If you’re a fan of the Sylvaneth in Warhammer: Age of Sigmar, you’re probably looking forward to the upcoming standalone release of their newest hero, Belthanos. Known as the First Thorn of Kurnoth, Belthanos’ tale is one of divine lineage, undying devotion, and an eternal chase through the verdant thickets of Ghyran. Let’s keep the pre-order hype rolling with a deep dive into the lore behind this extraordinary miniature!

First detailed in "Dawnbringers: Book III – The Long Hunt”, the saga of Belthanos unfolds during a dire moment in the Twin-Tailed Crusade when savage Ogor Gorgers threaten to overwhelm the Order forces in the Realm of Life. It is at this critical juncture that Belthanos bursts forth from the depths of Ghyran's lush greenery. Carrying a divine spark of the Sylvaneth god of the hunt, Kurnoth, Belthanos leads the charge atop the mighty Carnelian Greatspite, an embodiment of pure jade life magic.

Kurnoth, the long-dormant consort of Alarielle the Everqueen, is a mysterious deity associated with the primal aspects of the hunt. Slain by the forces of Nurgle during the Age of Chaos, Kurnoth's worship persists among the most fervent Sylvaneth. Belthanos, born from a tree struck by a bolt of jade fire on the day Kurnoth fell, assumes the mantle of the First Thorn, tasked with safeguarding the dwindling flame of his dormant god.

The importance of Belthanos in maintaining the spirit of Kurnoth cannot be overstated. Should his eternal chase cease, the dim embers of godhood would gutter out forever. This responsibility places him at the forefront of the Evergreen Hunt, where he sounds his warhorn from the back of the Carnelian Greatspite. This mighty creature, more than a mere manifestation of brute strength, serves as a conduit for pure jade life magic, conveying Belthanos with vital haste and perfect coordination.

Belthanos, an adept of arboreal warfare, holds authority over the Kurnoth Hunters, a savage force that strikes fear into the hearts of their prey. Unbeknownst to their targets, once the Evergreen Hunt marks a quarry, little can stop its relentless pursuit. The primordial rhythm that pulses through all Sylvaneth drives the hunt forward, spurred on by Belthanos' leadership.

Belthanos, First Thorn of Kurnoth is available for pre-order now.