In this chapter of our multi-part series on Warhammer 40,000 lore, we delve into the fabled realm of Tzeentch, the Chaos God of change, evolution, and hope. Prepare yourself for a journey through a fascinating labyrinth of crystal structure, echoing with the laughter of the mad, where time stands still and reality becomes as fluid as quicksilver.
Picture a realm where the play of light within crystal corridors stretches over days, so enchanting that many lords have died of starvation or dehydration, simply from pausing to admire the spectacle. These are the mad corridors of Tzeentch’s Labyrinth, a place where one could wander for years without need for sustenance or rest. Legends whisper of a being known as The Keeper of the Labyrinth, a protector, a gatekeeper, and observer, who dwells within the crystal ribbons of this insane maze.
In this realm of chaos, where time twists and swirls like a whirlpool, a legend speaks of a path that can be traversed by any brave or foolish enough to attempt it. This path promises the reward of infinite knowledge, but to embark upon it, one must pass through the nine Gates. Towering constructs three times the height of a man, these golden arches are wreathed in warp flame, their colors shifting between blue and pink.
The Keeper of the Labyrinth, a gigantic, bodyless orb, hovers above all nine Gates. He confronts the seeker at each gate, offering a riddle from the infamous 999 riddles of Zarat Soth. Succeed, and the seeker may proceed towards higher enlightenment. Fail, and they are condemned to wander the labyrinth for eternity, forever craving the knowledge they could have gained.
In the annals of history, only one is said to have answered all nine questions correctly. This seeker is often depicted as a young girl accompanied by a small black dog. The Ordo Malleus has long debated the meaning of this tale, questioning its veracity and whether it is another deception from the Master of Lies himself.
At the heart of the Labyrinth lies Tzeentch’s Impossible Fortress, a concept more than a place, reachable more through contemplation than physical movement. This ethereal structure, a crystal castle in constant flux, defies the comprehension of mortal minds. Its ever-changing foundations give rise to spires and towers of warp flame, doors and portals yawning open only to snap shut like the maws of terrible beasts.
Within the Impossible Fortress, deep in its mad corridors, lies the legendary Hidden Library of Tzeentch. This library contains volumes and scrolls of innumerable quantity, encompassing all revelations and ideas ever conceived in the universe, including histories, both written and unwritten, true and alternate, even reports of the future, potential, actual, and imaginary. This ever-changing collection is ceaselessly maintained by grotesque Horrors, acting as librarians in service to the great schemer himself.
Such is the realm of Tzeentch, where nothing remains as it seems. It is a place of madness and knowledge, of change and hope, and a realm that continues to bewilder and fascinate us all. However, beware, for the descriptions given are subject to the whims of Tzeentch himself, the Changer of Ways, and may not match the experiences of those unfortunate enough to visit his domain.
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