Index Militarum: Lunar Venatorii Regiments

[TechCaptain]

Dataslate: Planetary Information Dump, Civilized Moon Verliaus

Verliaus appears to be solely dedicated to it's academies and as such has built what terrain features had not already formed naturally. A terrestrial moon famous for its deep valleys and gorges and its meadows of luminescent flowers. There are no distinguishable continents, and all the moon's rivers flow into a single ocean in the western hemisphere. On the opposite side of the moon to the ocean is vast, unbroken desert. The most successful creatures on the planet are large burrowing arthropods.

Orbiting Tarakon is the Civilized Moon of Veralius, whose surface is studded with the many edifices and colleges concerning the academia of war. The people of Veralius have long been tied to Tarakon for which they orbit, and they too have taken upon many aspects of the Wyrm. They have sought to embody its natural keen intellect and wisdom, as well as its merciless ability to slay all those who offend its honor. To this end, Veralius has long been a source of additional warriors for House Fáscha, separate from the House and its traditions, but highly valued nevertheless as cunning scouts and keen warriors with which to defend against the dark predators slinking form the void. With the arrival of the Imperium, Veralius built across its landscape renowned colleges and institutions of war, its peoples immersing themselves in the arts of battle and the warrior ethos of the Wyrm. The Adminsitratum quickly built Schola Facilities up from these war colleges, again separate from the peoples of Tarakon, but drawing upon their hard-earned wisdom. Soon Veralius became a major School facility in the region, producing many fine officers, beauracrats, sororities, commissars, and storm troopers gathered from the orphaned scions of the Imperium. Yet still the Veralius war colleges produced their own soldiers with their own proud lineage and killing edge. These warriors became known as the Veralian Lunar Venatorii. Each a warrior-born, trained from childhood by the warrior colleges, with the ethos of the Wyrm and a love for the Emperor becoming their creed.

Mjorn did not fall to noticed these proud and capable warriors, and again seized the opportunity. From Mjorn, the lunar Venatorii would be given the best of wargear, and outfitted with war machines to full enable them to act as keen scouts and relentless hunters as instilled upon them by their long cavalry traditions. Yet instead of the horses native to Veralius, these mounts would be of metal and smoke and fire, and mount mighty weapons of death. Mjorn would also instill in them an appreciation for the technological theatre of war, and soon the War Colleges taught selected students to act as the Vox-Adepts, masters at manipulating vox systems to help allies and to hinder the foe. After all, a foe that is blind, deaf, and unable to speak is much easier to hunt and slay. Mjorn would frequently also send Transmechanics, either at the request of the Munitorum or of their own volition to aid the Signals and Communications companies of the Venatorii, bringing their own secret and arcane knowledge of communications systems to occlude the senses of the foe and to improve their own. The Lunar Venatorii would swiftly begin sending troops to aid the forces of Mjorn and House Fáscha in exploring the fringes and the wilderness, although plenty of capable and determined warriors were left for the Munitorum’s tithes. Those that were tithed were raised to form the Veralian Lunar Venatorii Cavalry Regiments, where their honed skills, warrior ethos, top-notch equipment, and knack for reconnaissance and vox-warfare would make them highly capable, and much sought after, forces in the eyes of the Munitorum’s General’s Staff.

The War Colleges of Veralius do not just produce the able warriors of the Venatorii, however, from prestigious schools also come forth elite pilots. These pilots serve to protect Veralius from attack, and are also prized support for Mjorn’s Explorator Fleets. The Administratum is also keen to capitalize on this resource, and these pilots are selected and raised as Aeronautica Imperialis Wings, flying their aircraft to defend the Imperium. The local Munitorum prizes these elite air wings greatly, and it is not unusual for the Munitorum to take advantage of pairing them in theatre with the Lunar Venatorii, whether it is to be seconded to regiments to create Air Cavalry Regiments, or to fly independently to offer close air support. Where the Warriors and Pilots of the Veralius War Colleges bought make war, the foe is sure to fall. Edited May 4, 2022 by TechCaptain

[TechCaptain]

Combat Doctrine

Mobility has also been defined in terms of three generally recognized levels of warfare: tactical, operational, and strategic. Tactical mobility is the ability to move under fire. Operational mobility is the ability to move men and materiel to the decisive point of battle. Strategic mobility is the ability to move an army to the area of operations. For Strategic Mobility, moving towards or around high concentrations of enemy troops, or making spearhead attacks to cut enemy supply. This allows them to, for example, punch through a weak point in the enemy’s deployment and loop around behind the enemy concentrations to capture key objectives or supply. For Tactical Mobility, wheeling to deal with a sudden attack, or crossing open ground to seize an objective.

Lunar Venatorii Doctrine calls for using the lightest Battalions as expert scouts and specialists, when deployed in this manner they range ahead of the main Lunar Venatorii force, engaging enemy ambushes, launching surprise attacks, setting traps and herding enemy forces into the most dangerous of terrain. There the heavier elements will open in ambush from raised positions. Always try to strike from above and where they aren't facing, then retreat back to concealment or cover with only the turret exposed or perform a vehicle center peel withdrawal and pull them back diagonally towards the main body as the staggered geometry of the retreat (which each vehicle taking turns in the position the previous one vacated) leading the enemy to think they're facing a new, larger reinforcement.

Lunar Venatorii uses Hit-and-run tactics as tactical doctrine for the purpose of the combat using flexible noncommittal attacks to inflict damage on a target and immediately exit the area to avoid the enemy's defense and/or retaliation. Using such raids to expose enemy defensive weaknesses and achieve a psychological effect on the enemy's morale.

A common method used is known as Chevauchée, a raiding method of warfare for weakening the enemy, primarily by burning and pillaging enemy territory in order to reduce the productivity of a region. The Chevauchée is used as a way of forcing an enemy to fight, or as a means of discrediting the enemy's government and detaching his subjects from their loyalty. Guerre de Course is used as well as a form of warfare to destroy or disrupt logistics of the enemy by attacking its supply lines, rather than engaging its combatants or enforcing a blockade against them. These methods are used often against established enemies like Secessionists, Heretics, T'au held worlds, and other wars where there is territory to weaken the resolve of the enemy.

The Lunar Venatorii variation of the Cantabrian circle is a group of mounted cavalry would form a single-file rotating circle and as the Venatorii came around to face the enemy formation, they would fire. The effect was a continual stream of weapon fire onto an enemy formation. The tactic was usually employed against infantry. The constant movement of the cavalry gives them an advantage against the less mobile infantry and makes them harder to target by the enemy's troops. The manoeuvre is designed to harass and taunt the enemy forces, disrupt close formations and often draw part, or all, of the enemy forces into a disorganized or premature charge. This was commonly used against enemy infantry, especially heavily armed and armoured slow moving forces. This is a favored tactic against Orks and other melee based opponents as they pull the enemy further and further into their fields of fire running them ragged and into exhaustion.


Against enemies they would have to run from the Lunar Venatorii would use a variation of the Parthian shot. While in real or feigned retreat their riders of horse, bike, or wyrm would turn their bodies back in full gallop to shoot at the pursuing enemy. Firing while in a fake retreat at Orks or Heretics of the bloody god they worship allows the Lunar Venatorii to get many massed shots into the enemy while running them into traps and ambushes they had lain in advance.

The Lightest Elements of a Cavalry Regiment screens for targets and engaging smaller targets when not trying to move concealment to hide. Lunar Venatorii Cavalry is always trying to make judicious use of the terrain so that only the turret is visible to the target when possible. They are also always try to take an enemy from the flanks and elevation and avoiding being seen until it's time to either make the kill shot or spot targets for or support the heavy tanks When they dismount Dragoons, the vehicles may withdraw if they're snipers or scouts or advance ahead if they're regular Line Dragoons. Anyone who dismounts is spotting for artillery and tanks to call in the rest of the Regiment.

A heavier line breaking tactic of the Lunar Venatorii is using it's 'heavy' battalion as a nucleus, coupling 'light' battalions with it to create a self-perpetuating 'hammer blow' tactic where the heavy battalion of either Armored Personnel Carriers or Tanks would charge again and again until the enemy broke, all the while supported by light battalions of Mechanized Cavalry Scouts or Light Armor deployed on either flank kept the enemy pinned.

Individuality is a trait that is openly encouraged in the Lunar Venatorii, and the ingenuity and commitment of the soldiers is rewarded. Spontaneous and uncoordinated activity is looked upon with contempt by many of the more traditional officers, but the results were undeniably valuable to war efforts. The Venatorii Regiments of the Astra Militarum are characterized by a mixture of units with multiple tactical abilities, while dedicated formations such as the "Border Devils" are the exception rather than the rule.

The Venatorii excel at raiding and skirmishing, and are used by the Imperial Guard as guerrilla fighters to great effect all across the galaxy. A squad of skilled mounted cavalry can be used as an effective assault and skirmishing force, able to move rapidly over the broken ground. They can then act in the roles of scouts, patrols and fast response troops. Lunar Venatorii are also used to operate out on their own beyond the reach of normal lines of communication, deep within enemy territory. This enables them to harass enemy troop movements by using guerrilla tactics. They specialise in using terrain features and light cover to hide their movements, appearing suddenly over a rise or from behind a ridge and riding quickly down on their enemies.

If the Imperial Guard is the so-called "Hammer of the Emperor," the regiments known as Lunar Venatorii finds more in common with the medical scalpel: small, fragile, but incredibly deadly when employed correctly. In contrast to some other, more rigidly structured Imperial Guard regiments, the Venatorii give an extraordinary amount of freedom to individual squads. While the Colonel and company commanders still issue orders, squad leaders receive considerable leeway on how to accomplish objectives. The Lunar Venatorii frequently leverages its combination of small-unit tactics, independent squads, and tight communication network to outmanoeuvre the opponent. This allows them to be extremely fluid on the battlefield, reacting to the enemy much faster than they could otherwise. Even squads are modular, and often break down into two smaller fire-teams, the second led by the squad’s Corporal, granting them an even greater degree of tactical flexibility.

The Venatorii self-awareness of the regiment’s strengths allows the group to exploit these advantages to the fullest extent possible. Venatorii troopers’ weapons of choice are almost invariably stealth, mobility, and coordination rather than brute force and overwhelming firepower.

Regimental Traditions

Over time, the Lunar Venatorii developed a personal culture of their own, a blend of frontier and strait-laced values that even retained vestiges of chivalry. Such hazardous work in isolated conditions also bred a tradition of self-dependence and individualism, with great value put on personal honesty, exemplified in songs and poetry. The code also included the Gunfighter, who sometimes followed a form of code duello, in order to solve disputes and duels Extrajudicial justice is common in the frontier, such as lynching, vigilantism and gunfighting. The nobility of feudal worlds, still riding off to prove their honor with primitive electro-lances influence heavily the culture of the Lunar Venatorii Regiments.

A code duello is a set of rules for a one-on-one combat, or duel. Codes duello regulate dueling and thus help prevent vendettas between families and other social factions. They ensure that non-violent means of reaching agreement be exhausted and that harm be reduced, both by limiting the terms of engagement and by providing medical care. Finally, they ensure that the proceedings have a number of witnesses. The witnesses could assure grieving members of factions of the fairness of the duel, and could help provide testimony if legal authorities become involved. Venatorii culture places high value on a man's ability to handle himself in a brawl, or with a gun.

The traditional culture of Lunar Venatorii has been called a "culture of honor", that is, a culture where people avoid intentionally offending others, and maintain a reputation for not accepting improper conduct by others. A theory as to why the Lunar Venatorii had or may have this culture is an assumed belief in retribution to enforce one's rights and deter depredation against one’s family, home and possessions. The Venatorii culture of honor is often tied to the relative persistence of dueling in the Venatorii, a cultural phenomenon in which special caution is taken to not offend others and misconduct is not taken lightly (dealt with swift and firm retribution). A high premium is placed on toughness in this culture of honor, because one is expected to defend one's resources and deter predators.

Their Attitude is culturally and socially aware. Lunar Venatorii question everything and anyone and then decide for themselves what they believe is true. This path to understanding yields different world views and opinions, but diversity is key to them. A Lunar Venatorii knows that the system isn’t in their favor, and the deck is stacked against you. With the numerous enemies of the unknown and the depredations of the Xeno encountered the Lunar Venatorii band for survival of their world and the worlds under their protection. Those things lose their perceived value and are discarded, but then this refuse can be re-purposed and used in ways that the original creators never would have imagined. In this way nothing is ever truly gone but re-purposed for one never know when what could have been discarded can be of use.

Lunar Venatorii's culture of honor and attitude of awareness means when they give their word to serve they serve. So when raising Lunar Venatorii Regiments each Trooper has an oath of fealty to the Battalion and regiment in a ceremony. One part of the oath of fealty included swearing to always remain faithful to the command appointed above them. The oath of fealty takes place after the act of homage, when, by the symbolic act of kneeling before the Sealgair and placing his hands on the ground before the Sealgair's Wyrm, the trooper became the "man" of the Sealgair. The Sealgair also promises to provide for the trooper in the manner of command and supplying him with the best the Selagair can find for the Regiment.

Edited May 8, 2020 by TechCaptain

[TechCaptain]

Standardized Equipment

The Lunar Venatorii make use of standard Astra Militarum equipment. All Lunar Venatorii are issued Venatorii Carapace Battle Dress and Mjorn Pattern M24 Hellpistol. Each job specification in the Lunar Venatorii then also get assigned additional weapons and equipment based on their role in the regiment.

Venatorii Carapace Battle Dress

Anti-Wicking Body Suit that extends up to jawline
Flak-Weave Combat Pants
Armored Gloves and traditional Cavalry Boots
Over these clothes are Carapace chest, back, and shin plates
Over the Carapace is a Flak-Weave Duster Coat w/ rank epaulets
Covering the head is a enclosed Rebreather Mask and traditional Cavalry Hat w/ rank braids
Over the Duster Coat is a Gear Bandolier w/ power packs, combat knife, frag grenades, uplifting primer, combat rations, and medical supplies
Standard-issue weapon is a Mjorn Pattern M24 Hellpistol in thigh holster
Sergeants additionally get assigned the grenades allotted to a Squad as well as carry a Ceres Pattern Bolt Carbines.

Wyrm Riders, Mechanized Cavalry Scouts, and Horse Cavalry Trooper are armed with a Melta Tipped Hunting Lance in addition to their standard kit. Other tips for their lances are in inventory but are only used when the mission calls for it.

Vehicle Drivers and Crews, Sentinel Operators, and Vox Adepts pull only standard kit though the gunner of a crew can requisition additional weapons as needed for mission set. (i.e. Tauros, Taurox, Leman Russ, Chimera, Super Heavy Tanks, HellHounds, etc.)

The Line Troopers is armed with Mjorn Pattern M24 Hellpistol and a Mjorn Pattern M417 Hellgun.

Non-Standard Equipment

The Lunar Venatorii posses a variety of non-standard equipment.

The Lunar Venatorii Troopers are known to carry extra arms and armament into the field as per their personalities. The specialist and standard equipment are provided to them. But many carry an array of Auto-weapons and blades as extra weaponry to help in a pinch. Most have an extra pistol or two, and almost everyone has a boot blade of some sort. The elite Wyrm Riders generally have blades and armor pieces created out of talons and scales broken off from their mounts.

[TechCaptain]

A Light Cavalry Regiment

Sealgair is a minor noble of Tarakon who succeeded in bonding with a Tarakonian Wyrm. These fierce commanders often lead the Lunar Venatorii Cavalry Regiments and are granted the rank of Colonel. Primary mission of Light Cavalry is Rapid Reconnaissance as well as rapid redeployment of assets to perform flanking maneuvers. They also make extensive use of traps, mines and other unpleasant surprises. They use traps, spring mines, shredder mines and plasma charges, each specializing in killing certain types of troops. The most skilled Lunar Venatorii Light Cavalry Troopers are capable of launching deadly ambushes, remaining unseen in the foliage and appearing only when they want to attack. Light Cavalry regiments as a whole are also noted for its uncanny skill at stealth and reconnaissance missions. The soldiers of the Light Cavalry are excellent scouts, and as such are known to dress in cloaks made out of cameoline for camouflage.

The Light Cavalry Regiments of the Lunar Venatorii as analogous to some other world's Rapid Reconnaissance Regiments. The Mechanized Cavalry Scouts Battalions with permission from the Techpriests of Mjorn use Tauros and other rapid vehicles like the Venatorii class Combat bike to perform rapid reconnaissance for regiment with Rider Battalions and Air Cavalry Battalions Back them up. Mounted on Scout Bikes, Scout Quads, and Tauros Rapid Assault Vehicles, they rapidly transverse across the battlefield and behind enemy lines, performing hit and run attacks on enemy units and armor, while reporting back to command enemy disposition and movements. Those forces not able to be dealt with regiment themselves are reported back to command, so that allied forces may ensure their destruction. They are particularly skilled at acting as forward air controllers for allied Aeronautica forces, their presence serving to enhance the accuracy and devastating effect of close air support and bombing missions.

An Air Cavalry Regiment

The Colonel of an Air Cavalry Regiment leads the Infiltration and deep penetration specialists. Primary mission of Air Cavalry Regiment is Rapid Reconnaissance as well as rapid redeployment of assets over terrain to rough terrain that even the Light Cavalry cannot transverse quickly. The Lunar Venatorii Air Cavalry use grav-gliders to hunt swamp variants of wyrms in the valleys below their cities. This makes them fearless of altitudes and great at judging air currents. Their specialized abilities have found a home in the Lunar Venatorii where regiments drawn from Veralius act as elite Air Cavalry troops. These regiments' true advantage lies in their speed, unpredictability and the unrivaled ability to attack anywhere on the battlefield, at any time. Lunar Venatorii Air Cavalry are able to strike deep into enemy territory, and so are unable to field any heavy ground vehicles during missions. While this may be the case, the Venatorii do make use of a number of light vehicles including the Tauros rapid assault vehicle and the modified Drop Sentinel.

Elite Infantry in conjunction with riders on Scout Bikes, Scout Quads, and Tauros Rapid Assault Vehicles. They are supported by permanently seconded Aeronautica forces and operate behind enemy lines to observe the enemy, intercept vox messages, and report back to command. Once they have learned the secrets of the enemy, planted explosives detonate, while sniper and heavy weapons fire streaks into enemy forces. By the time the enemy recovers from its shock the regiment is once again mounted in its aircraft in order to once again insert themselves amongst the enemy.

A Cavalry Regiment

The Cavalry Regiment is the staple of what a Lunar Venatorii Regiment is. The Regiments of the Lunar Venatorii Cavalry of the Imperial Guard are famous throughout the galaxy for constantly proving themselves in the arena of battle. Venatorii Regiments are highly disciplined, make excellent shots and use elite vehicle operators to lead their attacks.

The Cavalry Regiments of the Lunar Venatorii as analogous to some other world's Reconnaissance Regiment. A key part of any war effort, reconnaissance units allow an army to scout out enemy movements and positions, and their keen senses and training allow them to swiftly ambush enemy patrols attempting to do the same. Due to their role, reconnaissance units invariably operate far ahead of army commanders, requiring considerable autonomy and personal initiative, traits that often breed a strong sense of daring and recklessness. For all their typical ill-discipline, reconnaissance units are invaluable assets to any army commander.

A Dragoon Regiment

The Dragoon Regiment sacrifices speed for firepower and personnel. Elite and highly trained infantry equipped with a variety of special and heavy weaponry and mounted within Chimera Personnel Carriers, as well as support Trojan Communication Vehicles, they rapidly maneuver from one point to another on the battlefield, destroying enemy armor and similar units, while at the same time manipulating and disrupting enemy communications so as to further increase the chaos and confusion they leave in their wake. When the Cavalry mean to hold a location, to Rapidly redeploy firing lines, or to break enemy lines. The perform the role of either Mechanized Infantry with Cavalry Tactics geared toward Armored Warfare or as Flankers and ambushers setting up areas of heavy firepower redeployed. They love to strike a killing blow at the heart of an enemy formation before returning to their own lines, prepared to pounce once more. The people of Veralius are extremely resourceful and pragmatic. They are patient, determined and utterly ferocious in pursuit of their enemies.

Similar to Mechanised Infantry of other worlds, Lunar Venatorii deploy Dragoons. Less common than line infantry, mechanised infantry serve as a fast-moving, hard-hitting force, pairing the utility of infantry with the speed and firepower of armoured vehicles. The availability of Chimera transports is the main limiting factor to the number of mechanised infantry units in any given warzone, and this rarity means that many mechanised infantry regiments are divided into a number of smaller Armoured Fist groups— single squads or platoons—attached to armoured regiments (to provide infantry support) and line infantry regiments (to provide a fast reserve or armoured vanguard). However, The Lunar Venatorii make them a part of greater regiments preferring to deploy them as battalion groups but when a whole regiment of fast and hard moving mounted soldiers are need the Dragoon Regiment is what is called for.

An Armored Cavalry Regiment

Armored Cavalry Regiment strikes a balance between speed and firepower. Consisting Primarily of Leman Russ Conquerors, Leman Russ Vanquishers, Devil Dog Assault Tanks, and Pegasus Reconnaissance Vehicles, as well as Trojan Communications Vehicles. These Regiments act to "breakthrough" enemy lines, and then rapidly penetrate deep into enemy territory, merciless locating and destroying as many priority targets as possible before fighting their way back out to friendly lines once more, their selfless, some would say reckless, heroism, bravery, and sacrifice are legendary. Commanded by a Colonel that may be a Sealgair. They perform line breaking and Hunter Killer missions in the heaviest vehicles a regiment can call on. They are highly skilled at desert and mobile armoured warfare. The Lunar Venatorii are mobile fighters, evasive and opportunistic. They are especially known for their hard-hitting tank squadrons and are masters of hit-and-run mobile warfare.

The Specialist Company

A Vox Warfare Dragoon Company is a specialist section of Vox Adepts mounted in Mjorn Pattern Vox Warfare Variant Trojans with Two Squads of Guardsmen in Chimera Variants as guards commanded from a Command Variant Chimera, Commanded by a Master Warrant Officer, Vox Adept Sections lead Vox Adept Warrant Officers with Chief Warrant Officers in charge of each section.

A Vox Warfare Air Cavalry Company is a specialist section of Vox Adepts mounted in Mjorn Pattern Vox Warfare Variant Marauder Vigilant with Two Squads of Guardsmen in Valkyrie Variants as guards commanded from a Command Variant Vendetta, Commanded by a Master Warrant Officer, Vox Adept Sections lead Vox Adept Warrant Officers with Chief Warrant Officers in charge of each section.

A Medical Dragoon Company is a specialist section of Medics mounted in Samaritan with Two Squads of Guardsmen in Chimera Variants as guards commanded from a Command Variant Chimera, Commanded by a Surgeon Captain, Medical Sections lead Medical Warrant Officers with Chief Warrant Officers in charge of each section.

A Medical Air Cavalry Company is a specialist section of Medics mounted in Medical Variant Valkyrie with Two Squads of Guardsmen in Valkyrie Variants as guards commanded from a Command Variant Vendetta, Commanded by a Surgeon Captain, Medical Sections lead Medical Warrant Officers with Chief Warrant Officers in charge of each section.

[Bjorn Firewalker]

Good job.

Sergeants additionally get assigned the grenades allotted to a Squad as well as carry a Ceres Pattern Bolt Carbines.

I find it strange a mere Astra Militarum sergeant would be issued a bolt weapon. As bolt weapons require relatively extensive maintenance, and boltshells are relatively difficult to manufacture, the Imperium tends to limit bolt weapons to commissars and other high-ranking officers who can be trusted not to let their bolt pistols (issued because boltguns are too heavy for unaugmented humans to effectively wield, unless they wear power armor) to rust away for lack of maintenance, or to waste precious boltshells "spraying and praying."

[TechCaptain]

Good job.

Sergeants additionally get assigned the grenades allotted to a Squad as well as carry a Ceres Pattern Bolt Carbines.

I find it strange a mere Astra Militarum sergeant would be issued a bolt weapon. As bolt weapons require relatively extensive maintenance, and boltshells are relatively difficult to manufacture, the Imperium tends to limit bolt weapons to commissars and other high-ranking officers who can be trusted not to let their bolt pistols (issued because boltguns are too heavy for unaugmented humans to effectively wield, unless they wear power armor) to rust away for lack of maintenance, or to waste precious boltshells "spraying and praying."

 

That is old lore. Since 8th Edition Bolt Weapons are generally available more but more to the point. Lunar Venatorii are small and relatively elite regiments who need extra firepower without additional support so it would be worth the extra effort. Also Ceres Pattern is a specifically one sized for humans, and Lunar Venatorii are not unaugmented I think the Mjorn thread has their enhancements.

Edited May 9, 2020 by TechCaptain

[Bjorn Firewalker]

A heavy weapon has reduced felt recoil, compared to a light one- and powerful boltshells will generate a LOT of recoil. Best state the sergeants have something to let them bear the bolt carbines' weight and effectively wield the weapons. Maybe state Mjorn inherited the pattern for Mark I "Thunder" power armor (which, IIRC, augment the wearers' upper body strength ONLY), which the Emperor passed onto the AdMech at the start of the Great Crusade, and from which the forge world's ruling tech-priests were able to create power vambraces (power armor for the shoulders-arms-hands ONLY) for trusted servants and allies (the aforementioned sergeants)?

[TechCaptain]

Quoting from Lexicanum:

 

Other Boltguns used by Imperial or human factions and organisations

Boltguns usable by mere "mortals" come in various patterns, though they still follow the same basic design philosophy. Despite the fact that they pale in comparison to their larger cousins, their power is still such that they can easily cut a man in two. Boltguns meant for the Imperial Guard are supplied by the Departmento Munitorum.[10d] [6]

 

 

But I like the idea of maybe a low grade power vambraces for my Sergeants. Maybe built into their carapace armor.

Edited May 9, 2020 by TechCaptain

[Bjorn Firewalker]

But I like the idea of maybe a low grade power vambraces for my Sergeants. Maybe built into their carapace armor.

Good idea, in my opinion. Comments from those with greater knowledge of the world of Warhammer 40,000?

[TechCaptain]

Notable Regiments

487th Lunar Venatorii Cavalry Regiment[/skullheaderhalf]
The 487th Lunar Venatorii 'Panther' Cavalry Regiment, known unofficially as the 'Wyrm Gendarme' is an Mechanized Cavalry Regiment of the Lunar Venatorii Astra Militarum forces deployed to multiple war-zones since its inception long ago, the most recent of which being Hive Cogger, aiding the Inquisition in suppressing several Chaos war-bands. They are the elite among the Lunar Venatorii as a kind of specialized storm troopers whose way of warfare is rapid as it is devastating. The 487th specialize in Heavy Recon and Vox Warfare, these elite troopers train for years understanding their machines and mounts using them to conquer any foe.

225th Lunar Venatorii Heavy Cavalry Regiment[/skullheaderhalf]
The 225th Lunar Venatorii Heavy Cavalry Regiment, known unofficially as the 'Lunar Valkyries' is an Heavy Cavalry Regiment of the Lunar Venatorii Astra Militarum forces deployed to multiple war-zones since its inception long ago, the most recent of which being a Hive siege, aiding the Inquisition in suppressing several Chaos war-bands. They are known among the Lunar Venatorii as a kind of specialized armor regiment whose way of warfare is breaking down and into fortified areas. The 225th specialize in heavy armor warfare.

577th Lunar Venaorii Dragoon Regiment[/skullheaderhalf]
The 577th Lunar Venaorii Dragoon Regiment, known unofficially as the 'Border Devils' is an Heavy Dragoon Regiment of the Lunar Venatorii Astra Militarum forces deployed to multiple war-zones since its inception long ago, the most recently assigned garrison duty on the Armory World of Niter. They are known among the Lunar Venatorii as a kind of specialized Dragoon regiment whose way of warfare is to dig in and continue pounding the enemy into submission. The 577th specialize in Trench Warfare. These wild lads and ladies dig in and are nearly impossible to dislodge.

352nd Lunar Venatorii Dragoon Regiment

This Dragoon Regiment was specially selected by the Techpriest's of the Forge World Mjorn, the Lunar Venatorii Vox Warfare section's benefactors, to protect the sensitive research station of Droch Fhiul. Boasting more firepower and augmentations than usual for the Lunar Venatorii, they work closely with Mjorn provided Skitarii Legionnaires and Bloodmoon Hunter Astartes. On Droch Fhiul they gain access to the best equipment and training they could get outside of their homeworld.

[skullheaderhalf=000000]412th Lunar Venatorii Air Cavalry Regiment

The 412th Lunar Venatorii Air Cavalry Regiment 'The War Eagles' consists of just one under-strength Battalion after suffering devastating losses defending the Frontier World designated F-6624c against Drukhari Pirates from the Kabal of the Crystal Daggers. As a Result each member is a hardened Veteran and consists of elite Vox Adepts cross-trained to serve as Line Troopers, Sentinel Operators, and Bike Troopers. This results in them being a elite and versatile Regiment typically used to perform Direct Action, Sabotage, and Reconnaissance missions deep behind enemy lines.

[skullheaderhalf=000000]37th Lunar Venatorii Light Cavalry Regiment

The 37th Lunar Venatorii Light Cavalry Regiment 'The Shadow Delvers' known for stealth tactics and scouting well ahead of supply lines were dropped to little over fifty men when the Imperial response fleet they were apart of exited the warp above the jungles of Cressia, it suffered catastrophic malfunction, reduced to a single cruiser and the shattered remnants of Militarum regiments. Crash landing in the Eastern Wastes of Cressia the remaining members of the Lunar Venatorii Regiment established an Imperial foothold and tried to gather the remaining regiments from the surrounding areas. Working with the Imperial Sentinels Space Marine Chapter, 1st Deltian Rangers, and 8th Turas Scions performed as Inquisitional Headquarters for the planet under the direction of Inquisitor Cormac.

[skullheaderhalf=000000]512th Lunar Venatorii Light Cavalry Regiment

512th Lunar Venatorii Light Cavalry Regiment under Colonel Daniel Trommel worked in a Battle group under Lord General Danilus Voltek. The Battle Group included Ashimar 43rd Nova Guard, 148th Macharian Steelborne, 91st Arkhan Confederates, 242/60th Maoshi Hive Grinders Regiment, Mireldan 43nd, 14th Utanian Skystrikers, the Unfortunate Son, and 192nd Megali Regulators, the Sudrian Artillery Regiment.

[TechCaptain]

Notable Lunar Venatorii

Eashan Houser de Sealgair[/skullheaderhalf]
Of Average height and Weight, this brown Haired Ishtar Fringe Worlder was far from home as a trade to the Inquisitor while his Regiment had been out on deployment. A Former member of the Lunar Venatorii Cavalry Regiments he had been a vaunted Wyrm Rider bonded to a Wyrm of his own until while on mission for the Inquisitor it was struck and killed by a Heretic Astartes years ago. Losing one's bonded Wyrm was one of the worst things that could happen to a Sealgair of the Tarakon. But instead of being returned to his Regiment and having to deal with the loss among his own, he was kept on as a promising Acolyte. For years before this he was considered a rising star in his Regiment's command structure but yet had attained officer rank. The time in the Academies on Verliaus has placed him among the elite of the Ishtar Fringes, his training was as long as any Storm Trooper of the Deltic Wolves but specialized to the Cavalry and Armory ways of war. Normal armament for Eashan included: Lucius Pattern Hellpistol, D'laku Crusade Pattern Hellgun w/ Whisper Bolt Discharger and Basic Telescopic Sight, 'Sulymann Holdout Salvation Auto Pistol, Wrist Sheathed - Wyrm Scale Dagger, Wyrm Claw Shortsword, Venatorii Carapace Battle Dress, Interkeratic Implants (Night Vision).

Colonel Errmanno Raven de Sealgair[/skullheaderhalf]
The regimental commander of the 487th Lunar Venatorii 'Panther' Cavalry Regiment. Raised from the ranks as a Wyrm rider of his home planet, he moved through the ranks until achieving the command. As he was mustered into the guard his brother worked his way into the priesthood of the Mechanicus. By the time Errmanno made Colonel, his brother became an important Magos. This provided an opportunity for his regiment as his brother made sure they were well supplied. Armed with some traditional Skitarii weaponry as a rare sign of brotherhood, Errmanno is armed with a Taser Lance and has a Ceres Pattern Bolt Pistol. Further he is usually garbed with Light Power Armor and has gained a Mordian pattern Power Sword. He has a further array of weapons and devices as benefit of close association with a Magos. Errmanno leads from the front and is generally well received by the men as he doesn't see himself as above them but one of them.

Sergeant Major (Flight Leader) Jacob Holiday[/skullheaderhalf]
The Flight Leader of 487th Lunar Venatorii 'Panther' Cavalry Regiment as well as a Wyrm Rider in his own right. As the overall leader of all Wyrm Riders in the Battalion, he is also apart of the Regimental command staff. Azula is a deep sapphire blue Wyrm with white speckled scales bonded to Sgt. Jacob Holiday. Jacob has a surprisingly youthful face that hides a keen mind and a dogged loyal nature. Indebted as Colonel Raven's friend and trusted associate long before the Colonel rose to the exalted rank of Colonel. He manages most if not all that the 487th's Wyrm Rider affairs.

Executive Officer Major Theophania Nightingale

An experienced Tank Commander. In the 225th Lunar Venatorii Heavy Cavalry Regiment, Colonel Hill commands from behind the lines from the mobile fortress. The de facto forward commander of the 225th is Major Nightingale.

[skullheaderhalf=000000]Chief Warrant Officer Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke was a Lunar Venatorii Vox Adept turned Cybernetics enhanced Magos Bodyguard and now serves as an Inquisitor of the Ordo Machinum. He is a member of the Contrador Conclave. A Radical of the Xeno Hybris faction of Inquisition in alliance with Xenarites of Incendius Lux that has migrated to the Heimdall sector. Adam is a very meticulous person who pursues his investigations much as he pursued the foes of the Imperium while a Lunar Venatorii and a servant of the Adeptus Mechanicus. He appears cold to people at first due to his extreme training, but after years of following a more senior Inquisitor, he has learned how to show some emotions. He makes use of stealth and infiltration tactics to hunt for his enemies much like the Reconnaissance tactics he used as part of the 412th Lunar Venatorii Air Cavalry Regiment The War Eagles. His personality is deeply logical, finding it difficult to form emotional bonds.

[skullheaderhalf=000000]Chief Warrant Officer Groghe Bancroft

Lord Inquisitor Garant Farthy IV of Holy Terra, a Monodominant Puritan, found Groghe's original unit when it was staged inside an infested Hive as they scrambled an local amount of hive's blocks for days worth of communication, then when the 77th Lunar Venatorii Light Cavalry Regiment got attacked by heretics, Groghe performed feats of bravery defending his equipment until he had to destroy everything that wasn't mobile performing a daring with-drawl, rescuing his squad in the process, while denying valuable Intel to the enemy. Further when he made it back to base camp he revealed that he kept several key pieces of intel that would allow his unit to break into enemy transmissions. This allowed them to identify the Cult leader and his key personnel for a calculated strike against them that he participated in. It said that to hold the respect of the men in the squad he commands, a Sergeant of the Lunar Venatorii must be able to best any of them in a duel or drinking contest. While it seems unlikely that this always holds true in practice, the Guardsmen must have something to keep them busy between deployments. Venatorii Sergeants tend to have a good relationship with the men under their command. And this was especially true for Groghe. Groghe was noted by many to be a man who preferred to face challenges head on, rather than hide, He was also legendary for his vitality and ability to think ahead.

[skullheaderhalf=000000]Wing Commander Derek Strugger

The senior Wing Commander of the 37th Lunar Venatorii Light Cavalry Regiment found himself in charge of the shattered remains of his regiment when everyone higher ranking than him died in the catastrophe that plagued the Imperial Cruiser that had delivered them to the Jungle planet of Cressia in the Hiemdall Subsector.

[TechCaptain]

Do we have any Astra Militarum Experts who would like to weigh in and let me know what I can do better?

[TechCaptain]

Landing of Lunar Venatorii at Hive Cogger

Down in a large Devourer Dropship, the 487th Regiment landed as a whole. Quiet this landing was not, and the Regiment moved its array of animals. The roar of Wyrms and engines could be heard as well as the neighs of horses. Over Two thousand men and women disembarked off the transport. The Various variations of Tauros and Chimeras, rolled off the ramps as the beast masters calmed and gave over their charges to the riders. Motorcycles of all sorts high tailed down the ramps around the others. Each Company and Battalion moved into a battle line formation. Several of the Chimeras looked odd with extra antennas.

The cultist's vox communications started going in and out as static flooded the air waves. This regiment knew its business even as disorganized it looked to outsiders. There was yipping and yelling as people rode to their designated spots. Over a Hundreds of Horses, Wyrms, Bikes, Buggies, and Sentinels made up this Calvary regiment. Everyone was wearing a dizzying array of leathers and Carapace armor. The coloration was Dusty reds and charcoal blacks in a variety of different patterns. They all wore patches of a roaring Panther head. Almost before the regiment was completely formed a Flight of Wyrms took off to enter the hive. Their job was reconnaissance and maybe a little bit of dropping bombs. The horses were the next to leave, and these left in total silence. They left in squads to approach the city by stealth, they were to hit points all along the walls of the hive. This was to be a multi front battle. The lightest of the army was taking the furthest points. They were going to appear to be a much larger force and they were already pretty big. Only the Command Salamanders and their escort bikes were left of these companies as they rolled out.

The next leaving was a great split of forces as what looked like two full battalions of Buggies, Sentinels, Motorcycles, and Salamanders Split to either side of the hive with their orders. They we to hunt down and cut supply line and wreck any resistance. This hive will be subjugated to the Imperium. They were going to use every trick in the book to do so. 1st Battalion went left while 2nd Battalion went right. They moved in a kind of synchronized movement that spoke of deep planning. They were to be a siege force.

The last to move out was Fourth Battalion. These were the Chimeras of War. Four of the five companies moved out as one mass towards the center of the hive and the main entry way. They were heavily armed and ready to be in the thickest fighting. This was the Armored Calvary section. Armed with Multilasers, Autocannons, Heavy bolters, and Storm Bolters, they prepared to shred any resistance. Any may face one of these forces but all fighting like they were makes it hard to form a solid line against them.

The ones that were left behind immediately started building a base camp in case of a long siege. These were the medics, the enginseers, and all the support troops. They could fight but their purpose was to make their fighting arm more effective.

Immediately upon reaching the city 3rd and 4th Battalions ran afoul of the traitors to the Imperium. The narrow passages of the Hive provided only so many avenues of attack and the enemy was prepared. Immediately the Chimeras came under heavy fire and small groups of isolated horse troops were disappearing. The Regiment had grown too confident that they were facing the normal disorganized rabble of civilian cultists. But it turned out that a clever man might be leading them. Several have died or disappeared. Even a couple of Chimeras have been damaged to the point of retreat.

It was chaos of warfare that ensued though that was ironic on who was causing that. It was if the entire hive was attacking them. Missiles and bullets flew everywhere. Several Companies and platoons became isolated and had to retreat on their own, taking casualties. Guardsmen and women were not only getting injuries but dying and having to be left behind as they retreated to open other paths. The wyrms unfortunately didn't see how well placed the barricades were nor spotted the cultists who were wearing dark enough clothing to blend into the dusk attack.

The Samaritans of the Support Company immediately rushed out to save who they could. The cries and screams of the injured could be heard as rescue operations occurred.

This would not be the end of the regiment though. The first forces pulled back but made way to find new routes of attack. Colonel Errmanno himself called off further attacking until other routes were found. They caused some damage but not much and definitely not enough.

" You Slackers. Is this how the best Calvary unit in the Imperium performs. Retrieve your wounded get back here and then attack again but this time use your damn heads," Colonel Errmanno Raven was not an overly large man, but his bellow was loud especially over the vox. He was of average height and a slim build, though he was defined in his musculature from years of hard training as Guardsmen. He rose through the ranks as a survivor, and he made sure his men were intelligent, independent, dependable soldiers that could survive as well. He knew not all would make it but some and if he did his job right most will. His high fade cut hair bristled with sweat from his earlier attentions of taking care of his own beast, not an easy task. He was originally a Wyrm rider himself and still was, with a beast that he raised and hatched himself. He had a reputation for being an analyst and being courageous when called upon. His leathers were well worn and only the Dark Green outline of the Black Panther patch denoted his rank above the rest of the regiment. Another thing odd about him was his connections to the Forge world that supplied his men with equipment. His Brother was a Magos there, and his brother supplied him with a piece of equipment that usually go to Skitarii to ride into battle with to protect him, A Taser Lance. Otherwise he was equipped fair average for a Colonel, Including a Ceres Pattern Bolt pistol, Light Power Armor, Mordian pattern power sword, and an array other devices and weapons.. He also had bionics but that wasn't apparent to the naked eye so much as his brother did him well at getting his brother the best he could offer. That was one of the reasons his regiment was chose to escort a Forge world Expeditionary Fleet. He had them trained on their home world in the same sector, where these beasts roamed and only the best could tame one.

The war council was quite informal it had all the usual members Commissar Alenko, Captain Kid, Captain Athenar, Warden Hoffman, Paladin Utilitarius, and Justicar Freeman who had only recently returned from his mission at Drake’s point. Randall wore his black carapace armor with the holy seal of the inquisition on its breast over that he wore a tattered black trench coat. Randall Spoke only semi formally “To be blunt progress has been much slower than I like, these heretics are proving to be a stubborn lot. However I just received news that should turn the tides of war in our favor. A regiment of imperial guardsmen has by some miracle of the Emperor has made planet fall around the Hive.” “Who are they.” Asked Kid. Randall stole a glance at his paper and replied “The 487th Lunar Venatorii Panther Calvary. Wyrm riders.” Alenko spoke “We could definitely use the extra men, but I would advise caution this place can corrupt.” Randall nodded “My thoughts the same, that is why I am sending Captain Kid to make contact with their commander to ensure there is nothing to fear from them.” Kid disliked the idea of being taken away from the battle to play diplomat but she would not complain. The Captain nodded to the inquisitor and Randall concluded “Excellent make ready we will make our final push soon.”

Captain Kid blocked the glare of the sun with her armored wrist. This was the first time in weeks she had been out of the hive. After a few minutes of her eyes adjusting she could now see the world in more clarity. In the distance she could see the Venatorii camp, though the lodging was temporary it must have been a massive undertaking due to its scale. Began the long walk from the stairs that exited the hive to the earth below.

Kid had walked for nearly twenty minutes when she saw a trio of riders coming. It was not long before the wyrmsmen were upon Kid, the trio blitz around the storm trooper and encircled her. The three creatures looked menacing, two were black scaled with red scales that accented the flanks of their long bodies. The third rider was mounted atop a deep blue beast who’s hide was marked with freckles of white.

The lead rider spoke from atop his blue steed “State your name and business here.” Kid replied examining the fearsome mounts “My name is Captain Amanda Kid, emissary for Inquisitor Garrett Randall.” The rider dismounted Kid could see by his patch he was a sergeant. The sergeant offered Kid his hand and spoke as the two shook “My name is sergeant Jacob Holiday, it’s a pleasure to meet you mam.” Kid spoke griping the sergeant’s fist “Well met sergeant, how much further is your camp, I will need to speak with your commander.” Holiday replied “Not but another ten minutes walk on foot. I will accompany you.” The sergeant looked over to one of his subordinates and spoke “Take Azula here and inform Colonel Raven he has company.” The rider pounded his fist to his chest and the three wyrms and two riders were off.

As the sergeant said it was only a ten-minute walk to the camp. Kid saw the hastily built stables that would temporarily house the dragon-kin mounts, they walked by tables where groups of men played cards and drank, they passed patrols of riders overseeing the camps welfare. At the center of the camp was a tent much larger than the rest. Holiday looked over to Kid and spoke “Before you head in I’m afraid I will need to confiscate your side arm.” Reluctantly Kid relinquished the hot shot las pistol. Holiday continued “And that knife in your boot.” Kid removed the nine-inch blade and handed it to the sergeant. Holiday smiled “You can head right on in.”

Kid entered the tent, it was lit only by a few candles. She examined the holdings and noticed it to be a bit on the simpler. She saw the colonel facing away from her looking in the mirror. The man’s neck and checks were covered in shaving cream and in the colonel’s left hand was a straight razor. The colonel spoke friendly but didn’t turn to Kid “Captain, I thank you for your presence.” Kid spoke “Colonel Raven, the honor is mine. We appreciate your sudden arrival; it is a gift from the Emperor.” Raven wiped the shaving cream away with a rag and spoke “A high praise madam, however I think the Emperor could do a whole lot better than our humble regiment.” Kid smiled “Regardless we are glad to have your support.” Raven gestured to a table and some chairs and spoke “Sit, I reckon we have much to discuss.” Kid sat and began recounting the war for Cogger Hive.

In the time Kid spoke Raven had lit a cigar. The colonel had seen the taint of chaos before, he knows what horrors it may have on the minds of men. Raven spoke “Captain I know what the effects the arch enemy might have on my men, should any of them succumb we know what must be done.” Kid spoke “I have lost dozens of men to the taint, it is never easy but it must be done.” By this point Kid was comfortable in allowing the Venatorii to assist them. Kid spoke “We are planning a final push against the heretics, your men will prove invaluable. We can discuss this further at our forward camp.” Raven grinned "We will have our camped pack by night fall, we will join you shortly there after.” Raven called outside the tent. “Holiday” the sergeant shortly appeared. “You and your men are heading out with the captain.” The sergeant pounded his fist to his chest. Kid bowed her head to Raven and exited the tent. Edited March 11, 2021 by TechCaptain

[TechCaptain]

Development stall. (Hiatus)

[TechCaptain]

Lunar Venatorii Medical Adepts

They are trained as combat medics, fighting chirurgeons equally at home with a medi-kit as they are with a Lasgun. In battle, they stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their squad-mates, fighting with equal skill and fervour, and all the while patching, dosing, or administering the God-Emperor's Mercy to their brothers-in-arms. Going by many different names across the varying regiments of the Imperial Guard, Medics are put in charge of all medical gear and supplies sent to their squad by the Departmento Munitorum. Whether they receive simple bandages to wrap around las-wounds, or sophisticated combat-drugs and surgery kits, Medics are the ones who are entrusted with using this equipment to keep their squad healthy and prepared for combat. Many combat patrols, operating behind enemy lines for months, have stayed alive only due to the medical expertise of one of their squad-mates.

 

Lunar Venatorii Vox Adepts

"You see this needle? If it's in the green, it means the machine spirit is dominant and in control of the surrounding area. However, when it goes into the yellow, another machine spirit has entered its territory and there is an ongoing feud between the two competing machine spirits. Turn this dial to feed more Motive Force for the machine spirit so that it might prevail and conquer the other one. However, if the needle goes into the red, the other machine spirit has gained superiority and you are compromised."

—Lexmechanic DL-00D

Lunar Venatorii also train number of highly technical specialists. These specialists depending on the specialty get hurried to the hush corridors maintained by the Mechanicus representatives of Verliaus. Of these are the famed Vox Adepts of the Lunar Venatorii, Electro-Vox Warfare requires an in-depth knowledge of the ins and outs of battlefield communication such as broadcast frequencies, electronic attack, cryptography, power generation, maintenance, and the dizzying array of communications gear fielded across the galaxy, electronic warfare is typically the purview of Operators, Tech-Priest Enginseers, and the occasional astute and tech-savvy Guardsman. No matter where they fight, these Guardsmen are equipped with some of the most sophisticated listening and broadcasting equipment issued by the Departmento Munitorum.

 

Mjorn trains Transmechanics under tutelage of the Archmagos primes to serve as Vox Warfare specialists instructors, sending some of these adepts to Veralius to aid in the creation of elite Vox warfare Lunar Venatorii Regiment elements. An Lunar Venatorii Vox Adept Operator is a rare specialist of the Imperial Guard who feels unusually comfortable around the Machine Spirits of the ancient devices utilised by the military forces of the Imperium of Man. These Guardsmen are laymen inducted into the lowest levels of worship of the Omnissiah and are entrusted with rites of use for this sensitive equipment.

 

Lunar Venatorii Horse Cavalry Trooper (Reiter)

The Lunar Venatorii horse cavalry senses are honed to a razor's edge, allowing them to recognize hidden threats in their midst, even enemies who are under cloaking devices. Their particular mission is usually to conduct long-range penetration raids deep behind enemy lines, responsible for bearing the brunt of the enemy's response when battle is finally joined. In other instances horse cavalry are used as expert scouts and specialists, when deployed in this manner they range ahead of the main Lunar Venatorii force, engaging enemy ambushers, launching surprise attacks, setting traps and herding enemy forces into the most dangerous of terrain. The Lunar Venatorii horse cavalry are trained in various different methods of warfare, including demolition, escape and evasion, survival and intelligence work. The trainees were expected to become masters of their weapons and techniques. They are deployed on the battlefield as scouts, patrol units and for quick hit-and-run attacks; living mounts allow Lunar Venatorii horse cavalry to function far from Imperial supply lines, in terrain unsuitable for mechanized warfare, and avoid detection.

 

Lunar Venatorii Operators

A skilled Lunar Venatorii is intimately familiar with the vehicles in his company (i.e. Tauros, Taurox, Leman Russ, Chimera, Super Heavy Tanks, HellHounds, etc.) -- he understands the strengths and weaknesses of each armament, the limitations of various engine patterns and the idiosyncrasies of every Machine Spirit. This allows him to wield his vehicles like a rapier or a battering ram depending on the needs of the battle. The Lunar Venatorii knows when to order his vehicles to launch full-throttle advances, moving to outflank the enemy position or dispersing to dilute incoming fire. Having lived through wars against the Imperium of Man's myriad foes, he can also identify weak spots in the enemy's armour towards which his company's gunners will direct their fire. To compel the might of the Astra Militarum's war machines is an awesome responsibility, for along with the lives of the soldiery a Lunar Venatorii Commander is also charged with responsibility for his regiment's mechanical assets -- a resource that is far more valuable and difficult to quickly replace.

 

Most Lunar Venatorii fall under this category of Trooper or Guardsmen whether they are the crew of a mighty tank or one of the many Mechanized Cavalry Scouts riding on Combat Bikes and Tauros Rapid Assault Vehicles. Every Lunar Venatorii is highly skilled in the uses of the vehicles assigned to his or her battalion. The Sentinel Operator, Crew Gunner, and a myriad of other duties could be assigned to a Lunar Venatorii Operator. The enlisted rank-and-file troops of the Lunar Venatorii perform a large variety of combat and support roles and make up the vast bulk of the Battalions. They are the grunts who ultimately get the job done for the Emperor.

 

Lunar Venatorii Cavalry Scout (Combat Bike Rider)

The Mechanized Cavalry Scouts of the Lunar Venatorii have perfected the art traditional cavalry techniques through years of bloodshed as well as the rapid warfare of bike combat. Often, members of the Cavalry Scouts have many of the ferocious customs like tribal tattoos. Mounted upon specially designed combat bikes that are as tough and dangerous as the warriors who ride them. Cavalry Scouts carry a variety of weapons but the most deadly is, without doubt, the potent explosive-tipped hunting lance derived from lethal spear heads used by cavalry on Tarakon to hunt down large carnivorous animals like Feral Wyrms and other larger creatures. This one-shot advantage in close combat makes them especially useful when deployed for hit-and-run tactics especially when combined with the Bolters and Storm Bolters mounted on their bikes. On Tarakon the honour of riding a Combat Bike to war is reserved for the elite Lunar Venatorii, warriors that have accumulated generations of cavalry experience.

 

Cavalry scouts master hit and run tactics as well as concealment techniques. Overtime they perform forward observing and tracking of enemy movements.

 

Lunar Venatorii Wyrm Riders

Riding on top of fierce Tarakonian Wyrms, these bonded soldiers are the elite of the already elite Lunar Venatorii. In order for a Noble to lead a Venatorii Cavalry Regiment one must brave a Wyrm nest and raise a bonded Wyrm, gaining the honored title of Sealgair. Any of the common citizenry who manage to succeed and gain the title of Sealgair shall be allowed to join the House as a retainer. Only the greatest of warriors produced in the Ishtar Fringe could hope to become bonded to a Wyrm. Those most recently bonded with their Wyrms serve in the Calvary Regiments before being made full Sealgair and get their own Venatorii Cavalry Regiment.

Edited April 29, 2022 by TechCaptain

[Bjorn Firewalker]

What does a Tarakonian wyrm look like, and how does it move? Does it slither like a worm, as the name implies? Crawl on dozens of legs, like a centipede? Hop on six, like a grasshopper, allowing it to have the speed advantage cavalry units need to accomplish their missions? Run on four legs, like a horse, or on two, like a Chocobo from the Final Fantasy games?

 

Or does a wyrm flap its wings and literally fly?

[TechCaptain]

Same Stuff from the Knight House of mine as seen below. Still to be incorporated is stuff on pheromones and possible third gender

 

 

The Tarakonian Wyrm are large, serpent-like creatures that hails from the ancient Knight World of Tarakon, located in the Ishtar Sub-Sector in the Segmentum Ultima. Often, these large draconic creatures are utilised by the regiments of the Lunar Venatorii Cavalry Regiments of the Astra Militarum and by House Fásacha's men at arms as mounted-aerial cavalry.

 

Biology

Wyrms from their narrow, golden, large-eyed heads, to their pointed jewel-toned ears, to the magnificent wings which, the wyrm was a thing of multicolored, jeweled beauty, slim and supple and quite as large as the shed, largest getting 45 meters long in the wild. These great creatures came from Tarakon. Their large size and vicious claws give them ample ways to create carnage. The jewel-toned scales deflect las weapons and are tough enough to absorb quite the impact. In order to become a retainer of House Fásacha or lead a Venatorii Cavalry Regiment one must brave a Wyrm nest and raise a bonded Wyrn, gaining the honored title of Sealgair. Any of the common citizenry who manage to succeed and gain the title of Sealgair shall be allowed to join the House as a Armiger pilot or retainer. Only the greatest of warriors produced in the Ishtar Fringe could hope to become bonded to a Wyrm. Those most recently bonded with their Wyrms serve in the Calvary Regiments before being made full Sealgair and get their own Venatorii Cavalry Regiment.

 

They are described as having forked tail ends with a defecation opening between the forks; however, most artistic renderings depict their tails as having spade-shaped tips. Wyrms are described as carnivorous, oviparous, warm-blooded creatures. Like all of Tarakon's native large fauna, they have six limbs – four feet and two wings. Their blood, referred to as ichor, is copper-based and green in color. They have crystalline eyes that change color depending on the Wyrm's mood. Newly hatched Wyrms are the size of very large dogs or small ponies, and reach their full size after eighteen months. Because young Wyrms grow so fast, their riders must regularly apply oil to their hides to prevent the skin from cracking or drying out. A Wyrm's scales are largely, but not entirely, impervious to heat as well, and serve as protection for the more vulnerable flesh and musculature beneath. As a dragon ages, its scales thicken and grow harder, affording even more protection.

 

Its gem-like scales are the color of valuable precious stones of every shade imaginable having a subtle shift of color on any one Wyrm. It is impossible to list the enormous variety of hues that make up the Wyrm's brilliant coloring, but they can be divided into three broad color groupings: Blues, ranging from dark blue to silver and mother-of-pearl; Reds, ranging from copper-red to dark red and reddish-black; Greens, which include every imaginable shade of green and yellow and even dark brown, emerald green and burnished gold. Born with dark coloration, it is hard to tell the colors that will eventually develop as a Wyrm ages, though the lightening of their hues is theorized as one way to gage their age. Although these three principal color groups are not usually mixed, a Wyrms's coloring is rarely uniform. In general, it's scales are several hues from one of the main color categories, with a metallic luster which is hard to define. When the scales have a pale, opaque appearance, it is a sure sign of ill health. These Wyrm has powerful limbs with six digits on each foot that end in sharp claws. It has gigantic, elegant wings. A ragged, membranous crest runs from its shoulders to the tip of its tail. This dragon's head is wide and it has a mouth that takes up most of its face. This dragon has strange membranes that function as ears. It has large slitted nostrils located close together. The back of these Wyrm's head and neck is protected by thick bone.

 

The Wyrm is a homoiothermic reptile. In other words, it is a warm-blooded creature and it's body temperature is controlled internally. This characteristic enables it to adapt to the different climates of it's very extensive habitat and to maintain it's activities both day and night throughout the year, as it is not dependent on the warmth from the sun like the other reptiles. The dragon is the largest known flying creature on Tarakon. To maintain it's enormous bulk in the air, it's physical structure has had to be different from that of other reptiles. It's wing bones fit on to broad shoulders which support the powerful wing muscles; these require an extraordinary articulator system unknown in other species. The bones are tougher than reinforced plascrete and much lighter. It is important to note that the bones of a Wyrm are hollow like bird reducing their mass, scientifically: any creature with the physiology of a Wyrm can flight well and at great speed.

 

The Wyrms muscular system is one of the most fascinating and one of the most complicated. Magos Biologis have evaluated the power in the bite of a Wyrm to put to an average of 2 ton per cm cube (in comparison it could easily gnaw plasteel). As a matter of fact, Wyrms are very powerful. Their leg and "arm" can support great charge without much difficulty.

 

The scales are pentagonal, and shaped like a teardrop, with two long sides and two shorter ones, and a very short fifth side attached to the skin. The Wyrm can make them stand on end whenever he likes to preen them. Remember, the Wyrm is a very clean creature and takes great care always to keep it's skin and scales clean and immaculate. In their normal position, the scales overlap very neatly and, thanks to a tiny cavity in the surface, they fit into each other to allow perfect freedom of movement. Magos Biologis close study of a scale, observed the following characteristics: the innermost part is composed of a compact hairy formation firmly rooted in the epidermis. On the hair follicle there are some tiny glands which secrete a substance that adheres firmly to the skin. This substance is rich in minerals, which determine the hardness and the color of the Wyrm's scales. The external surface has a horny, translucent texture, which gives the scales their habitual luster. The Wyrm does not need to sloughs off his skin like most other reptiles, as the scales grow, they are renewed automatically, like human nails and hair. They are not shed from the body, except in case of illness.

 

There is no retina for their eyes but instead the light receptors are distributed homogeneously in the eyes. This means a photoreceptor near the surface can see the object far away and you go deeper into the eyes, the photoreceptors are able to view objects that are closer. This would also means that the eyes are always focused no matter the distance of the object. Wyrms with crystalline eyes have an angle of vision around 220 degree (i.e. the eyes slightly on the side) and an overlaps of 110 degree. The object inside the overlapping degrees of both eyes would greatly increase the resolution of the object while the remaining angle of vision would be less defined (but much better defined than the visual acuity of the corner of our eyes). The degree where the vision of the dragon overlap would be equivalent to the area of sharpest focus and would be obviously much greater than a human's.

 

The reproductive system of these creatures is internal, it means that at the look of their external physiognomy, it is hard (not to say nearly impossible) to determine if this Wyrm is a male or a female, only the general behavior and the small change in their color can provide informations about the Wyrm's gender. Wyrms lead egg like reptiles and bird, eggs are protected by a hard shell that with time will weaken to let the new baby dragon break it more easily. The incubation period of these creatures is mostly unknown. The Wyrms eggs are rich in calcium and it is supposed that the newborn Wyrms eat is shell to not waste the nutriment in it. The mating process is known as Wyrm-slide: the two partners fly high in the sky and after a moment they grab each other and close their wing and make free-fall. Then at less than a hundred feet from the ground they open their wing and land.

 

Relationships and Uses

Once a Wyrm has bonded with a rider, that Wyrm will not allow anyone else to mount it while its rider lives, no matter how familiar said person might be to the Wyrm, although they are willing to accept another person upon their backs when their own rider has mounted as well. When the rider of a Wyrm dies, that Wyrm can bond with a new rider. The Lunar Venatorii Cavalry Regiments use these Wyrm Riders for Aerial combat and as elite forces.

 

The Wyrm rider is able to keep an eye out on spots that Wyrms normally can't see as well, including above and behind. Wyrms being apex predators are not normally inclined to look above or behind them when in flight and this is the primary method of attack during Wyrm on Wyrm combat. Those mounted on Wyrms are sharpshooters able to kill enemy Wyrm riders before they have a chance to report back and able to target enemy commanders from Wyrm back with their pistols. Always having an eye out enemy sharpshooters targeting fellow Wyrm riders. This is the best way to eliminate a Wyrm rider or Wyrm so they pay particular attention the field of battle with Sharpshooters. The Wyrms, themselves, are used in strafing infantry, or scouting. Their job is to climb high in the sky and then dive straight at an enemy Wyrm, aircraft, or formation.

 

Dropping grenades and bombs from Wyrm back as well as targeting enemy commanders in dives are effective ways for the Wyrm Riders to fight while in flight. But as well the Wyrms ferocious teeth and claws make especially effective weapons in melee situations besides the melta tipped lance they carry.

 

Noteable Lunar Venatorii Partners

Azula: a deep sapphire blue Wyrm with white speckled scales bonded to Sergeant Major Jacob Holiday of the 487th Lunar Venatorii Cavalry Regiment.

 

Brazen: a obsidan black with ruby red scales that accented the flanks of its long body bonded to Private Jaekzon.

Edited April 29, 2022 by TechCaptain

[Bjorn Firewalker]

Does the game have rules for cavalry on flying mounts, or will you have to write your own Rules for the wyrm and its riders, e.g., copy-paste and modify rules from Warhammer: Age of Sigmar, or modify rules for jetbikes (a wyrm can attack independently of its rider, a jetbike can not)?

[TechCaptain]

I will have to make up my own rules probably using age of sigmar as that is pretty close, giving them a laspistol or hell pistol attacks. Don’t know what that looks like as I haven’t been much into age of sigmar except for the total war series. Edited April 30, 2022 by TechCaptain

[TechCaptain]

Not the right color scheme for the Lunar Venatorii Cavalry Regiments but a quick kitbash idea to sort of represent their Biker Operators.

 

 

[Bjorn Firewalker]

By "biker operator," do you mean rough rider? Or is that a new unit introduced in 9th Edition?

[TechCaptain]

I don't like Rough Rider because they are melee specialists. It's not a new model introduced in 9th edition more the fact something that is lore accurate but hasn't been seen on table a fast attack biker who uses guns for IG. Think about it every faction has bikers except IG, Nids, and Tau. 

[TechCaptain]

Primaris Psyker Lukas is one of the rare attaches to the Lunar Venatorii that are of the Psyker variety. 

 

[Bjorn Firewalker]

Is Lukas one of Inquisitor Clarke's Acolytes, serving undercover in a Lunar Venatorii Regiment?

Edited December 7, 2022 by Bjorn Firewalker

[TechCaptain]

45 minutes ago, Bjorn Firewalker said:

Is Lukas one of Inquisitor Clarke's Acolytes, serving undercover in a Lunar Venatorii Regiment?

Not a bad idea, these all are characters I made in Darktide and I am using them in my regiments. I was unsure about how to use Lukas.