Tau
Tau
TheThe TauTauare a young race are a young race of technologically-oriented beings from the Eastern Fringeof technologically-oriented beings from the Eastern Fringe and the dominantand the dominant species of the Tau Empire
species of the Tau Empire. T'au, the Tau home planet, was discovered in 789.M35 by the Adeptus. T'au, the Tau home planet, was discovered in 789.M35 by the Adeptus Mechanicus
Mechanicus shipship Land's Vision Land's Vision. Adeptus Mechanicus records indicate that at that time, the . Adeptus Mechanicus records indicate that at that time, the Tau speciesTau species had mastered the use of simple tools and
had mastered the use of simple tools and weapons, as well as fire. Before the planet could weapons, as well as fire. Before the planet could be cleansedbe cleansed and colonized by the Imperium, howe
and colonized by the Imperium, however, aver, a violent Warp-storm erupted around the planet. violent Warp-storm erupted around the planet. ThisThis continued for 6,000 ye
continued for 6,000 years, maars, making the Tau's king the Tau's homeworld utterly inaccessible.homeworld utterly inaccessible. It was not until the Damocles Crusade that the Imperium again contacted
It was not until the Damocles Crusade that the Imperium again contacted the Tau. The Imperiumthe Tau. The Imperiumfoundfound the primitive Tau had advanced considerably. In six thousand
the primitive Tau had advanced considerably. In six thousand years, the Tau had advanced years, the Tau had advanced from spearsfrom spears and fire to colonizing planets and pulse rifles
and fire to colonizing planets and pulse rifles..
History
History
Early Tau History
Early Tau History
The Tau Empire The Tau Empire The Tau are a
The Tau are a plains-dwelling race. In their prehistory, they lived in tribes on the desert plains, huntingplains-dwelling race. In their prehistory, they lived in tribes on the desert plains, hunting and gathering their food. As their race aged,
and gathering their food. As their race aged, they expanded to all they expanded to all environments. The Tau of the plainsenvironments. The Tau of the plains became strong and skilf
became strong and skilful hunters, larger and sul hunters, larger and stronger than most ottronger than most other Tau. The Tau of the mountainsher Tau. The Tau of the mountains developed the ability to soar high above
developed the ability to soar high above the baking deserts on thermals. The Tau of the baking deserts on thermals. The Tau of the river valleysthe river valleys developed agriculture and metallurgy, forming the
developed agriculture and metallurgy, forming the first true settlements. The development offirst true settlements. The development of settlements led to the need of trade, and
settlements led to the need of trade, and wandering Tau began to negotiate and wandering Tau began to negotiate and mediate between themediate between the disparate tribes.
disparate tribes. Eventually,
Eventually, avarice got th avarice got the better of the Tau. e better of the Tau. Growing pains,Growing pains, causedcaused by their unusually rapi by their unusually rapidd technological development led to the invention of sophisticated weaponry. The Tau
technological development led to the invention of sophisticated weaponry. The Tau of the river valleysof the river valleys developed stone fortresses and crud
developed stone fortresses and crude ble blackpowder weapons to ward off the aggressive Tau of ackpowder weapons to ward off the aggressive Tau of thethe plains
plains. These fledgeling skirmishes led to the darkest period in Tau . These fledgeling skirmishes led to the darkest period in Tau history, the Mont'au.history, the Mont'au. The numerous wars that broke out lasted for year
The numerous wars that broke out lasted for year s. Each yeas. Each year, thousands died as squalid conditions andr, thousands died as squalid conditions and lack of access to fresh food and
lack of access to fresh food and water created a plague that killed more Tau water created a plague that killed more Tau than were dying in thethan were dying in the wars. The Tau were on
wars. The Tau were on the verge of wiping themselves out. Out of the the verge of wiping themselves out. Out of the destruction and darkness of thedestruction and darkness of the Mont'au came a guiding light: the Ethereals
Mont'au came a guiding light: the Ethereals.. Tau legends tell of the first appearance of
Tau legends tell of the first appearance of Ethereals at Fio'taun. The fortress city of Fio'taun was underEthereals at Fio'taun. The fortress city of Fio'taun was under assault by the warriors from the plains. Though negotiation had been
assault by the warriors from the plains. Though negotiation had been attempted, the fierce plainattempted, the fierce plain warriors would settle for nothing less than the annihilation of Fio'taun. For five long years, the warriors would settle for nothing less than the annihilation of Fio'taun. For five long years, the
inhabitants held off the savage assaults with their thick walls and plentiful cannons. However, disease inhabitants held off the savage assaults with their thick walls and plentiful cannons. However, disease and starvation began to take their toll. As
and starvation began to take their toll. As the tide of the siege turned, two the tide of the siege turned, two mysterious Tau appeared.mysterious Tau appeared. One made his way into the camp of the plains Tau, exuding a quiet authority that no Tau was able to One made his way into the camp of the plains Tau, exuding a quiet authority that no Tau was able to resist. Soon, the leader of the plains warriors was persuaded to parley with the
resist. Soon, the leader of the plains warriors was persuaded to parley with the Tau of Fio'taun.Tau of Fio'taun. Similarly, the other mysterious Tau made his way deep into the
Similarly, the other mysterious Tau made his way deep into the fortress. Within a few short hours, thefortress. Within a few short hours, the gates stood wide open, and the Tau stood ready to talk.
gates stood wide open, and the Tau stood ready to talk. The Ethereals spoke of the importance of peace
The Ethereals spoke of the importance of peace and understanding between all Tau. They and understanding between all Tau. They described adescribed a Greater Good that each Tau must strive towards. The besiegers and
Greater Good that each Tau must strive towards. The besiegers and the besieged quickly agreed withthe besieged quickly agreed with the Ethereals and a truce was reached.
authority and message of harmony and cooperation. With the Tau
authority and message of harmony and cooperation. With the Tau united, a great civilization began.united, a great civilization began.
Current Tau History
Current Tau History
The introduction of the Ethereals to Tau society led
The introduction of the Ethereals to Tau society led to the creation of a to the creation of a rigid caste system, with eachrigid caste system, with each caste taking on the name
caste taking on the name of an element that is close to of an element that is close to them. Thus, the warriors of the Tau Empirethem. Thus, the warriors of the Tau Empire became known as the Fire (Shas
became known as the Fire (Shas) Caste, due to their ) Caste, due to their fiery temper. The artifiery temper. The artisans and scientistsans and scientists becames became known as the Earth (Fio) Caste, being the
known as the Earth (Fio) Caste, being the most pragmatic of the Tau. The diplomats and most pragmatic of the Tau. The diplomats and administratorsadministrators became known as the Water (
became known as the Water (Por) Caste, as watPor) Caste, as water flows through all er flows through all life, uniting it. Laslife, uniting it. Lastly, the Tautly, the Tau messengers and spies became known as the Air (Kor) Caste, traversing the land on
messengers and spies became known as the Air (Kor) Caste, traversing the land on top of gusts oftop of gusts of wind. With the invention of aircraft, and later spacecraft, the Air Caste would become
wind. With the invention of aircraft, and later spacecraft, the Air Caste would become the pilots of thethe pilots of the Tau Navy.
Tau Navy.
The Tau are currently in the
The Tau are currently in the process of securing their Third-Phase colonies, while fending off remnantsprocess of securing their Third-Phase colonies, while fending off remnants of Hive Fleet Kraken and the
of Hive Fleet Kraken and the occasional Ork raids. They have a occasional Ork raids. They have a rather uneasy relationship with therather uneasy relationship with the Imperium, which is far more concerned with more important conflicts, like Armageddon and the 13th Imperium, which is far more concerned with more important conflicts, like Armageddon and the 13th Black Crusade.
Black Crusade.
Tau Society and Physiology
Tau Society and Physiology
Tau society and physiology revolve around the
Tau society and physiology revolve around the Sept they are part of. Each Sept they are part of. Each caste could almost become acaste could almost become a subspecies of their own, such are the variations between the
subspecies of their own, such are the variations between the caste members.caste members.
Society
Society
The Tau are the most open and tolerant of the races in the galaxy
The Tau are the most open and tolerant of the races in the galaxy, which means that they prefer not , which means that they prefer not toto destroy all other races on sight and are
destroy all other races on sight and are nowhere near as xenophobic as the nowhere near as xenophobic as the ImperiumImperium. They are. They are appreciative of the ways of the humans
appreciative of the ways of the humans, Eldar, and other sentient races, but , Eldar, and other sentient races, but hold their own values ashold their own values as superior above all others.
superior above all others.
Their tolerance also extends to themselves, as the Tau recognize
Their tolerance also extends to themselves, as the Tau recognize even lowly Fio'la workers as being aseven lowly Fio'la workers as being as important to the operation and well-being of the Empire as Shas'vre Battlesuit leaders or even
important to the operation and well-being of the Empire as Shas'vre Battlesuit leaders or even thethe highest Aun'o.
highest Aun'o.
Tau names are generally seen in
Tau names are generally seen in the Imperium as long, complicated, and unwieldy, but they the Imperium as long, complicated, and unwieldy, but they can becan be broken down into the foll
broken down into the following:owing:
●
● Caste and rank within that caste.Caste and rank within that caste. ●
● Sept of birth.Sept of birth. ●
● Personal name (which is often determined/extended by their notable actions or achievements)Personal name (which is often determined/extended by their notable actions or achievements)
Castes and Rank Castes and Rank
The Caste System organizes all Tau into five different castes and each
The Caste System organizes all Tau into five different castes and each one of them has a one of them has a defined socialdefined social role, be it military, trade, diplomacy, or leadership. The members of a
role, be it military, trade, diplomacy, or leadership. The members of a caste are further classified by acaste are further classified by a specific rank.
specific rank.
Rank Fire Caste (Shas) / Air Caste (Kor) / Water Caste (Por) / Earth Caste (Fio) /
Rank Fire Caste (Shas) / Air Caste (Kor) / Water Caste (Por) / Earth Caste (Fio) / Etheral Caste (Aun)Etheral Caste (Aun) ''SaalSaal
Cadet Cadet
''LaLa
Warrior / Messenger / Bureaucrat / Worker / Prince Warrior / Messenger / Bureaucrat / Worker / Prince ''UiUi
Veteran / Carrier / Envoy / Senior /
Veteran / Carrier / Envoy / Senior / PrelatePrelate ''VreVre
Hero / Pilot / Magister / Overseer / King Hero / Pilot / Magister / Overseer / King ''ElEl
Knight / Captain / Diplomat / Engineer / Holy Knight / Captain / Diplomat / Engineer / Holy ''OO
Commander / Admiral / Ambassador / Planner / Ethereal Commander / Admiral / Ambassador / Planner / Ethereal
Sept Sept
Tau come from many planetary systems, or Septs
Tau come from many planetary systems, or Septs, and these shape and , and these shape and define their methods of work.define their methods of work. Some of these are:
Some of these are:
● ● T'auT'au ● ● Vior'laVior'la ● ● Sa'ceaSa'cea
Many more can be found at the end of the Armoury. Many more can be found at the end of the Armoury.
Personal Name Personal Name
Tau personal names, unlike those of humans, usually mean things in
Tau personal names, unlike those of humans, usually mean things in their language, depending on thetheir language, depending on the deeds in their lives.
deeds in their lives.
Example Example
Thus, the Tau named "Shas'O Vior'la Shovah
Thus, the Tau named "Shas'O Vior'la Shovah Kais Mont'yr" (Commander Farsight) would be brokenKais Mont'yr" (Commander Farsight) would be broken down as follows:
down as follows:
●
● ShasShas - The individual is a - The individual is a member of the Fire Caste...member of the Fire Caste... ●
● OO- ...who is a high-ranking Commander and - ...who is a high-ranking Commander and hero...hero... ●
● Vior'laVior'la - ...who comes from the - ...who comes from the Sept of Vior'la...Sept of Vior'la...
...and has a personal name
...and has a personal name translated as being far-sighted (translated as being far-sighted (ShovahShovah), skilled (), skilled ( Kais Kais), and having seen), and having seen many battles (
many battles ( Mont'yr Mont'yr , meaning "blooded")., meaning "blooded").
Physiology
Physiology
The Tau are humanoid in
The Tau are humanoid in shape, although they have hoofed shape, although they have hoofed feet and four-digit hands (three fingers andfeet and four-digit hands (three fingers and one thumb). Their skin is grey-blue (although this can vary in
one thumb). Their skin is grey-blue (although this can vary in pigmentation between Tau colonypigmentation between Tau colony worlds), rough in texture, leathery, and exudes almost no moisture. Their faces are flat, wide
worlds), rough in texture, leathery, and exudes almost no moisture. Their faces are flat, wide around thearound the eyes, with an "I"-shaped slit running from the center of the
eyes, with an "I"-shaped slit running from the center of the forehead to where a human's nose would forehead to where a human's nose would be.be. Tau vision is considered slightly superior to that of humans - their visual spectrum extends a
Tau vision is considered slightly superior to that of humans - their visual spectrum extends a little morelittle more into the ultraviolet and infrared wavelengths. However their pupils do not dilate, giving poorer depth into the ultraviolet and infrared wavelengths. However their pupils do not dilate, giving poorer depth perception and providing s
are inside the mouth.
are inside the mouth. The Tau are not very good in closThe Tau are not very good in close combat, as they find the whole combat, as they find the whole concepte concept uncivilized.
uncivilized.
It has also been suggested in several Black
It has also been suggested in several Black Library books that Tau blood is bluish-purple, explainingLibrary books that Tau blood is bluish-purple, explaining that the blood contains trace amounts of cobalt, rather than
that the blood contains trace amounts of cobalt, rather than iron as common in humans.iron as common in humans. The Tau Fire and Water Castes roughly resemble humans in
The Tau Fire and Water Castes roughly resemble humans in appearance more than the other castes,appearance more than the other castes, standing average 1.7 meters tall, and 70 kilograms in weight.
standing average 1.7 meters tall, and 70 kilograms in weight. The Earth Caste are more stout in nature,The Earth Caste are more stout in nature, roughly 1.5 meters tall and 85 kg in weight.
roughly 1.5 meters tall and 85 kg in weight. While the Air Caste stand about 2 meters tallWhile the Air Caste stand about 2 meters tall, and 70, and 70 kilograms in weight, looking frail and weak compared to the
kilograms in weight, looking frail and weak compared to the other castes due to their life in low other castes due to their life in low or noor no gravity environments.
gravity environments.
Tau and the Warp
Tau and the Warp
The Tau achieve faster-than-light travel by "diving" into the Warp and
The Tau achieve faster-than-light travel by "diving" into the Warp and being subsequently flung out abeing subsequently flung out a great distance from where they entered. There are positives and negatives to
great distance from where they entered. There are positives and negatives to this method of travel.this method of travel. Because their ships have such minimal contact with the Warp and
Because their ships have such minimal contact with the Warp and are in a sense just skimming theare in a sense just skimming the surface, their travel is relatively safe, but a flaw in this design is that
surface, their travel is relatively safe, but a flaw in this design is that their speed is greatly reduced intheir speed is greatly reduced in comparison to races which immerse themselves fully in
comparison to races which immerse themselves fully in the Warp.the Warp. It is also true that the Tau
It is also true that the Tau are a race bereft of are a race bereft of psykers. Whether it is due to their limited Warppsykers. Whether it is due to their limited Warp interaction or something distinct about the Tau mind it means that they
interaction or something distinct about the Tau mind it means that they are unique amongst theare unique amongst the dominant races of the galaxy. For while it
dominant races of the galaxy. For while it does mean that the Tau does mean that the Tau do not possess the significantdo not possess the significant advantages that having psykers brings, it is also worthy to note
advantages that having psykers brings, it is also worthy to note that not one Tau has that not one Tau has ever fallen toever fallen to Chaos. In fact, as a species, the
Chaos. In fact, as a species, the Tau register as barely more than a blip Tau register as barely more than a blip in the Warp and it in the Warp and it may well bemay well be that this has been their saving grace, protecting the
that this has been their saving grace, protecting the altruism and idealism their race shares from thealtruism and idealism their race shares from the destructive tendencies of Chaos.
destructive tendencies of Chaos.
Origin Path for Creation of Tau Characters
Origin Path for Creation of Tau Characters
Caste
Caste WS WS BS BS S S T T Ag Ag Int Int Per Per WP WP FelFel Tau
Tau 15 15 20 20 20 20 20 20 25 25 25 25 20 20 25 25 2525
Tau Homeworlds
Tau Homeworlds
Ethereal Renown
Ethereal Renown: You were born in an : You were born in an area known for the exceptional wisdom if it’s Ethereals.area known for the exceptional wisdom if it’s Ethereals. Perhaps you were born on T’au
Perhaps you were born on T’au or ___, or perhaps you or ___, or perhaps you just grew up near the sept’s capital. You grewjust grew up near the sept’s capital. You grew up listing to this wisdom and the principals of the Greater Good
up listing to this wisdom and the principals of the Greater Good are strongly imprinted on your mind,are strongly imprinted on your mind, even compared to your peers. Your
even compared to your peers. Your knowledge of philosophy and unwavering faith in the Tau’sknowledge of philosophy and unwavering faith in the Tau’s manifest destiny have defined you.
manifest destiny have defined you.
Characteristics:
Characteristics: WP +4, Ag WP +4, Ag -2; Fate Points: 3 (1-5), 4 (6-10);-2; Fate Points: 3 (1-5), 4 (6-10);
Untrained Basic Skills:
Untrained Basic Skills:Common Lore (Greater Good, Tau Common Lore (Greater Good, Tau Empire), Literacy, Tech-UseEmpire), Literacy, Tech-Use
Skills Skills Talents:
Talents: Unshakable Faith. Unshakable Faith. : Speak Language (Tau) : Speak Language (Tau)
Fire Renown:
Fire Renown: You were born in You were born in an area known for the an area known for the bravery and strength of it’s Fire Warriors.bravery and strength of it’s Fire Warriors. Perhaps you were born on ___
Perhaps you were born on ___ or ___, or perhaps you or ___, or perhaps you just grew up near the major military bases. Youjust grew up near the major military bases. You grew up around the physical challenges and
grew up around the physical challenges and constant training of the Fire Caste as they prepare constant training of the Fire Caste as they prepare toto defend the interest of the Empire. You are
defend the interest of the Empire. You are familiar with both the stories of war and the equipment usedfamiliar with both the stories of war and the equipment used to prosecute them.
to prosecute them.
Characteristics:
Characteristics: S +2, T S +2, T +2, Fel -2; Wounds: +1; Fate Points: 2 +2, Fel -2; Wounds: +1; Fate Points: 2 (1-3), 3 (4-9), 4 (10)(1-3), 3 (4-9), 4 (10)
Untrained Basic Skills:
Untrained Basic Skills:Common Lore (War, Tau Empire), Literacy, Speak Language (Tau),Common Lore (War, Tau Empire), Literacy, Speak Language (Tau), Tech-Use
Tech-Use
Skills Skills Talents:
Talents: Nerves of Steel Nerves of Steel
Earth Renown
Earth Renown: You were born in : You were born in an area known for the an area known for the intelligence and skill of it’s Earth Caste.intelligence and skill of it’s Earth Caste. Perhaps you were born on ___
Perhaps you were born on ___ or ___, or perhaps you or ___, or perhaps you just grew up near the major manufacturing andjust grew up near the major manufacturing and research facilities. Science and Technology are discussed openly here, and you
research facilities. Science and Technology are discussed openly here, and you could not help but learncould not help but learn about it as you grew up. The complex devices of the Empire hold no mystery to you.
about it as you grew up. The complex devices of the Empire hold no mystery to you.
Characteristics:
Characteristics: Int +2, S Int +2, S +2, Fel -2; Fate Points: 2 +2, Fel -2; Fate Points: 2 (1-3), 3 (4-9), 4 (10)(1-3), 3 (4-9), 4 (10)
Untrained Basic Skills:
Untrained Basic Skills:Common Lore (Technology, Tau Common Lore (Technology, Tau Empire), Literacy, Tech-UseEmpire), Literacy, Tech-Use
Skills:
Skills:Logic, Tech Use, Speak Language (Tau)Logic, Tech Use, Speak Language (Tau)
Water Renown
Water Renown: You were born in an : You were born in an area known for the skill and area known for the skill and artistry of it’s Water Caste. Perhapsartistry of it’s Water Caste. Perhaps you were born on ___
you were born on ___ or ___, or perhaps you or ___, or perhaps you just grew up near a just grew up near a diplomatic or administrative center.diplomatic or administrative center. Complex use of words and meaning have
Complex use of words and meaning have surrounded you your whole life, leading you to surrounded you your whole life, leading you to a greata great understanding of language as well as basic understanding of the
understanding of language as well as basic understanding of the flow of goods and services as theyflow of goods and services as they relate to the Greater Good.
relate to the Greater Good.
Characteristics:
Characteristics: Fel +2, Int +2, Fel +2, Int +2, T -2; Fate Points: 2 (1-3), 3 T -2; Fate Points: 2 (1-3), 3 (4-9), 4 (10)(4-9), 4 (10)
Untrained Basic Skills:
Untrained Basic Skills:Common Lore (Tau Empire), Forbidden Lore (Xenos) Literacy, SpeakCommon Lore (Tau Empire), Forbidden Lore (Xenos) Literacy, Speak Language (Tau, [Pick One]), Tech-Use, Trade, Commerce
Language (Tau, [Pick One]), Tech-Use, Trade, Commerce
Skills:
Skills:Evaluate, Speak Language (Tau)Evaluate, Speak Language (Tau)
Air Renown
Air Renown: You were born in : You were born in an area known for the an area known for the speed and skill of it’s Air Caste. Perhaps youspeed and skill of it’s Air Caste. Perhaps you were born on ___ or ___, or perhaps you just grew up on orbital city. Either way the void and the were born on ___ or ___, or perhaps you just grew up on orbital city. Either way the void and the methods used to transverse it have been around
methods used to transverse it have been around you your entire life. Even if you you your entire life. Even if you are not of the Airare not of the Air Caste yourself, you share their
Caste yourself, you share their conform-ability with the vast emptiness.conform-ability with the vast emptiness.
Characteristics:
Characteristics: Ag +4, S Ag +4, S -2; Fate Points: 2 (1-3), 3 (4-9), 4 -2; Fate Points: 2 (1-3), 3 (4-9), 4 (10)(10)
Untrained Basic Skills:
Untrained Basic Skills:Common Lore (Void, Tau Empire), Forbidden Lore (Xenos), Literacy,Common Lore (Void, Tau Empire), Forbidden Lore (Xenos), Literacy, Navigation (Stellar
Navigation (Stellar) and Pilot (Flyer)) and Pilot (Flyer), Tech-Use, Tech-Use
Traits:
Traits:Void-AccustomedVoid-Accustomed
Skills Skills Birthright
Birthright(nothing changes)(nothing changes)
Lure of the Void Lure of the Void
Renegade: As per book except
Renegade: As per book except the Enemy choices are replaced with “Enemy ([Tau the Enemy choices are replaced with “Enemy ([Tau Caste] orCaste] or [Integrated Species]). Note, the philosophical change
[Integrated Species]). Note, the philosophical change won’t be ‘that’ different from the won’t be ‘that’ different from the mainstream andmainstream and should still be based on the Greater Good.
should still be based on the Greater Good. Anyone else would not be Anyone else would not be put in a position of power.put in a position of power. : Dodge, Speak Language (Tau)
: Dodge, Speak Language (Tau)
: Speak Language (Tau) : Speak Language (Tau)
Duty Bound:
Duty Bound: Duty to the Throne Duty to the Throne is renamed is renamed Duty of the Empire. Duty of the Empire. Duty to Humanity Duty to Humanity is renamedis renamed Duty to Duty to the People
the People. Lastly,. Lastly, Duty to your Dynasty Duty to your Dynasty is removed. The interaction penalty applies to those beyondis removed. The interaction penalty applies to those beyond the Empire, instead of the Imperium.
the Empire, instead of the Imperium. Zealot:
Zealot: Favored of the Faithful Favored of the Faithful is removed. Note this is based primarily on the Tau’s manifest destinyis removed. Note this is based primarily on the Tau’s manifest destiny and the Greater Good.
and the Greater Good.
Chosen by Destiny: [The first option] is removed. Note that in the
Chosen by Destiny: [The first option] is removed. Note that in the case of Xenophile, Xenos and Aliencase of Xenophile, Xenos and Alien Artifacts refer to people and items not of Tau manufacture.
Artifacts refer to people and items not of Tau manufacture.
Trials and Travails Trials and Travails
Press-Ganged: Renamed
Press-Ganged: RenamedOut of PlaceOut of Place. Instead of gaining a skill, you may add +3 WS or +3 BS.. Instead of gaining a skill, you may add +3 WS or +3 BS. However, you may not select a
However, you may not select a skill that is on your Career list. If you skill that is on your Career list. If you chose the Ability increase, youchose the Ability increase, you may not select the Fire Caste Career. Description is changed to
may not select the Fire Caste Career. Description is changed to the following: Unfortunatethe following: Unfortunate circumstance forced you to take up actions outside of
circumstance forced you to take up actions outside of your caste’s scope. You learned new skills youyour caste’s scope. You learned new skills you may never have wanted to know and forced to do things you never wanted to do. What is learned may never have wanted to know and forced to do things you never wanted to do. What is learned cannot be unlearned, and it
cannot be unlearned, and it sets you apart from your brethren.sets you apart from your brethren. Calamity, Dark Voyage and High Vendetta: Unchanged Calamity, Dark Voyage and High Vendetta: Unchanged
Motivation Motivation
Pride: May not select
Pride: May not select Heirloom item.Heirloom item. All others: Unchanged
All others: Unchanged
NOTE:
NOTE: All “Fate Points” are “Touched by the Fate” points, but use same rules as regulAll “Fate Points” are “Touched by the Fate” points, but use same rules as regular Fatear Fate Points in the Rogue
Points in the Rogue Trader rulebook. Trader rulebook. Word it how you lWord it how you like.ike.
Caste (Career as it relates to
Caste (Career as it relates to Rogue Trader)
Rogue Trader)
Fire Caste
Fire Caste (Arch-Militant)(Arch-Militant) Special Ability
Special Ability: Weapon Master (Pulse Weapons) or Battle Suit Veteran (+5 WS, +5 BS : Weapon Master (Pulse Weapons) or Battle Suit Veteran (+5 WS, +5 BS and +5 Pilotand +5 Pilot [Jet Pack], and +2 Initiative while inside a Battlesuit)
[Jet Pack], and +2 Initiative while inside a Battlesuit)
Skill:
Skill: Common Lore (War), Dodge, Drive, Intimidate, Scholastic Lore (Tau Tactica), Speak languageCommon Lore (War), Dodge, Drive, Intimidate, Scholastic Lore (Tau Tactica), Speak language (Fire Dialect)
(Fire Dialect)
Talent:
Talent:Basic Weapon Training (Universal), Pistol Weapon Training (Universal), Thrown WeaponBasic Weapon Training (Universal), Pistol Weapon Training (Universal), Thrown Weapon Training (Universal), Sound Constitution
Training (Universal), Sound Constitution
Gear:
Gear:Pulse Rifle OR Pulse Carbine, Pulse Pistol, Veteran Armor, Infantry Backpack, Pulse Rifle OR Pulse Carbine, Pulse Pistol, Veteran Armor, Infantry Backpack, Microbead,Microbead, Knife w/ Mono upgrade, 2 Plasma Grenades, and
Knife w/ Mono upgrade, 2 Plasma Grenades, and Tau uniform dyed in character’s Sept color scheme.Tau uniform dyed in character’s Sept color scheme.
Water Caste (Seneschal or Missionary) Water Caste (Seneschal or Missionary) Special Ability:
Special Ability: Exceptional Facilitator (Identical to Exceptional Leader) instead of Pure Faith, orExceptional Facilitator (Identical to Exceptional Leader) instead of Pure Faith, or Seeker of Lore
Seeker of Lore
Skill:
Skill: Barter, Commerce, Charm, Common Lore (Tau Empire), Deceive, Evaluate, Forbidden LoreBarter, Commerce, Charm, Common Lore (Tau Empire), Deceive, Evaluate, Forbidden Lore (Xenos), Inquiry, Literacy, Speak Language (Water Dialect), Speak Language (Low Gothic or High (Xenos), Inquiry, Literacy, Speak Language (Water Dialect), Speak Language (Low Gothic or High Gothic)
Gothic)
Talent:
Gear:
Gear:Pulse Pistol, Tau Mesh Pulse Pistol, Tau Mesh Robe, Dataslate, Tau Scribe Robe, Dataslate, Tau Scribe Drone, Best-Craftmanship Shock-Staff, andDrone, Best-Craftmanship Shock-Staff, and Tau Water Caste Robe.
Tau Water Caste Robe.
Air Caste (Void-Master) Air Caste (Void-Master) Special Ability:
Special Ability: Mastery of (choose one: Space, Gunnery, Augurs, Small Craft)Mastery of (choose one: Space, Gunnery, Augurs, Small Craft)
Skill:
Skill: Common Lore (Kor’vatta, War), Forbidden Lore Common Lore (Kor’vatta, War), Forbidden Lore (Xenos), Navigation (Stellar, Intersteller)(Xenos), Navigation (Stellar, Intersteller), Pilot, Pilot (Spacecraft, Flyers), Scholastic Lore (Astromancy), Speak language (Air Dialect)
(Spacecraft, Flyers), Scholastic Lore (Astromancy), Speak language (Air Dialect)
Talent:
Talent:Pistol Weapon Training (Universal), Vehicle Weapon Training (Universal), Nerves of Pistol Weapon Training (Universal), Vehicle Weapon Training (Universal), Nerves of SteelSteel
Gear:
Gear:Pulse Pistol, Tau Void Suit, Microbead, Tau uniform dyed in Pulse Pistol, Tau Void Suit, Microbead, Tau uniform dyed in Sept color scheme, Knife w/ MonoSept color scheme, Knife w/ Mono upgrade, Combi-tool.
upgrade, Combi-tool.
Earth Caste
Earth Caste (Explorator w/ Tau equivalent tech devices)(Explorator w/ Tau equivalent tech devices) Special Ability:
Special Ability: Explorator Devices (Identical to Explorator Implants except they are not implats, butExplorator Devices (Identical to Explorator Implants except they are not implats, but devices that can be removed and
devices that can be removed and reattached at will)reattached at will)
Skill:
Skill: Common Lore (Technology), Forbidden Lore (Xenotech), Logic, Medicade, Scrutiny, SpeakCommon Lore (Technology), Forbidden Lore (Xenotech), Logic, Medicade, Scrutiny, Speak Language (Earth Dialect), Scholastic Lore (Pick
Language (Earth Dialect), Scholastic Lore (Pick Two), Tech-Use, Trade (Technomat)Two), Tech-Use, Trade (Technomat)
Talent:
Talent:Pistol Weapon Training (Universal) OR Basic Weapon Pistol Weapon Training (Universal) OR Basic Weapon Training (Universal)Training (Universal)
Gear: Gear:
Tau Technical Drone Tau Technical Drone
Armory
Armory
Name
Name Class Class Range Range RoF RoF Dam Dam Pen Pen Clip Clip Rld Rld Special Special Wt Wt Cost Cost AvailabilityAvailability
Pulse Pulse Rifle Rifle Basic Basic (Pulse) (Pulse) 150m150m S/2/ S/2/ 4 4 2d10+ 2d10+ 3 E 3 E 4 4 36 36 FullFull Gyro-Stabi Gyro-Stabi lised (Pg lised (Pg 121 ITS) 121 ITS) 8kg N/A 8kg N/A Very Rare Very Rare (Common for (Common for Tau) Tau) Pulse Pulse Carbine Carbine Basic Basic (Pulse) (Pulse) Basic Basic (Launc (Launc her her 60m 60m 80m 80m S/2/ S/2/ 6 6 S/-/-2d10+ 2d10+ 2 E 2 E Grena Grena de de 4 4 * * 36 36 1 1 Half Half Half Half Gyro-Stabi Gyro-Stabi lised lised Carbine Carbine (-10 one (-10 one handed handed penalty) penalty) 6kg N/A 6kg N/A Very Rare Very Rare (Common for (Common for Tau) Tau) Pulse Pulse Pistol Pistol Pistol Pistol (Pulse) (Pulse) 40m40m S/2/ S/2/ --2d10+ 2d10+ 2 E 2 E 4 4 16 16 HalfHalf Gyro-Stabi Gyro-Stabi lised
lised 3kg 3kg N/AN/A
Very Rare Very Rare (Average for (Average for Tau) Tau) Pulse Pistol OR Pulse Shotgun, Tau Mesh Robe,
Rail Rail Rifle Rifle Heavy Heavy (Rail) (Rail) 200m 200m S/-/- S/-/-3d10+ 3d10+ 6 I 6 I 10 10 5 5 2Full2Full Accurate, Accurate, Telescopic Telescopic Sight
Sight 25kg N/A25kg N/A
Unique (Rare Unique (Rare for Tau) for Tau) Burst Burst Cannon Cannon Heavy Heavy (Pulse) (Pulse) 60m60m S(2) S(2) /4/ /4/ 10 10 2d10+ 2d10+ 2 E 2 E 4 4 100 100 FullFull Storm, Storm, Gyro-Stabi Gyro-Stabi lised lised 20kg N/A 20kg N/A Very Rare Very Rare (Scarce for (Scarce for Tau) Tau) Pulse Pulse Shotgun Shotgun Basic Basic (Pulse) (Pulse) 30m 30m S/-/- S/-/-1d10+ 1d10+ 4 E
4 E 4 4 8 8 Full Full Shocking Shocking 6kg 6kg N/AN/A
Very Rare Very Rare (Average for (Average for Tau) Tau) Plasma Plasma Gun Gun Basic Basic (Plasma (Plasma )) 90m 90m S/-/- S/-/- 2d10+2d10+ 6 E 6 E 6
6 8 8 3Full 3Full - - 14kg 14kg N/A N/A UniqueUnique
(Rare of Tau) (Rare of Tau) Fusion Fusion Gun Gun Basic Basic (Melta) (Melta) 35m 35m S/-/- S/-/-3d10+ 3d10+ 8
8 E E 13 13 12 12 2Full 2Full - - 16kg 16kg N/AN/A
Unique Unique (Rare for (Rare for Tau) Tau) Honor Honor Blade
Blade Melee Melee N/A N/A N/AN/A
1d10+ 1d10+ 3 R
3 R 2 2 N/A N/AN/A N/A
Balanced, Balanced, Mono
Mono 3kg 3kg N/AN/A
Very Rare Very Rare (Average for (Average for Ethereals) Ethereals) Bonding Bonding Knife
Knife Melee Melee N/A N/A N/AN/A
1d5+1 1d5+1 R
R 2 2 N/A N/AN/A N/A
Balanced, Balanced, Mono
Mono 1kg 1kg N/AN/A
Unique (One Unique (One per Team) per Team) EMP EMP Grenade
Grenade Thrown Thrown 3xSB 3xSB N/AN/A
2d10 2d10 E E Ignores Ignores Armor
Armor N/A N/A N/AN/A
Only Only affects affects electronic electronic equipment, equipment, Blast (4) Blast (4) 0.5 0.5 kg kg N/A N/A Rare Rare (Average for (Average for Fire) Fire) Plasma Plasma Grenade
Grenade Thrown Thrown 3xSB 3xSB N/AN/A
2d10+ 2d10+ 6 E
6 E 6 6 N/A N/A N/A N/A Blast Blast (2) (2) 2kg 2kg N/AN/A
Very Rare Very Rare (Average for (Average for Fire) Fire) Photon Photon Flash Flash Grenade Grenade Thrown
Thrown 3xSB 3xSB N/AN/A SpeciaSpecia
ll - - N/A N/A N/AN/A
Blast (15), Blast (15), test Tough test Tough or blinded or blinded .5kg N/A .5kg N/A Rare Rare (Plentiful for (Plentiful for Tau) Tau)
for 1d5 for 1d5 rounds rounds
Flamer
Flamer BasicBasic
(Flame) (Flame) 25m 25m S/-/- S/-/-1d10+ 1d10+ 6 E 6 E 3 3 88 2 2 Full
Full Flame Flame 6 6 N/AN/A
Rare Rare (Average for (Average for Tau) Tau) Name Function Name Function Blacksun Filter Blacksun Filter
Allows character to re-roll one failed Awareness test per round, and they Allows character to re-roll one failed Awareness test per round, and they count as being able to
count as being able to see in absolute darkness. Grants user “Dark Sight”see in absolute darkness. Grants user “Dark Sight” Trait.
Trait.
Target Lock
Target Lock Doubles the BS bonus for any Doubles the BS bonus for any Aim action.Aim action. Please note that there are official rules for Tau weaponry in
Please note that there are official rules for Tau weaponry in the Deathwatch book. We decided,the Deathwatch book. We decided, however, that they were set for a
however, that they were set for a much higher power level, and so much higher power level, and so we kept our own we kept our own rules. GMs can feelrules. GMs can feel free to use the official rules, if they intend to
free to use the official rules, if they intend to run a higher powered game.run a higher powered game.
Name
Name AP AP and and NotesNotes Mesh Robes
Mesh Robes AP 4 AP 4 (All) (All) Weigh: Weigh: 3 kg3 kg
Scout Armour
Scout Armour AP 6/4 (Head, AP 6/4 (Head, Body / Legs, Body / Legs, Arms); Integrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather,Arms); Integrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather,
and
and Blacksun Blacksun Filter. Filter. Weight: Weight: 9 9 kgkg
Veteran Armour
Veteran Armour AP 6 (All); Integrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather, and AP 6 (All); Integrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather, and Blacksun Filter.Blacksun Filter.
Weight:
Weight: 12 12 kgkg
Tau Void Suit
Tau Void Suit AP 1 (All); AP 1 (All); Integrated Micro-Integrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather, MagbootsBead, Re-breather, Magboots, Void Suit rules, Void Suit rules (pg 141 RT), and Flyer (12)
(pg 141 RT), and Flyer (12) Trait due to thrustTrait due to thrusters while in the void. ers while in the void. Weight:Weight: 8 8 Veteran Void Veteran Void Armour Armour
AP 6 (All); Integrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magboots, AP 6 (All); Integrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magboots, Void Suit
Void Suit, and , and thrusters thrusters Flyer (Flyer (12). 12). Weight: Weight: 18 kg18 kg
XV02 Pilot Battlesuit XV02 Pilot Battlesuit
AP 6 (All), +5 S &
AP 6 (All), +5 S & T, Integrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather, Blacksun Filter,T, Integrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magboots, Void Suit rules, MIU devices that links wearer to vehicle /
Magboots, Void Suit rules, MIU devices that links wearer to vehicle / weapon platf
weapon platform. orm. Weight: Weight: 25 kg25 kg
Note:
Note: This armour is This armour is in the prototype phase. in the prototype phase. Developed specifically Developed specifically for usefor use in conjunction with Tau vehicles, most notably the Hammerhead Gunship, it in conjunction with Tau vehicles, most notably the Hammerhead Gunship, it has an upgraded interface which allows the user to
has an upgraded interface which allows the user to become one with hisbecome one with his vehicle.
vehicle.
XV15 Stealthsuit
XV15 Stealthsuit AP 8 (All); +10 TAP 8 (All); +10 T, Unnatural Str x2; , Unnatural Str x2; Integrated Micro-BIntegrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather,ead, Re-breather,
Blacksun Filter, M
support system
support system integrated. integrated. Comes pre-equipped wiComes pre-equipped with Burster Cannon andth Burster Cannon and Stealth Field Generato
Stealth Field Generator. r. Weight of armour Weight of armour does NOT count to whatdoes NOT count to what character
character can can carry. carry. Weight: Weight: 175 175 kgkg
XV17
XV17 Battlesuit Battlesuit Little Little is is known known about about this this Battlesuit Battlesuit apart apart from from that that it it exists.exists.
XV22 Stealthsuit XV22 Stealthsuit
AP 9 (All); +5 Str & T,
AP 9 (All); +5 Str & T, Unnatural Str and T x2; Integrated Micro-Bead,Unnatural Str and T x2; Integrated Micro-Bead, Rebreather, Blacksun Fi
Rebreather, Blacksun Filter, Magnoculars, lter, Magnoculars, Auspex, Jet Pack, and Synskin.Auspex, Jet Pack, and Synskin. Has up to 2 weapons ass
Has up to 2 weapons assigned to it. igned to it. May have up to 1 support sysMay have up to 1 support systemstems integrated. Comes pr
integrated. Comes pre-equipped with Stealth Fie-equipped with Stealth Field Generator. eld Generator. HeavyHeavy Weapons count as basic w
Weapons count as basic weapons. eapons. Weight of armour does Weight of armour does NOT count toNOT count to what
what character character can can carry. carry. Weight: Weight: 225 225 kgkg
Note:
Note: This armour is in the prototype phase.This armour is in the prototype phase.
XV25 Stealthsuit XV25 Stealthsuit
AP 8 (All); +15 T
AP 8 (All); +15 T, Unnatural Str x2; , Unnatural Str x2; Integrated Micro-BIntegrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather,ead, Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, M
Blacksun Filter, Magnoculars, Auspex, Jet Pack, and Syagnoculars, Auspex, Jet Pack, and Synskin. nskin. May have 1May have 1 support system
support system integrated. integrated. Comes pre-equipped wiComes pre-equipped with Burster Cannon andth Burster Cannon and Stealth Field Generato
Stealth Field Generator. r. Weight of armour Weight of armour does NOT count to whatdoes NOT count to what character
character can can carry. carry. Weight: Weight: 200 200 kgkg
XV26
XV26 Battlesuit Battlesuit Little Little is is known known about about this this Battlesuit Battlesuit apart apart from from that that it it exists.exists. XV46 Vanguard
XV46 Vanguard Void Battlesuit Void Battlesuit
AP 8 (All); +15 S
AP 8 (All); +15 S & T, Unnatural Str & T & T, Unnatural Str & T x2; x2; Integrated Micro-Integrated Micro-Bead,Bead, Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magboots, Void Suit rules,
Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magboots, Void Suit rules, Magnoculars,Magnoculars, Auspex, & Jet
Auspex, & Jet Pack. Pack. Has up to 2 Has up to 2 weapons assigned weapons assigned to it. to it. May have up to May have up to 22 support system
support systems integrated. s integrated. Heavy Weapons count as basiHeavy Weapons count as basic weapons.c weapons. Weight of armour
Weight of armour does NOT count to what charactdoes NOT count to what character can carry. er can carry. Weight:Weight: 200 kg
200 kg
XV8 Crisis Battlesuit XV8 Crisis Battlesuit
AP 10 (All) +20 Str & T,
AP 10 (All) +20 Str & T, Unnatural Str & T x 2; Unnatural Str & T x 2; Integrated Micro-Bead,Integrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magnoculars, Auspex, and Jet Pack. Has up to Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magnoculars, Auspex, and Jet Pack. Has up to 3 weapons assigned to it
3 weapons assigned to it. . May have up to 2 support sysMay have up to 2 support systems integrated.tems integrated. Heavy Weapons count as basi
Heavy Weapons count as basic weapons. c weapons. Weight of armour and wWeight of armour and weaponseapons does
does NOT NOT count tcount to wo what charhat character acter can carcan carry. ry. Size: Size: “Hulking” “Hulking” Weight:Weight: 350 kg 350 kg XV8-05 Enforcer XV8-05 Enforcer Crisis Battlesuit Crisis Battlesuit AP 11 (All) +20 Str & T,
AP 11 (All) +20 Str & T, Unnatural Str & T x 2; Unnatural Str & T x 2; Integrated Micro-Bead,Integrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magnoculars, Auspex, and Jet Pack. Has up to Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magnoculars, Auspex, and Jet Pack. Has up to 3 weapons assigned to it
3 weapons assigned to it. . May have up to 2 support sysMay have up to 2 support systems integrated.tems integrated. Heavy Weapons count as basi
Heavy Weapons count as basic weapons. c weapons. Weight of armour and wWeight of armour and weaponseapons does
does NOT NOT count tcount to wo what charhat character acter can carcan carry. ry. Size: Size: “Hulking” “Hulking” Weight:Weight: 400 kg
400 kg
Note:
Note: This armour is only issued This armour is only issued to commanders.to commanders.
XV8-06 Coldstar XV8-06 Coldstar Crisis Battlesuit Crisis Battlesuit
AP 10 (All) +20 Str & T,
AP 10 (All) +20 Str & T, Unnatural Str & T x 2; Unnatural Str & T x 2; Integrated Micro-Bead,Integrated Micro-Bead, Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magboots, Void Suit rules,
Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magboots, Void Suit rules, Magnoculars,Magnoculars, Auspex, and Jet Pack. Has up t
Auspex, and Jet Pack. Has up to 3 weapons assigned to it. o 3 weapons assigned to it. May have up to 2May have up to 2 support system
Weight of armour and weapons does NOT count
Weight of armour and weapons does NOT count to what character canto what character can carry. Size:
carry. Size: “Hulking” Weight: “Hulking” Weight: 425 425 kgkg
XV88 Broadside XV88 Broadside
Battlesuit Battlesuit
AP 12 (All) +25 St
AP 12 (All) +25 Str, +20 T, Unnatural Str and T r, +20 T, Unnatural Str and T x2; x2; IntegratedIntegrated Micro-Bead, Re-br
Micro-Bead, Re-breather, Blacksun Filtereather, Blacksun Filter, Magnoculars, and Auspex. , Magnoculars, and Auspex. MayMay have 1 support system
have 1 support system integrated (suit cannot integrated (suit cannot support Jet Pack). support Jet Pack). ComesComes pre-equipped with 2 Rai
pre-equipped with 2 Railguns and 2 Missile Plguns and 2 Missile Pods. ods. Heavy Weapons count asHeavy Weapons count as basic weapons (exception i
basic weapons (exception is Railguns). s Railguns). Weight of armour and Weight of armour and weaponsweapons does
does NOT NOT count tcount to wo what charhat character acter can carcan carry. ry. Size: Size: “Hulking” “Hulking” Weight:Weight: 1000 kg 1000 kg XV9 Hazard XV9 Hazard Battlesuit Battlesuit AP 12 (All) +15 Str & T,
AP 12 (All) +15 Str & T, +5 Ag, Unnatural Str & T x +5 Ag, Unnatural Str & T x 2; Integrated2; Integrated
Micro-Bead, Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magnoculars, Auspex, and Jet Micro-Bead, Re-breather, Blacksun Filter, Magnoculars, Auspex, and Jet Pack. Has up to 1 additional w
Pack. Has up to 1 additional weapon assigned to it. eapon assigned to it. May have up to 3May have up to 3 support system
support systems integrated. s integrated. Comes pre-equipped witComes pre-equipped with one twin-linked Bursh one twin-linked Burstt Cannon.
Cannon. Heavy Weapons Heavy Weapons count as count as basic weaponsbasic weapons. . Weight Weight of armour of armour andand weapons does
weapons does NOT count NOT count to what to what character can character can carry. carry. Size: Size: “Hulking”“Hulking” Weight:
Weight: 500 500 kgkg
Note:
Note: This armour is in the prototype phase.This armour is in the prototype phase.
XV104 Riptide XV104 Riptide
Battlesuit Battlesuit
The XV104 Riptide Battlesuit is a newly-developed, experimental heavy The XV104 Riptide Battlesuit is a newly-developed, experimental heavy Battlesuit that towers over all other known forms of Tau Battlesuit save for Battlesuit that towers over all other known forms of Tau Battlesuit save for its variant, the XV107 R'varna. The XV104 is the
its variant, the XV107 R'varna. The XV104 is the latest model to arrive onlatest model to arrive on the front lines of the Third Sphere of
the front lines of the Third Sphere of Expansion, and its deadly combinationExpansion, and its deadly combination of heavy protection, supreme mobility and devastating firepower makes it an of heavy protection, supreme mobility and devastating firepower makes it an extremely powerful asset for the forces of the Tau Empire.
extremely powerful asset for the forces of the Tau Empire.
Note:
Note: This armour is This armour is in the prototype phase. in the prototype phase. Possibly vehicle rulPossibly vehicle rules.es.
XV107 R'varna XV107 R'varna
Battlesuit Battlesuit
The XV107 R'varna Battlesuit is a rare variant of the
The XV107 R'varna Battlesuit is a rare variant of the recently introducedrecently introduced XV104 Riptide Battlesuit, and mounts two
XV104 Riptide Battlesuit, and mounts two Pulse Submunitions Cannons asPulse Submunitions Cannons as its main armament. These are
its main armament. These are experimental weapons systems which fireexperimental weapons systems which fire micro-cluster project
micro-cluster projectiles capable of saturating a wide target area with iles capable of saturating a wide target area with aa deadly storm of plasma pulses. The R’varna has far heavier armour than deadly storm of plasma pulses. The R’varna has far heavier armour than itsits more mobile, Jetpack-equipped Riptide counterpart, allowing the
more mobile, Jetpack-equipped Riptide counterpart, allowing the pilot topilot to stand firm in the face of any
stand firm in the face of any foe whilst the more mobile elements of thisfoe whilst the more mobile elements of this Hunter Cadre envelop and destroy them.
Hunter Cadre envelop and destroy them.
Note:
Note: This armour is This armour is in the prototype phase. in the prototype phase. Possibly vehicle rulPossibly vehicle rules.es.
XV109 Y'vahra XV109 Y'vahra
Battlesuit Battlesuit
Rushed into deployment after the success of the XV107 R'varna
Rushed into deployment after the success of the XV107 R'varna Battlesuit,Battlesuit, the XV109 Y'vahra is a Class 10
the XV109 Y'vahra is a Class 10 BattlesuitBattlesuitdesigned for devastatingdesigned for devastating
frontline shock assaults. To facilitate this role, the Y'vahra is equipped with frontline shock assaults. To facilitate this role, the Y'vahra is equipped with a triple-barrelled Phased Plasma-Flamer capable of vaporising even
a triple-barrelled Phased Plasma-Flamer capable of vaporising even hardened ceramite, and a massive Ionic Discharge Cannon designed to hardened ceramite, and a massive Ionic Discharge Cannon designed to incapacitate enemy war engines. The complex Vectored Thruster Array incapacitate enemy war engines. The complex Vectored Thruster Array incorporated into the Y'vahra's impressive armour allows it
incorporated into the Y'vahra's impressive armour allows it to traverse theto traverse the battlefield in long
of the enemy and reaping
of the enemy and reaping a heavy toll in lives before a heavy toll in lives before jetting away.jetting away.
Note:
Note: This armour is This armour is in the prototype phase. in the prototype phase. Possibly vehicle rulPossibly vehicle rules.es.
Note:
Note: All Unnatural All Unnatural modifiers are modifiers are added afteradded after the Characteristic modifiers.the Characteristic modifiers.
Battlesuit Weapons
Battlesuit Weapons
Name
Name Class Class Range Range RoF RoF Dam Dam Pen Pen Clip Clip Rld Rld Special Special Wt Wt CostCost AvailabilitAvailabilit y y Burst Burst Cannon Cannon Heavy Heavy (Pulse) (Pulse) 60m60m S(2) S(2) /4/ /4/ 10 10 2d10+ 2d10+ 2 E
2 E 4 4 1000 Full 1000 Full Storm Storm 35kg 35kg N/AN/A
Heavy Heavy Flamer Flamer Heavy Heavy (Flame (Flame )) 30m S/-/-30m S/-/- 2d10+2d10+ 6 E
6 E 4 4 30 30 Full Full Flame Flame 15kg 15kg N/AN/A
Fusion Fusion Blaster Blaster Heavy Heavy (Melta) (Melta) 60m 60m S/-/- S/-/-4d10+ 4d10+ 10
10 E E 13 13 25 25 Full Full - - 35kg 35kg N/AN/A
Missile Pod Missile Pod Heavy Heavy (Launc (Launc her) her) 350m 350m S/2/S/2/ --2d10+ 2d10+ 6 X 6 X 6 6 66 3 3 Full
Full Blast Blast (4) (4) 30kg 30kg N/AN/A
Plasma Rifle Plasma Rifle Heavy Heavy (Plasm (Plasm a) a) 150m 150m S/2/S/2/ --3d10+ 3d10+ 9 E 9 E 8 8 6060 4 4 Full Full --30kg NA 30kg NA Railgun
Railgun HeavyHeavy
(Rail) (Rail) 500m 500m S/-/- S/-/-7d10+ 7d10+ 12 E 12 E 16 16 1212 5 5 Full Full Always Always counts as counts as Heavy Heavy Weapon Weapon 100kg N/A 100kg N/A Only Only mounted on mounted on XV88’s. XV88’s. Cyclic Ion Cyclic Ion Blaster Blaster Heavy Heavy (Rail) (Rail) 60m -/8/2 60m -/8/2 0 0 1d10+ 1d10+ 4 E 4 E 2 2 2000 22000 2 Full Full Storm, Storm, Tearing Tearing 35 35 kg kg N/AN/A Smart Smart Missile Missile System System Heavy Heavy (Launc (Launc her) her) 75m 75m S/-/- S/-/- 2d10+2d10+ 6 X 6 X 6 6 3 3 22 Full Full Special*, Special*, Blast (4) Blast (4) 25kg N/A 25kg N/A Airburst Airburst Fragmentati Fragmentati Heavy Heavy (Launc (Launc 30m S/2/ 30m S/2/ --2d10+ 2d10+ 2 X 2 X 2 2 10 10 22 Full Full Special*, Special*, Blast (6) Blast (6) 20kg N/A 20kg N/A
on Projector
on Projector her)her)
Pulse Pulse Submunition Submunition Cannon Cannon Heavy Heavy (Launc (Launc her) her) 75m S/2/ 75m S/2/ --2d10+ 2d10+ 6 E 6 E 6 6 100 100 22 Full Full Blast
Blast (2) (2) 30kg 30kg NA NA OnlyOnly
mounted on mounted on XV107’s. XV107’s. EMP EMP Discharge Discharge Cannon Cannon Heavy Heavy (Launc (Launc her) her) 100m 100m S/-/- S/-/- - - - - 100 100 22 Full Full Special^
Special^ 40kg 40kg NA NA OnlyOnly
mounted on mounted on XV109‘s. XV109‘s.
Special* = Due to the smart drone systems installed into the weapon component / warheads, these Special* = Due to the smart drone systems installed into the weapon component / warheads, these Battlesuit Weapons can be fired even when the target(s) is(are) no longer seen (but presence must Battlesuit Weapons can be fired even when the target(s) is(are) no longer seen (but presence must be known).
be known). A BS A BS is still is still needed to needed to fire, but fire, but cover and/or cover and/or concealment bonuses concealment bonuses to not to not apply. apply. MayMay only be utilized in this fashion in a 90 degree frontal arc of the firer.
only be utilized in this fashion in a 90 degree frontal arc of the firer. Special^ =
Special^ =
Battlesuit Support Systems
Battlesuit Support Systems
Name Function
Name Function
Blacksun Filter Blacksun Filter
Allows character to re-roll one failed Awareness test per round, and they Allows character to re-roll one failed Awareness test per round, and they count as being able to
count as being able to see in absolute darkness. Grants user “Dark Sight”see in absolute darkness. Grants user “Dark Sight” Trait.
Trait.
Target Lock
Target Lock Doubles the BS bonus for any Doubles the BS bonus for any Aim action.Aim action.
Advanced Advanced Stabilisation System Stabilisation System
Battlesuits can be equipped with advanced stabilizing gyroscopes making Battlesuits can be equipped with advanced stabilizing gyroscopes making them a much more stabl
them a much more stable weapons platform. e weapons platform. This grants the wearThis grants the wearer theer the “Hip Shooting” and “Bulging Biceps” Talents.
“Hip Shooting” and “Bulging Biceps” Talents.
Shield Generator Shield Generator
A force-field surrounds the wearer, and has a 50% chance
A force-field surrounds the wearer, and has a 50% chance to negate allto negate all damage.
damage. If a 01-05 is rollIf a 01-05 is rolled, the shield fails aned, the shield fails and can be rebooted after 4d can be rebooted after 4 combat rounds. combat rounds. Stealth Field Stealth Field Generator Generator +10 to Concealment checks.
+10 to Concealment checks. Lets the wearer re-Lets the wearer re-roll concealment checksroll concealment checks (best result s
(best result stands) against any sitands) against any sight based senses. ght based senses. Allows the wearer Allows the wearer toto conceal him/herself in plain sight by making a Hard (-20) Concealment conceal him/herself in plain sight by making a Hard (-20) Concealment check even after movement.
check even after movement. This Support System can onlThis Support System can only be used iny be used in Stealthsuits.
Stealthsuits.
Stimulant Injector Stimulant Injector
Advanced life support systems (for a Tau char), which allows a seriously Advanced life support systems (for a Tau char), which allows a seriously wounded char. to be injected wi
wounded char. to be injected with stimulants. th stimulants. Blood loss is sBlood loss is stopped bytopped by rolling 1d10 with a 3+
rolling 1d10 with a 3+. . If a character is Stunned If a character is Stunned or knocked unconscious, aor knocked unconscious, a dose of Stimm is administer
the character succumbs t
the character succumbs to his/her injurio his/her injuries. es. Other drugs may be added at Other drugs may be added at GMGM discretion.
discretion.
Targeting Array
Targeting Array Grants the user the “Independent Targeting” Talent.Grants the user the “Independent Targeting” Talent.
Vectored Vectored Retro-Thrusters Retro-Thrusters
Additional thrus
Additional thruster nozzles have been added for advanced mobiter nozzles have been added for advanced mobility. lity. AllowsAllows the wearer to re-roll “Pilot (Jet Pack)” checks; best result counts.
the wearer to re-roll “Pilot (Jet Pack)” checks; best result counts.
Iridium Armor Iridium Armor
Plates Plates
Fitted with additional iridium armour plates, the AP is increased by +2 Fitted with additional iridium armour plates, the AP is increased by +2 (Arms, Body, Legs), adds +100kg to weight, and subtracts -1 Agility Bonus (Arms, Body, Legs), adds +100kg to weight, and subtracts -1 Agility Bonus Movement.
Movement.
Ejection Seat Ejection Seat
Upon reaching 0 wounds or upon
Upon reaching 0 wounds or upon initiation by the pilot, he/she is ejectedinitiation by the pilot, he/she is ejected 50m into the air up to
50m into the air up to a 45% angle, with a a 45% angle, with a parachute that automaticallyparachute that automatically deploys.
deploys.
Jet Pack
Jet Pack Grants the Flyer (12) Trait.Grants the Flyer (12) Trait.
Failsafe Detonator
Failsafe Detonator Upon reaching 0 wounds or upon Upon reaching 0 wounds or upon initiation by the pilot, the suit detonatesinitiation by the pilot, the suit detonates inflicting 4d10+8 X dam
inflicting 4d10+8 X damage, Pen 8, with a blast radiage, Pen 8, with a blast radius of 10m. us of 10m. This deviceThis device can be overridden by the pilot, and can be used as a timed device.
can be overridden by the pilot, and can be used as a timed device.
Drone Controller
Drone Controller Up to two Tau drones can be lUp to two Tau drones can be linked to this Battlesinked to this Battlesuit. uit. These drones act onThese drones act on their own bust stay within 5m of the pilot
their own bust stay within 5m of the pilot unless ordered differently, whichunless ordered differently, which takes a Free Action.
takes a Free Action. The pilot can take control of a drThe pilot can take control of a drone and see and actone and see and act with it’s sensors/weapons as a Half Action.
with it’s sensors/weapons as a Half Action.
Multi-Tracker
Multi-Tracker Grants the “Two Weapon Wielder” Talent w/ a -10 Grants the “Two Weapon Wielder” Talent w/ a -10 penalty.penalty.
Corruption Table for Tau Character's
Corruption Table for Tau Character's
Roll Result Roll Result 01-10 10
Mistrust: This character has seen problems and flaws in the philosophy behind the Greater Mistrust: This character has seen problems and flaws in the philosophy behind the Greater Good and has grown to
Good and has grown to question the motives and actions of all around him.question the motives and actions of all around him.
11-15 15
It's Full of Stars: The character has seen more
It's Full of Stars: The character has seen more than he had ever than he had ever imagined or was taught wouldimagined or was taught would exist, and he does truly dreads
exist, and he does truly dreads the thought of seeing such sights again.the thought of seeing such sights again.
16-20 20
Close-Minded: The character has had the beliefs that once
Close-Minded: The character has had the beliefs that once supported him destroyed bysupported him destroyed by undeniable proof to the contrary, but he
undeniable proof to the contrary, but he or she still attempts to maintain them through blindor she still attempts to maintain them through blind adherence to dogma. adherence to dogma. 21-22 22
Insubordination: This character has begun to chafe under the constant unjust attentions or Insubordination: This character has begun to chafe under the constant unjust attentions or actions of his Ethereal masters and will refuse or twist orders that he or she
actions of his Ethereal masters and will refuse or twist orders that he or she feels are wrong.feels are wrong. These actions need not always be
discovered. discovered. 23-25 25
Hopeful: This character has seen past the current concept of
Hopeful: This character has seen past the current concept of the Greater Good... and on the Greater Good... and on toto what the Tau Empire could truly be!
what the Tau Empire could truly be! He or she advocates complete racial equality, explorationHe or she advocates complete racial equality, exploration and incorporation of alien philosophy, or perhaps freedom to choose
and incorporation of alien philosophy, or perhaps freedom to choose one's own pathone's own path independent of caste. The character might not
independent of caste. The character might not openly preach these beliefs, but he or openly preach these beliefs, but he or sheshe should likewise not shy away from professing them: They are obvious, after all!
should likewise not shy away from professing them: They are obvious, after all!
26-30 30
Hesitance: The Tau has started wondering whether everything the Ethereals plan out Hesitance: The Tau has started wondering whether everything the Ethereals plan out is asis as foolproof as it seems, and delays action to
foolproof as it seems, and delays action to mull it for himself. The Tau only rolls 1d5 onmull it for himself. The Tau only rolls 1d5 on Initiative, and must make
Initiative, and must make a Challenging (+0) Willpower test to a Challenging (+0) Willpower test to perform risky actions withoutperform risky actions without spending a dangerous (A few seconds to
spending a dangerous (A few seconds to a few minutes) amount of time considering theira few minutes) amount of time considering their potential negative outcome.
potential negative outcome. This effect last This effect last for 1d5 weeks.for 1d5 weeks.
31-33 33
Disillusioned: The character has begun to question the right of the
Disillusioned: The character has begun to question the right of the Ethereals to lead the TauEthereals to lead the Tau and their portrayal of the Greater Good. He
and their portrayal of the Greater Good. He generally keeps these thoughts to himself andgenerally keeps these thoughts to himself and close friends, but if his superiors found out then the
close friends, but if his superiors found out then the consequences would be dire indeed!consequences would be dire indeed!
34-45 45
Deviant Obsession: Something this character experienced during
Deviant Obsession: Something this character experienced during the last mission changedthe last mission changed him or her forever. This is the same
him or her forever. This is the same as the Obsession Disorder from the mental disorders tableas the Obsession Disorder from the mental disorders table but the character is obses
but the character is obsessed with some horrsed with some horrific or exotic outliific or exotic outlier experienced previously, ser experienced previously, suchuch as the Sorcery after fighting Tzeentchian cultists or Space Marines after experiencing the as the Sorcery after fighting Tzeentchian cultists or Space Marines after experiencing the shock of their drop-pod assault.
shock of their drop-pod assault.
46-50 50
Facade: The character, though in
Facade: The character, though in truth frightened and confused at the world around them, triestruth frightened and confused at the world around them, tries to act calm and
to act calm and optimistic, for the perceived good and comfort of others. How difficult it isoptimistic, for the perceived good and comfort of others. How difficult it is for them to maintain the act becomes
for them to maintain the act becomes ever harder...ever harder...
51-55 55
Caste Supremacy: After all the suffering he's been through, this character
Caste Supremacy: After all the suffering he's been through, this characterknowsknows his castehis caste does all the most important, dangerous work, and he
does all the most important, dangerous work, and he wants you to acknowledge it, too. wants you to acknowledge it, too. ThisThis character takes a -10 penalty to
character takes a -10 penalty to Fel tests dealing with characters or NPCs of a different caste.Fel tests dealing with characters or NPCs of a different caste. This effect lasts for 1d10 weeks.
This effect lasts for 1d10 weeks.
56-60 60
Demanding: This character wants an explanation, right now. He wants to
Demanding: This character wants an explanation, right now. He wants to know theknow the
rationalization behind the terrors he has witnessed, wants them put into comforting terms he rationalization behind the terrors he has witnessed, wants them put into comforting terms he understands. Until he gets them, he believes he
understands. Until he gets them, he believes he has every right to be angry has every right to be angry or uncooperativeor uncooperative with others.
with others. This effect lThis effect lasts for asts for 1d10+2 weeks.1d10+2 weeks.
61-63 63
The Horror!: This character is wracked by guilt over his actions or
The Horror!: This character is wracked by guilt over his actions or horrific memories ofhorrific memories of things that the Ethereals say do not
things that the Ethereals say do not exist. See Horrific Nightmares on the mental disordersexist. See Horrific Nightmares on the mental disorders table. table. 64-70 70
Reeducate: The character has expressed views differing from those considered "correct" and Reeducate: The character has expressed views differing from those considered "correct" and has been taught the error of
has been taught the error of his ways. This may be roleplayed or his ways. This may be roleplayed or happen off screen betweenhappen off screen between missions. The character's Intelligence is reduced by 1d5.
missions. The character's Intelligence is reduced by 1d5.
71-75 75
Purist: This character has come to believe that only
Purist: This character has come to believe that only the Tau should be full members of thethe Tau should be full members of the Greater Good and is disdainful of aliens, even those
Fellowship Tests when dealing with aliens and Non-Caste Tau. Fellowship Tests when dealing with aliens and Non-Caste Tau.
76-80 80
Unsure: The character has experienced things far beyond what
Unsure: The character has experienced things far beyond what were taught to him in trainingwere taught to him in training and has no idea
and has no idea how to cope. Every time the how to cope. Every time the character deviates from explicit orders he mustcharacter deviates from explicit orders he must Test Willpower or be at -10 to
Test Willpower or be at -10 to all Tests while undertaking the activity.all Tests while undertaking the activity.
81-83 83
World Weary: The character is a broken shell of
World Weary: The character is a broken shell of the person he or she the person he or she once was, having seenonce was, having seen to much, been deceived too often, and lost faith one too many times. The days seem bleak and to much, been deceived too often, and lost faith one too many times. The days seem bleak and pointless, food has no t
pointless, food has no taste, and it is all he or aste, and it is all he or she can do to get out of bed in the mshe can do to get out of bed in the morning.orning. Double all negative effects for Fatigue levels. The character gains the
Double all negative effects for Fatigue levels. The character gains the Jaded talent andJaded talent and reduces his/her Willpower permanently by 1d5.
reduces his/her Willpower permanently by 1d5.
84-90 90
Prejudiced: This character has come to see a
Prejudiced: This character has come to see a particular species, race, caste, or ethnic group asparticular species, race, caste, or ethnic group as inferior. He or she sees them as completely unworthy of
inferior. He or she sees them as completely unworthy of inclusion within the Tau Empire andinclusion within the Tau Empire and will never aid them without explicit orders or a vital cause,
will never aid them without explicit orders or a vital cause, and even then will only and even then will only do sodo so begrudgingly. The character gains
begrudgingly. The character gains Hatred for the group iHatred for the group in question. n question. Reduce Fellowship byReduce Fellowship by 1d10. 1d10. 91-93 93
Cleanse, Purge, Kill: This character has witnessed things of such deviation and horror that he Cleanse, Purge, Kill: This character has witnessed things of such deviation and horror that he has rejected the policy of inclusion inherent in the
has rejected the policy of inclusion inherent in the philosophy of the Greater Good. Thephilosophy of the Greater Good. The character must Test Willpower to allow any sort of threat to remain alive or
character must Test Willpower to allow any sort of threat to remain alive or viable whenviable when possible to end it.
possible to end it.
94-00 00
Xenophile: The character believes that perhaps the Tau are
Xenophile: The character believes that perhaps the Tau are not as strong as he once not as strong as he once thoughtthought and must attempt to learn everything possible when presented with technology, customs, or and must attempt to learn everything possible when presented with technology, customs, or any form of exotic non-Tau knowledge.
any form of exotic non-Tau knowledge.
Tau Worlds (Known)
Tau Worlds (Known)
T'au
T'au, the homeworld of the Tau , the homeworld of the Tau race. T'au is the capital world and race. T'au is the capital world and spiritual, political, cultural, andspiritual, political, cultural, and administrative centre of the Tau Empire. Its citizens are considered especially learned and wise by administrative centre of the Tau Empire. Its citizens are considered especially learned and wise by other Tau.
other Tau.
Tau'n Tau'n D'yanoi
D'yanoi time from the Tau Empire, its inhabitants are considered somewhattime from the Tau Empire, its inhabitants are considered somewhat rustic and backwards.
rustic and backwards.
Bork'an
Bork'an, a Tau centre of learning and academia., a Tau centre of learning and academia.
Vior'la
Vior'la Tau Empire, Vior'la's Fire Warriors are considered especiallyTau Empire, Vior'la's Fire Warriors are considered especially aggressive and skilled.
aggressive and skilled.
Fal'shia
Fal'shia from Fal'shia are considered great problemfrom Fal'shia are considered great problem solvers.
solvers.
, the Tau's first off world colony, Tau from this world are
, the Tau's first off world colony, Tau from this world are considered to be pioneersconsidered to be pioneers , having been isolated for a
, having been isolated for a
, a major military centre of the , a major military centre of the
, a centre of technological development, Tau , a centre of technological development, Tau