Warhammer 40k Archives

The War-Torn World of Vigilus

Located in the Imperium Nihilus, Vigilus is a strategic planet that has become a hotbed of conflict. Its proximity to the Great Rift and the Nachmund Gauntlet makes it a crucial route for refugees and a coveted prize for various factions vying for control.

A History of Turmoil

Before the opening of the Great Rift, Vigilus was a vital source of manpower and material for the Imperium’s wars. The planet was ruled by Governor Lucienne Agamemnus IX, whose dynasty had overseen Vigilus’ affairs for millennia. However, the power of the Ecclesiarchy constantly subverted the Agamenus Dynasty, leading to a delicate balance of power.

The Aquiliarian Council

To prevent all-out war between the Agamenus Dynasty, Mechanicum, and Ecclesiarchy, the Aquiliarian Council was formed. This combined body maintained a fragile peace, but the opening of the Great Rift changed everything.

Invasions and Conflict

Vigilus has been invaded by numerous factions, including Orks, Genestealer Cults, Dark Eldar, Saim-Hann Eldar, and Chaos. The planet’s geography, with its vast wastelands and fortified reservoirs, has become a battleground.

Geography and Climate

Vigilus is an arid, dust bowl-like planet where water is scarce and valuable. The poor drink foul-tasting water from deep underground, while the elite drink water from melted icebergs. The Mechanicum population drinks water harnessed from orbiting asteroids, and the Ecclesiarchy drinks purified water with holy oils.

Key Locations

• Hyperia Hivesprawl: The largest Hivesprawl on Vigilus, home to the central government.
• Saint’s Haven: The capital of Vigilus, home to the Agamemnus Dynasty and now the command center of Marneus Calgar.
• The Hollows: Five enormous reservoirs containing islands and water processing facilities.
• Storvhal: A volcanic region and main source of energy on Vigilus.

Factions and Forces

• Orks: The Orks have established scrap cities in the wastelands, including Fort Dakka and Tanka Spill.
• Genestealer Cults: Genestealer Cults have infested various regions, including Oteck Hivesprawl and Choralium.
• Ecclesiarchy: The Ecclesiarchy maintains strongholds in Tzimitria, Stump, and Grodholev Subsprawls.
• Mechanicum: The Mechanicum oversees the volcanic generator complex in Phaestos Mound and the Omnissiah’s Tread.

Creatures and Hazards

• Ambull: Stallion-sized insects adapted to the cold climate of Kaelac’s Bane.
• Terrestine Molerat: Massive creatures that inhabit the northern reaches of the planet.