever task they are given, and rarely do they disappoint. The 1st Host suffered the lightest losses during the Devastation of Baal, and so they are fully aware of just how different their new Primaris brothers are. They now see themselves as the preservers of the Chapter's identity in a time of rapid change come the Era Indomitus. The terrible losses sustained at Baal have become a core element in the company's culture, so that even their livery now displays Baal and its moons in the form of a proud sigil. Their prized banners, unchanged for millenia, have been rewoven to include cloth dyed blood-red as well as bright silver. The Primaris, who joined the Argent Eagles without knowledge of the ways of Auroria, were eyed with skepticism by the veterans of the Holy Dominions. Though they are meant to hold wisdom in their hearts above all else, they cannot help but question such a sudden replacement of their fallen brethren, even in a time of great crisis. Emotions, rather than rational thoughts, have affected too many of them following the Devastation. Still, the members of the Veteran Company have had many years to study and apply the philosophies of Auroria, so that their warriors are generally calm and compromising with a knack for diplomacy.

* **2nd Host "Grievous Paladins"** - The Grievous Paladins embody one of the Chapter's core beliefs; that true wisdom can only be achieved by experiencing and understanding grief and sorrow, feelings that all heirs of the Great Angel have a strong relationship with. Many brothers of the 2nd often try to invoke strong feelings of loss by meditating and attempting to call upon visions of their genesires demise, an event so traumatising to the sons of Sanguinius that they feel its aftershock to this day. However, this approach is a dangerous undertaking that has led several Battle-Brothers into the depths of the Black Rage. The act of sacrificing oneself for others and its meaning seems to have become an important part of the philosophies over which the Grievous Paladins often argue within the Odeon of Acuity. In recent years, the members of the 2nd Company have developed a strange fascination with the Lamenters Space Marine Chapter, and have actively been researching them and their history. It is even said that one of the former captains of the 2nd Host once fell in battle with the Lamenters warcry on his lips, rather than that of the Argent Eagles. During burial rituals of the Chapter, the warriors of the 2nd are known for delivering extensive and moving eulogies. The few that survived the Devastation of Baal have become most acquainted with grief indeed.

* **3rd Host "Castata Viscounts"** - This Host has always been that with the largest portion of artistically gifted individuals. Many of the Amaranthine Artisans are Marines from the 3rd, and accordingly its captains have often held the office of *Master of the Arts*. The members of the Castata Viscounts can be identified from afar by their excessively ornate wargear, which gives new meaning to the word splendour. Even so, one should never underestimate them on the field of battle. They have honed their elegant swordplay and precise marksmanship as finely as they have their artistic crafts. Their name originates in the title bestowed upon the captains of the 3rd, that being the *Viscount of Castata*. Once a fellow captain joked that the Battle-Brothers of the 3rd were so covered in battle honours and ornamentations that they all looked as though they could be the Viscount. What was meant as a somewhat mocking jest was quickly taken up as a proud honorific that the 3rd Host still bears to this day.

* **4th Host "Prophets Radiant"** - The Prophets Radiant of the 4th are famed for their peerless control and mastery of the geneflaw known as the Blinding Radiance. Most Astartes that have unlocked the flaw's potential learned to do so while serving in the ranks of the Prophets. Many of their number have risen to become honoured guardians of the holiest sanctuaries inside the Argent Eyrie. They are more in tune with the Aurorian philosophies and the Argent Faith than most of their peers, rivaled only by the veterans of the Holy Dominions. It is not unheard of for warriors to be plucked from their ranks in order to be inducted into the Argent Priesthood. This Host has ever been the one with the fewest cases of Space Marines falling to the Black Rage, and through this has earned a reputation of spiritual purity. The Argent Eagles have some of the weakest psychic potential among the Chapters of the Blood, and have therefore experienced little of Sanguinius' foresight. The members of the Prophets Radiant however have been known to occasionally catch glimpses of future events, thus earning their epithet.

* **5th Host "Righteous Hammers"** - Holding Justice as their highest virtue, the Righteous Hammers of the 5th Host are synonymous with righting the wrongs of the galaxy. Where the judgement of others is clouded by uncertainty, they act to protect the innocent and punish the guilty, rooting out injustice wherever they find it. On many occasions, they have put themselves above the laws of the Lex Imperialis, deeming it right that they should uphold true justice, regardless of what the lawmen of the wider Imperium claim to be the Emperor's word. This inclination to self-righteous behaviour is shared by others in the Chapter, though there are some decrees that not even they dare to oppose. Especially not since a living Primarch has begun to enforce them himself. Regardless, they will bring down their judgement like bolts of thunder on all those whom they perceive as lacking.

* **6th Host "Wrathful Foebreakers" -** Regardless of their own unique characteristics, the warriors of the different Hosts are still tightly bound together by their shared culture, beliefs and values. They are united as one order and only rarely will you find members of different Hosts clash over their unique approaches to serving the Imperium. The exception to this rule is the 6th Company, who differ from their brethren, more so now than ever before. In the past they were merely the wrathful horde that could break through any wall or butcher their way through any army. But ever since they were reformed with the new breed of Primaris, they have become more distant from the identity of the Chapter than any other Host. Though their art is as beautiful as any other, they do not seem to feel the same joy when creating something that their brothers do. Behind all their actions hangs a strange lack of passion. The prayers they direct at the Argent Aeon are filled with doubt and uncertaintly, almost as if an unseen weight was placed upon them. It is only when in the midst of battle, when felling their enemies, that they seem truly fulfilled. Even so, they have upheld their duties without fail and have proven themselves as brilliant warriors. They can break the enemy where he is mightiest and turn his strengths against him. Their unbridled wrath has turned the tide of battle many times. While much of the Chapter's Death Company is composed of former Battle-Brothers from the 6th, their control over the Black Rage is still commendable given their aggressive ways. And yet there is something about them that summons an air of unease wherever they go. Their very presence seems to invite confrontation with their comrades, as their violent demeanor and savage terror-tactics sit ill with many in the Chapter. The Council of Dawn has deliberated much over what should be done, for many of its members fear that a strange curse, perhaps related to the Black Rage, has befallen the Wrathful Foebreakers.

* **7th Host "Defiant Sentinels"** - Wherever there is a battlement that needs manning or a gate that requires guarding, these Marines will be standing tall and defiant. In a brotherhood that prefers a more direct and lofty approach to fighting, they are the ones that know how to best fortify any given strategic position and hold it for as long as possible. Covering retreats and establishing fallback positions are also roles they excel at. It only makes sense then, that many among their ranks serve the Chapter as Asími-Wardens, masters of construction and defensive strategems. Yet in the end, they are still sons of the Silver City, meaning that it is not uncommon for them to suggest such tactics as "the best defense is a good offense" and the like. In an order that adores the skies, the Defiant Sentinels are fated to remain with their feet planted firmly on the earth, looking upwards with shackled wings as their brothers rain death from above and carve their glory in the rings of heaven. It takes selfless and dutfiful souls to fill the ranks of the 7th, but even they can faulter in their restraint. This has lead to the 7th Host often being assigned additional Chaplains to ensure they stay at their posts and only defy the enemy onslaught, instead of their own orders.

* **8th Host *'*"Silent Watchers"** - A blade is most deadly when it falls unexpectedly. Laying ambushes is an art these warriors have honed for a long time, striking quickly and suddenly from the dark clouds of the night sky and leaving no survivors. They attack from the shadows with blades and boltguns at the ready, being as subtle as can be expected from Astartes. While these warriors may excel at unexpected assaults, they are just as ready to assist their fellow Battle-Brothers in any combat situation. Out of all warriors in the Silver Hosts, they decorate and ornament their wargear the least. They are often utilised as surveillance troops alongside the scouts of the Chapter, but can also serve to create distractions and diversions on the field of battle.

* **9th Host "Heavenbound Eagles"** - To soar through the air and fly high above the battlefield to cast down the enemies of man is an honour that the Techmarines and Battle-Brothers of this Host have earned for themselves. Be it in the standard pattern machines of the wider Imperium or in their own modified craft, if it flies then the 9thwill use it to its fullest potential and show all those who dare oppose the Emperor's will that mastery over the heavens is a privilege belonging to His Angels of Death. Though these skilled pilots are no strangers to void warfare, they show the peak of their abilities in atmospheric fights for the sky. One of their most important tasks is the deployment of their brothers, as the Argent Eagles prefer to drop from aircraft in the skies rather than hurling themselves towards battle from the coldness of space using drop pods. This kind of warfare is where the Argent Eagles as a whole excel, regardless of the company. Yet even so, the Battle-Brothers of the Heavenbound Eagles stand apart from the rest as paragons of their craft, a fact that has caused many of them to adapt accordingly lofty and prideful personalities. Many of them are gifted pilots, working perfectly in tandem with the numerous Techmarines attached to their Host, operating aircraft machinery as though they themselves had been taught by the priests of Mars. In one way or another, the 9th Company has always enjoyed special treatment from Chapter Command to ensure that the order's sharpest weapon never dulls. In addition, it is their esteemed honour to bear the name of "Eagles" twicefold. And as if that was not enough, they are also counted the 9th of the Hosts, thus bearing the number of the original Legion. Where some accuse them of arrogance, they themselves maintain that their demeanor is one of earned and thoroughly deserved confidence.

* **10th Host "Vengeful Void-Warriors"** - Death to the traitors. Vengeance for the fallen. These words summise the thoughts of the 10th Host better than any other. When needed, they will not hesitate to purge the Xenos from the stars. But if there is one enemy they hate more than any other, it is those who would dare betray their own kind. Naturally all loyal servants of the Imperium detest heretics and traitors, but to the Marines called the Vengeful Void-Warriors, betrayal is a crime so severe, so unforgivable that the mere sight of traitors can drive them to the very cusp of seething rage. It was treachery that burned the Emperor's dream at the stake of ignorance, and it was treachery that felled their beloved genefather. The Vengeful Void-Warriors remember the crimes of the past, and punish all who would dare repeat them. While this has given the company a unique form of tenacity against the archenemy, it has also burdened them with an increased vulnerability to the Red Thirst and the Black Rage. Undeterred by this, the men of the 10th aim to rid the galaxy of the filth that turned its back on the Emperor's light. Their Captains have also had a consistent history of being dubbed the Kubernete, the supreme commander of the Chapter Fleet, for their innovative and sometimes brilliant strategies of void warfare. When it comes to the command of the Argent Fleet, the insights of the 10th Host are always held in high regard. It is for that reason that they have a considerable amount of influence regarding the deployment of the Chapter's ships. After the Argent Fleet was dealt an utter defeat in the void above Baal, its survivors have reconsidered their fixation on the traitors, realizing the truly existential threat posed by the Hive Swarms.

* **11th Host "Novices"** - The scouts of the Chapter. The newly implanted neophytes that will eventually grow into the next generation of Space Marines. They survey areas, train in the basics of Astartes warfare and observe their seniors from afar. Though they accompany other Hosts to the battlefield they are always held back from the most dangerous warzones, since the Argent Eagles have had a history of losing their scouts in tragic disasters time and time again, which is why the Novices are always treated with great concern for their safety.

### Host Politics

The different Companies that make up the Silver Hosts are unique in many ways, more so than those of other Adeptus Astartes Chapters. Not just their combat practices, but also their histories and values are what make them stand apart from each other. Though not enough to cause serious divides, these differences have always affected the way the Hosts interact with each other in both a social and political sense. The officer positions held by the Company Captains are generally distributed evenly, and give much influence and power to their respective Hosts. Some offices like the Kubernete may be bound to a specific company by tradition, but this does not mean that other companies have never attempted to claim the positions for themselves. The commander of the Chapter Fleet wields great power and his voice holds much weight on the Council of 12. For the same reason, the position of High-Apollian is highly sought after by those who wish to shape the spiritual practices of the Council of Dawn, even though the majority of brothers burdened with this office have long since come from the 4th Company.

In this manner, the decisions of the ruling councils are often influenced by these internal struggles for authority, leading to campaigns in which one Host is favored above another in terms of warriors and wargear commited to the fight. In spite of all this, the motivation behind such intrigues is rarely to gain power, but instead glory. Having one's voice heard more loudly in the Odeon of Acuity or the chambers of the Chapter Command means not to be granted priviliges or to posess more might, but to be assigned those missions that promise the hardest battles and the greatest glories. Even if Strike Forces are ideally comprised of warriors and ships from multiple companies, some Hosts yearn for the opportunity to prove themselves by deploying alone during times when their company is not at full strength, assuming their Captain has the influence to make it so.

What few could have predicted is the change the Primaris have brought into these matters. Now that most warriors of the Argent Eagles are of the Primaris kind, the divide between the new Battle-Brothers filling the lower ranks and the Firstborn Veterans that rule the Chapter has become abundantly clear. Many seats on the Council of 12 and the Council of Dawn have been filled by Astartes drawn from the survivors of the 1st Company, rather than the new warriors of the Primaris. Not all Firstborn share distrust of the newcomers, which has caused friction between those who wish to embrace them and those who would wait to see if they are as reliable as claimed. An example of this is when the Captain of the 5th Company chose to promote a Primaris to be his second Lieutenant, meant as a clear sign to the naysayers in Chapter Command that he does not approve of the prejudice with which their new brothers are treated. Political maneuvers like these have become more frequent, with some meant purely as a way to spite the opposing side, as petty as that may be. The development of this divide is just one more issue that the Chapter will have to deal with in the coming wars, lest it split the brotherhood beyond mending.

### Deathwatch Service

The scourge of the Xenos that pollute the Argent Aeon's galaxy is a pressing matter for all Astartes. Their disgust for the alien has always been part of their battles, but ever since the Devastation of Baal, the Argent Eagles have developed a deep hatred for the vile Tyranids which plague the Imperium of Mankind. Because of this, several veterans that survived Baal have chosen to join the ranks of the Deathwatch. The only warriors in the Chapter who would be reluctant to accept this honour are the brothers of the Vengeful Void-Warriors, who consider the eradication of traitors to be their highest priority.

Once part of a Kill-Team, the chosen veterans generally find themselves able to easily cooperate with their cousins from other Chapters, even when forced to work together with Marines from Chapters that the Argent Eagles view with disdain. Since many of the brothers that choose to join the Deathwatch are the more wise and experienced veterans, they tend to be highly focussed on their duties, thereby avoiding unnecessary conflict.

## Chapter Culture

### Core Values and Beliefs

Honour. Splendour. Wisdom. These edicts are what define the Argent Eagles at their barest core. They strive to be warriors who have mastered their lives in mind and body. They pay great attention to how they carry themselves, how they walk, how they talk and how they appear to others. Be it eloquent speech or finely polished armor, the Angels of the Silver City seek to represent humanity at its most glorious, in accordance with the principals of the *Paideias Extremis.* These principles have proven essential in controlling the trinity of curses known as the Black Rage, the Red Thirst and the Blinding Radiance. They focus their thinking to sharpen their minds and elevate themselves as high as they can, making the most of their superhuman brains. They meditate over their ancient philosophical conundrums to find harmony in their souls and to shield themselves against the corrupting influences of the Ruinous Powers. They push their bodies to the apex of their gymnastic skills and physical strength.

"*An age of light to save us all.
 An age of strife that saw it fall.
 To bring the dawn and end our woes,
 The Emperor of Man arose.
 By treachery His dawn was slain,
 All hope for light was drowned in pain.
 The dusk now looms above all life,
 Until returns the age of strife.*"
— A prophetic poem written by an Apollian during the early years of the Chapter
Before the coming of the Era Indomitus, the Argent Eagles saw the galaxy as as place on which the shadows of the *Long Dusk* had settled. They believed the *Long Dusk* to be a period of time that precedes the *Last Night*, when all light dies and the age of strife is reborn in the blood of humankind. It was a bleak outlook on the future, one that seemed vindicated when the Great Rift opened. Yet against all odds, the sons of the Silver City witnessed the rebirth of a living Primarch, one who brought legions of enhanced Space Marines, just like the great warriors of the dawn who once delivered their people from *Old Night*. Many on Auroria now see Guilliman as the rising sun of humanity who will usher in a new golden age. Spurned by their religious fervour, the men of the Chapter have pledged themselves to aid the Imperial Regent in what they now believe to be their ultimate duty. Soaring like the great Icanor Eagles of their home, and clad in the shining silver of its sun, the Argent Eagles endeavor to revert the damage caused by the enemies of man and blind all who oppose them with the light of the coming dawn.

### Views on Baseline Humans

The men of the Chapter do not see normal humans as disposable or weak, for they realize that their own strength was given to them through extraordinary means devised by the Argent Aeon, and that the common man bears no fault in his inferiority. Self-reflection and acceptance of one's shortcomings is one of the first lessons taught to Neophytes upon their initiation, in an attempt to stomp out any traces of arrogance. It is also a mathematically logical truth, that the trillions of loyal subjects who work their lives away to sustain the Imperium are what keep it alive. Without the innumerable masses of factorum workers, administratum officials or millitarum soldiers, the Emperor's Dominion would have crumbled to ash long ago.

These views were not always as strongly held as they are now. The Crusade of the Claws and the great sacrifices made there by their mortal allies drastically changed the Chapter's opinions on non-Astartes. The very livery of the order has since reflected their respect for the common soldiery of the Imperium.

It is for that reason that the Argent Eagles show respect to all loyal and productive subjects of the Golden Throne. The Astartes of Auroria understand that the sole purpose of their existence is to protect mankind, so that is the duty which they will carry out no matter what. That said, they also understand that saving each life in need of protection is impossible. Therefore they often choose to condemn the few for the benefit of the many whenever necessary. They do not think twice about razing a world of billions to the ground, if it serves a greater purpose for the survival of mankind.

### Dedication to Art

"*Art for art's sake is an empty phrase. There is an endgoal to it, always. Art for the sake of truth, art for the sake of the good and the beautiful, that is the faith we sons of Silverdawn are searching for.*"
—Third Captain Venuphros, former Master of the Arts, speaking to a Captain of the Flesh Tearers about the Chapter's artistic side.
One of the most notable and visually obvious aspects of Argent Eagles' culture is their dedication to art. Armor, weapons, vehicles, paintings, songs, architecture and even movements whilst fighting. They all hold potential to be made beautiful, to become the canvas for the brilliance locked inside the mind of an Astartes. They express their ideals and beliefs in every stroke of their brushes and every strike of their chisels. Even the countless servitors that roam the facilities and ships of the Chapter are shrouded with simple, yet elegant, white sheets of cloth that obscure their unsightly appearance and hide it underneath a pleasant display of artistry. Neophytes frequently use these servitors as blank canvases to practice on.

Not all Battle-Brothers of the Chapter ascribe hidden meanings or deep thoughts to their works, some simply enjoy the act of creation. But they all partake in these passions in one way or another. Finding a surface in the Argent Eyrie that has not been graced with elegant embellishment would be a truly challenging task. As a geneline that must hold back not only the Twin-Flaws of the great Angel's blood but also the Blinding Radiance, it is crucial to discipline their spirits and redirect the strain that fills their bodies. The greatest works of art the Chapter creates are made by the hands of the Amaranthine Artisans and sometimes even given to other organizations within the Imperium as signs of respect or gratitude. Gifting them to other Chapters as a form of courtesy, especially during pilgrimages to worlds such as Baal, is also a common practice. The reason for why only the Amaranthine Artisans are privileged to follow their passions to such great extent is to ensure that the Chapter as a whole does not fall into obsession or, worse yet, excess. For something as majestic as the craft of artists can be easily twisted to serve the Ruinous Powers.

Many forms of art are taught and practiced in the Argent Eyrie, a continuous endeavor to master all manners of beauty. From the writing of poetry and theatrical plays to the composing of musical pieces, all kinds of self-expression are at home in the hearts of the Argent Eagles. Even the musings of philosophy capture this spirit as merely another form of art.

One important tradition related to the Chapter's passion is the chiseling of a Battle-Brother's statue, which is considered the final test of an Amaranthine Artisan in training. Whenever a Battle-Brother greatly distinguishes himself, he is honored with a statue that will be displayed on the Promenade of Legends. To ensure that the Marine is depicted exactly the way he wants to be remembered, they must pose before an artisan until the statue is completed. Every time said Marine earns another honour the statue is replaced with a new one. Though many of the Marines prefer to simply keep their older sculptures.

Many halls and chambers within the Fortress-Monastery serve as workshops and forges for the passions of the artists. These places are as scattered and numerous as the holy places of worship in the Eyrie, yet almost equal in their sanctity to the brothers that toil in the confines of their breathtaking walls. One essential aspect of the Argent Eagles' art is the variety of colour used. While other great craftsmen in the Imperium limit their creativity through strict adherence to Chapter livery and ecclesial colour schemes, the Argent Eagles cherish every shade of every colour known to the eyes of man. From deep purples to radiant reds and subtle greys, any and all hues of creation are employed in the works of the Chapter's artisans.

Just as varied as the colours are the styles and forms of art created by the artisans. The Argent Eagles have collected pieces of cultural and artistic significance for thousands of years, and have never seized incorporating the knowledge gained from them into their own works. For what is the galaxy, if not an endless ocean of inspiration? From paintings that depict thousands of detailed soldiers at once to simplistic murals of animals, creation takes many forms. The meaning of beauty is just another philosophy for the Argent Eagles to explore.

"*Hear me, great ones of Terra!*
I weep for Sanguinius, my sire.

Bitterly moaning, deeply mourning,

I weep for my lord.

O Sanguinius, my father,

You were the light of our realm.

The Emperor's lance, the sword at His side,

The shield before Him.

A glorious angel, more fair than any mortal man.

An evil fate has robbed us.

The wild birds and noble beasts,

That witnessed your flights,

All things high and low,

Weep for you.

All the wild things of a thousand worlds beneath a thousand stars,

The skies through which you joyously soared,

Weep for you.

Night and day murmur.

Let the great ones of strong-walled Terra,

Weep for you.

Let the finger of victory be stretched out in mourning.

Sanguinius, valiant Primarch,

Hark, there is an echo through all the Imperium,

Like an ocean of sorrow, storm-stricken.

Weep do now all the paths where we, your sons, marched together.

Where the foes we battled; the alien and the heretic,

Traitor and rebel, daemon and brother,

The corrupted and the deceived, the blind and the selfish.

The bloodsoaked lands where they fell,

Weep for you.

The wind river upon red Baalfora, whose cliffs you used to walk,

Weeps for you.

Baal and Baalind, where once you saved the tribes of salt and stone,

Weep for you.

The mountain you climbed where first you took flight,

Weeps for you.

Every stone upon every earth,

Every drop of water within every ocean,

Every blade of grass within every field,

Every grain of sand amidst every desert,

Hark, my father, can you hear them?

They all weep for you now.

The defenders of strong-walled Terra,

Where the Warmaster was killed,

Weep for you.

All the people of Mankind,

Weep for you, Sanguinius.

Those who toiled in fields to bring grain for your eating,

Mourn for you now.

Those who mined the metals of which your armor was wrought,

Mourn for you now.

Those who poured wine for your drinking,

Mourn for you now.

The children you held aloft with your gentle smile,

Lament for you now.

The people of the salt wastes and the red moons,

That were absolved by your mercy,

Lament for you now.

The humble soldiers, lying bleeding on the battlefield,

They do not heed their own suffering,

They lament for you now.

All the loyal warriors of your brothers,

Who stood against the Terror,

Lament for you now.

We, your sons, the Angels of the Blood,

That were once as savaged beasts,

We, redeemed by your grace,

We, redeemed by your glory,

We, redeemed by your might,

O how we weep for you now.

O how we cry for you now.

O how we shout and rage and rave for you now.

A galaxy, denied the light of hope,

Weeps for you now.

What is this deep sleep which holds you?

You are lost in the dark and cannot hear me now.

My sire,

My father,

Great Sanguinius,

You cannot hear me now.*"*

—An excerpt from "Lament for Sanguinius", a play written by a Captain of the Argent Eagles, claimed by the author to be based upon a real eulogy delivered in the aftermath of the Siege of Terra

### Art of Philosophy

"*Philosophy is the science of truth. Truth stems from the Emperor. Philosophy is understanding that which you do not know. The unknown is known to the Emperor. Philosophy, therefore, is the study of our Lord, of humanity's soul. Question everything. Everything but Him.*"
— Chapter IV. of the Legisla Auroris
Since the earliest days of human settlement on Auroria the people toiling under the silver rays of light have preserved and cultivated the thought eyperiments, ideas and concepts brought from Holy Terra. Known to them as the old philosophies, they strove to unlock the mysteries of the human mind. When the world became the seat of a Space Marine Chapter it was inevitable that these same traditions would define the values of the planet's new protectors. Although the Astartes of the Silver City only fully embraced the practice of philosophy after their first arduous Crusade, they did so with more fervor and commitment than any of the baseline humans ever could. A powerful tool against the black, red and silver gene-curses of their blood and a valuable weapon against the whispers of the warp.

Each warrior of the Argent Eagles has his own set of beliefs based on his own observations and studies. And while all brothers share the same foundation for their values, no two brothers will interpret them in quite the same way. Some may seek to understand their own humanity, others the very meaning of life or the nature of truth and knowledge. Many questions have been asked and argued over in the confines of the Odeon of Acuity, about what it means to be an Astartes and what the Argent Aeon intends for mankind as a whole. Controversial topics that have sparked up at times are questions about the nature of divinity, the concept of fate and even discussions about the purpose of the universe itself.

Just as they encourage and teach the study of philosophy, the Sages of the Argent Priesthood are responsible for ensuring that none of their brothers ever entertain thoughts that threaten their spiritual purity or hinder them from fulfilling their duties as Astartes, lest their skull-masked comrades be informed.

### Art of Dueling

" *The most important thing when taking up your blade is your intention to cut the enemy, no matter the method. Whenever you parry, hit, evade, strike or make contact with the enemy's cutting sword, you must cut your opponent in the same movement. If you overthink your options, if you dance without keeping sight of your end goal, which is to cut your enemy, you will not be able to actually cut him.* "
— Chapter X. of the Legisla Auroris
The men of the Argent Eyrie revel in performing duels, a passion which emerged as a form of self expression during the Time of Reforging. In great displays of agility, swordsmanship and strength they regularly compete with one another to determine the best warrior among them. This also serves as a way of training and a form of bonding exercise between members of different Hosts. For the vast majority of Battle-Brothers, it is a unique show of artisty, similiar to the mastery of an intricate dance.

It should therefore be noted that these Astartes only make use of their close quarters weaponry when needed, relying heavily on conventional ranged warfare in most cases. Even during the drop assaults of the Icanorii it is standard doctrine to first empty their bolters and rifles before unsheathing their blades. The prominence of dueling and blades in the Chapter's culture is in large parts a ceremonial and symbolic one, which is why the Space Marines of Auroria have far more experience with honourable, regulated one on one duels than actual battlefield confrontations in melee. Their skills are still remarkable of course, especially when compared to certain other Chapters of the Adeptus Astartes, yet one should not make the mistake of thinking the Argent Eagles to be violent butchers eager to charge into mayhem like many of their brethren in the Blood.

During the banquet of the gathered Chapters of the Blood on Baal, the men of the Argent Eagles challenged so many of their brethren from other Chapters to duels that Chapter Master Aléxandros was forced to reign them in. The Captain of the Castata Viscounts even went so far as to almost challenge Commander Dante himself to a duel.

Even though every Marine of the Chapter is required to be a capable warrior with melee weapons, they see Chain Weapons as crude and inelegant, which has led to a practice of carrying unpowered blades of war. Seeing as Power Weapons are objects too rare for common use among the rank and file, the Argent Eagles instead opt to forge ceremonial blades to carry into battle. Not all Astartes of the Chapter do so, and some simply create their own weapons as an excercise in craftsmanship, brandishing them only during ceremonies or duels, and relying on bolt and combat knife at all other times.

### Festivities

Whenever a great triumph is won or a new Pantokrátōr is elected the Argent Eagles hold grand festivities. The only other times they indulge themselves in such a manner is during the sacred days celebrated by the Chapter which are separate from other imperial holidays. These include:

* ***Day of Apotheosis*** - A day dedicated to the Argent Aeon on which regular citizens of Auroria are allowed entry into certain parts of the Argent Eyrie, and on which aspirants to the Chapter are selected to face the trials of ascension.

* ***Angelic Days*** - During these 7 days preceding sacred Sanguinala, the Aurorian sons of Sanguinius worship and mourn their primogenitor. It is in these dour times that a play by the name of "Lament for Sanguinius" is often performed in the Odeon of Acuity, as it is a tragedy retelling the life and death of their genefather. When they are not occupied praying and mourning, they spend the days by venturing out into the dark underbelly of Silverdawn, where manufactorums and slums fill the Undercity. There they seek those worthy to be saved from the dark hell of Auroria. Any who are deemed to be true servants of the Argent Aeon are freed from the Undercity and allowed to live above ground once more. Sometimes they even select individuals they see potential in and take them from the streets to elevate them to Chapter Thetes and in some cases even aspirants.

* ***Celebar Gladio*** - A grand festival held every 15 years where the Argent Eagles compete to determine the greatest swordsmen among their number. It is here where the Champions of the Hosts and the Chapter Blademaster are named and where powerful and ancient wargear is gifted to promising warriors who have proven themselves.

During most of these festivities extravagant banquets are held where the Argent Eagles enjoy their love for food and wine, especially the baalite wine brought back from Baal after the Devastation. One of the things the Aurorian Space Marines are somewhat ashamed of is the fact that despite their superhuman intellects and skillsets, most of them are atrocious cooks, opting to leave the preparation of dishes to their own chosen Chapter Serfs like most Space Marines do.

### Chapter Serfs

" *Do not think of your Thete as a mere servant. Though that is their role, they are not some mindless servitors you can order around. The Thetes make our food, work our armor and crew our voidships. Their lives are dedicated to easing our burdens, so be grateful with every word you speak to them! Anything less would be unworthy of a son of the Silver City.* "
— Eleventh Captain Nikovel, Master of Recruits
The Serfs of the Argent Eagles are known as Thetes and are trusted members of the Chapter that assist the Astartes in all manner of tasks during their daily lives. If a Thete has attained a high enough standing with his masters he may be allowed to wear robes similar to those the Astartes themselves wear. Occasionally, Thetes are allowed to enter the Odeon of Acuity, either to listen to the Space Marines and their philosophy or to actively take part in debates. The Angels of the Silver City trust their mortal servants to such a degree that they even train them to independently operate the numerous escort vessels of the Chapter. These ships are known to have only a single Space Marine onboard to act as a commander and sometimes none at all, though this leaves them susceptible to boarding actions. As is common throughout the Imperium, Thetes are often given the honour of having their bodily remains repurposed for the creation of Servo-skulls so that they may continue serving their masters in death. The most respected and oldest of these are easily identified by the silver eagle masks placed over their faces.

### Argent Faith

"*The dawn bringeth light.
 The dawn bringeth hope.
 The dawn bringeth faith.
 The dawn bringeth fury.
 As eagles we soar, as angels we fall.
 Thy wings art silver and shalt carryeth us in winds victorious.
 Thy crown is mighty and shalt blesseth our blades.
 Hail thee, Primarch. Hail thee, Emperor.* "
— Battle-Chant of the Argent Priesthood. Chapter I. of the Legisla Auroris

The Argent Faith of Auroria is the sanctioned planetary incarnation of the Imperial Cult, which is practiced by both the world's mortal residents as well as the Space Marines of the Argent Eagles. Heresy against either the Argent Aeon, commonly known as the God-Emperor, or the Star-bright Angel, known by all as the beloved Sanguinius, is not taken lightly by those within the Chapter. As persistent as their faith may be, they are rather flexible when it comes to specific beliefs pertaining to the Imperial Creed. Arguments over the exact nature of godhood and the practices of the church are varied and numerous, affected by the Chapter's philosophical bouts as much as anything else. Even seemingly trivial matters pertaining to He who sits atop the Golden Throne are discussed in length, so one should not be surprised to step into the Odeon of Acuity and find a pair of Battle-Brothers arguing about whether the Emperor's hair used to be a light black or a dark brown.

Of course there are still truths within the Argent Faith that are seen as inherently unassailable. There can be no doubt that the Argent Aeon is the one true God of Mankind, that the stars belong to Him and his people, and that His will guides all of humankind. The many unique prayers, chants, rites and ceremonies taught and practiced by the Argent Priesthood hold a key role in practically every action undertaken by the order. An example of this are the blessings bestowed upon equipment and warriors before battle, regarded as absolutely essential by most, to the point where some may fervently refuse to fight if the proper baptisms have not been completed. In the end, an Astartes' duty will always take priority, forcing even the most stout believers to head into battle without the proper rites and prayers, though such sacrilige tends to weigh heavily on their minds and therefore affect morale.

Another important practice bound to the beliefs of the faith is the sanctity of the Emperor's name. Uttering the words "God-Emperor" or "Emperor" lightly is seen as a grave offense, not just to the Space Marines of the Argent Eagles but to all Aurorians. Only in the holiest of prayers, the most sacred of oaths and the most dire of pronouncements may the name of the Master of Mankind be invoked aloud, since it is believed that there ought to be a great weight and importance behind each use of the words. To speak His name in vain is viewed as a criminal offense severe enough to be sent into Silverdawn's Undercity. To refer to it in the context of a curse would incur the death penalty. This has lead to many unfortunate misunderstandings involving pilgrims, traders and other visitors from the rest of the Imperium, though the Admninistratum has since endeavored to issue warnings to all arriving vessels that one should watch their language on Auroria.

Just like the Imperial Cult of the Ecclesiarchy, the Argent Faith is no stranger to Saints within the pages of its gospel. Many such individuals are revered and honored across the world, from the lowly wretches of the Undercity to the great champions of the Eyrie. Statues and minor shrines cover the Fortress-Monastery of the Chapter, dedicated to legendary figures like the Lady Silvana or the holy Rhamnusia. In many ways these Saints are associated with specific virtues or concepts, so that they have become the subjects of prayers that are deemed too trivial as to be adressed to the Argent Aeon himself.

Some of the highest counted saints in the Argent Faith include:

* **Saint Eos** - Saint of the dawn

* **Saint Rotodoctolos** - Saint of art and brotherhood

* **Saint Silvana** - Saint of camaraderie and perserverance

* **Saint Rhamnusia** - Saint of justice and retribution

* **Saint Theseus** - Saint of the hunt and of voidsmen

* **Saint Cain** - Saint of soldiers and heroism

* **Saint Anaxagoras** - Saint of the stars, the sun and the moon

* **Saint Empedocles** - Saint of nature and poetry

* **Saint Zarathustra** - Saint of wisdom and truth

#### Tarot of the Hosts

As pious followers of the Aeon, the Astartes of Auroria often consult the Emperor's Tarot to try and divine aspects of the future. There exists another deck of sacred cards however, one which is bound to the fate of all the Chapters of the Blood. The Tarot of the Hosts represents all the loyal sons of Sanguinius, alive or dead, and may reveal their destiny through careful study of the cards and their meanings. During great crises, both Tarot decks are mixed and laid out as one to determine the path desired by both the Argent Aeon Star-bright Angel.

When debate was held on whether or not to help the Blood Angels against the Tyranids, many minds were swayed by the Argent Priesthood, who revealed that recent readings of the Tarots had indicated that their destiny would be decided upon Baal.

### Psykers

While the Chapter has always retained a reasonable measure of caution when dealing with psykers, open hatred or discrimination against those sanctioned by the Imperium has never been an issue for them. This lead to a general tolerance for those capable of performing warpcraft within the Chapter, rare as they may be. Though the number of Dawnsayers in their ranks has never been very high, the ones that do emerge are not treated any differently for their abilities. It is known that the Emperor himself was a powerful psyker and that many of the Primarchs, including Sanguinius, possessed latent or active psychic powers. Rejecting or discriminating against those that harness the gifts of the immaterium for the sake of Mankind is a behaviour perceived as tantamount to disrespecting the very heritage of both their Father and their Emperor.

## Chapter Fleet

" *The Argent Fleet is our greatest strength, and the foundation of all our triumphs. For if the fleet is victorious above a world, any enemies below have already lost.* "
— Tenth Captain Kaius, Kubernete of the Argent Fleet
The Argent Eagles have always been fond of destroying their enemies in the cold, unforgiving void of space, and had striven to reflect this in their unusually large fleet. Some of these ships were gifted by the Mechanicus as a sign of gratitude for past assistance, while others were found, reclaimed or commissioned by the Argent Eagles using the considerable wealth of their homeworld. Due to their apt skill at boarding and capturing enemy vessels, the Chapter has a history of successfully taking over and repurposing traitor ships on numerous occasions, usually entrusting them to the Imperial Navy who have the capabilities to crew and maintain so many spacecraft.

Quite a few of the Chapter's old vessels consisted of ships that were taken from the hands of rebels and traitors, including the *Calamity Sanctus*, the mighty Grand Cruiser serving as the main ship of the 10th Host that was able to be salvaged from the Devastaion of Baal. It should be noted that captured ships taken into service by the Chapter fleet often take decades to be reshaped and purified. Blasphemous marks, ritual sites and corrupted materials are removed from every inch of the craft, replaced by insignias of the Argent Faith, intricate works of detailed art and blessed metals of the Mechanicus forges. Due to the numerous rituals and holy procedures required, the purification of any vessel can take many years, bundled with the enormous effort needed for the decoration and ornamentation of its hull and interior. Even with the impressive capabilities of the Trireme shipyards, the *Calamity Sanctus* is said to have been worked on for almost three decades after its reclamation by the Chapter.

Since almost all of the Chapter's former vessels, including their former flagship, met their end during the void war of the Devastation, its current fleet is but a shadow of what it once was. Much of the new fleet was constructed with resources given to the Chapter by Roboute Guilliman and his Indomitus forces, albeit the great wealth of Auroria contributed greatly to the restoration of the Argent Fleet. Even so, several of the ships are still under active construction and those that have left the shipyards find themselves with a lack of navigators. Where once a single navigator was sufficient to chart a route through the warp, now the tides of the warp require multiple members of the Navis Nobilite to risk their souls. These factors combined have thus far restricted the Chapter's efforts in the Era Indomitus, though the restoration of the Argent Eagles proceeds at great speeds. Some ships are frequently held back as reserves, defending the home system or being dispatched whenever an allied fleet is in need of more firepower.

As laid out in the *Legisla Auroris*, each Host is assigned a specific ship, meant to serve as a de facto base of operations for prolonged missions. While combined strike forces tend to mingle the Battle-Brothers from each Host crewing the ships, each vessel is tightly linked to its Host and regarded as a second home by those who walk its decks. Due to the fact that there is no separate rank for Fleet Captain in the Chapter, all main vessels are commanded by their respective Company Captains.

"*By His will.
 By the Blood of the Angel.
 We bring the Fury of Dawn.
 We bring Heaven's Death.*"
— Words etched into the hulls of the Argent Fleet

Current void vessels of the Argent Fleet:

* ***Unity of Dawn* (Theseus Class Battle Barge)** - Chapter Flagship. The Unity of Dawn was forged from the shattered remains of the previous flagship, the Dawnclaw, as well countless components and materials scavanged from the burned out wrecks of the Argent Fleet. Through great effort and determination, the destroyed Chapter Fleet was once more united in a single powerful symbol of strength and sacrifice, a tribute and memorial to the vessels who roared their last during the battle for Baal.

* ***Melody of Excellence* (Battle Barge)** - Main Vessel of the 1st Host

* ***Rage of Sacrifice* (Strike Cruiser)** - Main Vessel of the 2nd Host

* ***Viceroy Rotodoctolos* (Strike Cruiser)** - Main Vessel of the 3rd Host

* ***Blind Angelium* (Strike Cruiser)** - Main Vessel of the 4th Host **[UNDER CONSTRUCTION]**

* ***Cry of Justice* (Vanguard Cruiser)** - Main Vessel of the 5th Host **[UNDER CONSTRUCTION]**

* ***Argent Tempest* (Strike Cruiser)** - Main Vessel of the 6th Host **[UNDER CONSTRUCTION]**

* ***Storming Protector* (Vanguard Cruiser)** - Main Vessel of the 7th Host **[RESTORATION IN PROGRESS]**

* ***Will of Providence* (Vanguard Cruiser)** - Main Vessel of the 8th Host **[UNDER CONSTRUCTION]**

* ***Soaring Saint* (Strike Cruiser)** - Main Vessel of the 9th Host **[UNDER CONSTRUCTION]**

* ***Calamity Sanctus* (Avenger Class Grand Cruiser)** - Main Vessel of the 10th Host. The Calamity Sanctus was once a capital ship used by the detestable Red Corsairs. After it had been captured by members of the Vengeful Void-Warriors it was refitted and purified over the course of many years to serve as the new company vessel. At over 10 kilometers long, it is the second largest ship in the fleet and the headquarters of the Kubernete, thus making it the de-facto flagship in the absence of the Unity of Dawn.

* **40 Escorts**

* **Scion Reborn (Nova Class Frigate)**

* **Vengeful Pinion (Hunter Class Destroyer)**

* **Sting of Hubris (Gladius Class Frigate)**

Notable Vessels of the past that were lost throughout the Chapter's history:

* ***Dawnclaw* (Battle Barge)** - Former Chapter Flagship
* ***Dawnherald* (Battle Barge)** - Former Main Vessel of the 1st Host
* ***Heart of Dedication* (Strike Cruiser)** - Former Main Vessel of the 2nd Host
* ***Eye of Luster* (Strike Cruiser)** - Former Main Vessel of the 3rd Host
* ***Ode to Glory (Strike Cruiser)*** *-* Former Main Vessel of the 3rd Host
* ***Storm of Radiance* (Vanguard Cruiser)** - Former Main Vessel of the 4th Host
* ***Son of Elysium* (Strike Cruiser)** - Former Main Vessel of the 5th Host
* ***Caesura of Dusk (Strike Cruiser)*** - Former Main Vessel of the 5th Host
* ***Trinity Curse* (Strike Cruiser)** - Former Main Vessel of the 6th Host
* ***Silver Sage* (Strike Cruiser)** - Former Main Vessel of the 8th Host
* ***Wing of Light* (Strike Cruiser)** - Former Main Vessel of the 9th Host
* ***Pride of Theseus* (Strike Cruiser)**
* ***Noble Aegis* (Strike Cruiser)**
* ***Star of Salvation* (Vanguard Cruiser)**
* ***Thebel's Fury* (Vanguard Cruiser)**
* ***Duty of Perin* (Vanguard Cruiser)**
* ***Flight of Urikles* (Strike Cruiser)**
* ***Sapphire Bane* (Vanguard Cruiser)**

## Chapter Relics

* **Eos -** This Longsword, currently held by first Captain Artorius, is perhaps the most treasured weapon in the Chapter's Reliquary. Named after Auroria's chief saintly figure, it is a mighty Powersword which was forged and wielded by Chapter Master Urikles himself and which has been awarded to every Blademaster of the Chapter for almost 3,000 years. The Powerfield it generates is extraordinarily potent, cutting through most materials as though it were flesh. Its hexagonal pommel holds a pure-white opal gem originating from Holy Terra, while the grip features a purple criss-cross pattern knurled into the steel. The quillons are fashioned in the form of two silver wings stretching out, and hold a single amethyst in their centre. This amethyst is girt by the adornment that gives this blade its true value: a fine pattern of golden lines that cover the silver crossguard like vines. However this gold is, in actuality, Auramite. It was harnessed from a small chunk of armor, recovered at some point during the Great Crusade. Said chunk of armor is believed to have been hewn off in battle, from the battleplate of Constantin Valdor himself. Little is known about how such a thing fell into the hands of a Space Marine or even how it ended up in the posession of the Argent Eagles, but regardless of whether or not this claim is true, it has inspired the heroes who have held the sword *Eos* throughout the ages to perform ever greater deeds of valor in the name of the Chapter.

* **Astatine Spear -** The Astatine Spear is a great bident, recovered by Chapter Master Urikles from the clutches of its previous owner, the Lord of the Unbannered. Since then it has become an heirloom passed down to each Pantokrátōr, becoming the signature weapon of the office. While its bright shaft gleams with argent steel, its divided blade is made from a shitfting material of pitch black colour that radiates a feint gloom. This material is known as Astatine, a rare chemical element emanating immense heat. According to the Mechanicus scholars who have studied the spear, it should be physically impossible for this element to exist in a permanent form, as the heat generated from its own radioactivity should instantly vaporise it. The inner workings of the spear's machinery are a puzzle so complex that the technology used was determined to have originated in the Dark Age of Technology, when mankind's understanding of science was at its peak. Naturally, the Mechanicus have ever craved posession of the Astatine Spear for further study, though they have always been denied. A slight that was only forgiven following the events of the *Ronovs Genocide*. The ancient technology of the spear is fearsome indeed, for it has the power to vaporise most known materials that come into contact with its blade.

* **Stormwings of Notus -** A unique Icanor Pattern Jump Pack specifically crafted to be compatible with the Artificer Terminator Armor of the Chapter Master and to allow for a swift and controlled descent. Although it should be said that its turbines are very limited in how high and far they can propell the Chapter Master in his full armor through the air, so that it is rarely used for anything other than drop maneuvers. Aside from its ostentatious appearance, this Jump Pack is a revered and iconic symbol of power and authority only seen when the Lord of the Silver Hosts personally joins the fray to wreak destruction upon the enemies of man.

* **Forefather's Pauldron -** This antique piece of wargear is without a doubt the oldest relic the Chapter has to offer, though they are unsure of its exact age. It is a pauldron that seems to be older than even the earliest power armor suits worn by the Legiones Astartes of the Great Crusade. Chapter scholars presume it to have been worn by one of the first Space Marines of the IX. Legion, identifying the unusual lighting bolts streaked across its surface as a personal ornamentation added by its original owner, highlighting their forebearers' affinity for artistic expression. Hallowed as a historic witness to the first days of their ancestor Legion, this pauldron is commonly granted to the Captain of the first Host.

* **Crown of Trireme -** A Mark III helmet of refined craftsmanship which has been a personal item of Captain Artorius for several hundred years. Set into the helm's brow is an iridescent jewel cut in the shape of the Star of Silverdawn. Attached to its rear is a small Iron Halo that generates an unusually potent Conversion Field. As far as anyone in the Chapter can remember, Artorius has always refused to speak of where he aquired this piece of armor, only that it was gifted to him by a friend. Artorius has often mentioned his wish for this helmet to become an heirloom of the Chapter, as request that will no doubt be respected in the event of his death. It has already become an iconic symbol of his person, named after Auroria's moon of Trireme, which the Captain once called home.

* **Apollian Sceptre -** The symbol of office for the High-Apollian and a powerful sonic weapon. This long staff is topped by the Chapter Badge, flanked by two great wings that stretch outward and from which many amulets and talismans hang. The powered forcefield surounding it becomes truly lethal when combined with the modified Vox-Caster built into it, which is capable of unleashing a deafening soundwave of destructive proportions. The sounds bellowed by the sceptre are the battlercries of the Chapter, though it can also function as a regular Vox-Caster for the delivery of sermons and prayers.

* **Twin of Glory -** One of two magnificent bolters crafted by the first High-Apollian Lucior, the Twin of Glory was originally gifted to Chapter Master Urikles, though it was later passed on to the Second Captain Corbilot. Following his death in the *Crusade of the Claw*, the Bolter was passed from warrior to warrior, being awarded to only the deadliest of marksmen in the Chapter. Right now it is held by Second Captain Aeacus.

* **Twin of Light -** The Twin of Light is a bolter which was created and carried by High-Apollian Lucior. Its machine spirit is said to harmonize with those who have mastered the Blinding Radiance, making it easier to infuse its blinding power into the boltrounds fired with it. Throughout the millenia it has been carried by various heroes, though only individuals with a natural talent for both the Radiance and Marksmanship are chosen to wield it. It is currently locked away in the Eyrie's reliquary.

## Chapter Appearance

In most regards the men of Auroria take after their brothers in the Blood Angels and other Successor Chapters by taking on an attractive, angelic appearance similar to that of their Primarch.

Argent Eagles which have fallen to the madness of the Black Rage are more likely to suffer rapid and severe physical degradation when in its grip than those in other brotherhoods of the Sanguinian bloodline. They experience extreme facial contortion and monstrously deformed, elongated fangs. Their skin turns an ashen grey as once fine, golden hair begins to whither and fall from their heads in deathly-white bundles. Furthermore, as fallen Battle-Brothers will no longer be able to combat the effects of the Blinding Radiance, their skin will increase in luminosity as time goes on until they are rendered blind. For some the Radiance burns so brightly that eyes are luquidated and portions of the head scorched black. It is a fortunate thing indeed that the members of the Hadean Host are entirely concealed under their black armor, for they are some of the most hideous victims of the Black Rage that the Chapters of the Blood have to offer.

When not garbed in power armor, the brothers will be clad in their ceremonial robes. These robes are draped over the shoulders and around the body, woven from fine Sherbeast wool and refined with smooth silks, often decorated with large Icanor feathers. The Marines will have their robes dyed in the colour of their respective Host to mirror their combat markings and will frequently adorn themselves with fine jewelry. Rings, necklaces and badges are all reflections of status, rank and Chapter Honours.

### Chapter Colours

The Argent Eagles standard livery consist of mainly white and grey-ish silver.

### Chapter Badge

The Chapter Badge displays the eight-pointed Star of Silverdawn upon which rests a red blood drop.

#### Markings

Different Hosts are identified through the colour accents of the combat markings on the right pauldron, as well as the colour of a brother's right forearm.

Squad number is shown on the right knee.

The Host colours displayed on the right shoulder and arm are as follows:

1. Silver
2. Red
3. Purple
4. White
5. Dark Blue
6. Black
7. Dark Grey
8. Green
9. Light Blue
10. Bright Red and Black
11. Light Lavender

* **Sergeants** - Red Helmet

* **Lieutenants** - Silver and white helmet with a white skull

* **Captains** - White and silver helmet with a golden chin and golden eye lenses. An artful ornament of silver and gold marks the forehead

* **Veterans** - Gold helmet

* **Veteran-Sergeants** - Gold helmet with a silver skull

* **Hadean Host -** Those fallen Angels afflicted by the Black Rage are clad in pitch black armor and given red helmets resembling the skulls of eagles.

* **Phaethonian Guard** - The elite protectors of the Pantokrátōr, and the Argent Eagles' own incarnation of the Sanguinary Guard. Their helmets and accents are a bright gold. On their backs they carry Sanguinary Jump Packs with multicolored wings, thus representing all the companies of the Silver Hosts.

* **Sages/Chaplains/Sanguinary Priests** - Members of the Argent Priesthood bear several signs of their office to distinguish themselves from their comrades. They wear varying kinds of robes over their armor which are similar to the ones worn by the Argent Eagles when outside of their power armor. Aside from this, most are equipped according to their duties, with Sanguinary Priests bearing the Narthecium to fulfill their duties as Apothecaries, and Chaplains donning the skull-masked helmet for which they are known. Sages wear wear a great ornament resembling a rising sun upon their helmets, which is often converted into an Iron Halo. They also hold large ceremonial staffs with wide spread wing ornaments affixed to it, similiar to a Chaplain's Crozius.

* **Dawnsayers** - As psykers the wargear and overall appearance of the Dawnsayers differs greatly from that of their comrades, though they all uniformly wear a large obsidian necklace with the symbol of a dawning sun hanging from it, upon which arcane runes of protection are carved.

* **Amaranthine Artisans** - Amaranthine Artisans are easily identifiable as their Power Armor tends to be extensively decorated. Even so they have deemed it necessary to wear a large golden necklace lined with Amethysts to signify their status.

### Chapter Specific Space Marine Honours

The Argent Eagles make use of many Codex standard Honours to reward their warriors, yet the Chapter has many marks of traditional customs, great deeds, heroic acts and high ranks which are exclusive to them. These are the Battle Honours unique to the Argent Eagles Chapter:

* **Service Gems** - Every Astartes of the Argent Eagles wears a chain of varying material grafted into the side of their heads to which gems are attached. Each gem represents a specific number of service years to the Chapter:

1. Ruby - 25 years
2. Jadeite - 50 years
3. Amethyst - 75 years
4. Opal - 100 years
5. Blue Diamond - 500 years

How the Marines combine these gemstones to signify their total service years is up to them, though they have to be arranged with the highest valued at the top of the chain and lowest valued at the bottom. A Space Marine who has served with the Chapter for 500 years could wear either one blue diamond or five opals, while another could choose to wear four opals and two Jadeites. For Dreadnoughts the gems are usually incorporated into the ornaments of the Dreadnought's casing.

* **Star of Silverdawn** - An eight-pointed star symbolising Auroria's capital city of Silverdawn. It is widely used in the heraldry of the Chapter and considered by many to be proof that one is a true son of the Silver City.

* **Countenance of Grace** - Bestowed upon those who have displayed true nobility and honour in battle, this Battle Honour depicts the face of Sanguinius girt by golden branches.

* **Icanorii Sigil** - A badge of varying colour depicting an Icanor, worn by the most experienced and skilled Icanor Battle-Brothers of the Chapter.

* **Wing of the Oathkeeper** - A decorative metal wing worn either on a Marine's pauldron or incorporated into his helmet. It is common among the Astartes of Auroria to take oaths of honour, be they to slay a hated foe or to uphold a certain behaviour. When such an oath is fulfilled, the Battle-Brother is allowed to add the Wing of the Oathkeeper to his wargear. In the case of an oath that requires a continuous behaviour, the Marine is given the Wing from the moment the oath is taken. If he fails to uphold said oath then half of the wing is broken off to serve as a reminder and a symbol of shame. If a Battle-Brother who has already earned a wing takes up or fulfills another oath, he is free to either add a second wing or to add a jewel into the one already on his armor. Each additional oath completed or upheld will see another gemstone added.

* **Silver Laurels** - A crown of silver laurels worn by those who have mastered the Blinding Radiance.

* **Dawnpinions** - Instead of two laurel branches the Dawnpinions are made up of two feathers wrapping around the head and forming a crown. These feathers can be real or fashioned from gilded metal, and are given to warriors who have repeatedly distinguished themselves above all others in the heat of battle.

* **Star-stricken Cross** - An elegant symbol which denotes Battle-Brothers who have immersed themselves in the theology and spiritual traditions of the Chapter. It is a mark of scholars and philosophers, and thus commonplace among members of the Argent Priesthood.

* **Seal of the Blade** - A symbol of a sword crossing a bolt of lighting which is painted on a Battle-Brother's armor and can only be worn by the chosen Chapter Blademaster.

* **Shield of Creation** - A tilting plate worn by the greatest artist of each Host. The design imposed on its surface is decided by the Marine to whom it is given.

* **Worlds of Devastation** - An artistic representation of Baal and its moons. This Battle Honour can be seen on the armor of those Astartes that fought at the Devastation of Baal. It is seen as the most noble Battle Honour of them all as it is proof of having fought at the greatest battle to ever gather the Chapters of the Blood. The veterans of the First Host wear it with almost obsessive pride, displaying it not only on their armour but their robes and vehicles also. Even the Battle Barge commanded by the First Captain is marked by the Worlds of Devastation.

## Chapter Specific Wargear and Vehicles

### Mark X Icanor Sub-Pattern

Visually speaking the pieces of wargear that often distinguish the Icanorii on the field of battle is the anti-grav equipment attached to their Mark X armour. Seeing as they are one of the most commonly used tools of the Chapter they are frequently heavily ornamented and modified, at times with real feathers belonging to the great Icanor birds of Auroria. The sub-pattern's grav-chutes allow them to control and adjust the angle and speed of their descent to glide in a way that comes close to resembling actual flight, thereby enabling them to enact precise and rapid aerial drops akin to certain Guard Regiments like the Elysians.

### Opalia Warspears

Opalia Warspears, often referred to as Opalias, are treasured weapons reserved for only the most esteemed members of the Chapter. Captains, Champions, Phaethonian Guards and other gifted warriors are often seen carrying them.

They are, in essence, powered spears similar to the Guardian Spears used by the Adeptus Custodes. Opalias are somewhat smaller and lighter however, as they are resized for easy use among the Chapter's warriors. The bolter incorporated into the spear is more akin to a Bolt Pistol and the blade itself ends in a two-pronged bident with one prong being longer than the other. This design is based on the *Astatine Spear* carried by the Pantokrátōr. The Opalia Warspears are exclusively decorated with faceted golden beryls and polished opals.

### Ptéryga Pattern Aircraft

The Argent Eagles make use of numerous aircraft to carry out their unique combat doctrines, most of which are modified into a slightly divergent pattern to suit their needs the Xiphon Pattern Interceptor fighter, that was commonly used by the Space Marine Legions during the Great Crusade and the Horus Heresy, has become their preferred type of void and atmospheric flight-capable attack craft. While the original Pattern has fallen out of use with most Space Marine Chapters, the Argent Eagles have preserved many of them over the years.

Marauder Bombers, Starhawks and Thunderhawks have received similiar attention, the Thunderhawk in particular was being adjusted to allow for easier deployment of aerial drop-troops. Instead of a large forward ramp at the front it has two great doors on its sides and to allow the warriors inside to leap out and hurl themselves onto the battlefield below.

### Theseus Class Battle Barge

" *Its weapons are mighty, its hull is thick and its hangars are vast. But do not let this ship's size fool you. The Unity is a delicate tool, easily brought down by hubris. Use it wisely, or not at all.* "
—Brother Terrestus Tel, Asímion of the Armoury
The Theseus Class Battle Barge is a type of voidship specifically designed to serve as the Chapter's new Flagship following the Devastation of Baal. It was created as a unique Battle Barge carrier hybrid, constructed from the salvageable remnants of the ships destroyed during the Devastation of Baal. Certain advantages are afforded to it thanks to new technology provided by the servants of Archmagus Belisarius Cawl, raising the efficiency of its hangar bays and point defences.

It measures over 10 kilometers in length and wields mighty weapons systems, though these are, for the most part, intended for defense. The ship's biggest strength is the enormous number of launch bays that can hold an impressive number of squadrons of various space- and aircraft such as Interceptors, Marauder Bombers, Starhawks, Thunderhawks and Assault Rams, thereby allowing it to serve as a heavily armed carrier. This, coupled with the ship's teleport and Drop Pod capabilities, make the Theseus Class capable of easily deploying an entire Chapter's worth of warriors simultaneously.

## Relations

### Allies

* **Blood Angels -** If there is one Chapter that the Argent Eagles view as paramount in all things, it is their parent Chapter of the Blood Angels. The direct decendants of the old legion, the keepers of the Great Angel's heritage and the most noble of all the Astartes. The Argent Eagles may have their strenghts in certain types of warfare, ones in which they could conceivably outclass their first founding brothers, but they still feel a distinct sense of inferiority towards the Blood Angels whom they have always seen as preeminent. Their crafts, their deeds, their heroes and victories have ever eclipsed so many other Chapters, motivating the Argent Eagles in many ways to better themselves, to try and reach the high standards they perceive in the sons of Baal. Although the Chapters have not fought alongside each other on many occasions, the Argent Eagles did not hesitate to rush to the side of Commander Dante when he called for aid. Even the few voices that spoke against going to Baal eventually gave in and agreed to assist their brothers when a choice had to be made. The Devastation of Baal only served to strengthen the bond between them, and now that the Blood Angels are the de facto rulers of Imperium Nihilus, there is no longer any question about the loyalties of the Argent Eagles. They may have their own sense of pride and independence, but if ever there comes another day when the sons of the Silver City are called to raise their blades in defense of Baal and its warriors, they will not think twice to do so.

* **Ultramarines -** The Ultramarines are a Chapter that have fought in so many conflicts across the galaxy, that it is hardly suprising to find that the Argent Eagles have stood with them on several occasions. Beyond that however, they have served as an inspiration for the Chapter. Not as a cultural or spiritual influence, but a strategic one. The combat doctrines of the Ultramarines were what the Argent Eagles used to restructure themselves after the heavy losses of the Crusade of the Claws, and after experiencing them in battle firsthand, they were able to incorporate much of the Ultramarines' strategems into their own way of warfare. With the ressurection of the Primarch Roboute Guilliman, the Ultramarines stand at the front of the Imperium's Bulwark as the bringers of hope and the renewers of a dying empire. Long have the people of Auroria waited for the promised dawn to save them from strife. Now some say that the lords of Ultramar have at last brought that dawn with them.

* **Order of the Argent Shroud -** As a deeply devoted brotherhood, the Chapter has maintained close relations with the Ecclesiarchy and its Orders Militant. Out of these, the Order of the Argent Shroud has been a valued ally to the Argent Eagles many times, assisting them during multiple Crusades and Campaigns in which their faith and fury was more than welcome. It is not just the similarity in their namesake or the silver livery of their plate that caused the Space Marines of the Chapter to take such a liking to the sisters of the Argent Shroud. Their staunch faith and brilliant use of Jump Pack assault tactics managed to impress the warriors of the Argent Eagles more than once, leading to frequent cooperation between them. Indeed, the Icanorii of the Astartes and the Seraphim of the Sororitas make for a quite deadly pairing. This relationship has even lead to the order's founder, Saint Silvana, to be revered above most other Imperial saints on Auroria, as the Argent Faith elevated her standing in the world's religion as a sign of friendship and gratitude towards the order. Tragically however, with the opening of the Great Rift, most of the Argent Shroud's holdings are believed to have been consumed by the horrors of the warpstorms, causing much dismay among the Battle-Brothers of the Chapter. Despite this, remnants of the Order of the Argent Shroud appear to have survived along the breadth of the Great Rift and have been reported to strike out against the daemonic incursions which plague countless imperial worlds. Should the sons of Silverdawn ever find themselves on one such world, they will gladly descend from the skies to battle alongside these sisters once more.

* **Elysian Drop Troops -** Of all the imperial factions that the warriors of Auroria have cooperated with over their long history, none have shed more blood at their side than the regiments of the Astra Millitarum. Since the Chapters early days it was always the might of the Guard that formed the foundation for the order's greatest victories. Of these, the Drop Troopers of Elysia truly appear to be the kindred spirits of the Aurorian Space Marines, as they both prefer to assail their enemies from high above with the use of grav-chute technology. Countless times have the regiments of Elysia aided the Argent Eagles in their endeavors, and countless times have they earned each other's trust and mutual respect. Many ballads and poems have been written about the famed Siege of Bertesis**,** where Elysian courage and skill impressed the brothers of the Silver City to such an extend that the captain of the Heavenbound Eagles honoured the regiments who took part with the privilige to bear the Icanor Sigil upon their uniforms and vehicles. Such is the prestige of the Icanor Sigil that even within the Argent Eagles themselves there are few warriors who have earned the right to wear it. Over the years, the stories of what exactly happened in that ancient battle have been subject to much embellishment and exaggeration, but the oldest accounts kept within the archives of the Librarius indicate that the situation was indeed dire, and that only the unbelievable dedication and finesse of the Imperial Guard was able to turn the tide and ensure victory in the name of the Emperor. Since then, many campaigns and wars have reinforced the trust placed in the Elysian Drop Troopers by the Space Marines of Auroria, a trust that has never once been betrayed. Few Imperial forces manage to coordinate and harmonize with the Chapter in the same way, and any aerial assault carried out by their combined strength is almost guaranteed to end in an overwhelming victory for the Emperor's armies. When Elysia and Auroria descend as one, holy wrath is sure to engulf the very heavens.

* **Valhallan Ice Warriors -** Since the Chapter's firery baptism in the battles of the Crusade of the Claws, the Valhallan Ice Warriors have been held in high regard by the Astartes of the Argent Eagles, as the Space Marines owe much to the sacrifices of their forebearers. Interaction with Valhalla and its regiments has not been as frequent as one might think, even though Auroria itself is located very close to the icy world of Valhalla. Yet the Argent Priesthood has always maintained a tradition of sending Sages on pilgrimages to the cold world, often bearing gifts made by the hands of the Artisans to honour the heroic deeds of bygone days. Worlds of ice and snow have proven to be few and far between in the missions undertaken by the Chapter, and rarely do their decapitation strikes lead them to the polar icecaps of more varied biospheres. The Argent Eagles therefore seldom require the unique expertise of the Valhallans, but whenever they do find themselves in such environments there is no uniform they would rather see than the thick greatcoats of the Ice Warriors.

* **Cadian Shock Troops -** Every Space Marine that travels the stars of the Milky Way knows Cadia's name, for it had been the Imperium's mightiest bastion for over ten thousand years. As one might expect, the soldiers born on it have enjoyed a reputation of indomitable valour and unbreaking spirit. So it is only natural that they are seen as some of the greatest troops that the Millitarum is capable of raising. The Argent Eagles have experienced Cadian bravery on more occasions than the Chapter has been able to archive.

### Enemies

* **Tyranids -** Not much must be said when discussing the infernal hatred that the sons of the Silver City carry for the vile Xenos known as the Tyranids. Since the emergence of the swarms from the void beyond the galaxy, the Chapter had almost never encountered the numberless beasts of the Hivemind. It was a genestealer uprising in their home system that first opened their eyes to the horror of which these Xenos were capable. Now, following the invasion of Baal by Hivefleet Leviathan and the nigh-destruction of the Chapter, there are still many tendrils reaching out for the worlds of Imperium Nihilus. Under the command and guidance of Commander Dante and his Blood Angels, the Argent Eagles prepare to not only secure their own subsector but also to assist in securing the territories surrounding Baal that will come to be known as the *Angel's Halo*. It is still infested by the Tyranid fleets and must therefore be culled to re-establish control and secure a new center of governance in the galactic north. Those veterans that survived the Devastation have made sure that their new Primaris brethren carry the same burning hatred for the aliens of the Hivefleets as they do. The Argent Eagles, both young and old, welcome this opportunity to enact vengeance for the deaths of their brothers and commit a cleansing slaughter in the Aeon's name.

* **Chaos Space Marines -** In the cold vacuum of space the Argent Eagles are masters at destroying and boarding the ancient vessels of the traitors. There are few who can match them in the arts of void warfare and boarding actions carried out against hostile Astartes ships, especially in engagements where the main objective is to not destroy but capture enemy vessels. Their way of waging war in the cold of space has made them natural enemies to the likes of the Red Corsairs and other fleet-based traitor forces.

### Others

* **Inquisition -** The God-Emperor's Holy Inquisition is without question one of the most feared and influential institutions in the Imperium of Man, monitoring and investigating anyone that has roused their suspicions. While the Argent Eagles have never been involved in any major incidents, they have drawn the attention of the Inquisition's agents more than once, partly due to their unusually large fleet and partly due to their disregard for certain edicts of the *Codex Astartes*. But as these matters are relatively minor in scope, and could often be explained through relatively convincing excuses, the Chapter has remained unbothered for the majority of its history.

## Notable Argent Eagles

### Chapter Master Aléxandros

"*What I fight for, as I believe all Astartes should, is a galaxy that no longer needs nor wants us. One where humanity is at peace and its enemies are but dust in the solar winds. I yearn for the day where our blades are sheathed and our guns fall silent, never to be used again. Only then will our sacred duty truly end.* "
— Chapter Master Aléxandros
Aléxandros Themistocles Aetós is the Pantokrátōr of the Argent Eagles and the Lord-Resplendent of Auroria, Trireme and Eovar.

He has served the Chapter for nearly 700 years, never once losing his calm demeanor in the face of humanity's foes. Known as a level-headed and wise leader, he serves as a symbol of mental perserverance and intellectual prowess. Both his strategies on the field of battle and his approach to governing the Chapter have seen the Argent Eagles grow stronger than ever before, and though he is more dangerous when brooding over battle plans than fighting in actual combat, his long years of experience still make him a formidable opponent.

Aléxandros is fairly gentle by nature, for he is always calm and serene, never victim to outbursts of rage or anger. How he has managed to subdue the wrath of Sanguinius for so long is a mystery, though it no doubt requires a great deal of self-control and denial of the Red Thirst. The Pantokrátōr is known for being extremely decisive, leaving little room for doubts or regrets. Even in the most dire of circumstances has he remained composed and rational. The final charge of the damned upon Baal during the Devastation was the first and perhaps only time he has ever displayed unrestrained fury and abandon.

When not garbed in ceremonial robes he dons the argent panoply of war, covered in gemstones and Battle Honours. When wearing his Terminator Armour he often makes use of the Stormwings of Notus, which carry him safely into battle from great heights. His personal heraldry displays a fierce Icanor surrounded by stars. He carries with him the Astatine Spear and his powered longsword *Serenity.*

### First Captain Artorius

" *As of late, I have become unsure of so much. I thought I knew myself. I thought I knew my faith, my duty, my strength. But now it is as though the galaxy has gone mad. Philosophy has ever been the art of asking questions. I never realized how seldom it brings answers.* "
— First Captain Artorius
Artorius Aethlios Castus is the esteemed captain of the First Company, making him the leader of the most veteran fighting formation in the Chapter.

While his exact date of birth is not known, it is estimated somewhere around the year 500.M41. Though he was once a prideful and overconfident champion, reveling in his own skill with the blade, the many years of war in which he has served the Argent eagles have since humbled him greatly. It would be his resourcefulnes and his preferance for practicality over tradition that would see him survive long enough to eventually attain the rank of First Captain, as well as the Princehood of his homeworld, Trireme.

Even though he is reckoned the greatest warrior in the Chapter by many, it was the close bonds of brotherhood he shared with his comrades that earned him the respect of his peers. Artorius always took the term brother very seriously, and treated most of his fellow Space Marines as though they truly were family. He could be strict and disciplined when needed, but understanding and encouraging when it mattered. He knew the names, strengths, aspirations and traits of all his brothers by heart, from the youngest neophyte to the oldest veteran.

When the Devastation of Baal left nearly the entire Chapter dead, Artorius underwent a dire change, for something had broken inside him. None but the captain himself knew, but inside his head he was plagued by memories of Tyranid horrors and the ceaseless screams of his brethren in the Blood. Perhaps for the first time since his ascension, Artorius felt weak and uncertain, his iron confidence and determination now replaced by doubt and shame.

His appearance is one that betrays withered glory and martial might. His decorated armour bears many honours, and many scars besides. Three relics of the Chapter are his to bear, the *Crown of Trireme*, the *Forefather's Pauldron*, and the legendary power sword *Eos.* For most opponents, Artorius prefers the use of his personal blade *Moonfire* and a Mark II Cawl Pattern Bolt Rifle.

### High-Apollian Vangelis

" *I ask questions, knowing that I might not find answers. For what is nature, beauty, wisdom? What, at its truest core, is our duty? I live to learn, as He has ordained. My search for knowledge serves Him as much as it serves myself. And what a grand search it is. Hm? Forgive me, were you saying something? Ah, it seems I became lost in thought again.* "
— High-Apollian Vangelis
Vangelis Tsoliades Adamos is the current High-Apollian of the Argent Priesthood, the master of all Sages, Chaplains and Sanguinary Priests of the Argent Eagles. So much power invested in a single soul may be corrupting to some, yet Vangelis is akin to most of his predecessors in that he sees the pursuit of knowledge and the purity of his faith as his highest concern.

His stark, amber eyes often wander aimlessly or look far into the distance whenever the High-Apollian is deep in thought. Vangelis reaches quite tall for a Space Marine, even taller than Chapter Master Aléxandros himself, at least out of armor.

The power armor of the High-Apollian is finely made in a way that appears simple. Despite the fact the armor is covered in decorations and religious symbols, they are all so similiar in appearance and colouration that they blend together and create an illusion of white-shimmering plainness. Dozens of large as well as small diamonds, opals and finely cut quartz crystals line the silver trims of the armor and surround the many prayers and philosphical quotes engraved into the metal. Even the purity seals attached to it are produced using faded parchment, golden ink and white wax. Most eye catching of all are the faceted aquamarine gemstones arranged around the armor's eagle headed gorget, which gleam like clear blue water. Affixed to the right gauntlet is a chain of prayer beads made from golden beryls and pinkish-red morganite stones that compliment the High-Apollian's amber eyes. The helmet is similiar to that of many other Sages, topped with a large, golden ornament in the shape of a sun, which doubles as an Iron Halo to produce a protective field. The front of the helmet is fashioned as a mask that perfectly resembles the face of Vangelis, staring back with a calm, contemplative expression.

The weapon most favored by Vangelis is the great staff known as the *Apollian Sceptre*, a powerful sonic weapon utilising amplified Vox technology as well as a lethal powerfield. As it is the High-Apollian's symbol of office and a precious relic, he keeps it with him at all times and wields it with great skill. Mounted on his left arm is a small, modified Storm Bolter which can quickly dispose of threats from a relatively safe distance. Hanging from his waist is a mighty Thunder Hammer of pristine design which he christened *Athanasios* in honour of his late father.

### Tenth Captain Kaius

" *A fleet broken. A continent leveled. A world burned. There is no wrath so devastating as that unleashed by a voidship. Seeing as I command over a dozen such vessels I would advise that you do not anger me.* "
— Tenth Captain Kaius
#### Personal History

The Captain of the 10th Host and the current Kubernete of the Argent Fleet. Kaius Andromachus Vergamemnon is a passionate and sometimes contentious individual, though patient and understanding towards his own men. A gifted void tactician known for his unorthodox and sometimes reckless maneuvers that often involve surprising the enemy through sheer audacity. Although he is prideful and stubborn by nature, his failure in the voidwar for Baal and the guilt of his survival have curbed his brazen personality somewhat.

#### Physical Appearance and Wargear

Kaius' appearance is one that speaks of millitary stoicism and barely subdued wrath. Sharp features compliment his short head of hair, regularly cut and darkened into a dirty blonde by 400 years of war. The left side of his face is permanently marred by a grievous voidburn scar. A bionic arm replaced his left many years ago, the result of a painful lesson regarding the use of plasma weaponry.

The Captain's armor is dominated by stylised depictions of stars, and embellished with black gemstones meant to invoke images of the void's vastness. Though silver at its base, the ceramite of his wargear is tinted with a thin coat of crimson, so that certain angles of light make it shine in a light red hue.

The Kubernete's favored weapon is his trusted poweraxe *Voidrose* wrought with a bright red blade. His handcrafted combi melta *Starhunger* serves as his sidearm.

## Notable Quotes

### By the Argent Eagles

"*Let the argent banners of the Silver City now fly high in the winds! Let the fires of your hearts be ignited by righteous fury! Let them hear our prayers, for their own will go unanswered! With our wings we shall descend upon their walls, with our Radiance we shall rob them off their sight, with our claws we shall sunder their worthless hides! At dawn we strike! At dawn our blades fall! We are the Argent Eagles of Auroria! Fear the Dawn! Fear our Blades!*"
— Urikles Levion Hohenlicht, first Chapter Master of the Argent Eagles proclaiming the final assault on the Bastion of Sherralor during the Crusade of the Claws.
"*Our sacred home was built into the very heart of this enormous city for a simple reason. We do not wish to rule from far away. The people of this world are our people, the flock to whom we are the shepherds. Other Chapters sit in their secluded halls where they never have to do so much as even look upon the faces of those they are sworn to protect. We live high above them only so that we may watch over them at all times. And so that we may personally ensure that none stray from the right path.*"
— Aléxandros Themistocles Aetós, current Chapter Master of the Argent Eagles, explaining the location of their Fortress Monastery to a curious Astropath.
"*I have a thirst for blood, I am always at risk of losing myself to a mad rage and now you're telling me that my genes may render me blind? Is this the part where you tell me that I lose my hearing if I don't do a silly dance every other rotation?*"
— Neophyte Lucasis after being told about the Chapter's genetic flaw.
"*Xenos? Mutants? They are nothing. Pure distractions. The only blood to stain my blade shall be that of traitors.*"
— Sergeant Tesael of the 10th Host when asked about the numerous enemies of Mankind.
"*Our art is no different from that of our founding Chapter. It channels our passions and subdues our rage. What some may label as obsession we recognize as a necessary indulgence.* "
— Terivon, Amaranthine Artisan of the 3rd Host
"*You are fools. Blinded by delusions and corrupted by selfishness. You don't know anything. You don't understand anything. Will you even comprehend your own deaths after I have delivered them to you?*"
—Fifth Captain Callus adressing a group of Renegade Astartes.
"*Forgive us brothers, we have failed! The fleet is broken! The voidwar is lost! Save Baal! Dawn will come again!* "
—Last words of 9th Host Sergeant Sarrion during the Devastation of Baal.
" *Understand this: to ask a question is to create a thought for its own sake. Do not think that every question has an answer, or even that it requires one. Nor should you presume that you can find it, if it exists. The universe and all that we can perceive within it is akin to an endless, great puzzle. You can never be certain that you posess all the pieces, but that should not stop you from trying to solve it. Each person's solution may be different, yet equally true, depending on one's viewpoint. Do not worry. It may sound nonsensical, but such musings have defined our order for thousands of years. You too shall be fluent in profundity eventually, my dear neophytes.*"
— High-Apollian Vangelis
### About the Argent Eagles

*Feel free to add your own*
"*They are another of the Great Angel's sons. So close to the ideals of our lord. Yet so far away. I sense the impurity of the body and the purity of the soul. As I do to all sons of the Angel. But these...eagles, they are at imbalance. May the blood they are to shed upon the holy sands of Baal ensure their purity*"
—Attributed to Chapter Master Sachiel Fell of the Unblooded at the feast of the damned, the night before the beginning of the Devastation of Baal.

[Source]

 White Scars Successors
 Space Wolves Successors
 Imperial Fists Successors
 Blood Angels Successors
 Salamanders Successors
 Raven Guard Successors
 Chimeric Lineage
 Unknown Lineage
 Renegades

[Source]