3d ago
In this special video episode Dhar surprises the lads with a mission direct from the Emperor himself. We play the Path to Victory book Herald of Oblivion, a choose your own adventure style… well, adventure. Combating both heretics and Dhar’s dyslexia the lads try their best to reunite with their squadmates while fighting through successive waves of Necrons, Orks and Tyranids. Join us for a festive tale of grimdarkness featuring a new member of our group … Leeroy Cralkins! Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free
Dec 3
Cover art by Modyer, big love x In our final episode on the Star Badgers, for the time being, we look at the changes wrought on the chapter during their reforging and the suspiciously high number of Star Badgers who survived the Rubicon Primaris. We explore the structure of the reborn chapter and their Clawpacks (companies) by focusing on two of the five full strength Clawpacks they currently have. The Ashmoon Clawpack is led by the Great Claw-Master (Chaptermaster) and his advisors, all of whom were with the chapter when they “landed” Luna’s Vigil on the planet. We then dive into the Ironfang Clawpack and call out the different types of squad and their leaders, finally revealing the Identities of Cral’s and Dhar’s proxies (as well as Scott’s, Hi Scott!). We will be rejoining the Star Badgers in due course… We have a lot of plans for our chapter… Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free SHOW IMAGES The Fortress Monastery of the Star Badgers Star Badgers reforged Guilliman returns
Nov 19
Cover art by Modyer, inspired by the original Rogue Trader artwork. In this episode we pick up the story of the Meles Astorum after their supposed destruction at Uras’drekh. Far from gone, the Star Badgers dragged the wreck of Luna’s Vigil to the surface of their death world, Samarkand, and went underground – literally. For centuries they became a whisper, sustained only by scraps of relic-tech and a trickle of recruits from the planet’s cavern tribes and the return of their Deathwatch Heroes. We explore Samarkand and its inhabitants and what life looked like for the shadow-chapter: no more than two hundred warriors at a time, most little more than scouts, fighting xenos incursions and tribal wars with the tenacity of predators in the dark. This is the Badgers at their most mythic – isolationist, secretive, and driven by survival, their culture hardening into ritual silence and devotion. Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free SHOW IMAGES Surface of Samarkand Star Badger Scout
Nov 5
This episode we dive into the Meles Astorum – better known as the Star Badgers – a fleet-based Chapter first whispered about during the early millennia of the Imperium. We track their rise from brutal boarding specialists in the Jarnhost Reaving, through their reputation for tunnel warfare at Gaulus Red, to the infamous Howling Iron Pact that nearly broke them with questions of purity and trust. Along the way, we highlight their odd blend of feral assault doctrine and proto-Space Wolf ritualism, plus some of the darker moments like the Fangblood trials. All of it builds to their doomed final stand during the Fall of Uras’drekh in M39, when they gambled everything to crush a Necron dynasty before it could awaken fully – and paid the ultimate price. It’s a tale of ferocity, stubborn survival, and a Chapter remembered more for how it fell than how it lived. Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free SHOW IMAGES Meles Astorum Tactical Marine Meles Astarum Tactical Sergeant Space Marine Battlebarge (Ultramarine Chapter) Exorcist Grand Cruiser (Luna’s Vigil)
Oct 15
Our final image heavy episode on the breakdown of a chapter rumbles forward as we turn our attention to the armoured fist of the Adeptus Astartes: their vehicles. We open with the towering Dreadnoughts, half-hero, half-sarcophagus, entombing fallen warriors who continue the fight in adamantium shells. From there, the heavy rumble of tanks follows, with predators, vindicators, and their brutal kin forming the iron heart of an armoured column. Taking to the skies, we explore the Chapter’s formidable aircraft, both gunships and transports, before bombarding the enemy lines with dedicated support and artillery pieces. We close by winding back to the Horus Heresy, tracing how these machines of war have devolved from the Age of Darkness to the current Imperium highlighting that the technological echoes of a golden era that has long since rusted away. Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free SHOW IMAGES Warsuits Dreadnoughts Rhino Variants Land Raider Variants Flyers Primaris Variants Support Weapons Heresy Dreadnoughts Heresy Vehicles
Oct 1
In episode three of our deep-dive into the structure of a Space Marine Chapter we turn the auspex squarely on its commanders. We start off with the Chapter Master, an Avatar of the chapter's spirit and master of its terrifying resources, before turning to the Captains who direct entire companies with the aid of their Lieutenants We then shift to the Librarians, Psykers who wield the immaterium as both weapon and shield. Both lads coo with excitement as Chaplains stride across the field as voices of unshakable faith, while the Apothecaries provide the genetic lifeblood to ensure the Chapter’s survival from battle to battle. Rounding things out, we tinker with the role of the Techmarines, the iron-handed link between the machine cult and the sons of the Emperor. Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free SHOW IMAGES Commanders Captains Lieutenants Ancients Librarians Chaplains Apothecaries Techmarines
Sep 17
Part two in our "Give Cral and Aneurysm” series sees us taking a look at the ridiculous number of squads one can field as part of a Primaris Chapter. We start with a brief look at the Ultima Founding that leads to the Indomitus Crusade, a mission to reunite the fractured Imperium of Man. We note the distinct changes in the revised Codex Astartes, mostly all squad members use the same type of weapon and the 10th company is now a Vanguard company that is now also a scout company. We look at both the numerous Fire support and close support options together with associated Primaris versions of bikes and Landspeeder. We pause briefly to admire the Mario Kart Invader before closing out the episode with a look at the options available for both Battleline and Veteran Primaris squads. Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free SHOW IMAGES Scouts and Vanguard Squads Fire Support Squads Close Support Squads Close Support Vehicles Battleline Squads Veteran Squads
Sep 4
In this nose-bleed-inducing episode we take a look at all of the squad types found in a codex compliant space marine chapter. Working our way from Newly minted scout we track the path a marine takes through the chapter. Starting with the scouts and their vehicles we move to a marine’s true ascension to becoming a Devastator marine. Once they have mastered the heavier weapons of the chapter they progress to the role of an Assault marine mastering not only melee combat but also the fast assault vehicles such as bikes and landspeeders. We progress forward with a look at the all-rounder role of the Tactical marine, a role that dominates the chapter, and their dedicated transports. We close out the episode with a look at the Veteran and terminator squads that comprise the 1st company. Phew… that's a lot of images for an audio medium. Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free SHOW IMAGES Space Marine Scout Squads Devastator Squad Assault Squads Tactical Squad Dedicated Transport Vehicles Command and Veteran Squads Terminator Squads
Aug 20
This episode we take a look at the gene-seed implants required to elevate a recruit to a neophyte within Chapters. We explore the use of Progenoid Glands, located in the throat and chest of each Astartes which mature after 5 and 10 years. We look at the process used to create all implants from the Gene-seed and the rough timescales involved and, in dire circumstances, the use of male criminals kept in artificial gestation chambers used to accelerate gene-seed production. We then take a deep dive into all 22 implants and look at the differences between Firstborn and Primaris marines as well as some of the mutations that have arisen in certain Chapters over the years. Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free SHOW IMAGES List of Implants Location of Implants Recruit undergoing Implantation
Aug 6
In this episode we take a look at the meticulously structured process for Space Marine recruitment. We look at how Chapters select recruits from specific homeworlds or regions, seeking individuals who demonstrate exceptional strength and unwavering loyalty. We explore preferred recruitment worlds such as Feral and Hive Worlds, known for producing robust and aggressive candidates. We look at the mythic aura around the various types of selection trials, from the straight-forward mass duels to the death to the psychically induced acid trip of the more esoteric chapters. We close out with what it means to fail in the trials together with cultural impacts for those societies who produce a worthy candidate. Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free SHOW IMAGES: NONE
Jul 16
CLICK HERE TO VOTE ON THE CHAPTER HERITAGE! We start at the launch of the great crusade and the generic Order of Battle used by the 20 legions before experience and the rediscovery of their primarch changed them. We touch on the schism between those astartes recruited on Terra and those who came after their Primarch was rediscovered. We look at the structure of a Chapter, a central organisational block of each legion and the assets available to it. Touching briefly on the size and disposition of the Legiones astartes we skip to the end of the Horus Heresy examining what the Imperium was forced to abandon to survive, including the very Imperial Truth that rationalised the great crusade. We examine the changes wrought by Roboute Guilliman on the Astartes and wider military organisations and the central reason for its necessity. Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free SHOW IMAGES: Superhuman Scale Jes Goodwin Astartes Legion Legiones Astartes Force org chart
Jul 2
CLICK HERE TO VOTE ON THE CHAPTER LIVERY! We start with the creation of the Primarchs, the reasons that led the Emperor to command their creation and the mysterious Erda who aided him. We look at how the Emperor's own genome was used and altered and the other “biological material” mixed in… gross. After they mysteriously disappeared their genomes were then used to create the first round of Space Marines even as the Thunder Warriors were conquering Terra For the Emperor. Unleashed upon the world the Astartes finished Unifying the planet before being sent out into the wider galaxy. Along the way we give examples of their effectiveness during the later years of the Unification War at the fall of Orioc and destruction of Vhnori. Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free SHOW IMAGES: Superhuiman Scale The Primarchs Erda Leeto “LE-2”
Jun 18
CLICK HERE TO VIEW CHAPTER HERALDRY & DOWNLOAD COLOUR SCHEME SCHEMATIC! We launch this episode with a look at the context for the Emperor's Unification of Terra and the needs and forces that required the Thunder Warriors. We have a gander at the organisation of their 20 legions, foreshadowing, and the abilities and flaws of their powerful and muscular frames. We then face their end by delving into the battle of Mount Ararat at the supposed close of the Unification. Exposed for the lie it is, we then examine the morality of the creation of the Thunder Warriors and their culling at the hands of their allies (proving the Imperium to be built on a lie). We close out the episode with the final grasp of justice during the Palace Coup and fate of those Thunder Warriors who survived into the Heresy era. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free
Jun 4
CLICK HERE TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAV CHAPTER ICON! In this episode we go BACK … to the future! We open our discussion on the state of Terra during the Age of Strife together with its prime rival, the Technocracy of Mars. We explore the cultural impacts of this dark age and how it informed the base culture of the Imperium of Man. We detail the rise of the Emperor with the help of his BFF Macador the Sigillite and his hidden fortress in the Hymalayzian mountains. We touch on a few of the more notable states that were conquered during the Unification War and highlight that the fate of the Thunder Warriors was not the actual end of the war! Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free
May 21
We start our dive into the Adeptus Astartes with a brief summary of Episode 13 and 14 defining what a chapter, company and squad look like together with the most common arms and armour they field. We then take a real world turn and look at the early publication of the Space Marines and the setting of the Imperium of Man. This covers the original designers notes from White Dwarf 93 through the order of battle for the Dark Angels Raven Wing in WD 96 to the first full article on the Ultramarines in WD 97. We look at the organisation of the chapter as well as the implications for officers to transfer between chapters highlighting the early stages of lore. We close out with a summation of the in-setting reasons for the creation of the Astartes legions. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free
May 7
CLICK HERE TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAV CHAPTER NAME! In this, our final episode on the Badab War, we start with the trials of the secessionist chapters, in a special consistorial court, and look at those who vouch for and against the Lamenters, Executioners, and Mantis Warriors. The Astral Claws receive the harshest sentence when their many crimes against the Imperium and the Codex Astartes are laid bare. We discuss how the various loyalist chapters are rewarded for their efforts with both the Star Phantoms and Fire Hawks taking governorships over sectors within the Maelstrom Zone and the Minotaurs retaining the bulk of Lamenters' materiel and vehicles. We close out with the dark fate of the Tranquillity system at the hands of the Carcharodons, the Edict of Obliteration enacted by Inquisitor Legate Frain, and the rise of a new threat within the Maelstrom; the Red Corsairs. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free
Apr 16
We launch our penultimate episode on the Badab war with a look at the transformation of the Astral Claws from a group of frustrated warriors to heretics. We follow the loyalist forces, beginning their final assault on the Badab sector at Piraeus, fighting a costly battle against a secessionist counter attack. The ring of steel is taken down in typical Fire Hawks style, opening up the path to Badab Primaris, the homeworld of the Astral Claws. We detail the final planetary assault and fall of Huron's Palace of Thorns. We close out with the pursuit of Huron and his bodyguard by the forces of the Star Phantoms. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster Listen Ad-Free
Apr 2
The imperium brings its full weight to bear on the Badab conflict. We look at the initial deployment of four further loyalist space marine chapters to the war under the leadership of the Red Scorpions. The initial probing attacks result in an offer of parlay at the cheerfully named ‘Grief’ system but somewhat predictably it was a trap, though set by whom? We discuss further battle fronts and campaigns opened up by the arrival of a further four loyalist chapters before the sudden combo of Ork WAAAGH and Chaos Raiders brings a brief interlude. We close out the episode with the arrival of the Minotaurs, the destruction of the Lamenters and Cral's inevitable nose bleed. Phew! Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Mar 19
The imperium brings its full weight to bear on the Badab conflict. We look at the initial deployment of four further loyalist space marine chapters to the war under the leadership of the Red Scorpions. The initial probing attacks result in an offer of parlay at the cheerfully named ‘Grief’ system but somewhat predictably it was a trap, though set by whom? We discuss further battle fronts and campaigns opened up by the arrival of a further four loyalist chapters before the sudden combo of Ork WAAAGH and Chaos Raiders brings a brief interlude. We close out the episode with the arrival of the Minotaurs, the destruction of the Lamenters and Cral's inevitable nose bleed. Phew! Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Mar 5
We launch into the opening salvos of the Badab War proper. We examine the tactics and temprement of the Fire Hawks and their penchant for genocide, and the expanding ambitions of the Karthan lords. The Marines Errant join the fray for the loyalists and the Executioners reluctantly join for the secessionists. We look at the hit and run tactics of the Mantis Warriors and the ultimately ill-fated battle on and above Bellerophon's Fall. With the space marine chapters engaging each other, the Karthan lords launch a final tithe raiding fleet, which ends in “hilarious consequence”. The failure of the loyalist forces draws attention from the High Lords of Terra itself, which dispatches a Triumvirate of Legates to adjudicate who is at fault and what needs to happen. We close out the episode with the “local issue” being upgraded to an official “rebellion”. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Feb 19
We whip the plaster off the general 40K lore journey with a look at the first hot marine-on-marine campaign published a mere 6 months after 40K Rogue trader was published. We start with a generalised look at the Maelstrom zone and the establishment of the Maelstrom Wardens. We look at the many crusades, invasions and Xenos purges in the centuries before the rise of Lufgt Huron and the supremacy of the Astral Claws. We dive into the trade wars with the Karthan lords and the programme of fortification Huron embarks on while withholding the Imperial tithes. Finally someone blows up a fleet and THEN the Badab War starts. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Feb 5
Perhaps the most convoluted faction, at least in their publication history, we dive into the saga of the Squats. We look at their initial formation taken from a direct port of fantasy dwarfs into the Rogue Trader era 40K, touching on their origins as generational colonists sent to the galactic core. We touch on their social structures and methods of warfare. We take a sharp turn as their society is defined again via the Epic gaming system, before their ultimate demise at the claws and teeth of the tyranids… Only to be reborn as the AI loving cloners of the Leagues of Votann, which largely keep to their original lore. Finally we breakdown the tabletop forces of the Leagues of Votann from their commanders to their vehicles. Thus ends our introduction to Warhammer 40K. Cue fireworks! Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Jan 1
In this episode we continue our dive into the Tau. We start with an exploration of all 6 spheres of Expansion together with some of the hijinks that ensued and the impact of the Tau Goddess on a certain Death Guard army, the fate of the 4th expansions fleet and the liberation of the Startide Nexus. We take a brief look at the Supreme Ethereal Aun’Va and its manipulative and deceitful ways before moving onto the mysteriously long lived rebel of the Tau empire; Commander Farsight. We look at the establishment of the Farsight Enclaves and their Anti-Ethereal stance. We close out the episode with a brief rundown of the units available to the Tau players on the tabletop including the Vespid Stingwings and the Tau Empires Human members. Turns out Cral’s not a fan of the Tau after all… Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Dec 4, 2024
Finally, a light in the grim darkness! We dive into all things Tau, Cral’s newest favourite faction, starting with their introduction into the games and their social structure A.K.A. the Tau Caste System and how that affects their position and skills within the overall Tau Empire. We explore the role and purpose of Tau Ethereals together with their mysterious origins and the concept of “The Greater Good”, and what that means for tau and non-tau alike. We close out the episode with a discussion on their most common weapons and their allies and auxiliaries, in particular the Kroot. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Nov 6, 2024
In this episode, we take a further look at the Necrons of the 40K universe (as opposed to the Necrons of other universes...). We start with a discussion on what happened during the 60 million year Great Sleep and the origins of some of the more aggressive necron troops. We then run through the most recent events from the return of The Silent King to the uncharacteristic Blood Angel Brofest. We close out the episode with a brief look at the most notable dynasties and the troops a Necron Overlord can field in battle. Job done! Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Oct 2, 2024
In this episode we have a brief look at the entire history of the 40K universe. We start with the C’tan and the Old Ones before diving into the Necrontyr, a down on their luck race from the radioactive Halo Stars. We look at their galactic expansion, their encounters with the Old Ones and their numerous succession wars. The War in Heaven is started and nearly lost by the Necrontyr before aid comes from the “Star Vampires” and their entire race becomes Bender Bending Rodriguez. We then follow their victory against the Old Ones, the Enslavers, the rise of the Aeldari, Krork and others before ending with a bit of a nap. Phew…. It’s a lot. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Sep 4, 2024
We start the episode with a brief recap of the 6 clans and a bit of an analysis on some of the more unique troop types. We then have a look at some of the larger, and older, campaigns that have included Orks from Ullanor and the Great Beast to the 2nd and 3rd, or 1st and 2nd, battles for Armageddon. We touch on the rise of Ghazghkull Mag Uruk Thraka and the hysterical Waaagh! Snagrod vs the incompetent defensives of the Crimson Fists. We close out the Ork intro with a brief rundown of their capacities and troops available on the tabletop. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Aug 7, 2024
WAAAGH! Yes, it’s the turn of the orks. We dive into a brief history of their origins before painting ourselves red and battering through their Kulcha. We look at their society, the foundations of their armies and their most esoteric members. We then run through the 6 “clans” that define not only their way of life but also their way of War. throughout we have a bit of bants on the form and nature of “Freebooterz”. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Jul 3, 2024
Picking up from last episode we look at the most common forms of tyranids lifeforms and their roles within an invasion force. From Ripper swarms to the Carnifex we discuss some of the more esoteric forms that have evolved from their “humble” beginnings in 2nd/3rd edition. We then explore the four great tyrannic wars that have so devastated the Imperium and the role the machiavellian Inquisitor Kryptman plays in fighting this existential terror. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Jun 5, 2024
CIARO! Welcome to the first of our two part summary of the Tyranids. The not at all Xenomorph inspired faction from Starcraft Warhammer 40K. We examine who the tyranids are, where they are from, their forms and weapon symbiotes. We close out the episode with a look at how they process a world from an arboreal sphere of goodness to barren rock of badness. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
May 1, 2024
Following on from last episode we delve deeper into the Genestealer Cults and look at how they expand beyond their borders and corrupt the various institutions on a given planet. We look at how they take over a Planetary Defence Force and prepare the planet for the return of the Star Children. We then catalogue the many and varied troop types and heroes such cults have at their disposal. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Apr 3, 2024
In this episode we dive into all things Genestealery. From their hallowed origins in the pages of Rogue Trader to their first appearance in plastic as the enemy within Space Hulks. He look at the early army lists and methods of deploying their associated cults, including chaos cults. We then explore how communities become infected with the Genestealer Cults and they types of worlds such cults can thrive upon. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Mar 6, 2024
In this episode we sashay into the topic of Harlequin Troupes, masters of the webway, balletic violence and protectors of the Black Library. We explore their evolution, tactics and purpose. We look at the Death Jesters, Shadow Seers and Solitaires and their abilities. We close out the episode with a fun-time chat about the role they will play in the end of all things. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Feb 7, 2024
In this episode we veeeeeery carefully look at the webway city of Commorragh and its inhabitants, the Drukhari. We explore their origins and the formation and expansion of their dreaded city. We look at the 3 main power groups; Drukhari Kabals, Wych Cults, and Haemonculus Covens, and the ruler of the city, Asdrubael Vect. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Jan 3, 2024
In our first Eldar … *cough* pardon me. In our first Aeldari episode we look at the history of this once majestic race. Originally pitched and branded as “Space Elves” we move from their origins as space pirates to the fateful issue of White Dwarf 127 where Craftworlds appeared fully formed. We dive into the quagmire of their fall and perhaps spend a bit too much time focused on the Death Orgy phase. We take a gander at Aspect Warriors, the significance of the Path system and the role Aeldari psykers play in their leadership. We close out the episode with an examination of the Exodites, those Aeldari who fled The Fall and sought a more arboreal lifestyle. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Dec 6, 2023
In this episode we follow the fate of those legions that fell to Chaos during the Horus Heresy. We briefly describe the events of 10,000 years for all nine before turning our attention to their evolving organisation and their Daemon Primarchs and the Arch-Warlord, Abaddon the Despoiler. We summarise the campaigns of the despoiler, the Black Crusades. We then pivot to explore the fates of a series of once loyal chapters of space marines that fall of Chaos and the reasons they did so, specifically the Astral Claws of the Badab War. Finally, we look at the innumerable Chaos Space Marine warbands that plague the Imperium at large, their structure, motivations and tactics. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Nov 1, 2023
In this episode we explore the concepts and manifestations of Chaos, the Primordial Truth. In turn we examine the four malevolent warp entities that plague all of the races in the galaxy, the Gods of Chaos; Slaanesh, Nurgle, Khorne, and Tzeentch. We detail their purviews, powers, and pantheons as well as their capacity to influence the galaxy. We look into the Lost and the Damned, the cults and warbands of formerly loyal servants of the emperor and how they were corrupted and fooled into worshiping the dark gods. Finally turn our attention to the Eye of Terror, the largest incursion of chaos energy in the galaxy where the fabric of reality is torn open and the raw stuff of chaos washes over entire systems of planets. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Oct 4, 2023
What is life like on an Imperium World? To answer this question we focus on the storied world of Necromunda. We take a look at the planet as a whole before concentrating on the “capital” of the Palatine Hive. We look at the social hierarchy and the lives of the planet’s rulering power, House Helmwar. We then descend through the hive exploring the lives of the citizens be they from the Great Houses, Clan Houses or the ever-present Mercator guilds. At each level of society we discuss the responsibilities expected (imposed) on them and how the society provides for them. We close out with a list of threats and dangers that arise from such a society and how that is multiplied across the stagnant Imperium of man. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Sep 27, 2023
In this episode we take a look at the history and structure of the Adeptus Custodes, the elite cadre of genetically-engineered transhuman warriors who serve as the bodyguards of the Emperor of Mankind. We look at their use through the time of the Imperium and their new role as part of the Indomitus crusade. Next, we very carefully approach the Sisters of Silence, an all-female force of Pariahs charged with the capture and transport of the that most dangerous of mutants, the Psyker. We move on to a discussion on the Legion of the Damned, those mysterious flame clad space marines who may or may not be positive Daemons. We then take a look at the some of the most confusing mysteries ranging from the Emperors Tarot and the Crystalline Lorelei to the Ordo Chronos and the fabled Omega Vault. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Sep 13, 2023
In our second episode on the Adeptus Astartes we look at the more ‘specialist’ forces of the Adeptus Astartes. We first look at more specific foundings, and their confusing order, and their requirements changed to fit a new darker imperium, such as the Exorcists, and examine the motivations in their creation. We pause briefly to discuss awful sounding words before looking towards the Inquisitors of the Ordo Xenos as they formed and use the Astartes of the Death Watch, a Xenos killing force to which chapters second a handful of brothers at a time. Finally, seeing their origins in the later years of the Horus Heresy, the Grey Knights are laid bare as a force of Daemon hunting warriors built to help humanity withstand the post-heresy enemies the Imperium would face. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Aug 23, 2023
In our first episode on the Adeptus Astartes we start with a look at birth of the modern Space marine chapter; The Codex Astartes and the Second Founding. We dig into what is involved in founding a Space Marine Chapter and what organisational structure each Codex Chapter and its companies. We examine the iconic arms, armour, and vehicles of the Astartes. We then turn from creation to maintenance and look at the recruitment processes of established chapters including the trials, Gene-Seed, and conditioning that is common to all chapters. We then turn our attention to the most recent innovation, the Primaris Space Marines and the Ultima Founding, focusing on the three classes: Awoken, Indoctrinated, and Ascended. We close out with a look at some of the more famous Chapters and their deviation from the codex Astartes. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Aug 9, 2023
In this episode we look at the kingdom within the Imperium, the techno-feudal sociopaths of the Adeptus Mechanicus. We delve into their origins, their motivations, their love for the knee-healing Emperor, and their fall from grace during the heresy. We look at their political status with the Imperium and their hate/hate relationship with the Ecclesiarchy. We briefly examine their hierarchy and the stratified expertise the four great Magos Schola that informs their endeavours. We then dive into their methods of war, their troops and the esoteric warmachine that are totally not used to regain the power of the STCs. Finally, we take a gander at the fearsome Knights and Titans that so define the Adeptus Mechanicus. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Jul 26, 2023
The Imperium Part #3 - The Military. We take a broad and expansive peek at the the Imperial Guard AKA the Astra Militarum AKA cannon fodder. We look at the composition and formation of the Regiments and briefly discuss some of the more famous units and regiments, all under the watchful eyes of a Commissar. We look askew at the noble yet filthy abhumans that serve alongside the true human warriors of the militarum and then turn to the armoured fists of the humanity, Tanks! (you're welcome). Leaving the foot-sloggers planetside we take a gander at the majestic warmachines of the Imperial Navy where Cral gets lost in the hulls, classifications and general romance of void based warfare. We close out the episode with a furtive glance at the shadowed killers of the Officio Assassinorum ... or do we? ... Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Jul 12, 2023
The Imperium Part #2 - The Faithful. In this episode we look at the perfectly reasonable and not at all fascist faithful of the Imperium of Man. Starting with the Ecclesiarchy, AKA Space Church, we look at the history and structure of the Cult Imperialis and just how many imperial institutions it has tendrils in. We turn to the Ecclesiarchy’s militant arm the Adepta Soroitas. We delve into the history and structure of the Sisters of Battle and their many devious and horrific war machines. Finally, we briefly explore perhaps the most powerful institution within and without the Imperium, The Emperor’s Inquisition. These supreme investigators have the authority to kill worlds and raise armies for endless campaigns against the threats to humanity. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Jun 28, 2023
The unbridled excitement of the Imperial Bureaucracy. In this episode, the first of an 8 part look at the contemporary Imperium, we look at the unsung heroes and objectively horrific villains that keep the Imperium ticking. We dissect this bureaucracy into 5 parts; The Adeptus Terra, the Astronomican, The Navigators, The Rogue Traders and the Adeptus Arbites. We look at how each is formed, what they do and, with extreme oversimplification, how they do it. Along the way Cral once again identifies with the downtrodden proletariat of Psykers (we’re keeping an eye on him) and Ben fancies himself a bit of a rogue trading Navigator. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Jun 14, 2023
The second part of our extreme summary of the Horus heresy looks at three major conflicts that defined, in part at least, the course of the war. The Battle of Molech sees a knight house turn traitor at the best (or worst) moment and Horus is re-re-born… again… The battle of Tallarn, where Peter Barro, Primarch of the Iron Warriors seeks the Black Occulous and destroys a world. The battle of Beta-Garmon AKA the Titan Death sees the blunting of the forces of both sides in a campaign that Von Caultwitz would have been proud of. Finally we look at the solar war and the siege of terra and its immediate aftermath. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
May 24, 2023
In this episode … TREACHERY! The Horus Heresy begins in earnest as we look at the events that lead to it, if your name is Davin we don’t like you. We look at the destructive warning of Magnus, who may or may not have done anything wrong, and the subsequent purging of Prospero by the Space Wolves. We explore the background for and the events of both the Isstvan III atrocity and the dropsite massacre of Isstvan V. We close out the episode with an examination of the diabolical Betrayal at Calth where the Wordbearers avenge their wounded pride against the Ultramarines. We also learn that Dhar confuses Millions and Billions on a regular basis. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
May 10, 2023
In this episode we look at the main players between the Unification War and the end of the Great Crusade. We discuss the origins and actions of the Emperor from his birth to the conquering of Terra and his understandable, but objectionable, culling of the warriors that got him there. We explore the role that Primarchs play, even after their disappearance, and the birth of the Legiones astartes, the iconic Space Marines. Finally we look at the launch of the Great Crusade and the rediscovery of the Primarchs, together with a brief example of how their experiences on their adoptive planets informed their way of making war. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Apr 26, 2023
In this episode, we take a summarising stroll through thirty thousand years of human history. Starting with the Age of Terra we discuss the diaspora of humanity and the generational ships they used. The Age of Technology sees the advent of warp travel, the "coincidental" birth of Navigators and the ultimate collapse of the interstellar human empire thanks, in part, to the AI-fuelled pogroms of the Men of Iron. The Age of Strife, or Old Night, is covered as the horror of a post-apocalyptic stellar empire is explored. We then turn our eyes back to Terra and the not-at-all genocidal Unification war of the Emperor of Man. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Apr 5, 2023
In this episode we look at the Galaxy within which 40K is set, our own Milky Way A.K.A Gerald. We explore the 3 “realities” that share the space and discuss the importance of psychic lighthouses. We next discuss the administrative area of the Imperium of Man, the 5 Segmentae and their locations. Finally, we look at the classifications of planets and their biomes, civilisation level, and use. Despite what Dhar says… it’s a lot. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Apr 5, 2023
This episode has two goals. The first is to detail the expansive change in the game since the mid 90s, from 3rd to 9th edition. We examine each edition in turn and look at the arrival of new factions and races together with game-play innovations. Dhar discusses how the inconsistencies and gaps within the setting have been weaved together to form a holistically, though perhaps subjectively, perfect setting with an incredibly detailed timeline. Our second goal is to give Cral an information based aneurysm. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Apr 5, 2023
In this, our second episode we look at the first two editions of Warhammer 40K. The setting launched with Rogue Trader where the setting was very much “of its time”, mid to high sci-fi with a comic book feel and the most convoluted, perhaps even fractured, ruleset which Dhar still loves. We explore the many ways in which the game evolved and look at the key releases and books. Second edition brought the lore to heel and brought in changes that made game-play much faster. This edition codified the lore of the 40K universe and introduced a cohesive historic storyline and ongoing narrative. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster
Apr 5, 2023
Welcome to this, our first episode! What is this? What are we trying to do? Dhar begins with trying to encapsulate the past 40(ish) years of Warhammer 40,000. We look at the explosion of content from the first, comedy named including, edition to the apocalyptic levels of lore that have been used to populate the setting. What inspired the universe, *cough* Dune *cough* Hawkmoon *cough*, and what or who is the Emperor? We ask Dhar about getting into the hobby and his favourite aspects of the lore. Show notes Chat with us on Discord Patreon Merchandise Quartermaster