The Drukhari, also known as Dark Eldar, are the cruel, soul-hungry cousins of the Aeldari. They raid from the hidden city of Commorragh, torturing captives to keep a Chaos God at bay. If you’ve heard of Warhammer 40k’s darkest pirates, this is them.
Who are the drukhari?
They’re an ancient race of elf-like aliens who survived the Fall of the Eldar by hiding in the Webway. That catastrophe tore a hole in reality and birthed Slaanesh, a Chaos God who now hungers for their souls.
To avoid being devoured, Drukhari feed on the suffering of others. It’s more than cruelty for fun (though they enjoy it). It’s a survival mechanism. Their souls are dimmed, and only pain can replenish them.
Commorragh, the dark city
Almost all Drukhari live in Commorragh, a sprawling city hidden inside the Webway. It’s a realm of spires, arenas, and slave pens, ruled by Archons and their Kabals.
They don’t hold many planets. Instead, they strike from the Webway in fast raids, snatching victims before anyone can respond. That mobility makes them a nightmare to defend against.
Society and factions
Drukhari society is a brutal meritocracy where power is everything. Kabals are the main political and military groups, led by Archons who scheme constantly.
Other factions include Wych Cults (gladiators), Haemonculi (flesh-crafters), and Incubi (warrior elites). They all serve different roles, but all are dangerous.
- Kabals: crime syndicates with armies, run by Archons.
- Wych Cults: arena fighters who worship speed and violence.
- Haemonculi: twisted scientists who can resurrect the dead.
- Incubi: mercenary warriors who serve whoever pays.
How they connect to other lore
The Drukhari are Dark Kin to the Asuryani (craftworld Eldar) and Harlequins. They share origins but reject the Asuryani’s disciplined path.
They also have a tense relationship with the Imperium, often raiding human worlds for slaves. And they’re always looking for ways to stave off Slaanesh, which puts them at odds with Chaos.
| Aspect | Drukhari | Asuryani |
|---|---|---|
| Home | Commorragh (Webway) | Craftworlds |
| Soul fate | Slowly drained by Slaanesh | Protected by Infinity Circuit |
| Methods | Raids, torture, slavery | Discipline, prophecy, war |
Key facts
- Drukhari are also known as Dark Eldar.
- They live in Commorragh, a city inside the Webway.
- Their souls are slowly drained by Slaanesh, so they feed on pain.
- They raid in fast skimmers and take slaves.
- Asdrubael Vect is their supreme overlord.
FAQ
Are Drukhari and Dark Eldar the same?
Yes. Dark Eldar was the original name, but Games Workshop now uses Drukhari in official lore. Both refer to the same faction.
Why do Drukhari torture people?
They need to feed on intense suffering to keep their souls from being consumed by Slaanesh. It’s a dark bargain that keeps them alive.
Do Drukhari worship Slaanesh?
No. They fear and hate Slaanesh, who constantly hungers for their souls. Their cruelty is a way to avoid that fate, not to honour the Chaos God.