Welcome, denizens of the Warp, to another thrilling entry in our multi-part series diving deep into the lore of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. In this article, we’re delving into the terrifying and formidable might of the Knight Gallant.
The Knight Gallant, piloted by a noble, is instructed in the three basic tenets once bonded with their War Machine. These tenets are as follows: trust in your Ion Shield, speed towards the enemy, and strike swiftly and surely. These tenets may differ subtly, but their essence remains the same, forming the core of a knight’s battle doctrine.
When a formation of Knight Gallants storms the battlefield, they’re like a tidal wave, drawing the enemy’s firepower like moths to a flame. Since the Great Crusade, countless tales have echoed across the cosmos about the devastation these aggressive knights wreak. Their bold and reckless attacks have become legendary, inspiring awe and fear in equal measures.
Even during the Horus Heresy, these Knights were amongst the rarest produced by Forge Worlds. Housed within their armored frames are relics only understood by the most learned Tech priests. The armor’s atomantic reactors hold the potential for catastrophic explosions, adding an extra layer of danger to their already formidable presence.
Mirroring their aggressive nature, these Knights are often used as shock assault units, breaching the heavily defended enemy positions while shrugging off heavy weapons fire. To aid in this role, they are armed with complex weapons such as a lightning cannon, phased plasma fusil, Reaper chainsword, rad cleanser, and hecon Siege claw.
Now, let’s turn our attention to the Knight Paladin. Standing at an imposing 9m tall, this Knight represents a perfect balance of speed, firepower, and armor. Its all-terrain capability allows it to navigate hazardous terrains and reposition itself to engage the enemy effectively. Its primary weapon, the long-ranged rapid-fire battle cannon, gives it the capacity to engage a variety of targets and provide fire support for friendly forces.
However, while a Paladin excels in this role, it is equally adept at close assault. Its Reaper chainsword is effective at destroying large vehicles and slaying monstrous creatures such as those fielded by the Tyranids. Some Knights have been known to replace the chainsword with a thunderstrike gauntlet, adding to their close-quarters battle prowess.
Then we have the Knight Preceptor, personifying the chalri code in battle. It is armed with a Reaper chainsword or thunderstrike gauntlet on one arm and the rare las-impulser on the other. These weapons are best wielded at such close quarters that a noble can look their enemy in the eye even as they slay them.
KN Preceptors are often piloted by the arms Masters or precepts of the noble houses. Most are grizzled veterans with decades of experience. When not in battle, they are charged with training young Squires to pilot Knights in the future, as well as strengthen their mental fortitude for the ritual of becoming.
Finally, we have the Styrix, a Knight produced with an equal level of sophistication. Their story, however, is one for another day. Until then, keep your chainswords sharp and your bolters loaded, for in the grim darkness of the far future, there is only war.
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