The Inheritors

[Tyrannicide]

Reserved for IA article.

[Commissar Molotov]

Well, it's fair enough to throw the following aspects into the pot from the PM you sent me:

 

One idea that's been consistently appealing to me is to create a Chapter founded from the Ultramarines. Somewhat vanilla, but not lacking character. Kinda like how the Eagle Warriors have a very cool premise, in my eyes. Founded with the sole purpose of cleansing the systems founded by Guilliman during the Great Crusade. I like that. Something like that, I suppose.

 

I'd like to paint blue or silver, or a combination thereof, and in addition I'd like to have a unit of Sternguard in my force. Other than that I'm pretty open to any ideas or direction. ;)

 

You suggest "dedication" as your main theme - why does this dutiful nature appeal to you?

 

In many ways, you express themes similar to those espoused by Kinghongkong in his Executors thread - an older, established Chapter, one born in the midst of fire and death, striving to restore the Imperium to some semblance of its former glory. You might ask - why haven't we heard of this Chapter? Well, you provide much of the justification in your original post: that they shun the praise of others, believing it their duty.

 

The work comes in trying to make the Chapter compelling, rather than bland. What is their primary motivation? What enemies and allies do they have in a fractious Imperium? How will you distinguish them from 999 of their peers?

[Tyrannicide]

Definitely something to chew on for a bit. You've proposed some very thought-provoking questions. I feel I'm unable to answer all of those in such a stage of infancy, so I've elected to make a more general post for now.

 

In the current Dark Angels Codex, the successor Chapter called the Angels of Vengeance are described in a similar fashion to what I would like to create for mine. Taking inspiration from them, I've begun thinking about a Chapter that is driven by a specific motive or outer influence. Where as the AoV are described as single-minded and devoted to the destruction of all enemies of the Imperium, my Chapter might be fueled by the eradication of primary foe X, Y, or Z, or perhaps they feel they are tasked with purifying the Imperium, in favor of gaining the Emperor's embrace or somesuch.

 

As you quoted me, I state my fascination with the Eagle Warriors and their quest to cleanse the stars conquered by Guilliman in his glory days of the Great Crusade. It's very evocative of the concept I'm trying to put forth. In a grimdark universe such as 40k, this defiance in the face of evil is prevalent across all of the Imperium. How can I make this more specific and special to my Chapter? I guess we'll soon find out.

 

Creating a bland Chapter is my biggest fear, I've already gone down that route and I wish not to any longer. Thanks for the reply, Mol, it'll keep me suitably busy for a while. ;)

[NightrawenII]

... or perhaps they feel they are tasked with purifying the Imperium, in favor of gaining the Emperor's embrace or somesuch.

The could commit some mild heresy or sin, be sent on Penitent Crusade and now not only they seek revenge, but also trying to prevent repetition of their past.

 

As you quoted me, I state my fascination with the Eagle Warriors and their quest to cleanse the stars conquered by Guilliman in his glory days of the Great Crusade. It's very evocative of the concept I'm trying to put forth. In a grimdark universe such as 40k, this defiance in the face of evil is prevalent across all of the Imperium. How can I make this more specific and special to my Chapter? I guess we'll soon find out.

Are you familiar with the term "Sisyphean task"?

[Darrell]

Creating a bland Chapter is my biggest fear, I've already gone down that route and I wish not to any longer. Thanks for the reply, Mol, it'll keep me suitably busy for a while. ;)

 

If you've got Commissar Molotov helping you, I promise you won't make a bland Chapter. Of course, that also means there's not much I can say that he probably hasn't covered and you very well may be in tears at this moment.

 

Nothing is wrong with starting with a basic concept, even a formless one like 'honor' or 'freedom', as opposed to an animal or cultural influence. In a lot of ways it frees you, and in a lot of ways it makes life a great deal harder. It may help to do a bit of stream of conciousness outlining, beginning with your basic concept and seeing where your mind takes you. Let the ideas flow, then you can start weeding through them until you find something interesting. For instance, you might start with "Dedication". Dedication of faith? Dedication to exterminating their enemies? Dedication to fulfill a sworn duty? What sort of duty would require the attention of the Astartes, and could take millennia to achieve if it is possible to achieve at all? Would this be a duty which was assigned to them, or one which they have taken themselves? Has this duty compromised them in any way? Has this duty caused them to create enemies within the Imperium?

 

The good thing about a vague concept like "dedication" is it lets you go pretty much anywhere. The bad thing about such a vague concept is, also, that you start off without any real direction because you can go anywhere. Once you decide on a general course, the ideas will flow much more quickly.

[Commissar Molotov]

The idea of the penitent crusade is an interesting one. We know of at least three Chapters who've embarked upon them - the Lamenters, the Mantis Warriors and the Iron Knights. Whilst the former two had them imposed as a punishment by the High Lords of Terra, the Iron Knights were noted in the literature of the 13th Black Crusade as being on a "self-imposed" crusade of penitence. This is perhaps the most interesting for DIY Chapter creators because their "crime", whatever it might be, could be incredibly insignificant in the grand scheme of things - but such is the way of the Astartes, where a Marine's honour is his life.

 

Duty is an interesting theme to explore. We see Chaos Space Marines falling because their faith, their ideals and their sanity has been stretched to the limit, before finally snapping. What would perhaps be most interesting for you is to explore the consequences of duty - to explore why the Astartes do what they do. To look at the nature of a Space Marine's duty, giving up their own humanity to protect the common man. To become one of the Astartes is a terrible ordeal, but one that is needed in order to ensure the safety of the Imperium.

 

To me, then, to emphasise duty you need to look at Chapters who have endured, despite all the odds, sustained by the certainty that they must - because others depend on them, because it is a task given to them by the Emperor Himself. It is sacred. You could also look at the duality, as Nightrawen says - the duty of the Astartes is Sisyphean, in that it is never-ending and thankless. There is only war, and war is the lifeblood of the Space Marine. Chapters here to look at for inspiration would be the Crimson Fists and the Scythes of the Emperor - both Chapters that stood on the brink, considered whether or not to throw their entire legacy away in a glorious last stand, and resisted, putting personal honour aside so that the Chapter might endure.

 

You are, therefore, caught between that juxtaposition between service as an Astartes being something glorious and noble, and something arduous and terrible. This would seem to be the central focus of your Chapter. You could explore a Chapter, then, through the initiation of a Neophyte into the ranks of the Chapter - taking on the burden of duty, knowing what must be done. It would be easy to create a Chapter who serve nobly and are justly rewarded - but if you don't want to create a "bland" Chapter, where to go from here?

 

Consider a Chapter that has difficulty recruiting. Perhaps the recruits suffer a high rate of rejection, meaning that only a very few get through into the Chapter. This could be due to some defect in the gene-seed. How might this be advanced? Well, the Chapter would likely be quite small, with a proportionally high abundance of veterans. You might not be able to sustain Scout Squads, and instead new initiates would be folded into the battle companies, like the Iron Snakes (I know you've said before that you liked their squad structure.) Superficially, here, you can draw inspiration from the 13th Company of the Space Wolves. If the Chapter develops a problem with its gene-seed, then numbers will drop. You might imagine the armouries filled with vacant suits of armour; with weaponry and equipment that lies unused. It's quite poignant. Now you have a Chapter that struggles to serve the Emperor despite their own bodies betraying them; neophytes that fight for the right to undergo surgeries that are almost certain to kill them; new Initiates that enter the Chapter with the weight of duty upon their shoulders. Theirs is the Chapter's legacy, and generations of their forebears are looking down on them, expecting them to fight for the Emperor.

 

Where else to go from here? You might have Serfs having to take the supporting roles - crewing vehicles, for example - in order to keep the Space Marines free for the important jobs. The Chapter's leadership would likely be selective with which campaigns they participate in; they cannot afford to throw lives away casually. Each Marine might have a greater voice in the Chapter, as there are correspondingly few left. You could consider having this Chapter being part of the 21st Founding - there would certainly be precedent. You can imagine blood rituals (which needn't be the preserve of the sons of Sanguinius) where a single drop of blood is placed on a set of (imbalanced) scales as part of a symbolic rite - their blood is heavy with the weight of honour, of duty, of expectation. Each drop they shed must be for a reason.

[ChaplainMathreyn]

Aren't the Black Templars also on a crusade?... A 10,000 year Crusade, but a crusade nonetheless... One which began with a swearing on an oath to take war to all the enemies of the Emperor, well... A really, really, Really long time ago... It was one of the things that drew me to the Templars long ago... The impossibility of what they are undertaking, and that all members, from the grizzled "old men",to the newest of recruits, are bound up in something said at the breaking of the Legions, in a great big misty time of myth for the Imperium...

[Commissar Molotov]

Well, the Black Templars are crusading (and the Crimson Fists have done so, also) but I was making specific reference to the idea of the "Penitent Crusade". The thematic influence of the Templars is important - in a sense, they are the closest we have to the original Legions. Of course, there are several Chapters that Darth Potato can draw reference from in order to create something unique.

[NightrawenII]

Consider a Chapter that has difficulty recruiting. Perhaps the recruits suffer a high rate of rejection, meaning that only a very few get through into the Chapter. This could be due to some defect in the gene-seed. How might this be advanced? Well, the Chapter would likely be quite small, with a proportionally high abundance of veterans. You might not be able to sustain Scout Squads, and instead new initiates would be folded into the battle companies, like the Iron Snakes (I know you've said before that you liked their squad structure.) Superficially, here, you can draw inspiration from the 13th Company of the Space Wolves. If the Chapter develops a problem with its gene-seed, then numbers will drop. You might imagine the armouries filled with vacant suits of armour; with weaponry and equipment that lies unused. It's quite poignant. Now you have a Chapter that struggles to serve the Emperor despite their own bodies betraying them; neophytes that fight for the right to undergo surgeries that are almost certain to kill them; new Initiates that enter the Chapter with the weight of duty upon their shoulders. Theirs is the Chapter's legacy, and generations of their forebears are looking down on them, expecting them to fight for the Emperor.

 

Where else to go from here? You might have Serfs having to take the supporting roles - crewing vehicles, for example - in order to keep the Space Marines free for the important jobs. The Chapter's leadership would likely be selective with which campaigns they participate in; they cannot afford to throw lives away casually. Each Marine might have a greater voice in the Chapter, as there are correspondingly few left. You could consider having this Chapter being part of the 21st Founding - there would certainly be precedent. You can imagine blood rituals (which needn't be the preserve of the sons of Sanguinius) where a single drop of blood is placed on a set of (imbalanced) scales as part of a symbolic rite - their blood is heavy with the weight of honour, of duty, of expectation. Each drop they shed must be for a reason.

*cough* Gryphon Guard *cough*

:)

[Commissar Molotov]

Interesting. Thank you for that, I hadn't seen them before. They explore some of the similar themes to those expressed in my previous post, but I think that Darth Potato has more than enough room to carve out his own niche - especially if he is looking at the central theme of duty, which has several strands to it. It's also good to see what Sigismund has been up to.

 

However, on a more tongue-in-cheek note: I see your Gryphon Guard, and raise you The Martyrs of Elysius. As shameful as they are now (they've not aged well at all!) they also explore some of the same themes, and did it five years prior - which just proves that these themes are both compelling, and ripe for exploitation.

[Tyrannicide]

In an effort to show some progress I've created a reply, though Molotov's content still probably outweighs mine.

 

As of late, I've been mulling over the concept that they are a Chapter born of Guilliman, struggling to cope with the effects of heavy losses. They defiantly cling to the conventions of an over-utilized Codex, as they earnestly strive to follow procedure in a fallacious manner. In a way, they're very myopic. Their approach to warfare hasn't changed as their numbers dwindle. They're faced with the deterioration of their Chapter. As they die, the Chapter dies. When the Chapter perishes, with it goes its strategical importance and the protection offered to the Imperium, political influence, victories fought, wisdom learnt, Chapter relics, and memories of fallen heroes - its legacy is destroyed. That image resonates within me for whatever reason. It's very tragic and quite delicious at that. Now the problem I do have with this route is that defiance conjures an image of pride. And that's exactly what I want to avoid. I mentioned in the first post that they shun the praise of others as their duty is what's of sole importance. So inherently, I don't think they'd be the prideful type, though that's subject to change. Molotov proposes that they could be careful with where their blood is spent - equally a cool concept. So I'll need to make a decision soon as I feel the progression of this article depends upon their mindset.

 

Now, what is the duty of the Astartes? Good question. Originally the Space Marines were created to conquer the Galaxy. They were the creators of what the Imperium currently is. But that's slowly changed over the ages, as the Astartes often find themselves relied upon far too much. Outstretched and overwhelmed, the Space Marines are in direct control of star systems now. Something unthinkable in the time of the Great Crusade. Their primary expertise of lightning fast attack is shunned in favor of the defense of planets, siege warfare, and liaison duties, among others. Their duty has evolved, and more specifically been reduced to menial tasks. I would imagine my Chapter has to endure the same setbacks and trials.

 

Perhaps my Chapter was created in one of the initial foundings (3rd-5th), while the veterans of the Horus Heresy were still kicking about. Maybe an Ultramarine, or Primogenitor Chapter's Captain was elected to be the new Master of this unborn Chapter. An experienced leader, he participated in the Scouring. It's possible that this is where the Chapter inherited their ideals from. Alternatively, the Imperium itself might have shaped them.

 

You might imagine the armouries filled with vacant suits of armour; with weaponry and equipment that lies unused. It's quite poignant.

Poignant indeed! I like that imagery, Mol. Something to definitely keep in mind as I work away here. All of your ideas have been cataloged and are serving as a driving force behind this concept.

 

I can't say I'm sold on the Chapter's gene-seed being defective. Perhaps I can explore a different reason as to why the Chapter is handicapped? I don't know, I suppose I'm just uncertain. Anyways, it's not all that important right away.

 

 

Right now my focus is to continue brainstorming and hopefully I can have a better picture of where I want to take this by next week. ;)

[Commissar Molotov]

I propose that you name this Chapter 'the Inheritors'. It is a name that is double-edged - they inherit the glorious legacy of the Astartes; they inherit the blood of the Emperor. Equally, they inherit the burden of duty. I keep coming back to the idea that their blood is heavy with responsibility.

 

I like the idea of a Chapter that has been ravaged as a result of existing in the "dark millennium" - the 40k universe is not a nice place. It's easy to revere our DIY Chapters, but ultimately we root for the underdog, and it's more interesting to explore a Chapter that continues to serve, weathering the worst that the galaxy has to throw at it.

 

I fully agree that this Chapter should bear lineage from Guilliman; it is sensible and fits with everything you wish to do. I also agree that they need to be an early-founding Chapter; your current crop of Marines need the weight of history, of honour and of expectation bearing down upon them. What I think you need to do is look at the viewpoints within the Chapter. Conflict within will help to add to the character of this force; perhaps explore the Chapter Master, struggling to unite the Chapter. Two short stories to read here are Rules of Engagement, by Graham McNeill (located within Age of Darkness), and Orphans of the Kraken, by Richard Williams (located within Legends of the Space Marines.) Both of these stories have something useful to offer.

 

Rules of Engagement shows Roboute Guilliman writing and testing the Codex Astartes, and offers an interesting insight into its tactics as a Chapter of the Ultramarines try to implement it in battle. Orphans of the Kraken showcases the Scythes of the Emperor after the fall of Sotha, and shows some of the steps taken by the Scythes' Chapter Master in order to keep his Chapter together.

 

I do think you need to explore the concept of the gene-seed failing them - the idea of the Marines having to fight their own biology in order to triumph is powerful indeed. The flawed hero is the most likeable and identifiable character!

[ChaplainMathreyn]

Could a Chapter so ingrained with ceremony, and stubborn "It is the way it Must be done" have any bearing on your slow decline? I'll try to think up of some scenario where this Could be the case...

 

... Something like, their testing to actually get Into the Chapter are so rigorous and brutal, that only a fraction of other Chapter's aspiring warriors live or survive long enough to become initiates into the Chapter, and begin undergoing their genetic modification...? I don't see the Space Marines as being the kind who, seeing something not readily working, to discard ceremony and rituals of honor...

[Tyrannicide]

I'll make sure to read those two stories you suggested, Mol.

 

Also, I'll admit that failing gene-seed is a rather compelling device. You're starting to convince me!

 

Right then. The "Inheritors" (as we'll now be calling them) have tasked themselves in filling the shoes left empty by their forebears. The weight of responsibility that every Marine in the Chapter shoulders cannot be emphasized further. They travel into the void and prevail against foes darker than the depths of a madman's imagination. Perhaps they're stationed on the edges of the Imperium and are opposed by more unfamiliar species, like the Hrud for example. In either case, I'll make sure to stress the grimdark nature of the universe they find themselves constantly fighting against.

 

I agree that I need to focus on the current Chapter Master, as well. Though other matters are more important, I couldn't resist the prospect of fleshing him out already! I've thought up a scenario where the Inheritors are possibly divided into two factions: those who aspire to please their ancestors and follow the old traditions of the Chapter, and those who embrace fate and wish to die a dutiful death as their Chapter begins to crumble. The Chapter Master finds himself in a very difficult situation where he must unite the Inheritors if they wish to survive. Perhaps his shoulders are weighed down by the weight of duty even more so. Maybe the previous Chapter Master was killed with unfinished business, or in a "dishonorable" manner. Therefore, the current CM feels the need to avenge his predecessor and complete the undertakings left unfinished. The CM wants to prove himself, wants to demonstrate to his brothers that he can lead them out of the darkest of times.

 

Also, in tribute to the teachings of Guilliman and despite being severely understrength, the Inheritors continue to practice Company and squad organization. This semblance is a result of their rigid doctrine, as the First Company still consists of the Chapter's most skilled warriors, the Battle Companies continue to fight, and even a Reserve Company or two exists in my mind. The Inheritors want to return to their former glory. They want to be the equal of their brother Chapters. But they're not. Not yet, at least. If ever again that is...

 

The Chapter endures, and as they rebuild, they wait for a time when they can unfurl the 8th Assault Company banner on a battlefield. For a time when they can dispense Predator tank formations in the livery of the Inheritors. For when the Scout Company can perform reconnaissance duties once more and end a war with a sniper rifle's single shot. They wait. But while the Inheritors struggle to fight a losing battle, they remain vigilant. Even when their very own bodies reject the gene-seed of their Primarch, they continue their service to the Emperor and His most glorious Imperium. When the Inheritors come to mind, I picture a Chapter ravaged by horrific wars and defective gene-seed. But regardless of so, somehow, miraculously, they still continue to fight in the name of the Chapter. The Inheritors are still a force to be reckoned with, and they challenge any of the Imperium's most disciplined Chapters out there.

[Commissar Molotov]

If you can read them, you certainly should. I imagine you may be able to find them if you chose to do so.

 

The Inheritors are certainly interesting. The Space Marines are burdened, above all, with the weight of expectation. They are the Emperor's Angels of Death, and they shall know no fear. Which makes it interesting for us when they fail. What are the consequences of that?

 

For whatever reason, the Chapters' gene-seed is exceptionally prone to mutation, making it hard to recruit new neophytes, and meaning that many of those implanted will sufer a painful death. Both these factors by themselves would slow down the rate of recruitment for the Chapter. It logically means that the Chapter would look further afield for suitable recruiting pools, so you can imagine the Chapter being fleet-based and wide-ranging. Perhaps they might have a Starfortress hidden in orbit of a gas giant or somesuch.

 

(Potentially, if you wish, they could have lost their homeworld...?)

 

It strikes me the Chapter Master would've done his best to silence dissent - perhaps some of the most outspoken would be shipped off to the Deathwatch in order to curry favour with the Inquisition. You can imagine the Chapter Master to be a brooding individual, spending his times in darkened rooms, hunched over tables displaying holographic displays and attending to the politics (and practicalities) of running a Space Marine Chapter. Once he was a jovial warrior, beloved by his brothers - now his face is lined with grief, and he no longer laughs.

 

I think that nominally the Chapter could adhere to the company structure, even if it is exceptionally difficult to do so. They can certainly retain a First Company (though it might be small) and two or three of the Battle Companies. Much of the rest of the Chapter would be collapsed. Fundamentally, I think you would need to be under half-strength for this Chapter to really have a "hook." After all, few Chapters actuaally hover at 100% capacity, thanks to casualties. Effectively, all of the Chapter are "veteran", entrusted with responsibilities. You can imagine that they might have two or three Apothecaries in each force. I don't believe that the Apothecaries would be sergeants - rather, I believe that all Marines would be trained in the basics of organ recovery, but there would be a proportionally high number of Apothecaries in order to ensure that all gene-seed is recovered.

 

So, what do you know so far?

 

Origins

• Early Founding (3-7th?)
  
• Ultramarines Gene-Seed.
  
• Struck by Gene-Curse.
  

 

Homeworld

• Fleet Based?
  
• Wide-ranging, Apothecaries search for Best Recruits possible.
  

 

Beliefs

• "The blood is heavy."
  
• The Chapter must endure. Factions within the Chapter; Chapter Master's role in calming dispute and forging a path forward in this troubled time.
  
• (Sidebar describing the Chapter Master)
  
• Warriors of the Chapter shun ornamentation, see their sufferance as a pennance.
  

 

Organisation

• Heavily depleted.
  
• Nominal adherence to the Codex.
  
• The role of the Serf - Auxiliary units.
  

 

Combat Doctrine

• The Chapter command cannot afford to needlessly spend the lives of their warriors.
  
• Careful consideration when committing the Chapter to war.
  

 

Gene-seed

• What exactly is wrong with the gene-seed?
  
• Adeptus Mechanicus/Inquisitorial involvement?
  

[Tyrannicide]

It's sort of funny how you toss out ideas so casually, yet they sound so attractive. A hidden Star Fortress in the shadow of a gas giant? Even the Inquisition would be jealous.

 

 

But yes, I do see the Inheritors as a Fleet-based Chapter. In my mind they've never sought after a homeworld, because they feel it would limit or hinder them from accomplishing their duty efficiently. Furthermore, they've never been 'awarded' one as that would explain the Imperium's disregard towards the Inheritors. I think it's quite beautiful that the Inheritors sell their lives purposefully so that innocents may remain, and yet the Imperium shuns them and pays no heed to their cause. As you stated prior, it's a thankless duty. But it's a duty the Inheritors feel is righteous as they slowly slide into a decline.

 

I imagine the few Techmarines and Apothecaries that exist instruct Chapter-wide lessons on their equipment and its functions, and the enhanced Astartes biology. Also, something that hasn't entered my mind until now. How do the Inheritors' Chaplains and Librarians contribute in addition to their primary roles? The Chaplains would certainly be influential figures since they preach the Chapter's creed and keep their brethren inspired and focused. And the Librarians psychic abilities would be of profound use in guiding the Chapter carefully from conflict to conflict. I imagine the Chapter Master relies heavily upon their warpsight. Equally important, are the Inheritors cadre of serfs. Without the serfs invaluable assistance the Chapter would surely extinguish.

 

Speaking of the serfs and your idea of "auxiliary troops", what do think of several small squads of serfs existing as faux-Scout squads? Perhaps taught by a Veteran Sergeant or other ranking Astartes, several hand-selected candidates are indoctrinated into the practice of reconnaissance, target-priority, force disposition, unconventional warfare, etc. Never truly on par with that of a Space Marine neophyte, but in this way the Chapter's demand for an infiltration force is met.

 

Warriors of the Chapter shun ornamentation, see their sufferance as a pennance.

This line prompted some thinking. So essentially the Inheritors are troubled by the fact that they are "impure" in a sense, being that their gene-seed is defaced. They also find themselves struggling to return to their former might. The Chapter believes they're failing their forefathers while also destroying their legacy. There's no question that the Inheritors are therefore a grim bunch of recluses. An Inheritor wouldn't be your first choice of a friend, certainly.

 

To add further sting to the situation, the Inheritors will be the heirs of the Genesis Chapter. First amongst the Primogenitors, the Astartes of the Genesis Chapter are noble figures and their blood runs heavy with that of patrician descent. This will serve to further emphasize the Inheritors fall from grace. Originally consisting of Space Marines formerly of the Genesis bloodline, the Inheritors were, at a time, proud and honorable Astartes.

 

The next thing that needs to be explored asap, are the reasons behind the Inheritors gene-seed failing, or rather what problems are there with it?

 

 

----------------

 

Any suggestions, comments, or whatever is welcome. It's not just a conversation between Molotov and I. I'm sorry if I've made it exclusive, but I value the input of the rest of the Liber as well! ^_^

 

 

EDIT: I'll be updating the first post with a layout of the developed points to ensure readability and clear content very soon.

[Commissar Molotov]

The Starfortress is quite appealing, when you come to think of it. I think of a swollen red star bathing it in light, its crenellations casting shadows. It's really evocative. Perhaps a relatively remote system, where the Inheritors have existed since their inception. (Also, linky-dink.)

 

http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd464/INQ28/giants2.png

 

I very much like the idea of the Inheritors hailing from the Genesis Chapter. It only serves to reinforce the idea of the inheritance. The Deathwatch RPG supplement Rites of Battle features a half-page description of the Genesis Chapter. It describes the Genesis Chapter as 'the closest of the Ultramarines' Successors, both doctrinally and astrographically.' Hailing from the world of Newfound, which is relatively close to Ultramar, all its brothers undertake pilgrimages to the Shrine of the Primarch. The Chaplains regard the Codex Astartes as sacrosanct, and work to ensure the Chapter adheres to its tenets - even going so far as to ask the Ultramarines to settle debates within its ranks to ensure there is no divergence whatsoever from the Ultramarines. It even states that squads of the Genesis have served in Ultramarines Battle-Companies when they have fallen below strength. Compared to that, it seems the Inheritors fall somewhat short! Perhaps before their flaw came to light, they enjoyed a somewhat similar relationship with the Ultramarines, with Marines having visited Guilliman. Afterwards, perhaps the Genesis Chapter turned its back on its brethren, declaring them unworthy.

 

I'm not completely sure that Librarians need to have another purpose - they are fearsome warriors, and that's all that matters. The Chaplains I can certainly see tending to the Chapter's warriors in order to keep their spirits high in this bleakest of hours. Still, that's relatively normal for a Chaplain. Not every Marine needs to have a secondary purpose. You could go as far as to say that the Librarians are trusted for their wisdom and that some of them have attempted to train as diviners to ensure that the Chapter is deployed where it is most needed. But it need be nothing more than a throwaway line.

 

It's interesting to read IA9, as it talks about the "Tyrant's Legion" and the fact that the Astral Claws raised Imperial Guard forces, which was one of the reasons that the Inquisition purged them. I don't think that small auxiliary forces of serfs would contravene that - the Inheritors would still ensure that these serfs are trained to exacting standards, they would mostly be occupying roles taken by Astartes anyway, such as tank crew - but I think it'll be worth reading the IA again for some more thoughts. I think you might be better off thinking of the new recruits going into tactical squads (like the Iron Snakes) with the only Scouts (if at all) being Veteran Astartes.

 

I'm unsure about the Chapter hating themselves too much. It's a little cliché, a little too much what you expect. I imagine these Marines to be deeply saddened by it, but they're not assuming that it's divine judgement - they're actually trying to do something about it - and failing that, they're trying to make the enemies of the Emperor pay the absolute highest price possible before wiping them out. Makes me wonder if they've put something in place for if they do get wiped out. A "last will and testament" type thing, where they bequeath their weaponry and equipment to another Chapter or somesuch. Who knows.

 

Still, glad to see there's potential here. What are YOUR ideas regarding the gene-seed?

[Tyrannicide]

I don't see the Inheritors as self-hating, as much as I envision them to hate the fate that has befallen their Chapter. They're disappointed with what time has brought. They're angry that their bodies reject the genes of their Primarch. I don't want them to be two-dimensional characters, certainly. There's a lot more to them then just "HATE!!!". I'm definitely interested in elaborating on the two "factions" present in the Inheritors' ranks. Those who accept fate and wish to die serving to the bitter end - the traditionalists, I suppose. Then those that wish to continue their Chapter's history, the new-blood, respectively.

 

 

I found two important quotes within the first Index Astartes book, regarding gene-seed.

 

Most Chapters have existed for thousands of years. During that time, gene-seed belonging to some Chapters has mutated. This has resulted in changes in the exact nature of the artificially cultured organs. Such changes may sometimes make an implant useless. In other circumstances, changes in an organ might reduce effectiveness or cause strange new effects.

 

As well as mutant implants, many Chapters have lost one or more types of gene-seed due to accident, genetic failure, or some other cause. Very few Chapters therefore possess all nineteen implants.

 

As Index Astartes tell us, it isn't uncommon for a Chapter to be missing implants, or even for genetic deviancy to take place. Perhaps something with the Inheritors' progenoids sometimes malfunctions, resulting in a higher rejection of initiates. Space Marine genetics certainly isn't my main area of expertise. Admittedly, I need to put more thought into this.

 

 

I've got to run, but further exploration is forthcoming. I promise. <_<

[Tyrannicide]

In an effort to generate some more brainstorming, I've posted up a little plea for my fellow Liberites.

 

I'm struggling quite a bit to develop a coherent reason as to why the Inheritors' gene-seed is defective. I don't intend to create some elaborate story as to why their genome is failing, rather something that's innovative and convincing - short and sweet. My goal isn't to focus on their gene-seed, but more so to use it as a tool to demonstrate the dilemma the Chapter finds themselves in. An Inheritor is taught that he must conquer his own failing gene-enhanced body, all the while protecting an Imperium that cares not for his existence. Not an easy gauntlet to run, surely. It's proving to be more difficult than I had originally thought and it's a thorn in the side of my progression.

 

The Liber's been slow lately, where is everybody? Let's hear your thoughts on the Inheritors, I'm interested in any feedback! :)

[Banelord]

I'm struggling quite a bit to develop a coherent reason as to why the Inheritors' gene-seed is defective. I don't intend to create some elaborate story as to why their genome is failing, rather something that's innovative and convincing - short and sweet. My goal isn't to focus on their gene-seed, but more so to use it as a tool to demonstrate the dilemma the Chapter finds themselves in. An Inheritor is taught that he must conquer his own failing gene-enhanced body, all the while protecting an Imperium that cares not for his existence. Not an easy gauntlet to run, surely. It's proving to be more difficult than I had originally thought and it's a thorn in the side of my progression.

 

 

This chapter sounds very interesting so far, I like it :D . The only thing I can think of that might help is there is something wrong with the Progenoids (gene-seeds) themselves. Only mature progenoid organs can be removed to create new implants. There could be a problem ( A Marine's gene-seed may be rendered useless by exposure to high levels of radiation) that gives them a 50% chance of not developing to full maturity making half of them collected useless. This would really hamper your ability to create new marines. I hope thats of some help

[Bad Monkey]

I'm struggling quite a bit to develop a coherent reason as to why the Inheritors' gene-seed is defective. I don't intend to create some elaborate story as to why their genome is failing, rather something that's innovative and convincing - short and sweet

 

Have you thought about the possibility of the chapter changing some aspect of the gene-seed gestation? this could cause the flaw and result in the chapters stringent adherence to doing the right thing by the codex, explain the penance ( going against the Emperors work) and explain how the seed of Guilliman (one of the purse seeds) could be corrupt.

 

Just a suggestion, quite like the idea behind this chapter, interested to see where you with it.

[NightrawenII]

A little off-hand suggestion(s):

 

Subjucators

 

"Alien intervention may also lead to the degradation of a chapter's geneseed, as was the case with Subjugators during the Technetium Belt campaign, leading to metamorphosis, random mutation or more subtle, but equally damaging changes."

~ Index Astartes IV

 

and

 

It is also the case that the processes utilised by the Adeptus Mechanicus to store and to cultivate tithed geneseed from the Adeptus Astartes may become corrupted and imperfect. Though the particulars of a new Founding are shrouded in secrecy and arcane ritual, it is known that all of a new chapter's genetic make-up is not always drawn from the seed of one donor chapter. Instead, a new chapter may represent a genetic cocktail of the geneseed of others, and although purity testing is rigorous in the extreme, it is perfectly possible that these disparate elements may react with one another at a later date, in ways quite unforeseeable by their creators, and so the seed of a disastrous mutation or character flaw is sown.

~ Index Astartes IV

 

Also something to note:

Whatever the effect, the servants of the High Lords are always vigilant against the signs of mutation, and the Inquisition is keen to punish any such signs of deviancy. This puts them into conflict with a great many loyal chapters, not least among them the Blood Angels and Space Wolves chapters whose geneseed is known to be as flawed in some respects as it is undoubtedly superior in others. The long and proud history of these and other ancient chapters has to date shielded them from the attentions of the Ordo Hereticus, but other, less renowned chapters are not so immune to the Inquisition's scrutiny, and they may find themselves under investigation should an Inquisitor suspect serious heresy.

~ Index Astartes IV

[Tutteman]

I have to say that this Chapter is looking very interesting indeed! Now that exams are over and I have spare time I will keep an eye on this ;)

 

For Gene Seed flaws it doesn't have to be a dramatic event. Their Gene Seed could simply be degrading over time. You could use this to reinforce the the theme of a Glorious past, but slow decline into ignominious demise (Not with a bang, but with a whimper?)

 

BadMonkey suggested you could link the Gene Seed and their Penance. Maybe they started this campaign/crusade because of the degradation of their gene seed was taken to be some sort of punishment for sins unknownAnd this Crusade is based on the same sort of logic as Flagellation during the Plague. They view their Gene Seeds degradation as punishment from the Emperor or something similar? They assume it must be their fault somehow because look at the Ultramarines and Genesis Chapter etc and they are still pure and strong...

 

But naturally its totally up to you to take what you want :) Like I said I'm really quite liking this chapter!

[Tyrannicide]

In an effort to get something going over winter break... anything going, really, I've taken some baby steps in posting up a rough draft of the "origins" section of the IA in the first post. It's rough, it's clunky, but it's something, right?

 

Throw any comments my way, I'm looking for some constructive criticism. Can this serve as a solid foundation to build up reader interest? After reading, do you want to know more about the Inheritors?

 

 

Thanks for your time, Liber. :confused:

[Dosjetka]

It liiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiives! :confused:

 

And I must say, you haven't disappointed me :D I really like the "new" version and I do want to know more about them. I especially like the way you have explained the whole thing in story kind-of-way, if you get what I mean (?).

 

Anyway, I'm looking forward to the next update!

 

Ludovic