The Dark Communes are the malevolent core of any Chaos Cult, led by the cunning Cult Demagogues who weave insidious mantras filled with promises of power. These diabolical priests command a retinue of devoted followers, including the fanatical Blessed Blades, tasked with guarding against intruders; the Iconarchs, bearers of vile sigils infused with malefic influence; and the Mindwitches, unsanctioned psykers who wield their powers at a grave cost.
This multipart plastic kit allows you to assemble a complete Dark Commune, featuring five models in total. Included are one Cult Demagogue, one Iconarch, one Mindwitch, and two Blessed Blades. Each member of this wicked cabal is adorned in sinister robes, adorned with talismans and dons daemonic masks reminiscent of their Chaos Cultist brethren. However, their unique roles are reflected in their distinctive appearances. The Cult Demagogue stands tall, donning a horned mask and pauldrons, gripping a staff adorned with parchment strips and accompanied by a foul familiar. The Iconarch proudly displays a daemonic icon ablaze with flames, concealing their face under a shadowy cowl. Tentacled mutations mark both of them, but it is the Mindwitch who exhibits the most grotesque transformation—a bloated, severed head cybernetically integrated into the body of a hooded cultist. The faceless Blessed Blades wield ornate ritual swords, poised to defend the Dark Commune.
What’s in the Dark Commune box
- x31 plastic components that make a full Dark Commune, consisting of five models
- x3 Citadel 32mm Round Bases
- x2 Citadel 28mm Round Bases
How to paint the Dark Commune set
- Step 1: Basecoat the models
Apply a basecoat of a dark color such as Abaddon Black to all the models using a medium-sized brush. Ensure a smooth and even coverage, as this will serve as the foundation for the subsequent layers of paint. - Step 2: Highlight the robes
Using a smaller brush, carefully highlight the robes of the Dark Commune members with a lighter color, such as Eshin Grey or Dawnstone. Apply thin, controlled brushstrokes to accentuate the folds and creases of the fabric, creating depth and dimension. - Step 3: Paint the masks and talismans
Select a contrasting color, like Mephiston Red or Khorne Red, and carefully paint the masks and talismans worn by the Dark Commune. Take your time to ensure clean lines and avoid painting over the surrounding areas. - Step 4: Add metallic accents
Using a fine brush, apply metallic paints such as Leadbelcher or Runelord Brass to any metallic parts, such as weapons, chains, or armor details. This will add a striking contrast to the overall color scheme. - Step 5: Detail the faces and mutations
Using a small brush, paint the facial features and any exposed mutated areas with appropriate colors. For example, use Pallid Wych Flesh for flesh tones and Incubi Darkness for tentacled mutations. Take care to highlight the facial details and bring out the unique characteristics of each model. - Step 6: Apply washes
Using a wash, such as Nuln Oil or Agrax Earthshade, carefully apply it to the entire model. This will darken the recesses and add depth to the overall appearance. Apply the wash sparingly and ensure it flows into the crevices and details, enhancing the overall texture. - Step 7: Highlight the edges
With a fine brush, selectively highlight the edges of the robes, masks, and other raised areas with a lighter color. For example, use Administratum Grey or Fire Dragon Bright. This technique, known as edge highlighting, will make the details pop and add definition to the models. - Step 8: Paint the details
Take your time to paint the smaller details, such as the symbols, icons, and weaponry. Use appropriate colors for each element. For example, paint the icon with Warpfiend Grey or Caledor Sky and the weapons with Leadbelcher or Runefang Steel. - Step 9: Varnish the models
To protect your hard work and add a finishing touch, apply a layer of varnish. This will help preserve the paint job and provide a protective layer against handling and wear. Choose a matte or gloss varnish based on your preference. - Step 10: Basing
Finish off the models by basing them according to your desired theme. Apply texture paint, glue on some basing materials like rocks or grass tufts, and paint them accordingly.
