In the grim and sprawling universe of Warhammer 40K, humanity’s tale isn’t just confined to its militaristic and oppressive regime. Beyond the imposing figures of Space Marines and the tech-obsessed Martian cyborgs, there’s a powerful theocracy in play, one that devoutly reveres the Emperor of Mankind as a divine being. Inside the Blood and Zeal box, you find fanatical zealots, so consumed by their misguided faith in a false deity that they’ve taken it upon themselves to shoulder the responsibility for the lives of countless civilians in the 41st millennium. And, just across the battlefield, stand the sinister forces of Chaos.
Dubbed the Ecclesiarchy, this theocratic branch is arguably one of the most cunning entities within the 40K world. It’s built around the worship of a man who famously and repeatedly instructed others not to deify him—but the allure of control proved too great for some. They orchestrated the Cult of the Emperor, turning it into a potent instrument of dominance, a means to suppress the masses. While the Ecclesiarchy might not have birthed humanity’s most abhorrent instincts, such as xenophobia or vigilantism, it certainly isn’t combating them either. In this universe, where fear and violence permeate every corner, these are not glitches but rather intentional aspects. And now, with these miniatures, there’s a tangible representation of these pervasive truths.
These fanatics are perhaps the most compliant and indoctrinated individuals you can imagine, making it all the more fitting that they’re bundled alongside Chaos forces. Delving into the narrative that accompanies this box, it becomes evident that the ranks of the Ecclesiarchy far exceed those of the Space Marines. The extent of religious extremism in this slice of the future galaxy might even surpass that of the Imperial Guard. And let’s be honest—they’re pretty insufferable.
Yet ironically, these zealots are painted as the very force that binds the Imperium of Mankind. Without their fervor and animosity, humanity would risk crumbling under the assaults of Chaos, the Tyranids, Orks, or any number of other galactic threats intent on obliterating human existence. Hence, it’s somewhat crucial that we now have these miniatures to visualize the narrative.
While Blood and Zeal serves a functional role by enriching the universe’s lore and expanding content for Kill Team, it also fills a gap in the broader hobby. These figures are destined to be a staple across various 40K platforms—not just Kill Team, but also Necromunda, the expansive Warhammer 40,000 battles, and tabletop RPGs like Imperium Maledictum.
Personally, I despise them. Yet, I can’t help but be grateful that they exist as tangible figures. If only to have the satisfaction of staring them down eye to eye, owning these miniatures might just be worth it.
