Tallow Blackfur

 

Early Life and Origins

  Tallow's origins are shrouded in mystery, a rarity among the Skaven, where lineage often dictates one’s fate. Unlike most of his kind, he was found abandoned as a newborn in the dark alleys of Rat Pitt, wrapped in tattered cloth and bearing no sigils or marks of a recognized clan. It was Skrul Darkborn, the one-eyed warlord and cunning manipulator of the Council of Thirteen, who took the child in—not out of kindness, but as an experiment. Skrul believed that if raised correctly, a Skaven could be molded into a powerful, loyal warrior, something beyond the usual treacherous nature of his race.   Though names that refers to the colour of the Skaven fur are given to bastards of the Skavens, it is unknown if Tallow is a bastard but Skrul saying that he does  not know the truth of Tallows parents if they were blessed Mates or just unfaithfulness mate or anything else, Skrul gave Tallow the name Blackfur leaving many to believe Tallow is a bastard, some even say Tallow is Skrul's bastard son but this is not confirmed.   From the moment he could walk, Tallow was trained ruthlessly, not just in the art of combat but in the ways of discipline, honor, and duty—values foreign to most Skaven. Skrul, intrigued by the possibilities of an untainted mind, tested him against the harshest warriors of Rat Pitt, forged his body in the crucible of endless battle, and tempered his soul through brutal discipline. Unlike most Skaven, who thrived on fear and deceit, Tallow grew up valuing loyalty, courage, and the desire to protect rather than conquer.  

The Rise of a Guardian

  By the age of ten, Tallow had already surpassed many of Skrul’s warriors in combat skill, displaying not only raw strength but also an unshakable sense of justice. While his fellow Skaven revelled in backstabbing and treachery, Tallow displayed honour, often defending the weak and standing against cruelty within Rat Pitt, a trait that made him both respected and feared among his kind.   Recognizing his potential, Skrul personally mentored him, refining his techniques in swordplay, spear fighting, and the use of heavy armour—something rare among Skaven warriors, who favoured agility over endurance. Despite Skrul's own cruel and treacherous nature, he admired the unbreakable will of his adopted son, even if he saw it as a foolish idealism. Tallow, however, saw Skrul not as a tyrant but as a father, one who had given him purpose and the means to protect the city he called home.  

The Blackfur Rebellion

  At fifteen, Tallow was given his first command—a small unit of warriors tasked with defending one of Rat Pitt’s key entrances against invading forces of rival clans. Most saw it as a death sentence, a test to see if Skrul’s prodigy would crumble under true pressure. Instead, Tallow led his warriors with unwavering resolve, holding the gate against overwhelming odds. His tactical brilliance and unmatched combat prowess earned him the title of Captain of the Black Guard, Rat Pitt’s elite warriors.   However, his refusal to partake in unnecessary cruelty and his insistence on fair treatment of those under his command soon made him a target of rival council members. Many saw him as a threat—an unpredictable force that could inspire rebellion among the downtrodden Skaven who despised the corruption of the ruling class. Assassination attempts became common, but Tallow survived them all, his skill and instinct keeping him alive.  

Physical Appearance & Combat Style

  Tallow Blackfur is a striking figure among the Skaven. Unlike most of his kind, who are often hunched, twitchy, and gaunt, Tallow stands tall for a Skaven, with a strong, muscular frame honed through years of intense training. His fur is jet black—unusual even among his race—adding to the mystery surrounding his origins. His eyes are a sharp, piercing crimson, filled with determination rather than the paranoid fear that often plagues Skaven.   He wears Crimson Splint Armor, a custom-made suit designed for both mobility and durability, enchanted to withstand even the strongest of blows. His fighting style is a hybrid of precision and power, utilizing:   Honorfang & Loyal Blue – His twin Star Metal Scimitars, each named to represent his unwavering commitment to honour and loyalty. Honorfang is sharper than any known Skaven-forged blade, while Loyal Blue has a unique property that allows it to glow faintly in the presence of deception or magic. The Justice Guardian – A Star Metal Glaive said to be nearly unbreakable, used for both sweeping attacks against multiple foes and powerful single strikes against armoured enemies. His combat skills are legendary, even among elite warriors of Rat Pitt. He moves with a level of grace and fluidity uncommon in a Skaven, blending agility with sheer force. Unlike other Skaven, who often rely on ambushes and sheer numbers, Tallow fights with the discipline of a seasoned warlord, favouring fair combat over deceit.  

A Skaven Unlike Any Other

  Now at twenty-one, Tallow Blackfur stands as Rat Pitt’s finest warrior, an anomaly among his kind. Clad in enchanted Crimson splint armour, wielding his Star Metal Scimitars "Honorfang" and "Loyal Blue" with his Star Metal Glaive "The Justice Guardian", he is a force of righteousness in a city of deception. Unlike his fellow Skaven, he holds no love for power or treachery, instead dedicating himself to defending those who cannot defend themselves. His presence alone deters crime in Rat Pitt, as even the most cunning assassins hesitate before crossing his path.   Despite his respect for Skrul Darkborn, he no longer follows the warlord’s example, instead forging his own path. He dreams of one day seeing Rat Pitt rise beyond its treacherous ways, becoming a place of unity rather than constant infighting. Though he knows it may be an impossible dream, he refuses to let go of hope.  

Personality & Morality

Tallow is an enigma among his kind, often seen as too noble for a Skaven, yet too ruthless to be considered soft-hearted.   He abhors betrayal, valuing trust and camaraderie over personal gain. He does not lie, preferring honesty even when it is not in his favour. He refuses to kill the weak or those who cannot fight back. He believes in justice, holding criminals accountable even in a city where crime is the way of life. This philosophy has made him a Skaven both respected and hated—some see him as a beacon of hope, while others see him as an unnatural outlier, a mistake that should not exist.  

Enemies and Allies

 

Allies

:   The Black Guard – A specialized unit of elite warriors personally trained by Tallow, known for their discipline and unwavering loyalty.   Stonefang Clan – One of the few honourable Skaven clans who recognize Tallow’s ideals and support his cause.   Emberlight Clan – A rare neutral Skaven faction dedicated to progress and honour, whom Tallow often aids in their endeavours.  

Enemies

:   Council of Thirteen – Many members see Tallow as a dangerous idealist who threatens the natural order of Skaven treachery.   Verminshade Clan – A band of assassins who have tried and failed multiple times to eliminate him.   Goldteeth Clan – A rich and corrupt faction who despise Tallow’s interference in their illegal dealings.  

The Black Guard: Tallow’s Elite Warriors

Tallow is the Captain of the Black Guard, an elite unit of warriors that functions as Rat Pitt’s first line of defence. The Black Guard is unique among Skaven warriors because:   They are trained in discipline and teamwork, rather than backstabbing and infighting. They respect loyalty, showing rare bonds of brotherhood uncommon among Skaven. They are fiercely devoted to Tallow, inspired by his strength and leadership. Many believe that if Tallow were ever to turn against Rat Pitt’s corrupt rulers, his Black Guard could spark a revolution.  

Tallow’s Reputation in Rat Pitt

Tallow is a figure of fear and admiration in Rat Pitt:   The common Skaven whisper his name with awe, knowing that he has defended them against would-be tyrants and invaders. The corrupt rulers of the city see him as a growing problem, a warrior who could inspire Skaven to turn away from treachery. The Council of Thirteen debates his existence—some want him dead, while others see him as a powerful weapon to be controlled. Many wonder if he will be the one to change Skaven society—or if he will eventually be betrayed like so many before him.  

Relationship with Skrul Darkborn

Despite being raised by one of the most cunning and treacherous warlords in Skaven society, Tallow has never followed in Skrul’s footsteps of deceit and cruelty.   Skrul, though a brutal and ruthless manipulator, treated Tallow like a son, even if he rarely showed it openly. While Tallow respects Skrul’s strength and intelligence, he does not agree with his methods. Their relationship is strained, with Skrul seeing Tallow as both a success and a failure—strong, disciplined, but unwilling to embrace Skaven nature. Some rumours whisper that Skrul might be Tallow’s actual father, but neither has confirmed it.  

Tallow Blackfur's Relationships with the Darkborn Family

  As the adopted son and pupil of Skrul Darkborn, Tallow has long been entangled with the powerful Darkborn family—a lineage of ruthless Skaven warlords, spies, and assassins who thrive in treachery and manipulation. While Skrul himself raised Tallow as an experiment, the rest of his family had their own opinions on the honorable Skaven warrior.   Vriska Darkborn – The One Who Hates Him Most   Role: Mistress of Shadows, Skrul’s Mate   Relationship: Utter Hatred & Loathing   If there is one Skaven who despises Tallow the most, it is Vriska Darkborn, Skrul’s mate and the cunning mastermind of Rat Pitt’s intelligence network. She has never accepted Tallow as part of the family, seeing him as a threat, a mistake, and an insult to Skaven nature.   She despises his honour and morality, considering it an insult to the Darkborn legacy. She sees Tallow as Skrul’s greatest failure, believing that he should have been disposed of long ago. She actively plots his downfall, sending assassins and spies to discredit or eliminate him. She warns her children not to trust him, calling him an “idealistic fool” and “a pathetic pet project.” Vriska has even attempted to convince Skrul to kill Tallow, but the warlord has always refused, saying: "He is not failure yet—not while he still fights."   For Tallow, Vriska represents everything he hates about Skaven society—deception, cruelty, and ruthless ambition. While he refuses to strike at her directly, he knows one day they will clash.   Karrek Darkborn – The Brother in Arms   Role: Heir and Clawlord of the Blackfang Legion   Relationship: Brotherly Bond & Mutual Respect   Karrek Darkborn is the only one among his siblings who sees Tallow as family, regarding him as an adopted brother rather than a rival or enemy. Raised in the same brutal training regimens, Karrek and Tallow fought side by side, training together under Skrul’s iron hand. Despite their ideological differences—Karrek embraces power while Tallow believes in justice—the two share a deep mutual respect.   Karrek has always admired Tallow’s discipline and skill, considering him the best warrior in Rat Pitt. He jokingly calls Tallow "Blackfang", treating him as an honorary Darkborn. Karrek believes Tallow would make a far better ruler than Skrul but knows his adopted brother has no desire for power. If the Council ever turned on Tallow, Karrek would hesitate to betray him—though his loyalty to Skrul might ultimately force his hand. Their dynamic is complex but strong—one of the few true friendships in Tallow’s otherwise lonely life.   Lirrik Darkborn – The Shadowcaster Who Admires Tallow   Role: Second Son, Sorcerer & Blood Mage   Relationship: Respect & Cautious Friendship   Lirrik Darkborn, the dark sorcerer of the family, has a complicated respect for Tallow. Though he embraces magic, deception, and Skaven treachery, he finds Tallow fascinating—a Skaven who defies his nature and still thrives.   Lirrik often debates with Tallow about morality, power, and destiny. He sees Tallow as an anomaly, but one worth studying rather than destroying. He occasionally helps Tallow from the shadows, though never openly. He wishes he had Tallow’s willpower but considers honour “a weakness.” Despite their differences, Lirrik does not hate Tallow—he sees him as an experiment in Skaven potential, just as Skrul once did.   Nyss Darkborn – The Assassin Matriarch Who Sees Potential   Role: Eldest Daughter, Leader of the Fangshadows   Relationship: Flirtation, Rivalry, & Mutual Interest   Nyss Darkborn, the Fangshadow assassin matriarch, is one of the few Darkborns who finds Tallow intriguing rather than dangerous. Unlike her mother Vriska, she does not wish for Tallow’s death—rather, she wishes to see what he could become.   She enjoys testing him, often setting up elaborate ambushes that Tallow must escape. She flirts with him openly, though whether it is genuine or manipulation is unclear. She respects his combat skills, believing him to be the best warrior in Rat Pitt. She views him as an unpredictable factor—someone who could either destroy the Council or reshape it. Nyss does not consider herself an ally, but she would rather recruit Tallow than kill him. She often watches him from the shadows, waiting for the day he makes his move against the corruption of Rat Pitt.   Zyra Darkborn – The Seer Who Trusts Tallow   Role: Keeper of Secrets, Visionary of the Darkborn   Relationship: Loyalty & Friendship   Zyra Darkborn, the youngest daughter and the family's mysterious seer, is perhaps the closest thing Tallow has to an ally in the family. She genuinely trusts him, despite knowing he will never truly be a Darkborn.   She has seen visions of his future—some glorious, some tragic. She tells him secrets that even Skrul does not know. She believes he has a destiny, though she does not yet understand what it is. She fears for him, knowing that the Council may one day betray him. Tallow, in turn, protects Zyra whenever he can—though he does not share her gift of foresight, he knows she is one of the few Skaven who does not wish him harm.   Threk Darkborn – The Brother Who Wants Him Dead   Role: Youngest Son, Beastmaster   Relationship: Hatred, Jealousy, & Resentment   Threk Darkborn, the youngest son and tamer of monstrous war beasts, has always hated Tallow. He sees Tallow as an outsider, a fraud, and a disgrace to the Darkborn name.   He is jealous of Tallow’s status, believing that Skrul favors him over his own trueborn children. He actively tries to get Tallow killed, setting up ambushes and accidents. He mocks Tallow’s honour, calling it “a lie that will get him killed.” He challenges Tallow to duels, but has never won. Unlike his siblings, Threk does not seek to understand Tallow—he simply wants him gone. If given the opportunity, he would not hesitate to put a dagger in Tallow’s back.   Final Thoughts: The Divided Darkborn   Tallow Blackfur’s relationship with the Darkborn family is a tangled web of rivalry, admiration, and hatred.   Karrek sees him as a brother.   Vriska sees him as a threat.   Lirrik sees him as an experiment.   Nyss sees him as a wildcard.   Zyra sees him as a destined figure.   Threk sees him as a fraud to be destroyed.   In the end, Tallow walks a dangerous line, balancing loyalty to his adoptive family with his own moral code. He knows that one day, his ties to the Darkborn will be tested—and when that time comes, he must decide who he will stand with and who he will fight against.  

Dreams & Future Aspirations

  Tallow Blackfur is one of the few Skaven with a dream beyond survival and power. He envisions:   A Rat Pitt free from treachery, where Skaven can thrive without constant betrayal. A warrior society built on discipline, not just underhanded tactics. A Skaven people united, rather than constantly fighting amongst themselves. He knows that this dream is seen as madness among his kind, but he refuses to abandon it.   As he stands on the battlefield, blades in hand, he fights not just for himself, but for a future he may never live to see.  

Motto

  "Strength in Honor, Victory in Unity."   Tallow Blackfur continues to stand against the darkness of Skaven treachery, a living legend among his people. Though he fights an uphill battle, his blade remains sharp, his resolve unbroken, and his will stronger than ever.   Tallow Blackfur is more than just a warrior—he is an anomaly, a legend, a force of nature in a world where treachery reigns supreme. As he continues to battle for justice in Rat Pitt, one question remains:   Will he bring about change, or will Skaven nature finally consume him?