Chrono-gladiator
Chrono-gladiators are cyborgs, sometimes made as a criminal punishment by the Adeptus Mechanicus[2], whose lifespan is determined by a pre-set self-destruct program; the only way they can extend this is by killing. Each battle they win moves the timer a fraction on the self destruct deadline, driving them to kill in order to keep living.[1] In battle they are ferocious opponents who fight for the thrill of combat and the promise of an extended life.[2]
Countdown
The Chrono-gladiators have a pre-set destruct deadline, which is only extended when they are in battle, as they thirst for life itself. Every second the Chrono-gladiator is not in combat, their life-timer ticks down the seconds towards their death. The death clock's life timer can only be reversed by the chemicals released in the sensation of shedding blood. When the death timer ticks towards self destruction, the Chrono-gladiator suffers debilitating effects, which shedding blood counteracts. When it reaches zero, the destruct timer explodes the Chrono-gladiator's heart.[2]
Weapons & Equipment
Chrono-gladiators are fitted with numerous bionic weapons and attachments, with almost no equipment other than that necessary for killing (though some are known to have been equipped with rebreathers). Almost all are fitted with some form of power weapon, usually power claws or gloves, which sometimes have ranged weapons attached to them. Most are fitted with several injector implants and are pumped full of a lethal cocktail of combat stimms (notably Slaught and Spur) and bio-enhancers; their sanity is questionable, as the only life they can lead is one of constant battle and bloodletting.[2]
As a result of their complex cybernetics, weaponry, equipment and short life span, Chrono-gladiators are expensive and difficult to obtain.[1]
Notable Chrono-Gladiators
Sources
- 1: Warhammer Monthly 54, "Kal Jerico in Killing Time"
- 2: Exterminatus Issue 2, pg. 26 - Chrono-Gladiators
- 3: "Exterminatus", White Dwarf 258 (UK)
