Dave, Ian, and I decided to start a slow grow campaign. Ian, who has just started out, wants to get some games in but wants to keep the growth at a slow pace (understandably so considering the cost of our toys).

We’ve now been joined by Joe, which brings our merry little band to four. Joe will be collecting the French.

The campaign will begin at 500 points each, then progress to 1,000 and 1,500 points. They’ll be 3 games each at each points level, with each playing the other once and then a Triumph & Treachery game to round off that points level. I’m sure we won’t at all be keeping track who wins what at each level…..

You can check out our first posts below if you want to get caught up:

• Peter: Dwarfs Part 1
• Ian: Warriors of Chaos Part 1
• Dave: Skaven Part 1
• Peter: Dwarfs Part 2 (Rangers)
• Peter: Dwarfs Part 3 (Warriors)

I’ve recently finished the leader of my merry band, Grigor Makkson.

Grigor Makkson: The Wandering Runesmith of Karak-Dur

Name: Grigor Makkson

Background: Grigor Makkson hails from Karak Dur, a venerable hold renowned for its skilled artisans and Runemasters. Born into a family of miners and craftsmen, Grigor was drawn to the mystical power of runes from a young age. His innate talent and curiosity eventually earned him the apprenticeship of the esteemed Runesmith, Belgarir Stoneshine, who trained Grigor in the ancient arts of rune-carving, a skill passed down through Dwarven generations.

Under Belgarir’s guidance, Grigor developed a reputation for his meticulous skill, his patience, and his unyielding dedication to the craft. But unlike many Runesmiths who were content to stay within the hold, Grigor possessed a rare yearning for exploration and discovery. This adventurous spirit, uncommon among Dwarves and especially Runesmiths, often led him to volunteer for expeditions beyond the boundaries of Karak Dur.

Grigor has spent decades honing his craft, inscribing weapons and armour with powerful runes to protect his kin and strengthen the warriors of Karak Dur. However, his true passion lies in unearthing lost lore and discovering ancient holds long abandoned. His fascination with Dwarven history and the secrets hidden within the earth make him the perfect candidate for the task that now lies before him.

Beliefs: Grigor is a solemn, thoughtful Dwarf who rarely speaks more than necessary, preferring to observe and listen. His dedication to the Dwarven ancestors and his respect for tradition make him a figure of reverence among his peers. However, he has a more pragmatic view of tradition compared to other Dwarves. While he respects ancient customs, he is not above bending certain rules if it means achieving a greater purpose.

Grigor is deeply aware of the importance of his mission, not only to Fimbur Grimsson but to Dwarvenkind as a whole. The prospect of restoring Bhurali-Dwar and reclaiming the treasures of the past fills him with a sense of purpose. He feels a kinship with the long-departed Dwarves who once called the hold their home and is determined to honour their memory by bringing their legacy back to light.

Notable Deeds

The Exploration of Darkflame Hollow: Grigor led a small expedition to Darkflame Hollow, an ancient Dwarven mine corrupted by Chaos-tainted ores. With his runic expertise, he was able to cleanse certain areas and recover several relics that were thought lost forever. His success in Darkflame Hollow brought him the respect of Fimbur Grimsson and the trust needed to lead the Bhurali-Dwar mission.

The Purging of Skullcleave Tunnel: When Greenskin raiders took over Skullcleave Tunnel, a crucial trade route, Grigor was sent with a small force to drive them out. Using his knowledge of rune magic, he set traps throughout the tunnel, collapsing sections to trap the Greenskins and purging the invaders with minimal losses to his team.

Dave, Ian, and I decided to start a slow grow campaign. Ian, who has just started out, wants to get some games in but wants to keep the growth at a slow pace (understandably so considering the cost of our toys).

We’ve now been joined by Joe, which brings our merry little band to four. Joe will be collecting the French.

The campaign will begin at 500 points each, then progress to 1,000 and 1,500 points. They’ll be 3 games each at each points level, with each playing the other once and then a Triumph & Treachery game to round off that points level. I’m sure we won’t at all be keeping track who wins what at each level…..

You can check out our first posts below if you want to get caught up:

• Peter: Dwarfs Part 1
• Ian: Warriors of Chaos Part 1
• Dave: Skaven Part 1
• Peter: Dwarfs Part 2 (Rangers)

I’ve now managed to finish the first unit of Warriors, the Ironwardens.

I decided to take my time on both the building and painting of this unit, so the whole unit is equipped with identical Shields to give them some uniformity in regards to their clan. The shield design was then replicated on the banner on freehand.

The Champion had a simple arm swap with some Ironbreaker arms to make him a little more unique.

The freehand banner was done first by getting the banner painted in the usual Castellan green. Once this had dried, I sketched out the anvil design in pencil and then filled it in with paint.

The Ironwardens: Defenders of Karak Zhul’Baraz

Unit Name: The Ironwardens

Location: Karak Zul’Baraz, located in the eastern peaks of the World’s Edge Mountains.

Motto: “By Stone and Iron, We Endure.”

Background: The Ironwardens hail from the ancient Dwarf hold of Karak Zul’Baraz, a fortress known for its deep mines rich in gemstones and its formidable defences. Clan Dull Huddan makes up the ranks of the Ironwardens. Dull Huddan translates roughly as “Enduring Stone” in the ancient Khazalid tongue, reflecting the clan’s values of endurance, resilience, and unyielding strength.

Founded thousands of years ago during the early years of the Dwarfen Empire, Clan Dull Huddan has always been known for its masterful stonecraft and unwavering defence of their hold. Unlike other Dwarfen clans who focus primarily on mining or trade, the clan prides itself on its ability to defend what’s theirs, standing as an immovable bulwark against any who would dare threaten their lands.

The Ironwardens are not just warriors; they are also master engineers and stonemasons, capable of repairing fortifications mid-battle or setting traps that can turn the tide of an engagement. This combination of martial prowess and engineering skill makes them a versatile and deadly force on the battlefield.

Appearance: Each Ironwarden is clad in armour forged from the finest heavy armour, created from exceptionally rare and durable metal mined from the deepest shafts of Karak Zul’Baraz. Their shields are emblazoned with the clan’s rune, a symbol of a hammer striking an anvil.

Tactics and Roles: The Ironwardens excel in defensive warfare, often forming the core of the battle line during sieges or when holding strategic locations. Their ability to hold ground is legendary, and they are often the last to retreat, if they retreat at all. When on the attack, they move slowly and deliberately, using their knowledge of terrain and fortifications to outmanoeuvre and outlast their enemies.

Notable Campaigns
The Defense of the Everfrost Gate: One of the most famous battles involving the Ironwardens was the Defense of the Everfrost Gate. During a brutal winter, a massive Greenskin horde led by the notorious Warboss Gromgut attempted to breach the gates of Karak Zul’Baraz. The Ironwardens held the line for seven days and nights without relief, their axes cutting down wave after wave of attackers. In the end, the horde was broken, and Warboss Gromgut was slain in single combat by Thane Durak Dull Huddan, the Ironwarden’s leader.

The Siege of Redstone Keep: When the Skaven of Clan Mors attempted to tunnel into Redstone Keep, a Dwarven outpost critical to the defense of the eastern mountains, the Ironwardens were called upon to assist. They not only repelled the initial assault but also counter-tunneled into the Skaven’s own network, collapsing the tunnels and crushing the invaders under tons of stone.

Leadership: The current leader of the Ironwardens is Thane Durak Dull Huddan, a battle-hardened warrior who has led his kin through some of the darkest times in the clan’s history. Durak is known for his strategic mind as well as his unyielding determination, embodying the very spirit of Clan Dull Huddan.

Under Durak’s leadership, the Ironwardens have become more than just defenders of their hold; they are a symbol of hope and defiance for all Dwarvenkind. When the Ironwardens march to war, their allies know that the battle will be fought with honour and that they will never stand alone.

Dave, Ian, and I decided to start a slow grow campaign. Ian, who has just started out, wants to get some games in but wants to keep the growth at a slow pace (understandably so considering the cost of our toys).

We’ve now been joined by Joe, which brings our merry little band to four. Joe will be collecting the French.

The campaign will begin at 500 points each, then progress to 1,000 and 1,500 points. They’ll be 3 games each at each points level, with each playing the other once and then a Triumph & Treachery game to round off that points level. I’m sure we won’t at all be keeping track who wins what at each level…..

You can check out our first posts below if you want to get caught up:

• Peter: Dwarfs Part 1
• Ian: Warriors of Chaos Part 1
• Dave: Skaven Part 1

The first unit I’ve painted up are the Stoutcloaks.

To make them look the part, I’ve either used the cloak bodies from the Quarrellers set, or I’ve added a miners backpack to the two or three without cloaks. I’m hoping this will be enough to show them as elite Rangers.

For painting, I did try my hand at a little OSL, with a simple kit bash using one of the miners’ arms holding a lantern. I then worked the colour up from a light red to a whitish-yellow in very thin layers.

The dark reddish beards were achieved using some Khorne Red and Rhinox Hide at roughly 1:4 ratio.

The Stoutcloaks: Guardians of the Forgotten Paths

Unit Name: The Stoutcloaks

Location: Primarily operating in the deep forests and hidden mountain passes of the World’s Edge Mountains, often near the hold of Karak Hirn.

Motto: “Silent as Stone, Swift as the Mountain Winds.”

Background: The Stoutcloaks are an elite unit of Dwarven Rangers, renowned for their unparalleled skills in scouting, tracking, and guerrilla warfare. Unlike traditional Dwarf warriors who prefer direct confrontation and heavily fortified defences, the Stoutcloaks excel in the art of ambush, subterfuge, and hit-and-run tactics. Their name is derived from the sturdy, earth-toned cloaks they wear, which allow them to blend seamlessly into their surroundings, be it dense forests, rocky mountain crags, or the shadowed ruins of ancient Dwarven roads.

Formation and History: The Stoutcloaks were formed during the Wars of the Vampire Counts, when the Dwarves found themselves in desperate need of scouts who could move quickly and quietly through enemy territory. While most Dwarves are known for their stoic and deliberate nature, the founders of the Stoutcloaks were a unique breed, combining the resilience of their kin with an uncharacteristic swiftness and cunning.

Originally composed of young, daring Dwarves from various holds, the Stoutcloaks quickly earned a reputation for their effectiveness in disrupting enemy supply lines, gathering critical intelligence, and launching devastating ambushes on enemy forces. Over time, the unit evolved into a permanent and highly respected part of Dwarven military strategy, particularly valued for their ability to operate independently and in the harshest of environments.

The Rangers of the Stoutcloaks: The Stoutcloaks are selected from the most skilled and resourceful members of Dwarven society. These Dwarves are expert woodsmen and mountaineers, as comfortable in the wilderness as they are in their ancestral halls. Their training is gruelling, focusing not only on combat skills but also on survival, stealth, and navigation. Each member of the Stoutcloaks is expected to be able to survive alone in the wild for extended periods, a necessity given the nature of their missions.

Appearance: The Stoutcloaks wear a mix of light armour and practical clothing designed for the rugged terrain they often operate in. Their signature cloaks are made from a special blend of wool and animal hides, treated to provide both warmth and camouflage. These cloaks are usually a mix of browns, greens, and grays, allowing the Rangers to blend into their surroundings. They carry a variety of weapons, including crossbows, hand weapons, and throwing axes, all of which are designed for quick, silent kills.

Tactics and Roles:

Scouting: The Stoutcloaks are often deployed ahead of the main Dwarven forces to scout out enemy positions, assess terrain, and identify potential threats. Their keen senses and knowledge of the land make them invaluable in providing early warning and strategic information.

Ambushes and Guerrilla Warfare: The Stoutcloaks excel at setting up ambushes and traps. They use the natural terrain to their advantage, often luring enemies into narrow passes or dense forests where their heavier armor and disciplined formations become liabilities.

Escort and Protection: While the Dwarven holds are typically secure, the roads and tunnels between them can be perilous. The Stoutcloaks are frequently tasked with escorting caravans, dignitaries, and travelers through these dangerous areas, ensuring their safe passage.

Notable Campaigns
The Skaven Purge of Karak Hirn: One of the Stoutcloaks’ most famous campaigns was during a large-scale Skaven invasion of the underground roads leading to Karak Hirn. The Stoutcloaks used their knowledge of the tunnels and hidden passages to launch a series of devastating ambushes, crippling the Skaven advance and giving the Dwarven defenders the time they needed to fortify their positions. The Skaven were eventually routed, thanks in large part to the Stoutcloaks’ efforts.

Shadow War in the Drakwald Forest: When Beastmen hordes began encroaching on Dwarven territories near the Drakwald Forest, the Stoutcloaks were dispatched to neutralize the threat. Over the course of several months, they waged a silent war against the Beastmen, using hit-and-run tactics to whittle down their numbers. By the end of the campaign, the Beastmen had been driven back, and the forest paths were once again safe for Dwarven travellers.

Leadership: The Stoutcloaks are currently led by Rurik Stonecloak, a grizzled veteran with a reputation for cunning and ruthlessness. Rurik earned his position through years of service, during which he proved himself time and again as both a brilliant tactician and a fearless warrior. His leadership style is one of quiet authority, and he commands the respect of his Rangers not through bluster or force, but through his deep understanding of the land and the enemies they face.

Rurik is known for his meticulous planning and his ability to adapt to changing circumstances, a crucial skill for the unpredictable nature of the Stoutcloaks’ missions. He is also fiercely protective of his Rangers, treating them more like family than subordinates, which has fostered a strong sense of loyalty and camaraderie within the unit.

Unique Traits – Mastery of Terrain: The Stoutcloaks have an intimate knowledge of the World’s Edge Mountains and the surrounding forests, allowing them to move through these areas with unmatched speed and stealth. They are experts in using the terrain to their advantage, whether it’s navigating treacherous mountain paths or setting ambushes in dense woods.

Silent Killers: The Stoutcloaks are trained to strike quickly and silently, often eliminating their enemies before they even realise they are under attack. Their proficiency with crossbows and throwing axes makes them deadly at range, while their skill with short swords and daggers ensures they are equally dangerous up close.

Resourcefulness: Life as a Ranger requires the ability to adapt and make do with limited resources. The Stoutcloaks are masters of survival, able to forage for food, find shelter, and create traps and weapons from whatever materials are at hand. This resourcefulness extends to their combat tactics, where they often use unorthodox methods to gain the upper hand.

The Oath of the Stoutcloaks:
Every member of the Stoutcloaks takes an oath upon joining, vowing to protect the holds of their ancestors, defend the ancient roads, and honour the memory of those who walked them before. This oath binds them to their duty and serves as a constant reminder of the importance of their work, not just as warriors but as guardians of Dwarven heritage and tradition.