Meet Shield-Captain Valerian, a courageous Custodian of the Hykanatoi brotherhood, donned in impenetrable auramite armor and wielding the formidable guardian spear Gnosis. He possesses an unyielding spirit and a burning desire to extend the might of the Adeptus Custodes beyond the sanctity of Holy Terra, proudly adorned with the wreath of Guilliman as a symbol of his distinction.
Joining him is Aleya, a battle-hardened veteran from the Sisters of Silence, entrusted with the crucial task of tracking down and eliminating rogue witches and dangerous psykers. A relentless warrior and skilled hunter, she brandishes the revered relic weapon known as ‘Somnus,’ a blade that pays homage to the Sisterhood’s original Luna temple.
Prepare to bring these captivating characters to life straight from the captivating pages of Chris Wraight’s Watchers of the Throne novel series. Shield-Captain Valerian and Knight-Centura Aleya, these stunning models of heroic protagonists, are now available as part of the 2020 Black Library Celebration, allowing you to embark on thrilling adventures in the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
What’s in the Talons of the Emperor: Valerian and Aleya box
- x1 Shield-Captain Valerian: This impressive model represents the formidable leader, Shield-Captain Valerian, of the Hykanatoi brotherhood.
- x1 Knight-Centura Aleya: Accompanying Shield-Captain Valerian is Knight-Centura Aleya, a skilled warrior from the Sisters of Silence.
- x1 Citadel 40mm Round Base
- x1 Citadel 32mm Round Base
How to paint the Talons of the Emperor: Valerian and Aleya set
- Step 1: Basecoat
Start by applying a basecoat of Macragge Blue to all areas of Shield-Captain Valerian’s armor and Mechanicus Standard Grey to Knight-Centura Aleya’s armor. - Step 2: Layering
Using Calgar Blue, carefully apply thin layers to build up the highlights on Valerian’s armor. For Aleya’s armor, use Dawnstone to add lighter shades. - Step 3: Details
Paint Valerian’s face with Cadian Fleshtone and Aleya’s hair with Dryad Bark. Use colors like Retributor Armour for the gold accents on their armor, and Leadbelcher for metallic weapons. - Step 4: Metallics
Apply Runefang Steel to the metallic parts of the miniatures, such as weapons, buckles, and armor accents. This will give them a metallic shine. - Step 5: Wash
Using a shade like Nuln Oil, carefully apply it to the recesses of the miniatures to create shadows and enhance the details. - Step 6: Bases
Paint the bases with textures like Astrogranite or Stirland Mud for a realistic look. Then, add drybrushes of colors like Mournfang Brown or Karak Stone for variation. Add grass tufts or small rocks for extra detail. - Step 7: Varnish (optional)
If desired, apply a coat of varnish like Ardcoat to protect the painted miniatures. Choose a matte or gloss varnish based on your preference.
