Varlislia

A view from Varlislia's Ulpec mountains

Varlislia can be found just outside the Ultramar system. A good third of the planet is treated as a Paradise World, where nobles from nearby systems will travel for recreation, and other holidays. The range of luscious habitats are perfect for those seeking adventure, sightseeing or relaxing.

The rest of the planet contains two prosperous hives, using the imported riches the wealthy bring with them to provide a good quality of life, by the standards of the Imperium in the 41^st millenium. Whilst conditions for the majority of the inhabitants are far from ideal, they are in stark contrast to planets such as Necromunda.

Varlislia’s Governor, Ignace Trantor, is political ruler and commander of the planetary defence force. For its strategic importance as a gateway to Ultramar, a number of Imperial Guard regiments are stations – even if many of them are there only for a short while.

Governor Ignace Trantor

Recent years have been difficult for Varlislia’s people and its governor. At first, there was the occasional disappearance. Over time, these disturbances became increasingly widespread. The local arbites, used to such a peaceful planet were unprepared and inexperienced to deal with the range of incidents.

News of these strange occurrences spread; visitors from began to avoid the previously bustling planet, whilst nobles on the planet left with haste. With the planet’s economy so dependent upon the tourism imperial bourgeoisie brought with it, Varlislia fell into depression.

The planet’s priests were noticing falling congregations at their basilicas, and the two hives were turning into ghost cities. Fearful of the punishment that the Ecclesiarchy would inflict, the Governor took matters into his own hands, imposing martial law and using the Imperial Guard forces to clamp down upon those neglecting their Imperial Duties. Their investigations were to reveal something truly shocking – pockets of cults, worshiping foul xenos were being uncovered everywhere. Whilst the planetary defence forces were able to extinguish some of these groups, there were too many to deal with – and the number was growing all the time.

With so many heretics and dwindling resources, Trantor realised that his forces were out of their depth – he stood to lose everything he had spent his career working towards. As scanners picked up two swarms of biomass - each as big as an Imperial fleet - heading for his home world, he sent one last communication pleading for help. An Inquisitor by the name of Coteaz was first to answer the call…