In the midst of the War in Heaven, the Old Ones crafted a planet to serve as their strategic battlefield. They called it Stratega Prime, a name that reflected the planet's importance in their struggle against the Necrons and C'tan. Stratega Prime was a planet unlike any other, with a surface covered in a network of sequential patterns that seemed almost artificial in their design. These patterns wove in and out of each other with a precise, almost mathematical elegance, leading many to speculate about their true purpose and origin.

After the War in Heaven, Stratega Prime was forgotten by the Old Ones and lost to the annals of history. Over time, legends and myths began to spread about the planet's existence and the hidden power that lay within its patterns. As different factions learned of the planet's existence, they began to converge on Stratega Prime, drawn by the rumors of its strategic importance and the potential for unimaginable power. Upon arriving on the planet's surface, they discovered the true nature of its patterns: each square representing a critical location on the planet.

Many believe that the planet was crafted by a long-forgotten race with a mastery of technology beyond comprehension, while others speculate that it was created by the Old Ones themselves as a testing ground for the most strategic and skilled warriors in the galaxy. Regardless of its origin, one thing remained certain: Stratega Prime was a planet of immense strategic importance, and its patterns would continue to draw armies of different factions to its surface, locked in a never-ending game of cosmic chess.

Necron Dynasty

Zara'ken is a powerful and ancient Necron Overlord from the Sautekh Dynasty, one of the most prominent Necron dynasties in the galaxy. He has ruled his dynasty for countless millennia, leading them through countless wars and battles against their enemies, both living and mechanical. Zara'ken's origins are shrouded in mystery, with little known about his past before he became a Necron Overlord. Some say that he was once a great ruler of a long-dead empire, while others believe that he was created by the ancient Necrontyr race to be one of their most powerful warriors. Whatever the truth may be, Zara'ken's power and skill in battle are undeniable, and he is feared by all who stand against him.

Despite his many conquests and victories, Zara'ken is driven by a single, unyielding goal: to restore the glory of the Necrontyr race and rule the galaxy once again. He will stop at nothing to achieve this, and his armies march inexorably towards Stratega Prime, seeking to claim it for their own and crush any who stand in their way.
Zara'ken was initially drawn to Stratega Prime due to the unusual energy patterns detected on the planet's surface. Analysis of these patterns indicated that they were likely connected to ancient Necron artifacts lost during the War in Heaven. Zara'ken saw the potential of unlocking the secrets of these artifacts and regaining the power of his dynasty that was lost during the cataclysmic conflict.
However, as his forces began their conquest of Stratega Prime, Zara'ken began to notice unusual features of the planet that could not be attributed to the artifacts. Some aspects of the landscape, such as the twisted rock formations and the way the sky seemed to ripple like liquid, seemed almost alive. It was speculated that these features might be the result of something the Old Ones had done to the planet during their ancient conflict with the Necrons.

Regardless, Zara'ken remains determined to conquer Stratega Prime and unlock the secrets of the ancient artifacts, whatever other mysteries the planet may hold.

• Zara'ken, the Conqueror (King): Overlord of the Necron dynasty, wielding a mighty scythe that has been passed down through generations. Zara'ken is known for his cunning and strategic mind, driving his forces with calculated precision. He is a brilliant tactician, always planning several steps ahead, and possesses an unwavering determination to conquer Stratega Prime and bring it under his rule.
• Orikan, the Technomancer(Queen): A mysterious and powerful figure within the Necron dynasty, serving as the advisor and strategist to Zara'ken. Orikan possesses ancient and arcane knowledge of Necron technology and tactics, and is revered for his unmatched mastery of the dynastic arts. He is a shrewd and cunning planner, able to outwit and outmaneuver his opponents with ease. Aprentek is also skilled in the arts of war, capable of wielding formidable weaponry with deadly precision when needed.
• Lychguard (Rooks): Elite Necron warriors clad in ancient and ornate armor, serving as stalwart defenders and protectors of Zara'ken. They are entrusted with guarding the most important and strategic locations, including the royal palace and other key installations. Lychguard are skilled in close combat, wielding massive warscythes with deadly proficiency. Their unwavering loyalty and tenacity make them formidable opponents on the battlefield, capable of holding the line against overwhelming odds.
• Plasmacytes (Bishops): Specialized Necron units that harness the power of volatile plasma energy, serving as tactical and strategic operators within the Necron dynasty. They are responsible for conducting covert operations, gathering intelligence, and sabotaging enemy defenses. Plasmacytes are known for their ability to unleash devastating energy blasts, melting through enemy armor and structures with ease. They are also skilled in the arts of deception and manipulation, using their intellect and cunning to outsmart their opponents.
• Deathmarks (Knights): Skilled marksmen specializing in long-range precision shooting, serving as sharpshooters and assassins within the Necron dynasty. They are tasked with eliminating key targets from a distance, taking out enemy commanders and high-value targets with lethal accuracy. Deathmarks are highly mobile and adept at infiltration, able to strike swiftly and silently from unexpected angles. They are known for their patience and precision, waiting patiently for the perfect shot before delivering a swift and decisive strike.
• Necron Warriors (Pawns): Rank-and-file troops of the Necron dynasty, serving as foot soldiers in Zara'ken's conquest of Stratega Prime. They are the backbone of the Necron forces, relentless and unyielding in their advance and defense. Armed with gauss flayers and reanimation protocols, Necron Warriors are capable of withstanding tremendous amounts of damage and returning to the battlefield even after being destroyed. They are the first line of defense and the vanguard of Zara'ken's forces, pushing forward to claim new territory and crush all opposition in their path.

Adeptus Astartes
Kaelen Rathus was born on the planet of Macragge, the homeworld of the Ultramarines. He was inducted into the Ultramarines chapter as a young man and quickly distinguished himself as a tactical genius, rising through the ranks to become a captain.
During the defense of the world of Orar, Kaelen demonstrated his skill and bravery, leading his company to victory against a massive Ork Waaagh! that had threatened to overrun the planet. This success caught the attention of Marneus Calgar himself, who recognized Kaelen's potential and took him under his wing as a protégé.
Over the years, Kaelen continued to excel in battle and rose through the ranks of the Ultramarines. He was eventually appointed as the Captain of the 1st Company and served with distinction in that position for many years.

When the Crimson Phalanx was founded, Kaelen was chosen to be its first Chapter Master due to his proven leadership abilities and tactical prowess. He has since led the Crimson Phalanx to many victories, earning the respect and admiration of his fellow Space Marines. The Crimson Phalanx is a successor chapter of the Ultramarines, created during the 23rd Founding in the 37th millennium. They are known for their relentless tenacity in battle, their unshakable loyalty to the Imperium, and their striking red and Silver armor.

The Crimson Phalanx first gained widespread recognition during the Defense of Caelus Prime. The planet was under attack by a massive Ork Waaagh! that had already destroyed several other Imperial defenses. The Crimson Phalanx was deployed to reinforce the beleaguered defenders, and they launched a devastating counterattack that completely shattered the Ork horde. The victory was a turning point in the war for Caelus Prime, and the Crimson Phalanx was hailed as heroes for their bravery and skill.

After this victory, the Crimson Phalanx was given command of Stratega Prime, a strategically important world on the eastern fringes of the Imperium. The planet had long been contested by various xenos and heretical forces, but the Crimson Phalanx was able to establish a strong foothold on the planet and drive back its enemies. The chapter built a fortress-monastery known as the Bastion, which became a symbol of Imperial strength and a bulwark against the enemies of humanity.

Over the centuries, the Crimson Phalanx has fought in countless battles, defending the Imperium against threats from all corners of the galaxy. They are known for their stoic determination, their unbreakable discipline, and their utter devotion to the Emperor. Despite being a relatively young chapter, they have already earned a reputation as one of the most stalwart and dependable forces in the Imperium.

• The Chapter Master of the Crimson Phalanx is Kaelen Rathus. As the leader of the chapter, Rathus wields the mighty Gauntlets of Ultramar, twin power fists gifted to him by Marneus Calgar himself. He wears a suit of Gravis Armor, passed down from his predecessor, and his imposing figure is topped by a towering Iron Halo. Rathus is a warrior of legendary skill, a strategist without peer, and a symbol of the Crimson Phalanx's unwavering determination in battle. His mere presence on the field of war can inspire his brothers to acts of incredible bravery and heroism, However, it is his tactical brilliance that sets him apart. His ability to read the enemy's movements and predict their actions has led the Crimson Phalanx to countless victories, making him not just a symbol of the chapter's strength, but also its unmatched intelligence.
• The Regent is a Primaris Lieutenant known as Seraphus Tyrio. He is a renowned strategist and tactician, known for leading his brothers to victory against the most difficult of foes. He wields a master-crafted power sword and a storm bolter, and is equipped with an Iron Halo and a Storm Shield.
As the Regent of the Crimson Phalanx, Seraphus Tyrio is the highest-ranking officer on Stratega Prime and leads his brothers in defense of the planet. He is a symbol of hope and inspiration to the chapter, and his presence on the battlefield fills his fellow warriors with courage and determination. He is often entrusted with the most difficult and vital missions, where his leadership and strategic abilities have saved countless lives and turned the tide of battle in the Imperium's favor.
• Rooks: These imposing warriors are known as the "Sentinels of Stratega Prime." They are the elite bodyguards of Kaelen Rathus and are charged with protecting the Crimson Phalanx's stronghold on the planet. Their Storm Shields are emblazoned with the Chapter's heraldry, and their Victrix Pattern Power Swords have been modified to emit a crimson glow in honor of their Chapter's color.
• Knights: The Knights of the Crimson Phalanx, known as the “Skyborne Crusaders”, are an elite formation of Inceptors within the chapter, embodying the swift and lethal nature of aerial assaults. Clad in modified Mark X Gravis armor, the Knights take to the skies and with jet-assisted propulsion, they unleash a torrent of fire upon their enemies from above, decimating their ranks. They descend upon the battlefield with incredible speed, using their jump packs to maneuver swiftly across the warzone and strike from unexpected angles. Their tactical versatility allows them to engage both ground and aerial targets, ensuring no enemy can escape their wrath.
• Bishops: The Librarians of the chapter, these powerful psykers are the keepers of the Crimson Phalanx's secrets and knowledge. They use their psychic abilities to protect their brothers and strike fear into the hearts of their enemies. Their red armor is adorned with psychic runes and sigils, and they carry force swords that crackle with warp energy.
• Frontlines: The Reivers of the Crimson Phalanx, known as the “Vanguard Blades”, are the swift and silent infiltrators within the chapter. Equipped with Phobos armor, these specialized warriors excel in close-quarters combat. Often operating behind enemy lines, they strike fear into the hearts of their adversaries with brutal efficiency. Armed with combat knives and other close-combat weapons, they move silently through the shadows, eliminating key targets and disrupting enemy communications. Kaelen Rathus recognizes the value of the Vanguard Blades as a versatile force. Deployed ahead of the main assault, they scout enemy positions, gather vital intelligence, and disrupt enemy supply lines, ready to sacrifice themselves in the name of the Crimson Phalanx's cause.

Ah, I missed the 40k vibes of utter, ubiquitous OP-ness I appreciate the lampshade hanging of in-universe acknowledgement the planet is structured like a board game lol