Skaven Stormvermin Clans

Lore & Background

Born from the darkest mutations of the Great Horned Rat's will, Stormvermins represent the pinnacle of Skaven martial evolution. They are significantly larger than standard Ratlings, with hardened hides that resist blades better than their kin. Their discipline is a rarity among the treacherous Skaven; they follow orders without question when backed by a strong leader, though betrayal remains an ever-present shadow in their culture. These warriors often serve as bodyguards to powerful Warlords or lead the vanguard during sieges of human cities and Dwarfen holds. Their equipment is scavenged from fallen enemies or crafted in the dark forges of Clan Skryre, featuring heavy mail armor and weapons designed to crush plate. Despite their prowess, they remain subservient to the ruling council of the Under-Empire, constantly vying for favor through bloodshed. In battle, Stormvermins strike with terrifying coordination, utilizing the terrain to overwhelm opponents before retreating into the shadows if the odds turn against them. They are a testament to the Skaven philosophy that strength is the only truth, yet they fear the wrath of their gods more than any mortal enemy.

In Their Own Story

The torchlight flickered against the damp stone as the Stormvermin Captain raised his axe. The air smelled of sulfur and rotting meat. Behind him, a hundred Ratlings chittered in anticipation, but he signaled for silence. They were not here to hide; they were here to break the gate. With a roar that shook the dust from the rafters, the elite squad surged forward, their heavy armor clanking like death knells. The human guards barely raised their shields before the green-skinned tide crashed over them.

Reader's Guide

The Stormvermin are not a distinct political clan but rather an elite warrior caste utilized by the major Skaven factions, most notably Clan Moulder and Clan Skryre. While standard Ratlings form the bulk of the horde, Stormvermins serve as the disciplined shock troopers capable of holding ground against human knights or Dwarf warriors. Their hierarchy is strict within warbands, answering directly to a Warlord or Plague Lord rather than the chaotic mob mentality of lesser kin. In Clan Moulder, they are bred for frontal assault and martial prowess, wielding heavy axes and shields. Conversely, Clan Skryre often equips them with early firearms and explosives, blending brute strength with technological terror. Relationships between Stormvermin groups are tense; they view themselves as superior to the common vermin but remain subject to the treachery of their masters. They rarely ally with other races permanently, viewing all outsiders as prey or obstacles. Their loyalty is bought through promises of power and resources from the Under-Empire's ruling council.

Did You Know?

• Stormvermins are significantly larger than standard Skaven Ratlings due to selective mutation.
• They often wear heavy plate armor scavenged from defeated human or Dwarfen armies.
• Their loyalty is fickle, often shifting between clans based on which Warlord offers the most power.
• Clan Skryre frequently equips Stormvermin squads with primitive firearms and grenades.