Megalodons

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## Megalodons

Megalodons armorial with Chapter iconography.

Megalodons Void-Brother of the 3rd Shoal (Company), 4th Fighting Jaws Slew (Tactical Squad).

## Space Marine Chapter

### **Allegiance**

Imperium of Man
(*Fedelitas Sine Recurso*)

### **Successor of**

Unknown
Raven Guard (Unconfirmed)

### **Homeworld**

N/A; Fleet-Based
Te Whatukura (Recruitment World)

### **Specialty**

Ship-Borne Assaults & Boarding Actions, Close-Quarters Actions (Space Hulk Purgation, Line-Breaker Attacks), Multi-Vector & Sub-Orbital Attacks, Shock Attack, Planet-Kill & Extermination Operations.

### **Battle cry**

"From the void we come."Alternatively

"We shall devour you!"

### Successor Chapter(s)

None known.

"*Your kind are very stupid to come here. They will tear you apart. The void belongs to them.*"
— Consul-Lord Hameon Kahvron, leader of the Dark Star Void Clan, giving a final warning to Drukhari corsairs about their deadly protectors - the Megalodons.
The **Megalodons** are a Loyalist Space Marine Chapter created during an Unknown Founding and from uncertain lineage. This savage and merciless Chapter was reputedly created in ancient times, but its exact origins are difficult to pinpoint by Imperial scholars, remaining shrouded in the midsts of long-lost antiquity, thousands of years in the past. An isolationist and aloof Chapter, the Megalodons have continuously prosecuted their solitary crusade for millennia, bringing the light of *Monatoa* - 'The Void Shark that Devours' (God-Emperor) - to the darkest corners of the galaxy.

Like hungry apex predators, they stalk through the cold, dark depths of the void, striking their foes unexpectedly and tearing them apart, then slip back into the Outer Dark. The Megalodons' ruthless reputation has writ a bloody legacy across the pages of Imperial history, their very name has become synonymous with the merciless butchery of those who would dare assail the realm of Mankind.

## Chapter History

"*When the Great Enemy goes into the void, they often foolishly venture into the Outer Dark. The sharks make their home in the 'Dark Ocean'. Farewell, heretics. You're already dead. You just don't know it yet.*"
— An Imperial merchant talking about the legend of the Megalodons Chapter.
Sharks predate every other large predator on most worlds. They have remained virtually unchanged for millions of years. They are apex predators, which means that the only animal that naturally preys on them are in the same taxonomic class. They possess an undeniable mystique and nobility - every islander or coastal culture on a world that possesses large bodies of water has deified them in some way. Some cultures regard them as daemons, some as benevolent gods or the reincarnations of the Emperor Himself. All, however, respect the shark's power and ferocity. Thus, it is the same for the ferocious and mysterious Megalodons - a ruthless and unforgiving Chapter of Astartes that have plied the darkest reaches of the galaxy for millennia - striking suddenly and without warning - and then disappearing once again into the blackness of the foreboding Outer Dark, beyond the light of the Astronomican.

Adopting the name of the megafauna apex predator of their primary recruitment world, Te Whatukura - a feral ocean world comprised of island chains and equatorial landmasses that are home to a ferocious and feral culture of warring coastal tribes - like their namesake, the Megalodons have seemingly been imbued by the spirit of this deadly creature with similar attributes. The Megalodons, too, are apex predators, hunting the 'Dark Ocean' (the Outer Dark), dwelling in the deepest and darkest regions of the galaxy, and only rushing to the surface of the known galaxy to ambush their unsuspecting prey.

Little is known about these mysterious and enigmatic Astartes, as they are known to be an aloof Chapter that doesn't readily answer pleas from most Imperial institutions, and will only do so at their own discretion. This stems from the fact their only true allegiance is to the *Manotoa* (the God-Emperor), and their sacred duty in following the task assigned to them by His gene-son (standing orders which have never been countermanded by the Emperor), although which Primarch sired this ruthless Chapter is still vehemently debated by Imperial scholars to this day. Despite the paucity of records, there is little information on the precise origins of the Megalons' inception and what Founding they were a part of.

### Unknown Origins

Mysteriously, the Megalodons feature nowhere within the open Imperial record, and likewise, the Chapter has no officially-recorded battle honours. Furthermore, this Chapter is oft misidentified with other similarly named Chapters operating with similar nomenclatures (i.e. "Carcharodons", "Void Reapers", "Blood Sharks", etc.). However, the Chapter's own records, which date back several millennia, indicate that at some point, early in their history, they were banished to wander the outer darkness upon an endless Crusade to ravage the foes of Mankind.

To this day, no one alive knows why the Megalodons were banished. However, to ensure their survival, they were granted specific rights, known as the *Edicts of Banishment*, which granted them the right to Tithe; the '*Grey Tithe*', to acquire all the physical materiel they needed in order to continue the performance of their duties, and the '*Red Tithe*'; granting them the right to claim prisoners, rebels, rejects and other detritus of Humanity to operate their vessels as slave serfs or as potential recruits for the Chapter. Although, the Edicts explicitly forbid the Chapter from taking members of the Adepta Terra in their tithing.

The Chapter's proscribed *Edicts of Banishment* allows and encourage the Megalodons to invade nearby xenos-held territories and long-lost worlds that lie within the vast void of the Outer Dark to reclaim ancient technology and lost Standard Template Constructs (STCs), which is always a high priority. These Astartes are quite adept at seeking out and reclaiming technology and will use these obtained items to barter with the Adeptus Mechanicus. The Grey Tithe is usually conducted on a semi-regular basis, as a delegation from the Chapter meets with allied members of the Martian Priesthood, bartering for a few pieces of archaeotech and STC for freshly-crafted wargear, equipment, and even vehicles.

### Reavers from the Void

"*And lo, the dark grey-clad emerged from the Outer Dark, unseen as the beast that lurks beneath the black waters, and their jagged, bloody maw did swallow the stars, and their black gaze did mirror the void of oblivion. They fell upon the servants of the Archenemy with great fury, offering nothing but death and blood...Thus the people of Calyiopaia were brought salvation, and the damned traitors of the Dark Gods driven unto their ruin.*"
— Eyewitness testimony taken from the *Canticle of Leviticus Desmodius XXIII, Vol XLVII*, Chapter One, Para. 23
Despite the valiant service and stalwart defence of realm of the Emperor, the Imperium at large is mostly unaware of this Chapter's existence, and even the Inquisition seems to have only limited information about them. The Megalodons' complete lack of glory-seeking behavior doesn't help with this, and in fact, on several occasions down the long millennia of Imperial history, there have been several notable incidents where dark grey-clad Astartes intervened to aid beleaguered Imperial forces, arriving unannounced (and often unwanted) to lend their considerable might to a conflict or war. Most notably, these rare accounts indicate that these mysterious Astartes attacked the enemy without warning or preamble, and did so with a ferocity unheard of amongst the average Adeptus Astartes Chapter. Often, Imperial forces that have fought alongside these murderous Astartes found their erstwhile allies to be unpredictable, intemperate, and dangerous to anything that stood in their path - combatant, civilian, or otherwise. However, the timely interventions of these bloody-handed reavers in various war zones often helped provide the killing strike where an impasse had been reached - breaking a strategic deadlock in a single furious attack that sent an enemy reeling.

The resultant Imperial victories, however, often came at a dire cost as these assaults would often end in only one of two ways: victorious slaughter or massive carnage, either of which left the foe in no condition to resist further. The intervention of these Astartes also left heavy collateral damage, resulting in the destruction of vital planetary infrastructure or heavy losses to Imperial forces that had strayed too close to the carnage unleashed by these ravaging killers. Once the dust had settled, this mysterious force of deadly transhuman warriors had already taken their leave - uncaring of honours or accolades - to seek out their next military objective, driven to continue battling the enemies of Mankind across the width and breadth of the galaxy on their perpetual Crusade.

## Notable Campaigns

* **Vengeance from the Void (Unknown Date.M32)** - This is the first recorded battle honour of the Megalodons Chapter within their Chapter's archives. Across a hundred scattered systems in the western marches of the Segmentum Solar, cult uprisings led by a core Heretic Astartes drawn from the Iron Warriors, Night Lords and World Eaters Traitor Legions bring entire planetary governments to their knees in a year of blood and anarchy. With whole sections on the brink of collapse, events take a dramatic turn when a combined force of several notable, bellicose Chapters of the Adeptus Astartes including; the Carcharodons, Minotaurs, Death Eagles and Angels of Absolution mobilise to response the invading Forces of Chaos. Emerging from the black depths beyond the spiral arm, they launch a sudden and overwhelming attack directly upon the uprising's command. Meanwhile, an unidentified force of dark-grey-clad Astartes bearing strange totemic iconography and the sigil of a massive bloody-mawed shark, launched a series of hit-and-run attacks upon the trailing edge of the Chaos fleet vessels, leaving a trail of carnage and destruction that gave the heretic forces pause. Just as the Forces of Chaos attempted to launch a counter-strike, this relic fleet of battered, dark-grey coloured vessels disappeared back into the void, only to reappear and strike at the Chaos vessels from another position. Several smaller vessels broke away from the larger Chaos fleet and attempted to flee, but were quickly pursued by several of these relic Imperial vessels, which circled in for the kill. At this point, the rest of their mighty Chapter fleet suddenly appeared from the depths of the warp, to take part in the 'feeding frenzy'. The Imperial vessels systematically stripped the stricken heretic vessels of their protection systems and disabled their engines, then they proceed to launch their Ursus Claws - large lances attached to massive chains - puncturing the hulls of the enemy vessels, then slowly dragged them in close proximity, so that the Imperial vessels could launch an all-out boarding assault. Later, Imperial investigators came across several scenes of derelict, heretic vessels drifting aimlessly in the void. When they investigated the interior of these stricken vessels, they were taken aback by the nightmarish scenes of carnage and destruction that greeted them, as these vessels had all been left as bloody abattoirs. The interior of these vessels was stripped of all vital arms, equipment, strike craft, vehicles, and data-cores. Of these vessels' attackers, all that could be retrieved were several grainy pict-captures, clearly identified as an attacking force of Adeptus Astartes, whose left shoulder pauldrons bore an unknown sigil of a large black shark with a bloody maw. These mysterious Astartes bore all manner of relic wargear and equipment, but with significant levels of non-standard alterations. The images acquired from these derelict vessels would later be passed on to higher Imperial authorities for further investigation and scrutiny. However, the identity of this mysterious attacking force has never been conclusively identified.
* **Age of Apostasy (Unknown Date.[Early] M36)** - Within ancient Imperial archives, are some scattered records containing apocryphals tales that tell of a large unidentified Astartes flotilla that would periodically emerge unexpectedly from the Outer Darkness and preyed upon the forces of wrongfully-held Imperial worlds that were forced to pay obeisance to the Apostate High Lord Goge Vandire. These few records speak of dark-grey-clad Astartes who fought alongside ebon and gold-clad Astartes - both of which wore similar primitivistic-looking, shark-themed iconography. Both Chapters had a habit of appearing out of nowhere, unheralded and their aid unlooked for, only to fall upon Vandire's forces and savagely slaughter them to a man. They freed nearly a dozen worlds from the yoke of the Apostate High Lord, but at the battle's end, would quickly take their leave and slip back into the darkness of the Outer Darkness once again. It is not known how close relations are between these two ferocious Chapters, however, on the few occasions they have fought alongside one another, they have done so, to the mutual benefit of both, unleashing monumental carnage and violence upon those who would dare turn from the light of the Emperor and achieving great victories for the Imperium. Modern Imperial scholars have come to suspect that these two Chapters were known other than the Megalodons and the Void Reapers - another mysterious shark-themed Chapter that possesed a similar savage and unforgiving mein.
* **The Hellion War (870-880.M33)** - In the wake of the anarchy that followed the murderous internecine conflict of the War of the False Primarch and its aftermath, the Hellion Sector declared its secession from the troubled Imperium in 870.M33. Bloodily attacking its neighbours, it becomes quickly apparent that the sector's rulers had fallen then to the worship of Chaos, and its millions of men-under-arms were corrupted and given over to darkness, while its mass manufactora were turned to churning forth twisted war machines consecrated to the dark gods. The call-to-arms is eagerly answered by several bellicose and savage Chapters of the Adeptus Astartes that possess a war-like mien, including the Megalodons, Imperius Ravagers, Myrmidons, and Void Reapers. With the arrival of this formidable Space Marine task force, these Chapters begin to systematically destroy each Secessionist force they encounter. But soon, the ever-widening war swells to ravage more than eighty inhabited systems and uncounted billions die in the fighting. This task force proceeds to fight together for the next decade until they are finally relieved by an influx of several other Space Marine Chapters that arrives to take part in the ongoing conflict. By the dawning of M35, the Hellion Sector and its environs are reduced to little more than a waste zone of barren worlds and dead hive cities.

## Chapter Organisation

Due to their long isolation from the rest of the Imperium and their aloof and intransigent nature, the Megalodons are considered only nominally *Codex*-compliant, as they have fundamental differences from most, more conventional, *Codex* Chapters. Due to their streak of strong self-reliance, the Megalodons have had to adapt to their Chapter organisation and equipment to better fit their fleet-based nature. Though nominally organised in accordance with the tenets of the *Codex Astartes*, the Chatper has a tendency to utilise their own unique company, squad, and rank designation in lieu of the standard *Codex* ranks, to better suit their own cultural heritage.

A 'Shoal' is a company-sized formation commanded by a 'Ravager Lord' (Captain) and is comprised of approximately 80-100 Astartes (depending on attrition rates). Squad-sized formations consisting of 7-10 Astartes are known as a 'Slew' and are led by a 'Bull' (Sergeant). To help provide flexibility and spread their forces across multiple combat zones, a 'Shoal' can be divided into a demi-company sized formation (40-50 Astartes) known as a 'Shallow', which is commanded by two 'Sub-Commanders' (Lieutenants).

These unique naming designations are not only unique to the larger formations within the Chapter, but they are also carried over to their squad specialist formations as well. Veteran Squads are designated as 'Long Fins', while Battleline squads are known as 'Fighting Jaws'. The Chapter's elite Close Support formations are known as 'Ripping Jaws', while their heavy fire support units are known as 'Tearing Jaws'.

### Unit Formations

* **Shoal** - Company formation equivalent.
* **Shallow** - Demi-Company formation equivalent.
* **Slew** - Squad formation equivalent.

#### Squad Designations

* **Long Fins** - Veteran Squad equivalent.
* **Fighting Jaws** - Battleline Squad equivalent.
* **Ripping Jaws** - Close Support Squad equivalent.
* **Tearing Jaws** - Fire Support Squad equivalent.
* **Prey Seekers** - Scout Marine, Reiver and Vanguard Elminator Squads equivalent.
* **Scarred Fins** - Honoured Ancients equivalent.

### Officer Ranks

* **Void Lord** - Chapter Master equivalent, the Void Lord is the ultimate alpha predator within the ranks of the Megalodons - a deadly apex hunter of consummate skill and unsurpassed savagery and brutality. By din of their might and strong will, they have risen to the senior-most position of leadership of this collection of deadly killers. Their word is law, and they are not afraid to back up their authority by force if needed, for the punishment of those who have the temerity to challenge his authority is a death sentence to be carried out without delay, per the Chapter's traditions.
* **Ravager Lord** - Captain equivalent, these company commanders are, essentially, warlords in their own right, authorised to exercise greater autonomy of action afforded to them in how they administer their companies than is typical in most other Chapters. Some are bloody tyrants, reveling in the fear they sow among their human prey and servants, but others are fair if distant, lords. Due to the intransigent and strong-willed nature of the Megalodons, disputes are often settled with violence. Ravager Lords do not come into conflict often, preferring to give each other a wide berth, but when they do fight, the fearsome battle for dominance usually leaves each combatant either scarred, maimed, or dead.
* **Sub-Commander** - Lieutenant equivalent.

### Specialist Ranks

* **Tohunga** - The Tohunga of the Megalodons exists as a series of interconnected orders which provides for the physical, spiritual, and technological needs of the Chapter. These include expert practitioners of any skill or art - religious, psychic, or otherwise. Tohunga includes expert priests, healers, artificers, and craftsmen. These specialists are responsible for both the spiritual and physical well-being of their fellow Void-Brothers, as well as ensuring their Chapter's genetic lineage continues at all costs.

* **Kalani** - A Te Whatukuran word that means 'chief', this term is utilised exclusively when referring to one of the Chapter's senior specialists (Reclusirach, Chief Librarian, Chief Apothecary, or Master of the Forge).

* **Kalani Kaiwhakoara** - A Te Whatukuran word for 'chief lifegiver'. Chief Apothecary equivalent.
* **Kaiwhakaora** - A Te Whatukuran word for a healer or 'savior'. Apothecary equivalent.

* **Kalani Tūmatauenga** - A Te whatukuran word for 'chief war priest'. Reclusirach equivalent.
* **Tohunga o Tūmatauenga** - A Te Whatukuran word for 'war priest'. Chaplain equivalent.

* **Kalani Matakite** - A Te Whatukuran word for 'chief foreteller'. Chief Librarian equivalent.
* **Tohunga Matakite** - A Te Whatukuran word for 'foreteller of the future'. Librarian equivalent.

* **Kalani Mahi Toi** - A Te Whatukuran word for 'master builder'. Master of the Forge equivalent.
* **Tohunga Whakairo** - A Te Whatukuran word for 'builder'. Techmarine equivalent.

* **Kaikawe-Upoko** - A Te Whatakuran word for 'headtaker'. Chapter or Company Champion equivalent.

* **Signifier** - Chapter/Company Standard Bearer.

### Line Ranks

* **Bull Primus** - Veteran Sergeant equivalent.
* **Bull** - Sergeant equivalent.
* **Void-Brother** - Battle-Brother equivalent.
* **Pup** - Neophyte equivalent.
* **Round Back** - A derogatory term meaning, 'one with no fin'. A term utilised by the Astartes of the Chapter when referring to an Aspirant.

### Specialist Formations

* **Bloody Maw** - The Bloody Maw is the Terminator armoured-elite veteran warriors of the Chapter, so-named for the sudden onset of their anger and the lasting fervour of their hate as they rip apart their foes in a hail of blood, viscera, and torn limbs with their chain weapons and deadly claws. When not in battle they habitually remain armed and armoured at all times, even when aboard their own vessels. These deadly warriors stand out amongst their fellow warriors as their shoulder pauldron insets are painted a deep red - the colour of spilled blood. Their battle-plate is heavily inscribed with red exile markings and decorated with hanging yellowed predator incisors that are collected from the apex predators of their recruitment world. When unleashed in battle, it is considered a special privilege to witness the elemental destruction unleashed by these ferocious warriors when they are called upon to render the Void Lord's judgment. These consummate warriors are often seconded to various Shoals to supplement their fighting power. They also serve an additional purpose. Acting on behalf of the Chapter's Void Lord, they are responsible for overseeing the most vital of missions - usually tithings - to ensure that the overriding objectives are met and the Chapter's needs are satisfied. This is especially important as the Chapter's individual Shoals often spend several years, or even decades, separate from the main Nomad Predation fleet. In such circumstances, the Bloody Maw is responsible for seeing the orders of their Chapter Master carried out. However, when they are assigned to the command of a Ravager-Lord, they are bound to follow his order, provided they do not directly contradict the mission assigned by the Chapter or countermand the Void Lord's orders.
* **Balefire Fire Support Squads** -
* **Prey Seeker Scout Squads** - The Megalodons do not utilise Scout Marines, which in other Chapters are young, inexperienced recruits. Instead, these hunters are experienced veteran warriors who have mastered their Chapter's genetic flaw and prefer solitude rather than serving alongside their fellow warriors in a Slew. Known as Prey Seekers, these squads specialise in reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering and are consummate masters of stealth, infiltration, and sabotage deep behind enemy lines. This warrior elite act as the eyes and ears of their Chapter in the field, armed and equipped with a variety of specialised wargear including long-range weaponry, sensory auspex, and stealth gear. Serving as scouts and intelligence gatherers, identifying targets and gathering information on enemy movements and strengths, they also serve as pickets, saboteurs, raiders, and snipers where needed, and in open battle are experts in sudden flanking manoeuvres and infiltration attacks in support of the Chapter's main force.
* **Ripteeth Breacher Assault Squads** - Pups of the Megalodons are those newly inducted junior Astartes that are still struggling to control their inherent rage. These newly inducted warriors are notoriously savage and fiercely aggressive. Hot-headed and impetuous, these young warriors cannot wait to prove themselves, charging headlong at the frontlines of the enemy in their efforts to prove themselves to their elder brethren. They prefer to fight at close quarters and are armed with melee weapons such as chain weapons and bolt pistols. Ripteeth is the shock troops of the Megalodons and spearhead the majority of their line-breaker and void-borne assaults. If they survive to become mature and capable warriors, they will eventually be elevated to the elite ranks of the Void-Brothers.
* **Bloodseeker Assault Squads** - The Bloodseekers are the dark heart of the Megalodons Chapter - those battle-brothers that have descended into the depths of the beast and are fully taken by the Chapter's all-consuming madness, known as the 'Blood Frenzy'. These affected Astartes have had their souls mutilated by the all-consuming need to rend their foes apart in a gruesome hail of blood and gore, becoming something hollow and murderous beyond reason. Those warriors that have given themselves over to the beast within are marked for service within the ranks of the Bloodseeker Assault squads, to be cast upon the Chapter's enemies with the proper application of force. In between battles, the Bloodseekers must be held within stasis tanks and secured in isolated, solitary cells, until such time that they are released once again against Mankind's foes, to wreak havoc and destruction. The sheer terror and mayhem left in the wake of these blood-maddened Astartes' onslaught ensure that none would dare to oppose the will of the Imperium again.

### Non-Astartes Personnel

* **Tūtūā** - A Te Whatakuran term for 'commoner', used when referring to a Chapter Equerries (esteemed Serfs who have earned their rank through both ability and long-dedication to the Chapter).
* **Mōkai** - A Te Whatakuran term for 'slave', used when referring to Chapter Serfs.

### Order of Battle

#### Headquarters

**Void Lord Mairo Akarana, "Bitter Tide"**
***Lord of the Megalodons***
**Atama Karaka, "Blood-Wrought,"**
**Kaikawe-Upoko (Chapter Champion)**
**Bloody Maw (Honour Guard)**
**Command Squad (Signifier, Tohunga Matakite [Librarian], Tohunga o Tūmatauenga [Chaplain], Kaiwhakaora [Apothecary], Tohunga Whakairo [Techmarine])**
**Tūtūā (Chapter Equerries)**

**Rangi Karauna, "Iron-Jaws"**
***Kalani Mahi Toi* ('Master Builder')**
**Tohunga Whakairo (Techmarines)**
**Servitors**
**Battle Tanks**
**Land Raiders**
**Rhinos**
**Attack Bikes**
**Gunships**

**Waku Nuku Rau, "Red Tide"**
***Kalani Matakite* (Chief War Priest)**

**Wirepa Te Wehiwehi, "Blood Fin"**
***Kalani Kaiwhakoara* (Chief Lifegiver)**
**Ariki Karaka, "Dark-Tide"**
***Kalani Matakite* (Chief Foreteller)**
**Tohunga Matakite (Librarians)**
**Ravager Lord Amako Herangi, "Wave-Crest"**
***Master of the Fleet***
**Battleships**
**(*Navka*, *Mavka*)**
**Battle Barges**
**(*Achelous*, *Red Maw*)**
**Strike Cruisers**
**(*Triton*, *Kamohoaloa*, *Pontus*, *Phorcys*)**
**Frigates**
**(*Makara*, *Veles*, *Annihilus*)**
**Escorts**
**(*Red Harvest*, *Void Wraith*)**
**Rapid Strike Vessels**
**Frigates**
**Thunderhawks**
**Assault Craft**
**Attack Craft**

#### Shoals (Companies)

**Equerry to the Void Lord**
**Sub-Commanders**
**Kaikawe-Upoko (Chapter Champion)**
**Bloody Maw (Honour Guard)**
**Command Squad (Signifier, Tohunga Matakite [Librarian], Tohunga o Tūmatauenga [Chaplain], Kaiwhakaora [Apothecary], Tohunga Whakairo [Techmarine])**
**Long Fins (Veteran Squads)**
**Prey Seekers (Scout Marine, Reiver, Vanguard Eliminators)**
**Tūtūā (Chapter Equerries)**
**Mōkai (Chapter Serfs) & Servitors**
**Scarred Fins (Honoured Ancients)**

**Sub-Commanders**
**Kaikawe-Upoko (Chapter Champion)**
**Bloody Maw (Honour Guard)**
**Command Squad (Signifier, Tohunga Matakite [Librarian], Tohunga o Tūmatauenga [Chaplain], Kaiwhakaora [Apothecary], Tohunga Whakairo [Techmarine])**
**Long Fins (Veteran Squads)**
**Fighting Jaws (Battleline Squads)**
**Ripping Jaws (Close Support Squads)**
**Tearing Jaws (Fire Support Squads)**
**Prey Seekers (Scout Marine, Reiver, Vanguard Eliminators)**
**Scarred Fins (Honoured Ancients)**
**Pups (Neophytes)**
**Round Backs (Aspirants)**
**Tūtūā (Chapter Equerries)**
**Mōkai (Chapter Serfs) & Servitors** | **Ravager Lord Lexcha Natana, "No-Prey-Remains"**
**Sub-Commanders**
**Kaikawe-Upoko (Chapter Champion)**
**Bloody Maw (Honour Guard)**
**Command Squad (Signifier, Tohunga Matakite [Librarian], Tohunga o Tūmatauenga [Chaplain], Kaiwhakaora [Apothecary], Tohunga Whakairo [Techmarine])**
**Long Fins (Veteran Squads)**
**Fighting Jaws (Battleline Squads)**
**Ripping Jaws (Close Support Squads)**
**Tearing Jaws (Fire Support Squads)**
**Prey Seekers (Scout Marine, Reiver, Vanguard Eliminators)**
**Scarred Fins (Honoured Ancients)**
**Pups (Neophytes)**
**Round Backs (Aspirants)**
**Tūtūā (Chapter Equerries)**
**Mōkai (Chapter Serfs) & Servitors** | **Ravager Lord Amako Herangi, "Wave-Crest"**
***Master of the Fleet***
**Sub-Commanders**
**Kaikawe-Upoko (Chapter Champion)**
**Bloody Maw (Honour Guard)**
**Command Squad (Signifier, Tohunga Matakite [Librarian], Tohunga o Tūmatauenga [Chaplain], Kaiwhakaora [Apothecary], Tohunga Whakairo [Techmarine])**
**Long Fins (Veteran Squads)**
**Fighting Jaws (Battleline Squads)**
**Ripping Jaws (Close Support Squads)**
**Tearing Jaws (Fire Support Squads)**
**Prey Seekers (Scout Marine, Reiver, Vanguard Eliminators)**
**Scarred Fins (Honoured Ancients)**
**Pups (Neophytes)**
**Round Backs (Aspirants)**
**Tūtūā (Chapter Equerries)**
**Mōkai (Chapter Serfs) & Servitors** | **Ravager Lord Manu Watihana, "Guards-the-Shoals"**
***Master of the Watch***
**Sub-Commanders**
**Kaikawe-Upoko (Chapter Champion)**
**Bloody Maw (Honour Guard)**
**Command Squad (Signifier, Tohunga Matakite [Librarian], Tohunga o Tūmatauenga [Chaplain], Kaiwhakaora [Apothecary], Tohunga Whakairo [Techmarine])**
**Long Fins (Veteran Squads)**
**Fighting Jaws (Battleline Squads)**
**Ripping Jaws (Close Support Squads)**
**Tearing Jaws (Fire Support Squads)**
**Prey Seekers (Scout Marine, Reiver, Vanguard Eliminators)**
**Scarred Fins (Honoured Ancients)**
**Pups (Neophytes)**
**Round Backs (Aspirants)**
**Tūtūā (Chapter Equerries)**

**Sub-Commanders**
**Kaikawe-Upoko (Chapter Champion)**
**Bloody Maw (Honour Guard)**
**Command Squad (Signifier, Tohunga Matakite [Librarian], Tohunga o Tūmatauenga [Chaplain], Kaiwhakaora [Apothecary], Tohunga Whakairo [Techmarine])**
**Long Fins (Veteran Squads)**
**Fighting Jaws (Battleline Squads)**
**Ripping Jaws (Close Support Squads)**
**Tearing Jaws (Fire Support Squads)**
**Prey Seekers (Scout Marine, Reiver, Vanguard Eliminators)**
**Scarred Fins (Honoured Ancients)**
**Pups (Neophytes)**
**Round Backs (Aspirants)**
**Tūtūā (Chapter Equerries)**
**Mōkai (Chapter Serfs) & Servitors** | **Ravager Lord Ixya Pekama, "Half-Tail"**
**Sub-Commanders**
**Kaikawe-Upoko (Chapter Champion)**
**Bloody Maw (Honour Guard)**
**Command Squad (Signifier, Tohunga Matakite [Librarian], Tohunga o Tūmatauenga [Chaplain], Kaiwhakaora [Apothecary], Tohunga Whakairo [Techmarine])**
**Long Fins (Veteran Squads)**
**Fighting Jaws (Battleline Squads)**
**Ripping Jaws (Close Support Squads)**
**Tearing Jaws (Fire Support Squads)**
**Prey Seekers (Scout Marine, Reiver, Vanguard Eliminators)**
**Scarred Fins (Honoured Ancients)**
**Pups (Neophytes)**
**Round Backs (Aspirants)**
**Tūtūā (Chapter Equerries)**
**Mōkai (Chapter Serfs) & Servitors** | **Ravager Lord Maka Tahana, "Leaps-to-the-Kill"**
**Sub-Commanders**
**Kaikawe-Upoko (Chapter Champion)**
**Bloody Maw (Honour Guard)**
**Command Squad (Signifier, Tohunga Matakite [Librarian], Tohunga o Tūmatauenga [Chaplain], Kaiwhakaora [Apothecary], Tohunga Whakairo [Techmarine])**
**Long Fins (Veteran Squads)**
**Fighting Jaws (Battleline Squads)**
**Ripping Jaws (Close Support Squads)**
**Tearing Jaws (Fire Support Squads)**
**Prey Seekers (Scout Marine, Reiver, Vanguard Eliminators)**
**Scarred Fins (Honoured Ancients)**
**Pups (Neophytes)**
**Round Backs (Aspirants)**
**Tūtūā (Chapter Equerries)**
**Mōkai (Chapter Serfs) & Servitors** | **Ravager Lord Galchurva Hakopa, "Bleeds-Night"**
**Sub-Commanders**
**Kaikawe-Upoko (Chapter Champion)**
**Bloody Maw (Honour Guard)**
**Command Squad (Signifier, Tohunga Matakite [Librarian], Tohunga o Tūmatauenga [Chaplain], Kaiwhakaora [Apothecary], Tohunga Whakairo [Techmarine])**
**Long Fins (Veteran Squads)**
**Fighting Jaws (Battleline Squads)**
**Ripping Jaws (Close Support Squads)**
**Tearing Jaws (Fire Support Squads)**
**Prey Seekers (Scout Marine, Reiver, Vanguard Eliminators)**
**Scarred Fins (Honoured Ancients)**
**Pups (Neophytes)**
**Round Backs (Aspirants)**
**Tūtūā (Chapter Equerries)**
**Mōkai (Chapter Serfs) & Servitors** | **Ravager Lord Tua Karauna, "Darkwater"**
**Sub-Commanders**
**Kaikawe-Upoko (Chapter Champion)**
**Bloody Maw (Honour Guard)**
**Command Squad (Signifier, Tohunga Matakite [Librarian], Tohunga o Tūmatauenga [Chaplain], Kaiwhakaora [Apothecary], Tohunga Whakairo [Techmarine])**
**Long Fins (Veteran Squads)**
**Fighting Jaws (Battleline Squads)**
**Ripping Jaws (Close Support Squads)**
**Tearing Jaws (Fire Support Squads)**
**Prey Seekers (Scout Marine, Reiver, Vanguard Eliminators)**
**Scarred Fins (Honoured Ancients)**
**Pups (Neophytes)**
**Round Backs (Aspirants)**
**Tūtūā (Chapter Equerries)**

### Megalodons Librarians

Like their fellow Librarians of other *Codex*-oriented Chapters, the Megalodons possess a cadre of powerful psykers. The 'Tohunga Matakite' or 'foretellers of the future' are the Chapter's equivalent to a standard *Codex* Chapter's Librarians. These powerful psychic warriors are deeply respected by their fellow Void-Brethren, and are said to divine the future by discerning the meaning of omens and portents by glimpsing the unknowable secrets of Monatoa through the skeins of the Immaterium. These specialists do not utilise the standard Imperial Tarot for divination and prognostication, instead, they carry a pouch containing a number of baby megalodon teeth. These teeth are marked with traditional Te Whatukuran pictogram markings upon each side.

Each image has a profound meaning, and the Tohunga Matakite will cast the teeth upon the ground to divine the future. The orientation and proximity of each tooth prprovidehe caster with great insight into the course of actions the Chapter should or should not take. None amongst the Megalodons would dare be foolish enough to question the most skilled of casters, even the Void Lord himself. Each set of these teeth has been traditionally passed down from one Tohunga Matakite to another, with the oldest set being held in the possession of the Kalani Matakite ('Chief Foreteller'), and has been in the Chapter's possession since Te Whatukura was first discovered and settled millennia earlier.

The Tohunga Mtakite are chosen from those initiates who display an aptitude for learning the powers of the Æther. Megalodons have a number of unique psychic abilities only used by the librarians of their Chapter:

* ***From the Depths*** - The Megalodons Librarian clouds the minds of his adversaries with a choking mental darkness, amplifying their fear and surprise so that it paralyses them. Their minds writhe with images of watery depths of numbing cold and writhing pelagic shapes, leaving them vulnerable to assault.
* ***Rending Maw*** - The Librarian calls forth the avatar of a great oceanic predator whose maw erupts from the very ground beneath the enemy. The very stones and earth reform into the shape of jaws and teeth that snap shut, consuming all within in a shower of gore.

## Chapter Recruitment

The Megalodons are prone to induct most of their potential future Astartes from their primary recruitment world - the oceanic world of Te Whatukura. The seas of this deadly planet are replete with deadly shoal-predators and the one of galaxy's most deadly megafauna - the megalodon - from whom the Chapter takes its namesake. The native tribes of Te Whatukura are known for hunting these apex predators for both sport and the means to sustain their tribes with a source of sustenance. Often, such hunts are utilised as a means to prove one's abilities as a warrior and are often seen as a right of passage. Ferocious and savage, these primitive warriors make for ideal candidates as future Astartes for the Chapter. Whenever possible, the Megalodons attempt to recruit the majority of their aspirants from their ancestral home world.

However, due to the crusading nature of the Chapter and their neverending War in the Deeps, the Megalodons are often forced to recruit while crusading across the width and breadth of the galaxy. This is normally achieved during the so-called 'Red Tithes', as outlined in the Chapter's Edicts of Exile, which permits them to descend upon an Imperial world and harvest the population. Often, these include such planets as Hive Worlds, Death Worlds, or even Penal Worlds. Such deadly and unforgiving environments breed the hardiest, most strong-willed, and brutal specimens of humanity, and make for ideal recruits for the Chapter. Without warning, the Megalodons descend upon an unsuspecting world and begin their harvest of flesh, taking an entire generation of youths to renew their losses, forcing those selected to fight to the death to prove their worth in order to survive in the ranks of the Megalodons.

## Chapter Beliefs

*"Do you know what this is?"* Darkwater asked the newly inducted Pups, his voice a harsh growl. Pointing to the crest he bore on his left pauldron, *"This is the truth about what we are. The great megalodon,"* the ancient Ravager Lord said, glancing at the deep black, bloody-mawed finned predator rising from the Dark Ocean to engulf it's prey.

*"We are mighty predators. Our Chapter's doctrines and philosphies do well to reflect it. And yet, it could be said that the great megalodon is but a mask we all wear. We do not hide our origins, not from our own. We do not hide who we are. We do not hide from this."*

- Ravager Lord Tua Karauna ("Darkwater") speeking to newly inducted Pups (Neophytes)

Over millennia of isolation, the Megalondons have developed a unique and impenetrable culture. They have been heavily influenced by the people of Te Whatukura and have absorbed a great deal of the culture and belief system of the native tribes. Foremost among these beliefs is the representation of the Emperor as Monatoa, the 'The Void Shark that Devours'. The Megalodons are grateful that in His infinite wisdom, He saw fit to imbue them with some measure of the preternatural skills of the hunter, much like the deadly apex predator of their home world. Many Megalodons brethren show their devotion to Monatoa through abstract scrimshaw talismans, shark-tooth fetishes or decorate their battle-plate with intricate and abstract primitivist etchings and line-work. Many of these images take the form of oceanic predators, fanged maws or stylised death's heads. These scrimshaw talismans are carved to celebrate accomplishments, frighten foes, and ward off the malefic. This primitivism likely evolved due to the influx of Te Whatukuran aspirants into the Chapter's gene-pool millennia ago, who brought with them their cultural beliefs and traditions. These inherent beliefs have become deeply ingrained within the Megalodons and permeate every aspect of the Chapter.

### Practices

#### Void Names

Per the beliefs of their adopted home world, the Megalodons believe that a person's name is a valuable commodity that must be vigilantly safeguarded. Knowledge of one's true name grants great power, which is why the void brothers of the Chapter adopt pseudonyms or titles. Megalodons seldom use their true names save in dealings among members of the Chapter. Also, true names are a means in which to safeguard their souls against Chaotic corruption or possession.

No void brother bears the name they were given at birth. This is in part to distance themselves from their previous lives and loyalties and serves as an outward sign of having been reborn into the service of Monatoa. The Chapter's Tohunga bestows names to their Aspirants ('Round Backs'), each one a carefully chosen title based upon their personality and humours and fashioned into a weapon. One of the first things scrubbed from an Aspirant's mind is their original name, along with much of their past. When they are being trained to become full-fledged Astartes, these new recruits have no true names, only the designation given to them by the Chapter. Only upon completion of their training is a Megalodon granted his new name. Until that point, Round Backs are simply referred to by a simple number designation.

#### Tattoos

The Astartes of the Megalodons Chapter are also known for their extensive use of permanent markings, known as '*Tā moko*' of simply *Moko* - tattoos - traditionally practiced by the native tribes of Te Whatukura. These markings are often referred to by Void-Brothers as 'Exile Markings', though the exact reason for this is unknown to outsiders. Tattooing is a very common practice, especially among many, if not most, high-ranking persons within a tribe. *Moko* are associated with '*mana*' - spiritual life force energy that permeates the universe. This form of expression is a way of cultivating or possessing this energy and power. It is also associated with social status; however, some very high-status individuals are considered too '*tapu*' (holy or sacred) to acquire *moko*. Traditionally, receiving *moko* constitutes an important milestone between childhood and adulthood, and is accompanied by many rites and rituals. This is just as important to the Megalodons, when a Pup graduates from a mere Neophyte to a full Void-Brother.

As a Void-Brother progresses through the ranks, they will often begin to tattoo more and more of the surface area of their bodies. Over time, many of the Chapter's Long Fins (Veteran Marines) will be covered nearly from head to toe in these sacred *moko*. In accordance with their cultural traditions, these tattoos also make a warrior appear more threatening, and are also a way to express their rage and sorrow over a lamentable event or the loss of a close comrade. Invariably, senior warriors of the Chapter will have a multitude of such tattoos than their younger brethren, as their bonded Slew brothers succumb to the inevitability of ceaseless warfare. After several centuries of constant battle, these tattoos become a physical manifestation of their expression of sorrow.

### Laws of Monatoa

The Megalodons live by a code of conduct known as the Laws of Monatoa. These laws are ancient, and every member of the Chapter is expected to hold to the central tenets of this code of laws. The Megalodons learn the Laws of Monatao as a Round Back in the form of four basic precepts. Each precept has a practical basis and all of them are universally upheld within the Chapter.

* **Hunt**: The Megalodons have duties as both the chosen warriors of Monatoa and His protectors. They were designed to be predators of the highest order, and their actions affect the Great Sea (galaxy) around them. This tenet reminds a Void-Brother that they are warriors and predators above everything else.
* **Survive**: The Chapter must survive, no matter the cost. The Megalodons believe that there is only foolishness, not honour, in fighting a battle they cannot win. No Void-Brother would accuse another of cowardice if they were forced to 'swim' away from a fight that is hopeless. The only exception is sacrifice in the name of a Spawn Hold (gene-seed repository), which is expected to be defended to the last breath.
* **Spawn**: Creating a new generation of Astartes is a slow but deliberate process. This part of the code also obliges a Void-Brother to teach and mentor young Pups in the ways of the Chapter.
* **Swim**: The Megalodons consider it a duty to continue to swim through the Dark Ocean, explore, and move. They need to watch for dangers threatening the realm of Monatoa, and the best way to do this is to move around and keep their eyes open.

In addition to these precepts, the Megalodons also follow several sacred tenets:

* Protect Monatoa's realm at all costs.
* Attend the elder; you owe them all.
* Respect your Void-Brothers, and they honour you in return.
* The Void Lord may be challenged at any time during peace. Any challenge laid down by a challenger, must be accepted and answered in kind.
* The Void Lord may not be challenged during wartime.
* Dishonour is a mark of lower beings.
* Battle is always honourable.

## Chapter Gene-Seed

### Primarch's Curse: (Blood Frenzy)

Despite the relative purity of the Megalodons' gene-seed, some flaws do exist. The violent aggression of their namesake is inherent in the Megalodons' genetics. Known as 'Blood Frenzy', a Void-Brother is subjected to a mindless and furious rage caused by the scent of blood. The Astartes of this Chapter possess powerful olfactory senses, which allow them to detect scents at several parts per million, and allow them to track a foe from great distances. However, the scent of blood calls to a darker instinct, driving them to hunt, kill, and in some cases, consume. This means that even the most mentally stable and strong-willed Megalodon feels the touch of the Blood Frenzy, knowing full well that it is only a matter of time before they succumb and the madness takes them completely.

For this reason, Void-Brothers (often younger than two centuries) are not permitted to remove their helmets on the field of battle, as the strong scent of spilled blood can drive them into a berserker frenzy, and fall into the throes of the Blood Frenzy. The presence of an inordinate amount of blood spewing forth from the severed limbs or a decapitated head of a slain enemy can cause those Void-Brothers in the throes of the Blood Frenzy to tear off their helmets and attack their victims with their sharpened incisors until they have gorged themselves on the precious vitae and sate their ravenous appetite.

Due to this flaw, much of the Chapter's training during their time as Pups is given over to meditation in order to help them control and suppress this innate desire to Frenzy, as it is known within the Chapter. These practices are continued throughout a Void-Brother's life, and even the Void Lord is known to meditate to help overcome these urges, as no Megalodon is immune to the effects of this inherent flaw.

When the Chapter's genetic curse manifests itself in an affected Battle-Brother, it comes on in three stages:

* **Stage 1 - The Hunter Unleashed**: The Void-Brother completely loses control when he frenzies and finds it almost impossible to claw his way back to reason as long as there are foes to fight and blades drawn. Even when foes are not near, the madness of Frenzy grips him and he rages endlessly for battle and blood, howling out his anger and striking the ground with his blade. The Void-Brother must take care, lest he lose control at any moment. Any time the Void-Brother takes damage, is confronted with a clear threat or is put in a position of great stress, he must summon all his willpower in order to contain his fury for the duration of an encounter with an enemy.
* **Stage 2 - Blood Drunk**: The Megalodons' thirst for the blood of their foes when in the grips of the Blood Frenzy and long to see it spilled across the ground in great arcs and gouts. They also crave the feeling of hot blood on their skin and splattering across their armour, staining the dark red battle-plate a darker shade still. The Void-Brother must engage foes in close combat if possible, either making melee attacks against them or shooting point black with pistols so that their blood spills at his feet. When he downs a foe, he must resist the urge to hack or blast the foe's corpse apart. If the Void-Brother is attacked by a new foe while he is in this state while hacking at another foe, he will turn his attention to his new attacker instead.
* **Stage 3 - Feeding Frenzy**: Near the end, a Megalodon is little more than an animal filled with fury and madness striking out at all those around him. While he may still have lucid moments where he remembers the warrior he once was, these are fleeting and quickly gone to be replaced with only the thought of killing and the thirst for blood, and he will attack the nearest target (friend or foe) if there is more than one to choose from. At this point, the Battle-Brother is completely within the grip of the Blood Frenzy and must be transferred to the Bloodseeker Assault Squads.

## Combat Doctrine

The Megalodons operate exclusively as a rapid strike force, preferring to approach their prey either with extreme speed or by stealth, which allows them to strike with the element of surprise. This Chapter has abandoned the use of heavier war machines such as super-heavy tanks, as well as static defences and heavy equipment that requires support or recovery units to retrieve after a battle, in particular, the rank of Drop Pods used throughout the Adeptus Astartes. Instead, the Megalodons forces favour lighter, multi-purpose vehicles that complement their particular mode of warfare - rapid orbital insertion followed by highly mission-focused assaults, quickly backed up by the exfiltration of all attack elements. To this end, the Chapter makes extensive use of Thunderhawk and relic Storm Eagle gunships. The Megalodons deploy only those ground units that can be rapidly set down onto a planet's surface from orbit, limiting ground vehicles to Rhino and Land Raider variants that can be carried by their Thunderhawk Transporters.

This Chapter relies heavily on the use of stealth and surprise, which falls in line with their genetic forebear's combat doctrine (at least on a strategic level) as they often appear suddenly in whatever warzone they have targeted, without warning. However, on a tactical level, these Astartes are comparatively unsubtle, for they strongly favour close-combat, total slaughter, and the strategic use of terror that puts them at odds with their Raven Guard progenitors. Some Imperial scholars have pointed out the similarities in the Megalodons methods of conducting war to the pre-heresy Night Lords Legion, although they are known to produce a substantially higher body count. While these savage Astartes may have subtle overarching goals, they are merciless in the conduct of their methods.

## Notable Members

* **Hayam Draven, "Blood Wake"** - The patriarch and founder of the Megalodons Chapter, Draven was a Terran-born veteran of both the Terran Unification Wars and the Great Crusade. He was recruited as one of the first intakes for the XIX Legion from the brutal Xeric tribes of the Asiatic Dustfields located in the techno-barbarian state known as the Yndonesic Bloc. Like many of his fellow Terran recruits, Hayam was technologically adept, savage, and absolutely merciless to his enemies. Even after becoming a Legionary, many of these Terran recruits continued to observe their propensity for cruelty. Rising to the rank of Commander, Draven's glorious rise came to a halt following the XIX Legion's reunification with their Primarch Corvus Corax. Following the costly Battle of Gate Forty-Two, he, along with the other surviving Terran elements, was cast aside by the Ravenlord and sent to the outer fringes of the known galaxy as one of several independent nomad-predation fleets to continue prosecuting the Great Crusade on behalf of the XIX Legion. Even after the horrific events that occurred during the Dropsite Massacre on Istvaan V, no effort was made to recall these fleets to rejoin Corax's shattered Legion. Once word finally reached Commander Draven's fleet of the events of Istvaan V and betrayal of half the Space Marine Legions, instead of attempting to rejoin their devasted Legion, his exile fleet launched their own personal war against the Traitor Legions.

For nearly a decade, Draven continued to fight far away from his former kin, only reuniting with his gene-sire following the death of the Arch-Heretic, Horus, during the Battle of Terra. However, instead of being welcomed with open arms, their reunion was anything but a joyful event, for both Draven and the Ravenlord had been severely scarred by the betrayal of the Warmaster, and the Raven Guard Commander was still bitter at his gene-sire's actions following the Battle of Gate Forty-Two and his subsequent exile. Without a word, Commander Draven and his warriors took their leave and departed Deliverance to continue their private war of vengeance against the hated Traitors. This would be the last time Draven would ever lay eyes upon his Primarch. It is believed that following the adoption of the *Codex Astartes* and subsequent dissolution of the Legiones Astartes, Commander Draven was selected by the High Lords of Terra to become a Chapter Master of his own Chapter, created during the Second Founding. Naming his newfound Chapter the "Megalodons" after the megafauna, the apex predator of the newfound world of Te Whatukura, the self-appointed Void Lord would continue to execute their Primarch's will and continue to bring the Emperor's light to the darkest corners of the galaxy.

* **Mairo Akarana, "Bitter Tide"** - The current Void Lord of the Megalodons is the Te Whatukuran-born, Mairo Akarana, better known by his pseudonym "Bitter Tide". A larger-than-average Astartes, his monstrous physique towers over his fellow Void-Brethren even without power armour. He dwarfs most other Astartes warriors and moves much faster than should be possible for an Astartes of his size. Such is Akarana's strength and focus of will, he is able to deliver crushing blows as easily as one might swing a sword or axe. Upon joining the Chapter, Akarana became well-known for his savage mein as much as his prodigious strength in the bloody melee of close-quarters combat. However, his defining trait is his innate rage, which he utilises like a living weapon akin to his fellow Void-Brothers, and yet subtly different in his controlled savagery. This potent rage earned him the void name "Bitter Tide" amongst his brethren. Also of note, is his tendency to survive dire wounds and return time and again from shadowed fates that spelled the doom of all those around him, as if he had been preserved by the hand of Monotoa Himself.

Besides his physical prowess, Akarana is also a highly skilled commander and formidable tactician, particularly in the fields of planetary assault and Zone Mortalis operations. His rise through the Chapter's ranks was meteoric, as his superlative combat skills and potent tactical acumen saw him raised to command over other Long Fins with far more practical experience. Following the death of the Chapter's previous Void Lord, Bitter Tide was unanimously elected as their next Chapter's lord and master. His petition to become the next Chapter Master went uncontested by his fellow Ravager Lords, an event unheard of in the Chapter's long and bloody history.

* **Hemana Tamihana, "Riptide"** - Former Void Lord of the Megalodons, Hemana Tamihana, known as "Riptide" to his fellow Void-Brothers, was considered one of the greatest Chapter Masters of the Megalodons. A consummate warrior and close-combat expert, he had sought out and faced in single combat every enemy champion who ever stood opposite him on the field of battle. Upon his induction into the Chapter, his impressive talents for close-quarters assault and hand-to-hand combat made him stand out, even amongst a Chapter composed of the most savage, efficient, and ruthless killers. His meteoric rise quickly saw him assume command of his own Shoal, earning countless victories and glory on behalf of his Chapter. However, he never sought such meaningless praise, as the chance to slaughter the enemies of Monatoa was enough for him.

His silent demeanour and humble nature saw him earn much respect from his fellow Void-Brothers, and upon the death of Void Lord "Storm Jaws", he was nominated by several Ravager Lords for the right of leadership of the Chapter. Facing multiple opponents in trial-by-combat, Tamihana bested all comers. Assuming leadership of the Chapter as the new Void Lord, this mantle granted him the freedom to stalk across the stars in an endless war of glorious bloodshed and retribution against the hated Traitor Legions. He led the Megalodons for over seven centuries, until he was finally laid low by a horde of genestealers while cleansing the Space Hulk *Infernal Hate* in 838.M41. He was succeeded as Void Lord by Mairo Akarana.

* **Etano Afamasaga, "Storm Jaws"** - Former Void Lord of the Megalodons, Etano Afamasaga, known as "Storm Jaws" to his fellow Void-Brothers, was a volatile and savage Astartes by nature. Considered one of the most active Chapter Masters in the annals of the Megalodons, Afamasaga was never able to sit idle between campaigns - always seeking out new opportunities to deploy his Chapter in the deadliest and hard-fought campaigns and Crusades. Neither patient nor particularly subtle, he was often the first into the thickest of the fray, slaying anything which strayed too close to his twin-relic lightning claws, *Thirst* and *Quench*. Over time, Afamasaga became more aggressive and unstable, reckless traits long kept in check rising to the surface. His blood-soaked rage eventually proved his undoing, as his thirst for battle became all-consuming.

Mortally wounded while facing the Forces of Chaos during the 12th Black Crusade in 139.M41, Afamasaga's remains were returned to the Chapter, where barely a whisper of life remained. Honoured for his stalwart and dedicated service to the Chapter, he was blessed with the honour of being interred within the armoured shell of a relic Contemptor Dreadnought and now serves amongst the honoured ranks of the Chapter's Scarred Fins (Honoured Ancients), blessing him with the ability to continue slaughtering the enemies of Monatoa for eternity.

* **Karkha Watihana, "First-to-Kill"** -

* **Mikaere Tapihana, "Striking Tail"** -

* **Lexcha Natana, "No-Prey-Remains"** -

* **Amako Herangi, "Wave-Crest"** -

* **Manu Watihana, "Guards-the-Shoals"** -

* **Maaka Arono, "Bloodscent"** -

* **Ixya Pekama, "Half-Tail"** -

* **Maka Tahana, "Leaps-to-the-Kill"** -

* **Galchurva Hakopa, "Bleeds-Night"** -

* **Tua Karauna, "Darkwater"** -

* **Ariki Karaka, "Dark-Tide"** - Current Kalani Matakite (Chief Librarian).

* **Waku Nuku Rau, "Red Tide"** - Current Kalani Matakite (Reclusiarch).

* **Wirepa Te Wehiwehi, "Blood Fin"** - Kalani Kaiwhakoara (Chief Apothecary).

* **Rangi Karauna, "Iron-Jaws"** - Current Kalani Mahi Toi (Master of the Forge).

* **"Blood-Maw"** - Scarred Fin (Honoured Ancient).

* **"Razor-Tooth"** - Scarred Fin (Honoured Ancient).

## Chapter Fleet

* ***Navka* (Unknown Class Battleship)**
* ***Mavka* (Unknown Class Battleship)**
* ***Achelous* (Battle Barge)**
* ***Red Maw* (Warspite-class Battle Barge)**
* ***Triton* (Tyrant-class Cruiser)**
* ***Kamohoaloa* (Tyrant-class Cruiser)**
* ***Pontus* (Strike Cruiser)**
* ***Phorcys* (Strike Cruiser)**
* ***Makara* (Gladius-class Frigate)**
* ***Veles* (Sword-class Frigate)**
* ***Annihilus* (Sword-class Frigate)**
* ***Red Harvest* (Wrath Hammer-class Escort)**
* ***Void Wraith* (Unknown Class Escort)**

## Chapter Relics

* ***Thirst* and *Quench*** - *Thirst* and *Quench* are a pair of unique lightning claws with barbed power blades and an inner maw fitted with underbite mechanised chainblades. The origins of these strange but highly effective close-combat weapons are not known, but the Megalodons believe that none other than the Emperor Himself crafted these master-crafted lightning claws when the Ravenlord visited Terra during his initial indoctrination and was gifted to their Primarch by his father. However, these unique weapons were not a singular gift, for a companion set of identical gauntlets were also forged as well - *Hunger* and *Slake* - wielded by the Reaper Lord of the Void himself, Tyberos, "The Red Wake", lord of the Carcharodons. It was believed upon their Chapter's inception, *Thirst* and *Quench* were gifted to their first Chapter Master by their Progenitors. These revered relics have been passed down to each successive Void Lord as a badge of their office.

## Chapter Appearance

### Chapter Colours

The Megalodons primarily wear dark grey battle-plate with lighter grey on both shoulder pauldron insets, the faceplate of their helms, and the Aquila or Imperialis on their plastrons (chest guard). The trim of their shoulder pauldrons is painted blood red. In many instances the more conventional emblems of the Imperium are found alongside idiosyncratic markings, often abstract or depictive images and tokens concerning fanged maws, death's heads, oceanic predators, and bloody wounds, many, of whose exact meanings are not clear to outsiders. They often decorate their armour with tribalistic markings and shark tooth fetishes commonly found amongst the feral tribes of their native recruitment world.

### Chapter Badge

The Megalodons Chapter iconography is a large, black coloured stylised tribal shark rising from the ocean to devour its unsuspecting prey.

## Notable Quotes

### By the Megalodons

"*When I travel the Dark Ocean, I feel the pain of the Great Wound. Each day, when Monatoa's anguish begins anew, I hear His cries, and I long only to fill the void with the blood of His enemies. In those moments of pure rage when I rip apart the enemy, I no longer feel His pain, and neither, perhaps, does He.*"
— Ariki Karaka, "Dark-Tide", Chief Librarian
### About the Megalodons

*Feel free to add your own*
"*No, Lord Inquisitor. I do not care to know the lineage of those Marines. I do not care to know if they are our heirs, our nephews or far more removed from our line. All I care about is that they are faithful to Terra and deadly to our foes, as it should be enough for you.*"
— Yafrir Valquash, during an investigation by several Inquisitors regarding possible links between the Void Ravens and the Megalodons.

[Source]

## Gallery

A Long Fin (Veteran Marine) of the elite Bloody Maw arrayed in unknown pattern relic Terminator Armour, and armed with a pair of deadly lightning claws.Megalodons Bull (Sergeant) of the 2nd Shoal (Company), 6th Fighting Jaws Slew (Tactical Squad).Megalodons Ripping Claws (Close Support) Void-Brother of the 8th Shoal, 6th Slew.Megalodons Ripping Claws (Close Support; Primaris Assault Intercessor) Void-Brother of the 4th Shoal, 9th Slew.Megalodons relic Contemptor Dreadnought, Scarred Fin (Honoured Ancient) "Storm Jaws", former Void Lord of the Chapter.