[Hobby] Finecast vs Forge World

With the introduction of Citadel Finecast, Games Workshop has made an interesting decision in the move to a completely new casting material for their home product. A lot has been made about the type of resin being used, whether or not it would be safe (of course it is; they wouldn't use it were it not), if it would be hard to work with (it's not) and if it

would really bring an improved casting quality to the models (it seems t0). I'll address the latter two questions here with a side-by-side comparison between two Empire models, one the Citadel Finecast Empire Captain, the other the new Forgeworld Nuln Ironsides Sergeant.

First, I can't say enough about the new packaging GW has introduced for the Finecast range. The new packaging is a marketing dream: it presents the miniatures in a fully-painted version that will look simply stunning on a shelf and should really improve sales for some of the older sculpts we sometimes forget. It sold me on the Empire Captain, a model I'd probably never have looked at previous.

The models come on a sprue not dissimilar from what we're used to with plastic, and it provides a nice base for the models to come on. The resin is soft enough that you really don't need clippers to get the models off the sprue (though I still recommend it) and gone seems to be some of the venting that you'd see a lot of on the metals (t

his would come in the form of tiny pieces of metal coming off sharp points within the model.) I don't know if this is because of the resin, or if it's simply a matter of luck on the two models I've thusfar assembled.

Where everyone really wants to find out how Citadel Finecast stands up is

when compared to both the metal equivalents and their Forge World sisters. As I don't have any metal Empire models, I'll only look at the Forge World comparison, where I can reasonably say that the new Finecasts look great when next to those of the sister company. There are some differences, but I'll show you the side by side to see if you can spot the most noticeable ones:

Can you even tell which is which? I'll give you a second...

The one on the left is our Forge World model, where the one on the right is the Finecast Captain. The models look fantastic next to each other, and with a less discerning eye you'd probably have trouble pointing out any major difference. However, the Forge World model is slightly better in a few areas:

First, the feathers. One the Forge World model, the definition of the feathers is much more pronounced and the undercuts much deeper; as such, it would probably be easier to highlight it. However, the Finecast model wasn't terrible. There is still definition in the feathers, the undercuts simply aren't as pronounced.

Second, the ruching on the pants of the Forge World model is, again, a bit more defined. That's not to say that the Finecast model looks poor; quite the opposite, in that the ruching on the Finecast is superior to that of the regular plastic Empire model.

I'll also address the concerns of many that there have been QC issues with the models: I think a lot of people are complaining to complain. I don't know if the two models I purchased had any bubbles, and if they did they weren't prominent enough for me to notice them. Remember these Finecasts are the first batch, and that they will certainly improve their casting quality over time. My Deathmaster Snikch did have a bit of the yellow mold material left on the model, but I was easily able to get it out of the recess.

Overall, I think Finecast is going to be a great addition to Games Workshop's line. The material is dead easy to use and the quality is really high, nearly equal to that of the Forge World models. As time goes on, GW will only improve upon their casting techniques, and I expect all of the new Finecast models to come will be on the same level as their Forge World brethren.

[40k Review] Age of Darkness Part 1

Rules of Engagement – Graham McNeill

“Rules of Engagement,” penned by veteran Ultramarines scribe Graham McNeill, is a story detailing the Ultramarines 4th company and their ‘testing,’ as it were, of Primarch Roboute Guilliman’s newly written Codex Astartes. With 4th company captain Remus Ventanus at the helm of the playfully dubbed Troublesome Fourth, the story is written as a series of combat engagements that are ultimately a testing ground to determine whether or not the Codex Astartes will work; each of the engagements serves to provide a different test to Remus and his kin. The engagements are varying battle situations, and each one, while nothing exceptionally gripping, is well written and paced.

We also get to see a glimpse of Guilliman’s character, as he holds a conversation with Remus in very brotherly tones. Surprisingly, it also indicates that perhaps Roboute is not as rigid as previously understood. McNeill’s writing here is good and the action scenes are fun as each engagement is engrossing and well-paced, though there is some purposeful ambiguity as to whether or not the tests are ‘live-fire.’ “Rules of Engagement” is a nice Ultramarines story that gives some additional background on Guilliman and the book that will eventually shape all Astartes Legions, but it isn’t groundbreaking, nor does it offer any revelatory experiences. 6/10

Liar’s Due – James Swallow

“Liar’s Due” marks a return for James Swallow the human world of the Horus Heresy that he so successfully explored in Nemesis. Here, instead of focusing on Terra and the elite humans of the Imperium, Swallow’s focus is squarely on the average citizen. Taking place on Virgir-Moss II, a border-world farming community,”Liar’s Due” follows Leon Kyyter, a youth of the world, as Swallow shows us how the Astartes civil war effects the Imperium, even on a border planet light years away from the bulk of the fighting. Leon’s interactions with the stranger Mendacs are the focal point of the story, as Leon tries to understand the far distant fighting, while Mendacs sows fear and propaganda on behalf of the Warmaster Horus.

Swallow continues to prove that he can ably weave a tale of layered deception. The methods Mendacs employs to corrupt the peaceful farm planet are interesting to see happen, and fall squarely in line with the Astartes legion of which he is an agent. The fear and distrust that slowly brews throughout the town populace is well written and quite believable; it is a credit to Swallow that he is able to create that slow boil in such a short period of time. Like Nemesis before it, Swallow is able to take an ancillary story from the Horus Heresy and make it seem necessary. While Virgir-Moss II isn’t important in terms of the grand scope of the Heresy, “Liar’s Due” shows how Horus’ machine of war is being fought throughout the Imperium through disinformation and fear. 7/10

Forgotten Sons – Nick Kyme

The Salamanders have been seldom discussed in the Horus Heresy thus far, so “Forgotten Sons” is a welcome addition to Age of Darkness. Granted, Promethean Sun will certainly shed further light on the Legion’s actions in the Horus Heresy, but for now, “Forgotten Sons” serves as a basis for our Horus Heresy knowledge of the Salamanders. As such, Forgotten Sons is the story of Hek’tan, a Salamander, and Arcadese, an Ultramarine, and their attempt to sway a border world towards Imperial, not Heretical, favor. The actual story is interesting, as we haven’t seen this appeal to planets thus far, but it pales in comparison to what Nick Kyme is able to do in terms of characterization. Kyme is the Black Library’s “Salamanders Guy,” and his knowledge of the chapter is on display here, and that is where the story is at its best.

We see an uncommon fragility in these two Astartes: Hek’tan, emotionally crippled by surviving Istvaan V, and Arcadese, physically crippled by his near death at Ullanor, and it is in that fragility that Kyme brings the narrative forward. We rarely get to see the Astartes as human, but Kyme puts that very humanity on display here. Hek’tan is shattered, not in body, but certainly in mind, as the horrors of Istvaan plague his dreams. Similarly, Arcadese, though still a proud Ultramarine of noble mind, no longer has the facilities to live up to his heritage, and that deeply affects his character. More of a character study than anything, “Forgotten Sons” does a great job reminding us that the Astartes, while superhuman in both body and ability, are perhaps still very human in other aspects. 7/10

The Last Remembrancer – John French

The Remembrancers have played a huge role in the Horus Heresy series. They were prominent in the opening trilogy, and have continued to be so through Prospero Burns, a novel that is, for all intents and purposes, told from the perspective of a remembrancer. As such, it is fitting that the end of the rembrancers would find its way into short story form in Age of Darkness. This is John French’s inaugural effort for the Black Library and I can unequivocally state that he will be writing more;”The Last Remembrancer” is wonderful. Telling the final story of Solomon Voss, the man that began the remembrancer order and the remembrancer that served at Horus’ side as his turned Betrayer, and through Istvaan V, “The Last Remembrancer” does a lot in a scare 35 pages. While Voss is the last remembrancer in question, the story is equally about Rogal Dorn and his reaction to his erstwhile traitor brother. Flanked by Iacton Qruze (in his newly minted armour), Dorn interrogates—though I hesitate to use the word interrogate, as Dorn is neither severe, nor does Voss withhold information— Voss about the happenings while Voss was with Horus. What follows is a disquieting experience, as Voss brings to bear questions regarding everything Dorn holds dear.

The interaction between Dorn and Voss is what drives the narrative, and French establishes both characters incredibly well. Their interaction is cordial and warm; Voss and Dorn were friends prior to Voss’ station as Horus’ only remembrancer, but the conversations shake Dorn’s faith in both the Emperor and the Imperium. Voss is a man resigned to fate, both to his own, and to that of the Imperium, and he reveals the truth he has discovered to Dorn. Dorn’s reaction to this revealed truth is brilliantly rendered by French; it is a truth that Dorn refuses to accept, yet he can’t help but understand its inevitability. The story is tragic on multiple levels and French probably should have been allowed more than 35 pages to flesh it out. Much like “The Last Church” in Age of Heresy, ”The Last Remembrancer” is an important benchmark for the Horus Heresy series, and I greatly look forward to reading John French’s next effort. 9.5/10

[Adepticon 2011] Chapter 13 - Liber Financia

A Mentors successor chapter, Chapter 13 spent their first 1500 years in existence as the Crimson Harriers. Their heraldry paid homage to the ancient Terran symbol of power, one adopted by the Emperor himself: the eagle. However, unlike the majority of the Imperium, the Crimson Harriers chose to embrace the natural color of that bird, brown, as opposed to the more ornate, grandiose gold. This would prove a bold, and ultimately ill-conceived, choice. Despite the many glorious victories won on behalf of the God Emperor, the Crimson Harriers were often mocked on the field of battle, even in the midst of glory.

THE ‘INCIDENT’

The Crimson Harriers had been dispatched to the agricultural world Excrementia to quell an Ork uprising led by Poozflinga the Vile. While not a full-fledged WAAAGH!, Poozflinga appeared to be aided by the Chaos God Nurgle; his Nobz were covered in festering sores, the grots sluggish and fat, while Poozflinga garnered his name by using an oversized cannon replacing his left arm to siphon and fire the discharges from his own Nurgle induced pustules at his foes. While preparing to assault a Crimson Harriers fortification, Poozflinga taunted the brothers, bellowing, “Dem ‘umies look like da poo I flingz. Dey mus’ be da Poo Burds.” Despite the massive defeat and scores of casualties inflicted upon Poozflinga, he ultimately escaped, mocking the Crimson Harriers, with cries of, “Da Poo Burds too slows ta’ catch me.” Most untimely was the interception of the transmission by a voxman upon the Imperial Battlecruiser Admonisher; living up to the vessel’s namesake, he began spreading the unfortunate moniker, Poo Birds, throughout the crew. The nickname stuck, and the once proud brown livery of the Crimson Harriers was now a source of derision and scorn.

FLIP EAGLES
Too shamed to face their brother Astartes, the Crimson Harriers withdrew from combat roles almost entirely. Afraid the Crimson Harrier name would soon carry no weight or import, Chapter Master Cramer leveraged the chapter charter to purchase Imperial stocks and Rogue Trader. However, Cramer found his true calling within the Imperial Real Estate industry. With the remaining wealth gained from leveraging the charter, the Crimson Harriers proceeded to purchase interplanetary real estate. They would purchase entire hives, wipe out the low-class habs, and replace them with swanky condos. They would purchase outer rim worlds rich with resources and materials, leak information to the Adeptus Mechanicus regarding their Forge World potential, and would sell them to the adepts of Mars at exorbitant prices, realizing unheard of profits. Their ability to purchase and turn a piece of real estate was remarkable. Their success was widespread and well known; long forgotten was the derisive “Poo Birds.” The Crimson Harriers were now coined the ‘Flip Eagles.’

ALL ABOUT THE GREEN… FLAW

In order to distance themselves from their previous frugality and unfortunate namesake, the brothers of the Crimson Harriers began to spend at a rapid rate. Their new Fortress Monastery was built within a mountain, carved by hand from stone, with no expenses spared. Expensive tapestries were imported from throughout the Imperium, and great works are art were commissioned, rivaling the artistry of the Blood Angels. Artificer armour was purchased by nearly all of the chapter elite. Jump Packs became a functional fashion—never again would an enemy escape to besmirch their name. The Crimson Harriers were frivolous and lavish. However, for some brothers, the need to live the ‘good life’ seemed to come at a cost. Fostering a ‘have it now’ mentality within their ranks, many Astartes of the Crimson Harriers became singularly focused on the acquisition of wealth. At first, there were only rumours, whispered in hushed tones in the darkest corridors. However, the flaw became more apparent as more and more brothers fell for get rich quick schemes, only to be driven to madness by their thirst for wealth. The “Green Greed” rooted its way throughout the chapter, slowly usurping reason from the chapter leadership, blinding them from the impending peril they would place themselves, and their portfolio, in.

THE AVIAN ALLIANCE

The Crimson Harriers, always on the search for insider information and increased market share, found an easy alliance with the brothers of the Blood Ravens chapter. Initially drawn by the Blood Ravens’ mantra, “Knowledge is Power, Guard it Well,” Cramer and Blood Ravens’ Chapter Master Azariah Kyrus quickly formed a bond, their goals similarly aligned.; Cramer for wealth, and Kyrus for knowledge. Kyrus’ psychic acumen, which he was keen to share with Cramer, granted the Crimson Harriers unprecedented access to the minds of powerful Rogue Traders and Planetary Treasurers throughout the Imperium. Their wealth expanded exponentially under the kinship forged with Kyrus and the Blood Ravens. Cramer, blinded by the new wealth acquired by the chapter, failed to notice Kyrus’ slow declension of knowledge and increasing obsession with death and bloodshed.

MARKET EXTERMINATUS

Upon learning of longtime friend and knowledge broker Azariah Kyrus’ fall to the Chaos God Khorne and the ensuing Exterminatus order issued against primary Blood Ravens’ recruiting world Cyrene, it came to light that many of the Crimson Harriers investments were gained through deceit and unethical practices—namely the use of Kyrus as a conduit to privy financial information. Spurned on by this distrust, the real estate markets throughout the Crimson Harrier’s holdings crumbled. Cramer called the brothers home to take stock of the holdings and discuss financial outcomes for the quickly deteriorating situation. It was discovered upon an internal audit that the chapter was funding their extravagant lifestyles—from artificer armour to the Fortress Monastery—by leveraging their real estate portfolio; a portfolio that was now hemorrhaging funds. Word spread quickly to the Great Financiers of Terra—the Rogue Traders whom the Harriers had convinced to finance their underhanded operations were less than forgiving—who called for the payoff of debt immediately. Left with little in terms of concrete assets, the Crimson Harriers were forced to drum up funds in the only way they could think of: selling off the fruits of their extravagance piecemeal, and often at a loss, including the liquidation of their Fortress Monastery and the majority of their armory. Fortunately, there was little interest on the secondary market for used power armour, allowing the brothers to maintain some semblance of honour and combat ability, though leaving the Crimson Harriers in an unfamiliar position: as a chapter with limited means.

CHAPTER 13

Ashamed of their second decent into failure and scorn, Cramer and the chapter leadership decided to look back to their founding roots of Terra, rechristening themselves as Chapter 13, to once again honour an ancient Terran custom. With their heritage so shamefully tarnished, Chapter 13 has come into question time and again regarding their questionable histories. Though not actively pursued by the Inquisition as a result of their association with Kyrus, the Crimson Harriers are considered rogue for all intents and purposes. They maintain their zealous enforcing of the Imperial Creed and are steadfast sons of the Emperor; however, the primary focus of the chapter rests in the reacquisition of their former wealth and glory, until a time when they can shed the shroud of Chapter 13 and deem themselves worthy again to be the Crimson Harriers and embark alongside their brothers on the Emperor’s holy crusade.

A Mentors successor chapter, Chapter 13 spent their first 1500 years in existence as the Crimson Harriers. Their heraldry paid homage to the ancient Terran symbol of power, one adopted by the Emperor himself: the eagle. However, unlike the majority of the Imperium, the Crimson Harriers chose to embrace the natural color of that bird, brown, as opposed to the more ornate, grandiose gold. This would prove a bold, and ultimately ill-conceived, choice. Despite the many glorious victories won on behalf of the God Emperor, the Crimson Harriers were often mocked on the field of battle, even in the midst of glory.

THE ‘INCIDENT’

The Crimson Harriers had been dispatched to the agricultural world Excrementia to quell an Ork uprising led by Poozflinga the Vile. While not a full-fledged WAAAGH!, Poozflinga appeared to be aided by the Chaos God Nurgle; his Nobz were covered in festering sores, the grots sluggish and fat, while Poozflinga garnered his name by using an oversized cannon replacing his left arm to siphon and fire the discharges from his own Nurgle induced pustules at his foes. While preparing to assault a Crimson Harriers fortification, Poozflinga taunted the brothers, bellowing, “Dem ‘umies look like da poo I flingz. Dey mus’ be da Poo Burds.” Despite the massive defeat and scores of casualties inflicted upon Poozflinga, he ultimately escaped, mocking the Crimson Harriers, with cries of, “Da Poo Burds too slows ta’ catch me.” Most untimely was the interception of the transmission by a voxman upon the Imperial Battlecruiser Admonisher; living up to the vessel’s namesake, he began spreading the unfortunate moniker, Poo Birds, throughout the crew. The nickname stuck, and the once proud brown livery of the Crimson Harriers was now a source of derision and scorn.

FLIP EAGLES
Too shamed to face their brother Astartes, the Crimson Harriers withdrew from combat roles almost entirely. Afraid the Crimson Harrier name would soon carry no weight or import, Chapter Master Cramer leveraged the chapter charter to purchase Imperial stocks and Rogue Trader. However, Cramer found his true calling within the Imperial Real Estate industry. With the remaining wealth gained from leveraging the charter, the Crimson Harriers proceeded to purchase interplanetary real estate. They would purchase entire hives, wipe out the low-class habs, and replace them with swanky condos. They would purchase outer rim worlds rich with resources and materials, leak information to the Adeptus Mechanicus regarding their Forge World potential, and would sell them to the adepts of Mars at exorbitant prices, realizing unheard of profits. Their ability to purchase and turn a piece of real estate was remarkable. Their success was widespread and well known; long forgotten was the derisive “Poo Birds.” The Crimson Harriers were now coined the ‘Flip Eagles.’

ALL ABOUT THE GREEN… FLAW

In order to distance themselves from their previous frugality and unfortunate namesake, the brothers of the Crimson Harriers began to spend at a rapid rate. Their new Fortress Monastery was built within a mountain, carved by hand from stone, with no expenses spared. Expensive tapestries were imported from throughout the Imperium, and great works are art were commissioned, rivaling the artistry of the Blood Angels. Artificer armour was purchased by nearly all of the chapter elite. Jump Packs became a functional fashion—never again would an enemy escape to besmirch their name. The Crimson Harriers were frivolous and lavish. However, for some brothers, the need to live the ‘good life’ seemed to come at a cost. Fostering a ‘have it now’ mentality within their ranks, many Astartes of the Crimson Harriers became singularly focused on the acquisition of wealth. At first, there were only rumours, whispered in hushed tones in the darkest corridors. However, the flaw became more apparent as more and more brothers fell for get rich quick schemes, only to be driven to madness by their thirst for wealth. The “Green Greed” rooted its way throughout the chapter, slowly usurping reason from the chapter leadership, blinding them from the impending peril they would place themselves, and their portfolio, in.

THE AVIAN ALLIANCE

The Crimson Harriers, always on the search for insider information and increased market share, found an easy alliance with the brothers of the Blood Ravens chapter. Initially drawn by the Blood Ravens’ mantra, “Knowledge is Power, Guard it Well,” Cramer and Blood Ravens’ Chapter Master Azariah Kyrus quickly formed a bond, their goals similarly aligned.; Cramer for wealth, and Kyrus for knowledge. Kyrus’ psychic acumen, which he was keen to share with Cramer, granted the Crimson Harriers unprecedented access to the minds of powerful Rogue Traders and Planetary Treasurers throughout the Imperium. Their wealth expanded exponentially under the kinship forged with Kyrus and the Blood Ravens. Cramer, blinded by the new wealth acquired by the chapter, failed to notice Kyrus’ slow declension of knowledge and increasing obsession with death and bloodshed.

MARKET EXTERMINATUS

Upon learning of longtime friend and knowledge broker Azariah Kyrus’ fall to the Chaos God Khorne and the ensuing Exterminatus order issued against primary Blood Ravens’ recruiting world Cyrene, it came to light that many of the Crimson Harriers investments were gained through deceit and unethical practices—namely the use of Kyrus as a conduit to privy financial information. Spurned on by this distrust, the real estate markets throughout the Crimson Harrier’s holdings crumbled. Cramer called the brothers home to take stock of the holdings and discuss financial outcomes for the quickly deteriorating situation. It was discovered upon an internal audit that the chapter was funding their extravagant lifestyles—from artificer armour to the Fortress Monastery—by leveraging their real estate portfolio; a portfolio that was now hemorrhaging funds. Word spread quickly to the Great Financiers of Terra—the Rogue Traders whom the Harriers had convinced to finance their underhanded operations were less than forgiving—who called for the payoff of debt immediately. Left with little in terms of concrete assets, the Crimson Harriers were forced to drum up funds in the only way they could think of: selling off the fruits of their extravagance piecemeal, and often at a loss, including the liquidation of their Fortress Monastery and the majority of their armory. Fortunately, there was little interest on the secondary market for used power armour, allowing the brothers to maintain some semblance of honour and combat ability, though leaving the Crimson Harriers in an unfamiliar position: as a chapter with limited means.

CHAPTER 13

Ashamed of their second decent into failure and scorn, Cramer and the chapter leadership decided to look back to their founding roots of Terra, rechristening themselves as Chapter 13, to once again honour an ancient Terran custom. With their heritage so shamefully tarnished, Chapter 13 has come into question time and again regarding their questionable histories. Though not actively pursued by the Inquisition as a result of their association with Kyrus, the Crimson Harriers are considered rogue for all intents and purposes. They maintain their zealous enforcing of the Imperial Creed and are steadfast sons of the Emperor; however, the primary focus of the chapter rests in the reacquisition of their former wealth and glory, until a time when they can shed the shroud of Chapter 13 and deem themselves worthy again to be the Crimson Harriers and embark alongside their brothers on the Emperor’s holy crusade.

Chapter Themes.

No Mech: In order to pay back part of the exorbitant debt accrued by Chapter 13, the brothers were forced to sell the majority of their vehicles. The remaining ones were eventually repossessed by various agencies, including the dreaded wAAAgh! Repossessions.

Red: The chapter uses the color red to symbolize their portfolios "In the red" or upside down - owe money.

Make it Rain: Once used to describe the brothers of Chapter 13 and their proclivity toward tossing around their money, it now refers to the manner in which they now descend into battle. The brothers of Chapter 13 are adept with jump packs and routinely use them to enter battle. They

Debt Company (Death Company): Brothers who succumbed to the Green Thirst become victims of the Green Rage, and are placed in the Debt Company. They are highly focused on money and only see get-rich-quick schemes in their mind. Often confused, they rush the battlefield to obtain any opportunity to make money before their brothers who have turned from this path. They often speak as if they are in the high days of the Flip Eagles, not understanding the fall from grace the chapter has experienced.

Investment Advisors (Sanguinary Priest): Investment Advisors have recently been introduced to the Chapter as a means to stem losses. Often embedded within the ranks of the normal brotherhood, their advice on the battlefield can provide crucial benefits to help avoid further failures.

Portfolio Guard (Sanguinary Guards). Clad in shining gold, cherished relics of a better time, the Portfolio Guard are the elite of Chapter 13; they are the brothers that have rebounded most successfully from the financial turmoil the chapter suffered, and they are now the protectors of the new investments and assets.

Rent-a-Ravens

While Chapter 13 continues down the path to redemption and financial freedom, some campaigns require a bit more then hoofing it. Fifteen years after the collapse of their financial holdings, the brothers of Chapter 13 discovered Rent-a-raven. Rent-a-Raven allows the chapter lease to own or rent a storm raven for a campaign until such time as they can afford their own. Rent-a-Raven is a legitimized subsidiary of Rouge trader cooperative. The High Lords of Terra and the Adeptus Mechanicus have yet to penetrate the mystery of how the cooperative have come upon the stash of nearly 40 Ravens available for lease, though under equipped chapters don't hesitate patronize Rent-a-Raven in times of need.

Master of Investments Cramer (Dante)

Long believed to be the Saviour of the Crimson Harriers, Cramer has been the Master of Investments for centuries. Unlike most Astartes, Cramer received the best possible education from the Schola Progenium as an orphan. Upon his 14^th Terran cycle, he had surpassed nearly every other student and the Schola deemed his talents unworthy of simple missionary work. As Cramer was already a robust youth, it was recommended that he be recruited into an Astartes chapter to see if his academic brilliance would transfer to military stratagems. Few chapters had any interest—the boy’s upbringing kept him from being of proper genetic stock for many—but the Crimson Harriers were willing to take the gamble. It would pay off in droves. Cramer ascended the ranks in short time, quickly becoming the Crimson Harrier’s youngest Captain when he took over the captaincy of the 3^rd company. His leadership skills were unsurpassed, and upon the tragic fall of the former Master of Investments, Cramer took over. It was his leadership that guided the Crimson Harriers into the height of their success as the Flip Eagles. Under Cramer, they experienced unprecedented gains and good fortune; however, Cramer was unable to see the pending doom that his friendship with Azariah Kyras would bring. Now recovering, Cramer has admitted his mistakes and is prepared to lead Chapter 13 back to their former glor

Master of Finances Orman (Sanguinor )

Master of Finances Orman is something of an anomaly within the ranks of the Astartes; few chapters throughout the Imperium hold a female in such high regard. However, Orman maintains an important place within Crimson Harrier lore. Another product of the Schola Progenium, Orman was originally slated to enter the ranks of the Adepta Sororitas. Her conditioning had been proven, and her faith in the Emperor was unshakeable. However, her sound financial advice—coupled with questionable relationships that were developed within the Adepta Sororitas—created alarm within the upper echelons of the Ecclisiarchy, as the common ‘flock’ to which the Ecclisiarch attended often looked more to Orman than the Ecclisiarch himself. Set to be put to death for falsified charges of Heresy, Orman escaped the Schola Progenium within hours of her execution order. Since, she is never regularly seen. However, in the darkest hour of both commoner and Astartes alike, Orman materializes to provide sound financial planning advice. The Crimson Harriers have benefited from her sage words more than once, and as a result have given her the honorary Master of Finances. While not a full member of Chapter 13, it has been Orman’s sound guidance that has helped to lead the Crimson Harriers out of their financial ruin.

Master of Savings Ramsey (Mephiston)
Master of Savings Ramsey is a much lauded hero to the brothers of Chapter 13. A self-made man previous to his Astartes rebirth, Ramsey shows all the character and charisma needed to be a leader of men and Astartes alike. However, Ramsey’s financial acumen proved not to be infallible. Failed investments in real estate in the Oberon Sector—due to a newly reformed purchasing act—caused Ramsey enough distress that he began to show the signs of the Green Rage. Succumbing to the greed, Ramsey locked himself in an underground bunker for nearly a week. It is said that during that week his lust for money became so palatable that he nearly killed himself; however, on the 8^th day of his seclusion, Ramsey emerged seemingly unscathed, bearing witness to new financial freedom and providing the brothers that greeted him with sound financial advice.

Ponzi Master Madoff (Astorath)

Perhaps the most feared of all the Crimson Harriers is Ponzi Master Madoff. Revered within the ranks of the Debt Company, Madoff is reviled by his fellow Astartes for the unethical financial choices that allowed Madoff to become rich and successful, while it left many of his brothers in financial ruin. In fact, Madoff relishes his role as shepherd of the Debt Company, many of whom he’s driven to the Green Rage himself.

Brother Paulson (Dreadnought):

Brother Paulson was the heralded Master of the Treasury. Affectionately known as "Big Hank" by his comrades, Paulson brought his personal financial expertise to the chapter and helped to build the wealth by leveraging the Chapter’s assets for many times their value. At the peak, Paulson was one of the first to notice the down turn in the value of the chapter's assets and the impending insolvency. He went to the Imperium and pitched TARP: the Troubled Astartes Relief Program. When the HIVEs around the sector got word of this, there was mayhem and a revolt on the Chapter’s homeworld. The Master of the Treasury was sent home from Terra with no assistance, dooming the Crimson Harriers. Paulson succumbed to the "Green Rage" at Calderus XII, where he valiantly threw himself into a trench to save his brothers, killing a rumoured 115 enemy guardsmen, all while sustaining near fatal injuries. Too valuable to the Chapter to be allowed to die, Paulson was entombed in dreadnought armour shortly after.

No Mech: In order to pay back part of the exorbitant debt accrued by Chapter 13, the brothers were forced to sell the majority of their vehicles. The remaining ones were eventually repossessed by various agencies, including the dreaded wAAAgh! Repossessions.

Red: The chapter uses the color red to symbolize their portfolios "In the red" or upside down - owe money.

Make it Rain: Once used to describe the brothers of Chapter 13 and their proclivity toward tossing around their money, it now refers to the manner in which they now descend into battle. The brothers of Chapter 13 are adept with jump packs and routinely use them to enter battle. They

Debt Company (Death Company): Brothers who succumbed to the Green Thirst become victims of the Green Rage, and are placed in the Debt Company. They are highly focused on money and only see get-rich-quick schemes in their mind. Often confused, they rush the battlefield to obtain any opportunity to make money before their brothers who have turned from this path. They often speak as if they are in the high days of the Flip Eagles, not understanding the fall from grace the chapter has experienced.

Investment Advisors (Sanguinary Priest): Investment Advisors have recently been introduced to the Chapter as a means to stem losses. Often embedded within the ranks of the normal brotherhood, their advice on the battlefield can provide crucial benefits to help avoid further failures.

Portfolio Guard (Sanguinary Guards). Clad in shining gold, cherished relics of a better time, the Portfolio Guard are the elite of Chapter 13; they are the brothers that have rebounded most successfully from the financial turmoil the chapter suffered, and they are now the protectors of the new investments and assets.

Rent-a-Ravens

While Chapter 13 continues down the path to redemption and financial freedom, some campaigns require a bit more then hoofing it. Fifteen years after the collapse of their financial holdings, the brothers of Chapter 13 discovered Rent-a-raven. Rent-a-Raven allows the chapter lease to own or rent a storm raven for a campaign until such time as they can afford their own. Rent-a-Raven is a legitimized subsidiary of Rouge trader cooperative. The High Lords of Terra and the Adeptus Mechanicus have yet to penetrate the mystery of how the cooperative have come upon the stash of nearly 40 Ravens available for lease, though under equipped chapters don't hesitate patronize Rent-a-Raven in times of need.

Master of Investments Cramer (Dante)

Long believed to be the Saviour of the Crimson Harriers, Cramer has been the Master of Investments for centuries. Unlike most Astartes, Cramer received the best possible education from the Schola Progenium as an orphan. Upon his 14^th Terran cycle, he had surpassed nearly every other student and the Schola deemed his talents unworthy of simple missionary work. As Cramer was already a robust youth, it was recommended that he be recruited into an Astartes chapter to see if his academic brilliance would transfer to military stratagems. Few chapters had any interest—the boy’s upbringing kept him from being of proper genetic stock for many—but the Crimson Harriers were willing to take the gamble. It would pay off in droves. Cramer ascended the ranks in short time, quickly becoming the Crimson Harrier’s youngest Captain when he took over the captaincy of the 3^rd company. His leadership skills were unsurpassed, and upon the tragic fall of the former Master of Investments, Cramer took over. It was his leadership that guided the Crimson Harriers into the height of their success as the Flip Eagles. Under Cramer, they experienced unprecedented gains and good fortune; however, Cramer was unable to see the pending doom that his friendship with Azariah Kyras would bring. Now recovering, Cramer has admitted his mistakes and is prepared to lead Chapter 13 back to their former glor

Master of Finances Orman (Sanguinor )

Master of Finances Orman is something of an anomaly within the ranks of the Astartes; few chapters throughout the Imperium hold a female in such high regard. However, Orman maintains an important place within Crimson Harrier lore. Another product of the Schola Progenium, Orman was originally slated to enter the ranks of the Adepta Sororitas. Her conditioning had been proven, and her faith in the Emperor was unshakeable. However, her sound financial advice—coupled with questionable relationships that were developed within the Adepta Sororitas—created alarm within the upper echelons of the Ecclisiarchy, as the common ‘flock’ to which the Ecclisiarch attended often looked more to Orman than the Ecclisiarch himself. Set to be put to death for falsified charges of Heresy, Orman escaped the Schola Progenium within hours of her execution order. Since, she is never regularly seen. However, in the darkest hour of both commoner and Astartes alike, Orman materializes to provide sound financial planning advice. The Crimson Harriers have benefited from her sage words more than once, and as a result have given her the honorary Master of Finances. While not a full member of Chapter 13, it has been Orman’s sound guidance that has helped to lead the Crimson Harriers out of their financial ruin.

Master of Savings Ramsey (Mephiston)
Master of Savings Ramsey is a much lauded hero to the brothers of Chapter 13. A self-made man previous to his Astartes rebirth, Ramsey shows all the character and charisma needed to be a leader of men and Astartes alike. However, Ramsey’s financial acumen proved not to be infallible. Failed investments in real estate in the Oberon Sector—due to a newly reformed purchasing act—caused Ramsey enough distress that he began to show the signs of the Green Rage. Succumbing to the greed, Ramsey locked himself in an underground bunker for nearly a week. It is said that during that week his lust for money became so palatable that he nearly killed himself; however, on the 8^th day of his seclusion, Ramsey emerged seemingly unscathed, bearing witness to new financial freedom and providing the brothers that greeted him with sound financial advice.

Ponzi Master Madoff (Astorath)

Perhaps the most feared of all the Crimson Harriers is Ponzi Master Madoff. Revered within the ranks of the Debt Company, Madoff is reviled by his fellow Astartes for the unethical financial choices that allowed Madoff to become rich and successful, while it left many of his brothers in financial ruin. In fact, Madoff relishes his role as shepherd of the Debt Company, many of whom he’s driven to the Green Rage himself.

Brother Paulson (Dreadnought):

Brother Paulson was the heralded Master of the Treasury. Affectionately known as "Big Hank" by his comrades, Paulson brought his personal financial expertise to the chapter and helped to build the wealth by leveraging the Chapter’s assets for many times their value. At the peak, Paulson was one of the first to notice the down turn in the value of the chapter's assets and the impending insolvency. He went to the Imperium and pitched TARP: the Troubled Astartes Relief Program. When the HIVEs around the sector got word of this, there was mayhem and a revolt on the Chapter’s homeworld. The Master of the Treasury was sent home from Terra with no assistance, dooming the Crimson Harriers. Paulson succumbed to the "Green Rage" at Calderus XII, where he valiantly threw himself into a trench to save his brothers, killing a rumoured 115 enemy guardsmen, all while sustaining near fatal injuries. Too valuable to the Chapter to be allowed to die, Paulson was entombed in dreadnought armour shortly after.

[40k Review] Dead Men Walking - Steve Lyons

If you’ve played a game of Warhammer 40k, there’s a good chance you at least know who the Death Korps of Krieg are. They wear the greatcoats. They have the skull-faced rebreather masks. They look pretty badass. However, beyond the rather costly Imperial Armour books, there hasn’t been a ton written about them. Steve Lyons (Death World, Ice Guard) changes that with the Black Library’s most recent Imperial Guard output, Dead Men Walking.

Dead Men Walking tells the story of Hieronymous Theta, a mining world that unwittingly unearths a necron tomb, awakening the slumbering necrons within. As Hieronymous Theta has been a previously peaceful, ordered world, they only have a small PDF force to and enlist the aide of the Death Korps of Kreig to defend their world. To drive the narrative, Lyons breaks up chapters between three major characters: Gustaf Soreson, a mining overseer turned soldier, Constellin, the commissar assigned to the Kreig regiment, and Arex, Soreson’s would-be love interest that finds herself trapped in the under siege city. This is a calculated decision by Lyons that serves the narrative greatly, as it provides points of stark contrast between the protagonists in the novel. Lyons also does a really nice job of fostering the idea of hope in the face of extreme adversity in the novel. It serves his narrative well, though going too far into this idea would require some spoiling of the plot, which I won’t do.

The choice of the necrons as the protagonist serves its purpose well: to mirror the Death Korpsmen. To the other people of Hieronymous, both groups are eerily similar. They are unfeeling. They are calculating. Most of all, they are inhuman. The Korpsmen don’t go by names, merely numbers, and like the necrons, their skull faces are devoid of emotion, despite the gravity of war. Constellin serves as the Kreig commissar, but even more so as their go-between for contact and deliberation with other humans. Throughout the book, his exhaustion is tangible as he constantly struggles with his role as the commissar of a regiment that, for all intents and purposes, doesn’t need one save to communicate with outsiders.

While Constellin is a good character and Arex serves to provide the ‘average citizen’ element to the novel (despite the fact that she is the Governor’s niece), it is through the eyes of Soreson that the narrative shines. In Dead Men Walking, Soreson serves to display the dehumanizing aspect of war, particularly one fought with the Death Korps of Krieg. Throughout the novel, we see Soreson’s descent from ordinary man to Korpsman. He moves from cowardly overseer to unfeeling automaton, willing to serve the Emperor at all costs. Lyons does a really nice job portraying this. Soreson’s agony through the change is believable, and ultimately painful to bear witness to.

Soreson’s is easily the best characterization in the novel, and is Lyons’ high point. The pacing of the novel is good, as the shifting focus helps to move the story alone without becoming too stagnant, but it does create some problems within Lyons’ prose. There are points in the novel that just don’t read ‘right.’ I had a hard time placing it, but it seems that the narrative voice Lyons employs shifts subtly at peculiar times. Were it to change per different character, I think I’d have appreciated it more, but as it stands, it simply stood out and bothered me. To be fair, it is a minor quibble, but it grated on me as I read, so it seems worth pointing out. I also particularly enjoyed the portrayal and description of the necrons. They are as robotic as one would expect, but Lyons does a nice job of mirroring them to the Death Korps. Additionally, he does a really nice job of integrating the well known units of the necrons without slapping the reader in the face with Immortals, or Flayed Ones, or Scarab Swarms. He refers to them as any human might, and it works well within the confines of the story.

Lyons has done a good job with Dead Men Walking. The narrative is solid, with good pacing, appropriate characterization, and solid battle scenes. His mirroring of the Death Korps in the necrons is a nice addition, and allows Dead Men Walking to be, overall, a very solid read. It is not, however, a happy read. The world of the Death Korps is bleak, cold, and calculating. Just as a Korps book should be.

(7/10) Recommended