Blood Knights lore is all about some of the most experienced warriors the Soulblights can field, check it out!
If you like the Armies of the Dead, then you have to love these knights! Get your best set of armor and horse out and let’s learn about some Blood Knights lore!
IN THE WOLRD
The Soulblight Vampires wage war in many different ways. Some prefer dark magic to raise massive undead hordes, others fly into battle on ghastly coven thrones. Yet others take a more physical and bloody approach: the Blood Knights. With their dark, crimson armor and ornate weapons, they might appear like just a normal knight. This may give the oblivious traveller a sense of security that can be quickly shattered. They are still vampires and out for blood. By the time you figured that out your life will surely be forfeit. Glory, blood and slaughter all mean the same to them.
The Blood Knights themselves can vary a lot in both appearance and personality. Some are nothing but bloodthirsty madmen trying to consume as much innocent blood as they can. A large number act as the elite guards of their lords, riding to battle in their name. Yet others form a sickly and corrupted vision of knightly questing bands. They might tell you they are an honourable bunch seeking glory and adventure. But anyone they’ve crossed before will tell you the same: they only take blood as payment. So maybe think twice before asking them to save your village from equally deadly monsters.
When they ride to battle they do so on their Nightmares. These corrupted steeds are as bloodthirsty and powerful as their riders. The Knights and their steeds are adorned with heavy plates of armour, often adorned with spikes and wings. Their armor is most often a dark crimson or deep black, whether that crimson is blood or not is up to you. In battle, their bloodthirst will often overcome their senses. Slashing, stabbing and biting away at their foes with blade and fang is all valid to them. Their mighty lances will impale you, their blades will decapitate you or their steeds will trample you. Nothing can save you from their thirst.
ON THE FIELD
On the Tabletop of the Mortal Realms, the Blood Knights are a strong choice for any lord wanting something durable and hard-hitting. While hordes of skeletons and zombies might make up the bulk of an army. A good unit of 5 or 10 Blood Knights pack a lot of punch that can take on even the heaviest of units. The Soulblight Vampire faction they belong to are a very elite force in general, Blood Knights are almost necessary. They are fast and hit very hard. This also means they are pricey, being 180 points per unit of 5. It is worth the investment if your army requires an elite unit to break your opponent.
When it comes to weapon options, Blood Knights are simple. Give them Bloodshields and Templar lances or swords and that’s it. Uniformity seems to be important for them. These weapons are no slouch though! Needing a 3+ for both hits and wounds and a Rend of -1. They hit often and hit hard. Their spikey Bloodshields are also crucial in keeping their indestructible reputation high. Adding a 1 to their saves against any attack made with a weapon that doesn’t do Rend damage. Furthermore, their steeds also like to join in the slaughter. Nightmare’s Hooves and Teeth, while being less damaging than their rider’s weapons, also pack a punch.
Their numbers are led by powerful Kastellans, their experience giving them an extra attack. They are also joined by Hornblowers and Standard Bearers. The former giving them a flat minimum charge distance of 6’’. The latter’s banner frightens their enemy and lowers their bravery. They also have two powerful abilities: The Hunger and Martial fury. Giving them both a nice heal at the end of a productive combat phase and a insane damage boost whenever they charge into their foe.
Should you find yourself in need of some armor-clad knights with a peculiar appetite, the Blood Knights are a great choice.
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About the Author: Kamal van de Pol
