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(Notable Crusades & Campaigns)
(Notable Black Templars)
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|Specialty=Close Combat
 
|Specialty=Close Combat
 
|Battle Cry=No Pity! No Remorse! No Fear!
 
|Battle Cry=No Pity! No Remorse! No Fear!
|Strength=5000-6000 Marines spread through several Crusades {{Fn|1}}
+
|Strength=5000-6000 Marines spread through several Crusades {{Fn|Note}}
 
|Symbol=Black Templars Symbol.png
 
|Symbol=Black Templars Symbol.png
 
|Symbol Px=150
 
|Symbol Px=150
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==Organisation==
 
==Organisation==
 +
[[Image:BTCrusade.jpg|thumb|right|Organization of a typical Black Templar Crusade, in this case the [[Arkron Crusade]] ]]
 
The Black Templars are not organised like a typical [[Codex Chapter]].  Most of the time they are formed in an ad hoc manner into [[Fighting Companies]].  Individual '''[[Crusader Squads]]''' and specialists (such as [[Techmarine]]s and [[Apothecaries]]) will fight side by side out of familiarity and comradeship rather than any imposed organisation.{{Fn|1}}
 
The Black Templars are not organised like a typical [[Codex Chapter]].  Most of the time they are formed in an ad hoc manner into [[Fighting Companies]].  Individual '''[[Crusader Squads]]''' and specialists (such as [[Techmarine]]s and [[Apothecaries]]) will fight side by side out of familiarity and comradeship rather than any imposed organisation.{{Fn|1}}
  
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*[[Initiates]] are the rank-and-file Marines of a Fighting Company.  After proving himself in battle, an Initiate may be asked to take a single [[Neophyte]] under his wing and train and teach him by example.{{Fn|1}}
 
*[[Initiates]] are the rank-and-file Marines of a Fighting Company.  After proving himself in battle, an Initiate may be asked to take a single [[Neophyte]] under his wing and train and teach him by example.{{Fn|1}}
 
*[[Neophytes]] are the new recruits of the Black Templars.  Unlike other [[Codex Chapter]]s, new recruits are not organised into a single company.  Instead, each Neophyte joins a Fighting Company as the apprentice of a senior [[Initiate]].  While the Black Templars do not have a dedicated [[Scout]] company, Neophytes often fulfill this role, beginning their service with lighter armour and weapons than the Initiates.{{Fn|1}} A Neophyte will learn quickly from his tutor or die if he cannot. When the Initiate and [[Chaplain]]s deem that the Neophyte has proven himself satisfactory in courage and skill, he is elevated to the rank of Initiate and will take his place in the Fighting Company. Should the Initiate in charge of a Neophyte die before the Neophyte's training is complete, his training and instruction will be taken over by another Initiate, if that Initiate finds the Neophyte worthy of his tutelage.{{Fn|1}}
 
*[[Neophytes]] are the new recruits of the Black Templars.  Unlike other [[Codex Chapter]]s, new recruits are not organised into a single company.  Instead, each Neophyte joins a Fighting Company as the apprentice of a senior [[Initiate]].  While the Black Templars do not have a dedicated [[Scout]] company, Neophytes often fulfill this role, beginning their service with lighter armour and weapons than the Initiates.{{Fn|1}} A Neophyte will learn quickly from his tutor or die if he cannot. When the Initiate and [[Chaplain]]s deem that the Neophyte has proven himself satisfactory in courage and skill, he is elevated to the rank of Initiate and will take his place in the Fighting Company. Should the Initiate in charge of a Neophyte die before the Neophyte's training is complete, his training and instruction will be taken over by another Initiate, if that Initiate finds the Neophyte worthy of his tutelage.{{Fn|1}}
 +
*Neophytes that failed their duty became the [[Cenobite Servitor]]s and eternally follows the Chaplains of the Chapter to defend them and plays devotional chants and Chaplain's inspirational sermons from the speakers in their respirator collars.{{Fn|25}}
  
 
==Doctrines and Codex Adherence==
 
==Doctrines and Codex Adherence==
 
[[Image:Black Templar Art.jpg|thumb|right|Black Templars going into battle]]
 
[[Image:Black Templar Art.jpg|thumb|right|Black Templars going into battle]]
Black Templars place great emphasis on close combat prowess and honour. As such they can often be seen charging into suicidal situations to avenge fallen comrades.{{Fn|1}}
+
The Black Templars are among one of the rarer Chapter's that worship the [[Emperor]] as a god and follow the [[Imperial Creed]].{{Fn|23a}}
  
 
By their doctrine, the Black Templars abhor the traitor, the [[alien]] and the [[mutant]].  The last category includes [[psyker]]s, with the result that the Black Templars are one of the few Space Marine Chapters that exclude [[Librarian]]s, seeing them as a potential source of corruption in the midst of battle.  However, Black Templars do use psykers in other non-combatant roles, such as [[Astropath]]s and [[Navigator]]s.{{Fn|1}} Black Templars view these beings with special reverence as they see them as able to commune directly with the Emperor.{{Fn|19}}
 
By their doctrine, the Black Templars abhor the traitor, the [[alien]] and the [[mutant]].  The last category includes [[psyker]]s, with the result that the Black Templars are one of the few Space Marine Chapters that exclude [[Librarian]]s, seeing them as a potential source of corruption in the midst of battle.  However, Black Templars do use psykers in other non-combatant roles, such as [[Astropath]]s and [[Navigator]]s.{{Fn|1}} Black Templars view these beings with special reverence as they see them as able to commune directly with the Emperor.{{Fn|19}}
  
Black Templar Marines also set themselves apart from standard Codex doctrine by including [[Neophyte]]s into squads of fully initiated Marines to help teach them the ways of battle and the art of combat.{{Fn|1}}
+
Black Templars place great emphasis on close combat prowess and honour. As such they can often be seen charging into suicidal situations to avenge fallen comrades. Black Templar Marines also set themselves apart from standard Codex doctrine by including [[Neophyte]]s into squads of fully initiated Marines to help teach them the ways of battle and the art of combat.{{Fn|1}}
  
 
The Black Templars were the first chapter to find the design for the [[Land Raider Crusader]] and were the first chapter to make use of it.  The Crusader design replaces the [[lascannons]] mounted on standard [[Land Raider]]s with [[Hurricane-pattern bolters]], placing a greater emphasis on anti-infantry firepower and freeing up greater space within to carry larger squads.{{Fn|1}}
 
The Black Templars were the first chapter to find the design for the [[Land Raider Crusader]] and were the first chapter to make use of it.  The Crusader design replaces the [[lascannons]] mounted on standard [[Land Raider]]s with [[Hurricane-pattern bolters]], placing a greater emphasis on anti-infantry firepower and freeing up greater space within to carry larger squads.{{Fn|1}}
  
The Black Templars are also notorious for defying Codex doctrine that states that a chapter may only number 1000 battle brothers. This is partly due to the divided nature of the chapter, being spread out everywhere on separate crusades and no one has thus been able to keep track of their exact numbers. However, it has been estimated that there may be several thousand Black Templars Companies spread out around the galaxy - an almost unstoppable force if gathered at one place and cause for the [[Inquisition]] to keep a close eye on the Black Templars.{{Fn|1}}
+
The Black Templars are also notorious for defying Codex doctrine that states that a chapter may only number 1000 battle brothers. This is partly due to the divided nature of the chapter, being spread out everywhere on separate crusades (usually consisting of several hundred [[Battle-Brother]]s{{Fn|21}}) and no one has thus been able to keep track of their exact numbers. However, it has been estimated that there may be several thousand Black Templars Companies spread out around the galaxy - an almost unstoppable force if gathered at one place and cause for the [[Inquisition]] to keep a close eye on the Black Templars.{{Fn|1}}
  
 
===Vows of the Black Templars===
 
===Vows of the Black Templars===
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As part of their dedication to the Emperor and their Crusade, the Black Templars swear fell oaths of faith and protection. Before a battle, it is considered customary to renew one of these oaths, the particular vow serving as a focus on the particular aspect of their duties considered to be necessary to ensure success.{{Fn|1}}
 
As part of their dedication to the Emperor and their Crusade, the Black Templars swear fell oaths of faith and protection. Before a battle, it is considered customary to renew one of these oaths, the particular vow serving as a focus on the particular aspect of their duties considered to be necessary to ensure success.{{Fn|1}}
 +
 +
==Training Planets==
 +
Many of the Imperial Citizens want to became a Black Templars, so they hone their skills which helps them later to enter the ranks of the Imperial Guard or planetary defence force even if they are not chosen to be Neophytes.  Those who declared their intent to join Black Templars are known as ''Expentanten'' and have a long and dangerous journey to survive before they can became a simple Neophytes.{{Fn|27}}
 +
 +
On of the old training planets of Black Templars is [[Barbarossa IV]] – mainly a peaceful [[Agri-World]] in north area of which nevertheless dangerous animals and plant life exist. There located '''Barbarossa keep''' – Chapter's citadel.{{Fn|27}}
  
 
==Crusade Fleets==
 
==Crusade Fleets==
Unlike most other chapters, the Black Templars do not have a [[Adeptus Astartes Homeworld|homeworld]]. Eschewing the idea of one, they opt to live aboard their crusade fleets. These vary in size and are made up of dozens of [[Battle Barge]]s, [[Strike Cruiser]]s and other craft such as training vessels and huge forge ships. Given this fleet-based nature, the Black Templars are rarely assembled as a Chapter, but are instead divided into many Crusades, every Crusade being responsible for its own recruiting as well as training of new [[Neophyte]]s.
+
Unlike most other chapters, the Black Templars do not have a [[Adeptus Astartes Homeworld|homeworld]]. Eschewing the idea of one, they opt to live aboard their crusade fleets. These vary in size and are made up of dozens of [[Battle Barge]]s, [[Strike Cruiser]]s and other craft such as training vessels and huge forge ships. Given this fleet-based nature, the Black Templars are rarely assembled as a Chapter, but are instead divided into many Crusades, every Crusade being responsible for its own recruiting as well as training of new [[Neophyte]]s.{{Cite this}}
  
The [[High Marshal]] himself has his own personal Battle Barge, the '''[[Eternal Crusader]]''', a huge vessel that is the spiritual home of the entire Chapter and contains its most sacred relics, chapels, and reliquaries. It has been expanded and refitted many times and can currently hold twice as many [[Space Marine]]s as a normal battle barge.
+
The [[High Marshal]] himself has his own personal Battle Barge, the '''[[Eternal Crusader]]''', a huge vessel that is the spiritual home of the entire Chapter and contains its most sacred relics, chapels, and reliquaries. It has been expanded and refitted many times and can currently hold twice as many [[Space Marine]]s as a normal battle barge.{{Cite this}}
  
This flexible, mobile nature allows the Templars to continue the first mission of the Black Templars: to actively seek out the enemies of the [[Emperor]] and destroy them before moving onwards to find the next foe.
+
This flexible, mobile nature allows the Templars to continue the first mission of the Black Templars: to actively seek out the enemies of the [[Emperor]] and destroy them before moving onwards to find the next foe.{{Cite this}}
  
 
===Known Vessels===
 
===Known Vessels===
 
[[Image:BTTerminator.jpg|thumb|right|Black Templars [[Terminator]]{{Fn|5}}]]
 
[[Image:BTTerminator.jpg|thumb|right|Black Templars [[Terminator]]{{Fn|5}}]]
*[[Adytum]] - [[Rapid Strike vessel]]{{Fn|8b}}
+
*[[Eternal Crusader]] - [[Battle Barge]], Flagship of the Black Templars.{{Fn|1}}
 +
*[[Revenant (Battle Barge)|Revenant]] - [[Battle Barge]]{{Fn|12}}
 +
*[[Sigsimund's Light]] - [[Battle Barge]]{{Fn|5}}
 +
*[[Sigismund's Oath]] - Battle Barge. Fought in the Third Armageddon War.{{Fn|30}}
 +
*[[Sigismund (Battle Barge)|Sigismund]]'' - [[Battle Barge]]{{Fn|3}}
 +
*[[Abhorrence]] - [[Battle Barge]]{{Fn|20}}
 
*[[Apocalypton]] - [[Strike Cruiser]]{{Fn|5}}
 
*[[Apocalypton]] - [[Strike Cruiser]]{{Fn|5}}
 
*[[Blade of the Seventh Son]] - [[Strike Cruiser]]{{Fn|13}}
 
*[[Blade of the Seventh Son]] - [[Strike Cruiser]]{{Fn|13}}
 
*[[Dorn's Sword]] - [[Strike Cruiser]]{{Fn|5}}
 
*[[Dorn's Sword]] - [[Strike Cruiser]]{{Fn|5}}
 
*[[Dorn's Wrath]] - [[Strike Cruiser]]{{Fn|4}}
 
*[[Dorn's Wrath]] - [[Strike Cruiser]]{{Fn|4}}
*[[Eternal Crusader]] - [[Battle Barge]], Flagship of the Black Templars.{{Fn|1}}
+
*[[Ophidian Gulf]] - [[Strike Cruiser]]{{Fn|14}}
 +
*[[Adytum]] - [[Rapid Strike vessel]]{{Fn|8b}}
 
*[[Heracles]] - Forgeship{{Fn|5}}
 
*[[Heracles]] - Forgeship{{Fn|5}}
*[[Ophidian Gulf]] - [[Strike Cruiser]]{{Fn|14}}
+
 
*[[Ophidium Gulf]] - [[Strike Cruiser]]{{Fn|1}}
+
===Known Recruitment Worlds===
*[[Revenant (Battle Barge)|Revenant]] - [[Battle Barge]]{{Fn|12}}
+
*[[Barbarossa IV]]
*[[Sigsimund's Light]] - [[Battle Barge]]{{Fn|5}}
+
*[[Cloister]]
*[[Sigismund (Battle Barge)|Sigismund]]'' - [[Battle Barge]]{{Fn|3}}
+
*[[Kilhaven]]
 +
*[[Lilia Mundi]]
 +
*[[Purgatius III]]
 +
*[[Solemnus]]
  
 
==Notable Crusades & Campaigns==
 
==Notable Crusades & Campaigns==
*'''544.[[M32]]''' - The [[War of the Beast]].
+
*'''544.[[M32]]''' - The [[War of the Beast]]. During the conflict, the Black Templars contributed a portion of their strength to rebuild the [[Imperial Fists]].{{Fn|24}}
 
*'''401.[[M34]]''' - [[The Howling]]
 
*'''401.[[M34]]''' - [[The Howling]]
 +
*'''831.[[M35]]''' - [[The Barbarus Incursion]]
 
*'''[[M36]]''' - The [[Wars of Apostasy]], also known as the '''Terran Crusade'''
 
*'''[[M36]]''' - The [[Wars of Apostasy]], also known as the '''Terran Crusade'''
 
*'''543.[[M36]]''' - The [[Second Purging of Lastrati]]
 
*'''543.[[M36]]''' - The [[Second Purging of Lastrati]]
 +
*'''???.[[M38]]''' - The [[Arkron Crusade]]
 
*'''???.[[M39]]''' - The [[Aegisine Crusade]]
 
*'''???.[[M39]]''' - The [[Aegisine Crusade]]
 
*'''322.[[M39]]''' - The [[Angevin Crusade]]
 
*'''322.[[M39]]''' - The [[Angevin Crusade]]
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*'''790.[[M41]]''' - The [[Nimbosa Crusade]]
 
*'''790.[[M41]]''' - The [[Nimbosa Crusade]]
 
*'''833.[[M41]]''' - The [[Vinculus Crusade]]
 
*'''833.[[M41]]''' - The [[Vinculus Crusade]]
 +
*'''865.[[M41]]''' - [[Verdeworlds Campaign]]
 
*'''888.[[M41]]''' - The [[Crusade of Wrath]]
 
*'''888.[[M41]]''' - The [[Crusade of Wrath]]
 
*'''955.[[M41]]''' - The [[Crusade of Sorrow]]
 
*'''955.[[M41]]''' - The [[Crusade of Sorrow]]
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*'''999.[[M41]]''': The [[13th Black Crusade]] - The Black Templars contribute a Crusade Fleet to counter not only [[Chaos]] forces, but also the nearby [[Ork]] [[Green Kroosade]].{{Fn|7}}
 
*'''999.[[M41]]''': The [[13th Black Crusade]] - The Black Templars contribute a Crusade Fleet to counter not only [[Chaos]] forces, but also the nearby [[Ork]] [[Green Kroosade]].{{Fn|7}}
 
*The [[Ajaxian Crusade]]
 
*The [[Ajaxian Crusade]]
 +
*Battle for [[Barbarossa IV]]{{Fn|27}}{{Fn|29}}
 
*The Battle of [[Sharlor]]
 
*The Battle of [[Sharlor]]
 
*The [[Crusade of the Ophidium Gulf]]
 
*The [[Crusade of the Ophidium Gulf]]
 
*The [[Declates Crusade]]
 
*The [[Declates Crusade]]
 
*The Defense of [[Aralan]]
 
*The Defense of [[Aralan]]
 +
*The [[Donorian Crusade]]{{Fn|26}}
 
*The [[Geonide Crusade]]
 
*The [[Geonide Crusade]]
 
*The [[Hive Thetus Crusade]]
 
*The [[Hive Thetus Crusade]]
 
*The [[Lastrati Crusade]]{{Fn|18}}
 
*The [[Lastrati Crusade]]{{Fn|18}}
 
*The [[Purging of Centrati's Eye]]
 
*The [[Purging of Centrati's Eye]]
 +
*The War for [[Lilia Mundi]]
 
*[[The Purging of Orbial Hive 72]] in orbit around [[Porphyr III]]{{Fn|6}}
 
*[[The Purging of Orbial Hive 72]] in orbit around [[Porphyr III]]{{Fn|6}}
  
 
==Notable Black Templars==
 
==Notable Black Templars==
 +
*[[Sigismund]] - [[Emperor's Champion]] and first Black Templar [[High Marshal]]
 +
*[[Helbrecht]] - Current Black Templars [[High Marshal]]{{Fn|1c}}
 +
*[[Ludoldus]] - previous [[High Marshal]], instigator of the eternal [[Morator Crusade]], commander of the [[Vinculus Crusade|Vinculus]] and [[Jerulas Crusade|Jerulas]] crusades{{Fn|1}}
 +
*[[Kordhel]] - [[High Marshal]] killed by a [[Champion of Chaos]]{{Fn|1c}}
 +
*[[Scharn]] - [[High Marshal]]
 +
*[[Bohemond]] - [[High Marshal]] during the [[War of the Beast]]
 +
*[[Sigenandus]] - High Marshal of the [[Terran Crusade]] (also known as the [[Wars of Apostasy]])
 
*[[Actoan]] - [[Marshal]]  
 
*[[Actoan]] - [[Marshal]]  
 +
*[[Ricard]] - [[Marshal]], Commander of the [[Dimaris Crusade]]{{Fn|1c}}
 +
*[[Amalrich]] - [[Marshal]], Commander of the [[Tiberior Crusade]]{{Fn|1c}}
 +
*[[Armante]] - was a Black Templars [[Marshal]], who led the Chapter's [[Lastrati Crusade]]
 +
*[[Austein]] - [[Marshal]], Instigator and commander of the [[Donian Crusade]] in the Segmentum Pacificus.  Killed by Orks in 988 M.39 on Nickel V{{Fn|5}}
 +
*[[Werhner]] - [[Marshal]], Austein's heir apparent, victor of the [[Donian Crusade]] after 17 years fighting.  Became Marshal of the [[Thangdron Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
 +
*[[Brant]] -  [[Marshal]], Leader of the Black Templars sent to Armageddon
 +
*[[Magneric]] - [[Marshal]] and [[Dreadnought]]
 +
*[[Marius Amalrich]] - [[Marshal]]
 +
*[[Haeson]] - [[Marshal]]
 +
*[[Gervhart]] - Instigator of the [[Second Purging of Lastrati]]
 
*[[Alehart]] - [[Emperor's Champion]]
 
*[[Alehart]] - [[Emperor's Champion]]
*[[Amalrich]] - [[Marshal]], Commander of the [[Tiberior Crusade]]{{Fn|1c}}
+
*[[Navarre]] - [[Emperor's Champion]] 
 +
*[[Tomas (Black Templars)|Tomas]] - [[Emperor's Champion]] of the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
 +
*[[Torund]] - [[Emperor's Champion]]
 
*[[Ansgar (Black Templars)|Ansgar]] - [[Emperor's Champion]]
 
*[[Ansgar (Black Templars)|Ansgar]] - [[Emperor's Champion]]
*[[Armante]] - was a Black Templars Marshal, who led the Chapter's [[Lastrati Crusade]]
+
*[[Rynart]] - [[Emperor's Champion]]
*[[Augustin]] - [[Chaplain]], part of the Marshal's household in the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
+
*[[Garrein]] - [[Emperor's Champion]]
*[[Austein]] - [[Marshal]], Instigator and commander of the [[Donian Crusade]] in the Segmentum Pacificus.  Killed by Orks in 988 M.39 on Nickel V{{Fn|5}}
 
 
*[[Bethuel]] - [[Emperor's Champion]] of the purging of Orbital Hive 72. {{Fn|6}}
 
*[[Bethuel]] - [[Emperor's Champion]] of the purging of Orbital Hive 72. {{Fn|6}}
*[[Bohemond]] - [[Marshal]] during the [[War of the Beast]]
+
*[[Horst (Black Templars)|Horst]] - [[Emperor's Champion]] who Took part in the [[Lastrati Crusade]], when it came to the aid of the [[Imperium]] world of [[Arthas]], as it was being invaded by the forces of [[Nurgle]].
*[[Brant]] [[Marshal]], Leader of the Black Templars sent to Armageddon
 
 
*[[Draco]] - Castellan, veteran of the [[Vinculus Crusade]].
 
*[[Draco]] - Castellan, veteran of the [[Vinculus Crusade]].
*[[Eckehart]] - Household Banner Bearer. Part of the Marshal's household in the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
+
*[[Gothchalcus]] - [[Castellan (Black Templars)|Castellan]], commander of a fighting company in the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
*[[Ferdinand]] - was a Chaplain, who take part in [[Marshal]] [[Armante]]'s [[Lastrati Crusade]] when it came to the aid of the [[Imperium]] world of [[Arthas]], when it was invaded by the forces of [[Nurgle]].
 
 
*[[Folkert]] - [[Castellan (Black Templars)|Castellan]] of the [[Nimbosa Crusade]]
 
*[[Folkert]] - [[Castellan (Black Templars)|Castellan]] of the [[Nimbosa Crusade]]
*[[Gerhart]] - Sword Brethen, later entombed as the [[Dreadnought]] [[Tankred]].{{Fn|9}}
+
*[[Heinman]] - [[Castellan (Black Templars)|Castellan]], commander of a fighting company in the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
*[[Gervhart]] - Instigator of the [[Second Purging of Lastrati]]
+
*[[Lazarus]] - [[Castellan (Black Templars)|Castellan]], commander of a fighting company in the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
*[[Gothchalcus]] - [[Castellan (Black Templars)|Castellan]], commander of a fighting company in the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
+
*[[Clermont]] [[Castellan (Black Templars)|Castellan]] during the [[War of the Beast]]
 
*[[Grimaldus]] - [[Reclusiarch]] of the Black Templars
 
*[[Grimaldus]] - [[Reclusiarch]] of the Black Templars
 +
*[[Kul Gilad]] - [[Reclusiarch]] of the Black Templars{{Fn|8a}}
 
*[[Haldredd]] - [[Chaplain]], who took part in the [[Nightfire Crusade]] against the [[Tau]] [[Farsight Enclaves]].{{Fn|16}}
 
*[[Haldredd]] - [[Chaplain]], who took part in the [[Nightfire Crusade]] against the [[Tau]] [[Farsight Enclaves]].{{Fn|16}}
*[[Heinman]] - [[Castellan (Black Templars)|Castellan]], commander of a fighting company in the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
+
*[[Augustin]] - [[Chaplain]], part of the Marshal's household in the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
*[[Helbrecht]] - Current Black Templars [[High Marshal]]{{Fn|1c}}
 
*[[Horst (Black Templars)|Horst]] - Took part in the [[Lastrati Crusade]], when it came to the aid of the [[Imperium]] world of [[Arthas]], as it was being invaded by the forces of [[Nurgle]].
 
*[[Kordhel]] - [[High Marshal]] killed by a [[Champion of Chaos]]{{Fn|1c}}
 
*[[Kul Gilad]] - [[Reclusiarch]] of the Black Templars{{Fn|8a}}
 
*[[Lazarus]] - [[Castellan (Black Templars)|Castellan]], commander of a fighting company in the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
 
 
*[[Leuter]] - [[Chaplain]], part of the Marshal's household in the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
 
*[[Leuter]] - [[Chaplain]], part of the Marshal's household in the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
*[[Ludoldus]] - previous [[High Marshal]], instigator of the eternal [[Morator Crusade]], commander of the [[Vinculus Crusade|Vinculus]] and [[Jerulas Crusade|Jerulas]] crusades{{Fn|1}}
+
*[[Mavros]]
*[[Navarre]] - [[Emperor's Champion]]
+
*[[Ferdinand]] - was a [[Chaplain]], who take part in [[Marshal]] [[Armante]]'s [[Lastrati Crusade]] when it came to the aid of the [[Imperium]] world of [[Arthas]], when it was invaded by the forces of [[Nurgle]].
 +
*[[Eckehart]] - Household Banner Bearer. Part of the Marshal's household in the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
 +
*[[Gerhart]] - [[Sword Brethren]], later entombed as the [[Dreadnought]] [[Tankred]].{{Fn|9}}
 +
*[[Bachorath]] - [[Chaplain Dreadnought]] and later member of the [[Imperial Fists]]
 
*[[Rammius]] - [[Space Marine Dreadnought|Dreadnought]], close friend of Helbrecht
 
*[[Rammius]] - [[Space Marine Dreadnought|Dreadnought]], close friend of Helbrecht
*[[Ricard]] - [[Marshal]], Commander of the [[Dimaris Crusade]]{{Fn|1c}}
+
*[[Emmerich Berengard]] - Became [[First Captain]] of the [[Imperial Fists]]
*[[Rynart]] - [[Emperor's Champion]]
+
*[[Baldarich]] - [[Deathwatch]] member during the [[War of the Beast]]{{Fn|23b}}
*[[Scharn]] - [[High Marshal]] during the [[War of the Beast]]
+
*[[Gerlach]] - [[Dreadnought]] that took part in the [[Donorian Crusade]]. See also [[Quotes Space Marines#G|his quote]]{{Fn|26}}
*[[Sigenandus]] - High Marshal of the [[Terran Crusade]] (also known as the [[Wars of Apostasy]])
+
*[[Bremen]] - Expectanten{{Fn|27}}, who after the reconquest of '''Barbarossa keep''' have gotten an Initiate rank.{{Fn|29}}
*[[Sigismund]] - [[Emperor's Champion]] and first Black Templar [[High Marshal]]
+
*[[Hermann]] - Sergeant, who fought on [[Barbarossa IV]] for '''Barbarossa keep''' against the Orks.{{Fn|28}}
*[[Tomas (Black Templars)|Tomas]] - [[Emperor's Champion]] of the [[Donian Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
+
*[[Frederick]] - Initiate, who fought on [[Barbarossa IV]] for '''Barbarossa keep''' against the Orks.{{Fn|28}}
*[[Torund]] - [[Emperor's Champion]]
+
*[[Theodorich]] - Hierophant and [[Reclusiarch]], who fought on [[Barbarossa IV]] for '''Barbarossa keep''' against the Orks.{{Fn|28}}
*[[Werhner]] - [[Marshal]], Austein's heir apparent, victor of the [[Donian Crusade]] after 17 years fighting. Became Marshal of the [[Thangdron Crusade]]{{Fn|5}}
+
*[[Utrecht]] - Neophyte, who fought on [[Barbarossa IV]] for '''Barbarossa keep''' against the Orks.{{Fn|28}}
 +
*[[Siggard]] - [[Space Marine Dreadnought|Dreadnought]]
 +
 
 +
===Notes on Size of the Chapter===
 +
*{{Endn|Note}}: The Black Templars were stated to be 5,000-6,000 strong in the [[Codex: Black Templars (4th Edition)|4th Edition Codex]]. However in the 2014 Novel [[The Eternal Crusader (Novella)|Eternal Crusader]], they were stated to be [[Codex Astartes|Codex compliant]], with 1,000 Battle-Brothers. Author [[Guy Haley]] went on to state on his blog that the Black Templars numbers are variable depending on the time of the setting and story requirements.{{Fn|22}}
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==Images==
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:{| border="0" cellpadding="3" align="center" style="border-collapse:collapse" valign="top"
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| [[Image:Cenobite Servitor.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Cenobite Servitor of Chaplain]]
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==Related Articles==
 
==Related Articles==
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**{{Endn|1c}}: pg. 44
 
**{{Endn|1c}}: pg. 44
 
*{{Endn|2}}: [[Codex: Armageddon (3rd Edition)]], pg. 32
 
*{{Endn|2}}: [[Codex: Armageddon (3rd Edition)]], pg. 32
*{{Endn|3}}: [[Codex: Necrons (5th Edition)]] pgs. 26-27
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*{{Endn|3}}: [[Codex: Necrons (5th Edition)]], pgs. 26-27
*{{Endn|4}}: [[Cities of Death]] pgs. 56, 57
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*{{Endn|4}}: [[Cities of Death]], pgs. 56, 57
 
*{{Endn|5}}: [[Index Astartes II]], pgs. 44-55
 
*{{Endn|5}}: [[Index Astartes II]], pgs. 44-55
 
*{{Endn|6}}: [[White Dwarf 277 (UK)]], {{Cite This}}
 
*{{Endn|6}}: [[White Dwarf 277 (UK)]], {{Cite This}}
*{{Endn|7}}: [[White Dwarf 286]] pgs. 64-65
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*{{Endn|7}}: [[White Dwarf 286]], pgs. 64-65
 
*8: [[Priests of Mars (Novel)]] by [[Graham McNeill]]
 
*8: [[Priests of Mars (Novel)]] by [[Graham McNeill]]
 
**{{Endn|8a}}: Chapter 1, pg. 6
 
**{{Endn|8a}}: Chapter 1, pg. 6
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*{{Endn|18}}: [[White Dwarf #405 UK]] (ipad version) - ''Battle Report: And They Shall Know No Fear''
 
*{{Endn|18}}: [[White Dwarf #405 UK]] (ipad version) - ''Battle Report: And They Shall Know No Fear''
 
*{{Endn|19}}: [[Codex: Space Marines (7th Edition)]] - ''Black Templars''
 
*{{Endn|19}}: [[Codex: Space Marines (7th Edition)]] - ''Black Templars''
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*{{Endn|20}}: [[The Emperor Expects (Novel)]], Chapter 14
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*{{Endn|21}}: [[Codex Supplement: Angels of Death]], pg. 30
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*{{Endn|22}}: [https://guyhaley.wordpress.com/2014/07/11/im-baaaacccckkk/ Guy Haley's blog]
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*23: [[The Last Son of Dorn (Novel)]]
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**{{Endn|23a}}: Chapter 6
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**{{Endn|23b}}: Chapter 1
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*{{Endn|24}}: [[Shadow of Ullanor (Novel)]], Chapter 3
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*{{Endn|25}}: http://web.archive.org/web/20051210134551/http://uk.games-workshop.com/spacemarines/blacktemplars-concept-art/1/ ''(saved archive page, dated December 2005, last accessed 13 October 2016)''
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*{{Endn|26}}: http://web.archive.org/web/20051214040742/http://uk.games-workshop.com/spacemarines/blacktemplars/ ''(saved archive page, dated December 2005, last accessed 13 October 2016)''
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*{{Endn|27}}: http://web.archive.org/web/20051214035618/http://uk.games-workshop.com/spacemarines/blacktemplars-initiation-rites/1/ ''(saved archive page, dated December 2005, last accessed 13 October 2016)''
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*{{Endn|28}}: http://web.archive.org/web/20051214034030/http://uk.games-workshop.com/spacemarines/blacktemplars-initiation-rites/4/ ''(saved archive page, dated December 2005, last accessed 13 October 2016)''
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*{{Endn|29}}: http://web.archive.org/web/20051211074442/http://uk.games-workshop.com/spacemarines/blacktemplars-initiation-rites/6/ ''(saved archive page, dated December 2005, last accessed 13 October 2016)''
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*{{Endn|30}}: http://web.archive.org/web/20060101021201/http://uk.games-workshop.com/spacemarines/blacktemplars-fleet-crusade/1/ ''(saved archive page, dated December 2005, last accessed 13 October 2016)''
  
 
===Uncited===
 
===Uncited===

Revision as of 00:39, 20 January 2017

The Black Templars are a Second Founding chapter derived from the Imperial Fists. Since its founding, the Black Templars have campaigned on a never-ending crusade.

Black Templars
Black Templars Symbol.png
x160px x160px
Founding Chapter: Imperial Fists
Founding: Second Founding
Chapter Master: Helbrecht [1c]
Homeworld: Several fleets
Fortress-Monastery: Eternal Crusader
Colours: Black with white shoulder pads[15]
Specialty: Close Combat
Strength: 5000-6000 Marines spread through several Crusades [Note]
Battle Cry No Pity! No Remorse! No Fear!

History

Black Templar Marine

During Horus's attack on the Imperial Palace, the Imperial Fists' primarch, Rogal Dorn chose his First Captain, Sigismund, as the Emperor's Champion, and he was given the best armour and weapons. Sigismund went forward to challenge the traitorous leaders in single combat, and triumphed over all he met in battle.[1]

After the Horus Heresy, Roboute Guilliman, the primarch of the Ultramarines, ordered the breakdown of the Space Marine Legions into chapters. Dorn thought Guilliman a coward for not being there during the defence of Terra. Guilliman, in turn, thought Dorn a rebel for refusing to accept the dictates of the new Codex Astartes.[1] Neither would give in. Leman Russ of the Space Wolves and Vulkan of the Salamanders both sided with Dorn, as they did not want their Legions divided, while Corax of the Raven Guard and Jaghatai Khan of the White Scars sided with Guilliman. Again, civil war threatened to split the Imperium.[1]

The Imperial Fists were persecuted for their so-called heresies and even fired upon by the Imperial Navy. When civil war seemed all but inevitable, Dorn finally relented and agreed to split his legion. The first Successor Chapters created from the Imperial Fists were the Crimson Fists and the Black Templars.[1]

Sigismund led the more zealous of the Imperial Fists with him to the founding of the Black Templars, and became their first High Marshal. Sigismund swore an oath that upon leaving Terra, that he and his new chapter would prove their loyalty by never resting in his duties against enemies of the Emperor. Every High Marshal after him has renewed this oath and as such, the Black Templars' Crusade has continued for over ten thousand years, and is the longest Space Marine Crusade ever begun.[1] Because of this unending crusade, the Black Templars have no permanent homeworld and instead live on their Crusade Fleets, using the planets they conquer to establish Chapter Keeps which are used for recruitment and staging areas.[1]

In 998.M41, the Black Templars would briefly come to blows with the Dark Angels, after the Templars refused to hand over a prisoner that the Dark Angels suspected to be Cypher. The incident is reported to the Adeptus Terra, and Inquisitor Archibald was assigned to lead the inquiry.[10]

Organisation

Organization of a typical Black Templar Crusade, in this case the Arkron Crusade

The Black Templars are not organised like a typical Codex Chapter. Most of the time they are formed in an ad hoc manner into Fighting Companies. Individual Crusader Squads and specialists (such as Techmarines and Apothecaries) will fight side by side out of familiarity and comradeship rather than any imposed organisation.[1]

Hierarchy

  • The Chapter is led by the High Marshal who is the equivalent to other chapter's Chapter Master.[1]
  • A Marshal leads an individual Black Templars Crusade.[1]
  • A Castellan is second in command to the Marshal of a crusade and in command of a Fighting Company of the respective Crusade.[1]
  • An Emperor's Champion is selected on the eve of a battle just as Sigismund, the first Emperor's Champion and first High Marshal of the Black Templars, was. The champion is an Initiate who will have experienced a vision of the Emperor. When reports this to the Chaplains, they will anoint him, and gift him with the finest weapons and armour available, known as the Black Sword and the Armour of Faith. These may vary from fighting company to fighting company.[1]
  • Sword Brethren: unlike other Chapters, the Black Templars do not have veteran sergeants in their squads. Marines who excel in combat are honoured by being promoted to the Marshal's Sword Brethren. They are also the only ones who are allowed to use Terminator Armour. They fulfill a role comparable to the First Company of other Chapters.[1]
  • Initiates are the rank-and-file Marines of a Fighting Company. After proving himself in battle, an Initiate may be asked to take a single Neophyte under his wing and train and teach him by example.[1]
  • Neophytes are the new recruits of the Black Templars. Unlike other Codex Chapters, new recruits are not organised into a single company. Instead, each Neophyte joins a Fighting Company as the apprentice of a senior Initiate. While the Black Templars do not have a dedicated Scout company, Neophytes often fulfill this role, beginning their service with lighter armour and weapons than the Initiates.[1] A Neophyte will learn quickly from his tutor or die if he cannot. When the Initiate and Chaplains deem that the Neophyte has proven himself satisfactory in courage and skill, he is elevated to the rank of Initiate and will take his place in the Fighting Company. Should the Initiate in charge of a Neophyte die before the Neophyte's training is complete, his training and instruction will be taken over by another Initiate, if that Initiate finds the Neophyte worthy of his tutelage.[1]
  • Neophytes that failed their duty became the Cenobite Servitors and eternally follows the Chaplains of the Chapter to defend them and plays devotional chants and Chaplain's inspirational sermons from the speakers in their respirator collars.[25]

Doctrines and Codex Adherence

Black Templars going into battle

The Black Templars are among one of the rarer Chapter's that worship the Emperor as a god and follow the Imperial Creed.[23a]

By their doctrine, the Black Templars abhor the traitor, the alien and the mutant. The last category includes psykers, with the result that the Black Templars are one of the few Space Marine Chapters that exclude Librarians, seeing them as a potential source of corruption in the midst of battle. However, Black Templars do use psykers in other non-combatant roles, such as Astropaths and Navigators.[1] Black Templars view these beings with special reverence as they see them as able to commune directly with the Emperor.[19]

Black Templars place great emphasis on close combat prowess and honour. As such they can often be seen charging into suicidal situations to avenge fallen comrades. Black Templar Marines also set themselves apart from standard Codex doctrine by including Neophytes into squads of fully initiated Marines to help teach them the ways of battle and the art of combat.[1]

The Black Templars were the first chapter to find the design for the Land Raider Crusader and were the first chapter to make use of it. The Crusader design replaces the lascannons mounted on standard Land Raiders with Hurricane-pattern bolters, placing a greater emphasis on anti-infantry firepower and freeing up greater space within to carry larger squads.[1]

The Black Templars are also notorious for defying Codex doctrine that states that a chapter may only number 1000 battle brothers. This is partly due to the divided nature of the chapter, being spread out everywhere on separate crusades (usually consisting of several hundred Battle-Brothers[21]) and no one has thus been able to keep track of their exact numbers. However, it has been estimated that there may be several thousand Black Templars Companies spread out around the galaxy - an almost unstoppable force if gathered at one place and cause for the Inquisition to keep a close eye on the Black Templars.[1]

Vows of the Black Templars

  • Suffer Not the Unclean to Live[1b]
  • Uphold the Honour of the Emperor[1b]
  • Abhor the Witch. Destroy the Witch[1b]
  • Accept Any Challenge, No Matter the Odds[1b]

Combat Doctrines

The Black Templars have continued in the style of their first High Marshal, preferring close combat over ranged warfare. This is further emphasised by the fanaticism of Black Templars Initiates, whose righteous anger makes them impulsive and headstrong.[1]

When making war, the Crusade will focus on two main tactics. The first is orbital assault; where the Crusade will use drop pods and Thunderhawks to perform a mass-landing in the wake of a heavy orbital bombardment. If resistance is still strong after this, the Templars will land their heavy armour and launch an armoured spearhead against the weakest link in the enemy's defensive line, using Crusader-pattern Land Raiders.[1]

As part of their dedication to the Emperor and their Crusade, the Black Templars swear fell oaths of faith and protection. Before a battle, it is considered customary to renew one of these oaths, the particular vow serving as a focus on the particular aspect of their duties considered to be necessary to ensure success.[1]

Training Planets

Many of the Imperial Citizens want to became a Black Templars, so they hone their skills which helps them later to enter the ranks of the Imperial Guard or planetary defence force even if they are not chosen to be Neophytes. Those who declared their intent to join Black Templars are known as Expentanten and have a long and dangerous journey to survive before they can became a simple Neophytes.[27]

On of the old training planets of Black Templars is Barbarossa IV – mainly a peaceful Agri-World in north area of which nevertheless dangerous animals and plant life exist. There located Barbarossa keep – Chapter's citadel.[27]

Crusade Fleets

Unlike most other chapters, the Black Templars do not have a homeworld. Eschewing the idea of one, they opt to live aboard their crusade fleets. These vary in size and are made up of dozens of Battle Barges, Strike Cruisers and other craft such as training vessels and huge forge ships. Given this fleet-based nature, the Black Templars are rarely assembled as a Chapter, but are instead divided into many Crusades, every Crusade being responsible for its own recruiting as well as training of new Neophytes.[Needs Citation]

The High Marshal himself has his own personal Battle Barge, the Eternal Crusader, a huge vessel that is the spiritual home of the entire Chapter and contains its most sacred relics, chapels, and reliquaries. It has been expanded and refitted many times and can currently hold twice as many Space Marines as a normal battle barge.[Needs Citation]

This flexible, mobile nature allows the Templars to continue the first mission of the Black Templars: to actively seek out the enemies of the Emperor and destroy them before moving onwards to find the next foe.[Needs Citation]

Known Vessels

Black Templars Terminator[5]

Known Recruitment Worlds

Notable Crusades & Campaigns

Notable Black Templars

Notes on Size of the Chapter

  • Note: The Black Templars were stated to be 5,000-6,000 strong in the 4th Edition Codex. However in the 2014 Novel Eternal Crusader, they were stated to be Codex compliant, with 1,000 Battle-Brothers. Author Guy Haley went on to state on his blog that the Black Templars numbers are variable depending on the time of the setting and story requirements.[22]

Images

Cenobite Servitor of Chaplain

Related Articles

See Also

Sources

Uncited