The universe of Warhammer 40,000 is renowned for its breathtaking and advanced technology. From the Blackstone Fortresses capable of obliterating solar systems to the sun-powered Aeonic Orb, and the Speranza—a colossal vessel that can manipulate a black hole—this universe is filled with wonders. However, it appears that even with such might, understanding the mysteries of black holes remains elusive for all races, including the technologically advanced Necrons.
Unearthing the Unknown
This revelation emerges from Guy Hayley’s novel, Archmagos, featuring the esteemed 10,000-year-old dominus of the Adeptus Mechanicus, Belisarius Cawl. The novel takes readers to a Necron tomb world on the brink of a black hole’s event horizon. As Cawl contemplates the enigma of black holes, it becomes clear that even in the 41st millennium, their nature is still a mystery.
Warning! Spoilers for Warhammer 40,000 novel Archmagos follow:
Belisarius Cawl reflects on the gap in understanding of black holes among Warhammer 40,000’s races. Even during humanity’s Dark Age of Technology, when its capabilities were at their peak, black holes remained a mystery. Surprisingly, the Necrons, mechanical warriors with unparalleled technological prowess, also share this lack of understanding.
For those unfamiliar, Necrons are formidable beings who vanquished a race of star gods long before the Emperor’s conception. Despite their advanced weaponry, the intricacies of black holes evade them, just as they do for us in reality.
Nobody really knows what these things are, even me. If we were to fall within, would we be destroyed, or would we emerge in some other place? I have never come across a satisfactory answer from any species. I doubt our ancestors at the height of their technology understood them. Some ancient Necrontyr records I… came into possession of by completely legitimate means, say they believe them to be the graves of their mightiest star gods. Maybe that is true. Why not? If a star can birth something with the power of a god, then why wouldn’t an astronomical body like this harbor similar secrets?
Reading this passage offers a grounding moment, connecting the fantastical Warhammer 40,000 universe with our own reality. Much like us, the inhabitants of this universe remain puzzled by black holes. Theories abound, ranging from forming new universes to connecting with white holes. Despite centuries of technological advancement, the mystery persists, offering a sense of comfort in shared ignorance.
The Debate Rages On
Online communities are abuzz with debates regarding this revelation. Some fans note that the C’Tan, the aforementioned star gods, supposedly manipulated black holes, which leaves questions about why the Necrons, having defeated the C’Tan, remain perplexed by them. Others argue that past literature describes Necrons using black holes effortlessly, citing examples of their cryptek branch, Voidmancers, who can create and manipulate black holes with ease.
Belisarius Cawl’s statement doesn’t deny the use of black holes by the races but emphasizes their lack of understanding of the phenomena’s inner workings. The core mystery of Warhammer 40,000 black holes persists, with even the most advanced races stumped by their secrets.
Speculating on the Secrets
In the imaginative world of Warhammer 40,000, the possibilities for what lies inside a black hole are limitless. Could these cosmic voids have connections to the warp, that chaotic realm where demons and gods plot sinister deeds? Perhaps entering a black hole might land one in a bizarre dimension ruled by the Chaos gods. Such speculation adds to the allure and enigma of these cosmic phenomena.
As with much of Warhammer 40,000 lore, the truth remains tantalizingly out of reach. The shifting nature of the narrative means that today’s mysteries could become tomorrow’s revelations. Perhaps Trazyn the Infinite, with his vast collection of secrets, has already discovered the hidden truths of black holes.