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From Warhammer 40k - Lexicanum
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[[Image:Fireblade.jpg|thumb|right|Cadre Fireblade{{Fn|1}}]]
'''Fireblades''' (or '''Shas'nel''' in [[Tau Lexicon|Tau]]){{Fn|3}} are members of the [[Tau]] [[Fire Caste]]. Consisting of the most grizzled and seasoned veterans of their [[Cadre]], their skills in the art of the [[Fire Warrior]] way of battle has led them to eschew [[Battlesuit]] technology, prefering preferring instead to be equipped with a [[Pulse Rifle]] and [[Bonding Knife]]. Fireblades typically serve as field commanders and their experience on the battlefield has made experts in directing firepower to maximize damage to enemy targets.{{Fn|1}} Owing to their status, Fireblades also wear heavier armour in addition then standard Fire Warriors.{{Fn|2}}
The path that the Fireblades have taken mean they can never rise higher than the rank of [[Shas'o]], instead being limited to that of [[Shas'el]]. Nor does the title carry the esteem associated with those who wear Battlesuits. Nonetheless, the Fireblades are still highly respected, not least because of their willingness to forgo prestige.{{Fn|3}}
