The Eldar, now known as the Aeldari, are one of the most ancient and enigmatic factions in Warhammer 40,000. Once rulers of the galaxy, their civilisation was shattered by their own decadence, giving birth to the Chaos God Slaanesh and leaving them a dying race. Yet, despite their decline, the Aeldari remain formidable, their advanced technology and psychic prowess allowing them to stand against the horrors of the 41st Millennium.
This guide explores the different sub-factions of the Aeldari, from the disciplined Asuryani to the ruthless Drukhari and the mysterious Harlequins.
Asuryani – The Craftworld Eldar
The Asuryani dwell aboard vast Craftworlds, massive world-ships that escaped the Fall. These Eldar adhere to strict Paths, guiding their lives with discipline to avoid the excesses that once doomed their people.
- Aspect Warriors: Specialists in warfare, trained in shrines dedicated to specific combat styles, from the devastating Dark Reapers to the swift Swooping Hawks.
- Farseers and Warlocks: Powerful psykers who manipulate fate and wield deadly psychic abilities.
- Wraith Constructs: Ancient warriors and heroes bound within Wraithbone constructs, such as Wraithguard and Wraithknights.
Famous Craftworlds include Ulthwé, home of Eldrad Ulthran, and Biel-Tan, known for its militant devotion to reviving the Aeldari Empire.
Drukhari – The Dark Eldar
Unlike their Craftworld kin, the Drukhari of Commorragh thrive on pain and suffering. They do not rely on the Warp like other Aeldari, instead extending their lifespans by feeding on the agony of others.
- Kabalite Warriors: Ruthless soldiers forming the backbone of Drukhari forces.
- Wych Cults: Gladiatorial warriors skilled in close combat, performing deadly acrobatics.
- Haemonculi Covens: Flesh-crafters who create horrific bio-engineered monstrosities.
The Drukhari raid realspace in lightning-fast Raiding Parties, seeking slaves and suffering to sustain their existence.
Harlequins – The Laughing God’s Chosen
The Harlequins are warrior-performers who serve Cegorach, the Laughing God. They act as storytellers, warriors, and protectors of the Webway, appearing unpredictably to aid or hinder other factions.
- Troupes: Agile warriors wielding powerful close-combat weapons.
- Shadowseers: Mystical psykers who weave illusions and mind-warping abilities.
- Solitaire: A lone warrior said to be possessed by the essence of Slaanesh itself, unmatched in combat.
Harlequins move unseen through the Webway, striking where least expected.
Ynnari – The Followers of Ynnead
A new force within the Aeldari, the Ynnari seek to awaken Ynnead, the Eldar God of the Dead, to finally defeat Slaanesh. Their leader, Yvraine, has gathered warriors from across the Aeldari factions.
- The Visarch: A master swordsman and Yvraine’s right hand.
- The Yncarne: A manifestation of Ynnead, wielding immense power over life and death.
The Ynnari offer hope for the Aeldari’s future, but their methods are controversial among traditional Craftworlders.
Corsairs – The Outcasts of the Stars
Eldar Corsairs are free-spirited raiders and pirates, living outside Craftworld society. They operate as mercenaries, traders, and warbands, occasionally aiding or opposing other Aeldari factions.
- Corsair Princes: Leaders of powerful warbands.
- Voidstorm Squads: Elite Corsairs specialising in hit-and-run attacks.
Corsairs follow no master but their own, charting their own destinies among the stars.
Final Thoughts
The Aeldari may be a dying race, but they are far from finished. Whether as the disciplined Asuryani, the sadistic Drukhari, or the enigmatic Harlequins, their influence still shapes the galaxy. Will the Aeldari find salvation through the Ynnari, or will their civilisation finally crumble?
One thing is certain: the Eldar’s story is far from over.
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