Malstrain Patriarch
The Malstrain Patriarch, also known by titles such as the Malstrain Father, Broodspire, and Devil of the Underhells, is a Genestealer Patriarch living in the depths of Hive Secundus in the Secundan Abyss who psychically commands the Malstrain Genestealers and Brood Scum.[2a]
Description
The Malstrain Patriarch is the enigmatic progenitor of the Malstrain Cult. This ancient and mutated genestealer, once unleashed by Hermiatus, is said to dwell deep within the ruins of the underhive of Hive Secundus. Despite numerous attempts, no verified sighting of the creature exists, and those who seek it either vanish or descend into madness.[2a]
The Patriarch's influence radiates through the Underhells, inducing psychic insanity in those who venture too close. Some attribute this pervasive madness to the catastrophic massacre that devastated the hive, weakening reality itself. Others claim the Patriarch has transcended its physical form, becoming a pure psychic entity that resides within its brood and intruders' minds. More sceptical theories suggest the insanity stems from psycho-active spores in the Underhells, with the Patriarch long dead and its progeny left to dominate the ruins.[2a]
Recently awoken from its slumber, it is seeking to escape from its prison.[1c]
It started leading its hordes of Malstrain creatures against the Dust Wall, testing its weakened defences, its psychic influence so powerful that it drove Palanite Enforcers and gangers on the Dust Wall to insanity, turning their weapons against each other.[1d] It also invaded the holdfast of Jardlan, where it exterminated all the residents.[1b]
