Howling Banshees are one of the most fearsome aspects of the Eldar Aspect Warriors, embodying the deadly elegance and swiftness of Eldar close-combat specialists. Named after the shrieking spirits from Eldar myth, these warriors are both brutal and graceful, combining unmatched speed with a terrifying psychological edge. Clad in sleek, white armor and often with long, flowing hair, they are visually striking as they charge into battle. Their most iconic feature is their Banshee Mask—a technological marvel that emits a paralyzing, ear-piercing scream capable of overwhelming enemy senses, temporarily immobilizing foes in fear and confusion. This moment of paralysis allows the Banshees to close the distance and strike with deadly precision.
Howling Banshees are armed with specialized power swords known as Mirrorswords or Banshee Blades, which slice through armor with ease, making them formidable against heavily armored infantry. They rely on agility and reflexes, moving with such speed and grace that they can evade incoming attacks and position themselves for lethal strikes. Banshees train relentlessly to master this style, relying less on brute strength and more on precise, rapid movements. In combat, they are a blur of motion, overwhelming foes in a storm of graceful, efficient strikes. Led by Exarchs—veteran warriors who have embraced the Banshee path fully—these squads are highly disciplined and coordinated, forming an unstoppable wave of Eldar fury once they reach their target.
The Banshees’ fighting style and psyche are heavily influenced by the warrior Asurmen and his first disciple Jain Zar, the Phoenix Lord of the Howling Banshees. Jain Zar’s legacy imbues the Howling Banshees with a special reverence, as they see themselves as her followers, perpetuating her methods and embodying her unrelenting spirit on the battlefield. This legacy gives Howling Banshees a powerful spiritual drive, as they believe their ferocity and precision honor Jain Zar’s example. The Path of the Banshee is one of self-mastery through controlled violence; each Banshee is a warrior dedicated to channelling the fury of their ancient spirits in a controlled, disciplined way. For the Eldar, Howling Banshees are a critical component of their military, filling the role of close-combat specialists who can break enemy lines and disrupt formations with unmatched speed and psychological impact.
In the grand theater of the battlefield, Howling Banshees often work alongside other Aspect Warriors and Eldar forces, creating a terrifying synergy. Their ability to disrupt and disorient allows more deliberate or ranged units to exploit openings created by the Banshees’ assault. With the precision of their assault and the fear induced by their Banshee Masks, Howling Banshees are a fearsome force, bringing swift death to any who stand in the Eldar’s way. Whether fighting to defend a Craftworld or launching a surprise raid, Howling Banshees are an elite among the Eldar—a storm of avenging spirits who strike with the speed of a gale and the chill of death.