The Ancient Leagues of Votann
Deep within the galactic core, a mysterious civilization has thrived for millennia. The Kin, as they are known, have long been content to remain within the bounds of this strange region, interacting with various civilizations and races seeking to plunder the core’s great riches. However, not all Kin have remained static, and some have ventured out into the greater galaxy to establish trade with other species.
Pioneers and Prospectors
These pioneers were motivated by a desire to honor their ancestors and live a full life, discovering all that they can. They formed the Prospector Fleets, which have since fought in mercenary wars and gathered knowledge and experience to offer their Ancestor Core. While the Leagues of Votann have encountered all major races of the galaxy, their interactions have been limited, and outsiders often mistake these fleets for the entirety of their race.
A Hidden Civilization
The Kin are close-mouthed around outsiders and reluctant to reveal the extent of their civilization within the Galactic Core, lest it risk their existence. Imperial records refer to them as “Squat,” and they have been mistakenly identified as the Demiurg, Heliosi Ancients, and Gnostari. The Kin bear these misconceptions with contempt and amusement, careful not to reveal their links to ancient humanity on Terra.
Relations with Other Species
The Leagues of Votann maintain semi-cordial relations with the Eldar and Tau Empire, but clashes have occurred around the Chalnath Expanse. They view the Imperium with disdain, particularly the Adeptus Mechanicus, and are wary of the Tyranids, known as “The Bane.” The Kin have also come to battle the followers of Chaos and the Necrons, who disturb ancient Tomb Worlds.
The Great Rift and Its Consequences
The formation of the Great Rift has shaken the Leagues of Votann to their foundations, swallowing entire systems and severing trade routes. Many Kindreds have relocated, abandoning regions held for thousands of years and venturing out from the Galactic Core to seek more stable areas to settle. The Rift has driven the Kin into new conflicts, stirring up old foes and setting them on a collision course with the Leagues.
A New Era of Exploration
As the Kin refuse to give the Great Rift an overarching name, they choose instead to name the greatest of the component Warp storms that have opened within the Galactic Core. This time of great calamity has led many Kin to choose new settlements outside of the core for the first time in millennia, catapulting humans, Eldar, and Tau interlopers into the galactic core. The Leagues of Votann now find themselves dealing with outsiders on a level unseen in their history.
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