The Kabal of the Black Heart is the largest and oldest Kabal in Commorragh, and its leader, Asdrubael Vect, effectively runs the Dark City. If you’re into Drukhari politics, this is the faction that sits at the top of the pile.
Origins and rise to power
Vect started the Black Heart as a secret cult hidden inside the noble houses that used to run Commorragh. Through assassinations and a big raid, he took control and turned it into a full-blown Kabal. It’s been the dominant power ever since.
Because Vect is old enough to remember the birth of Slaanesh, the Black Heart is also the first Kabal ever founded. That gives it a serious claim to legitimacy and a huge head start over its rivals.
In its early days, the Kabal fought against the Sun Cults of Commorragh. This happened after the Commorragh Raid weakened the nobility, and the Black Heart had to secure its position against those who still clung to the old ways.
How the Black Heart operates
It’s a massive organisation with lots of rival Archons under Vect. They all compete for his favour, but nobody dares move against him openly. Vect’s grip on Commorragh is so tight that even his top lieutenants only dream of betrayal, and they’re careful even then.
The Kabal’s military is enormous: thousands of Kabalite Warriors, mercenaries, and gunships. They’ve also got a strong alliance with the Cult of Strife Wyches, which is about as close to real friends as you get in the Dark City. Plus, Vect’s spy network reaches into Craftworlds, Ynnari groups, Exodite worlds, and even Harlequin masques.
Notable actions
The Black Heart has been involved in some of the biggest fights in recent memory. In 883.M41 they launched the Kyobin Raid, and in 967.M41 they fought at the Battle of Thersuis. Around 999.M41 they took part in the War of Dark Revelations.
In 999.M41, Vect dispatched a fifth of the fleet under Sarnak, plus half the Cult of Strife under Lelith Hesperax, to aid Biel-tan and Iyanden at the Battle of Dûriel. That same year, Vect personally led the defence of Khaine’s Gate against daemons, and the Kabal raided Bakka.
In M42, they raided Somniad, Lapradus, and St Dornas Port. They also fought in the Dark Eldar Civil War against the Ynnari, where Vect and his allies tried to curb the Ynnari’s power within Commorragh.
Named officers and forces
The Black Heart’s ranks include many notable figures. Archon Khorrzh Vhrex, Archon Kulith Scourgehand, Archon Tahril (who oversaw Dark Eldar forces in the Kaurava system), Archon Valossian Sythrac, and Prime Archon Sarnak are among the most prominent. Sarnak’s top dracon is Askar-vaq. Other officers include Archsybarite Iyshak Xosh, Sybarite Kel Urect, and No’akei, the Daughter of Pain, who was originally affiliated with the Black Heart until the events around the Fall of Medusa V.
Fleet, relics, and specialities
The Kabal’s colours are black and silver with maroon weapons. They specialise in large-scale raids and sieges of heavy fortifications.
Their fleet includes the Poison Leer, Sarnak’s flagship, and the Razorwing Jetfighters Cruelty Exquisite and Eviscerating Kiss. They also field the Voidraven Bomber Insidious Shadow, the Razorwing Lifestealer, and the Shardghost, whose pilot’s name was stolen by Vect.
Among their relics are the Shard of the Tainted Blood, the Splinter of the Black Chalice, and the Splinter of the Open Wound.
Key facts
- The Black Heart is the largest and oldest Kabal in Commorragh.
- Its leader, Asdrubael Vect, is the oldest known Dark Eldar and founder of the Dark City.
- It started as the Cult of the Black Heart, a secret organisation within the noble houses.
- The Kabal specialises in large-scale raids and sieges of heavy fortifications.
- It has a powerful alliance with the Cult of Strife Wyches and a spy network spanning the galaxy.
FAQ
Who leads the Black Heart?
Asdrubael Vect, the oldest known Dark Eldar and the founder of Commorragh. He’s been in charge since the Kabal’s inception.
What makes the Black Heart so powerful?
It’s the largest and oldest Kabal, with vast military resources, a powerful Wych cult alliance, and a spy network that reaches across the galaxy. Vect’s personal cunning and age give it an unassailable edge.
What are the Black Heart’s colours?
Black and silver, with maroon weapons. Simple but striking.