- 5 Hives - Factions and Patrons in Necromunda setting / Rogue Traders

08 Dec, 2024

Rogue Traders

Rogue Traders are some of the most enigmatic figures in the Imperium, blending legitimate Imperial authority with the freedom to explore, trade, and plunder beyond its borders. Their activities bring them into conflict and cooperation with factions throughout Necromunda’s hives.

Overview of Rogue Traders

• Description: Rogue Traders operate under special Imperial warrants that allow them to explore uncharted regions, interact with xenos species, and engage in activities often deemed heretical. They are wealthy, ambitious, and resourceful, using their influence to acquire rare treasures, establish trade networks, and expand their power.
• Reputation: They are both revered and feared for their independence, often walking a fine line between lawful enterprise and outright piracy.

Rogue Trader Archetypes

Treasure Hunter

• Description: A Rogue Trader obsessed with acquiring rare artifacts, whether Imperial relics, xenos technology, or ancient STCs.
• Narrative Hooks:
  • The Lost Expedition
    • A prior team vanished seeking a legendary artifact. The Rogue Trader hires the gang to uncover their fate and complete the mission.
  • The Cursed Cache
    • An ancient vault is rumored to hold immense wealth but is protected by lethal traps. The gang must navigate these dangers to retrieve the treasure.

Merchant Prince

• Description: A Rogue Trader focused on building trade networks and monopolizing the flow of rare goods across Necromunda.
• Narrative Hooks:
  • Trade Wars
    • A rival trader undercuts markets with cheap goods. The gang is tasked with disrupting their supply chain to restore balance.
  • Silk Road Secrets
    • The trader seeks to establish a new trade route through hostile territory. The gang must secure passage and negotiate with local warlords.

Xenos Negotiator

• Description: A Rogue Trader who thrives on illicit dealings with alien species, from Eldar to Orks, often at great risk of heresy charges.
• Narrative Hooks:
  • Forbidden Alliance
    • The trader seeks to broker a deal with a xenos faction. The gang is hired for security, navigating both alien and Imperial law.
  • Artifact Exchange
    • A trade of xenos artifacts is planned. The gang must ensure it goes smoothly or intercept it for their own gain.

Imperial Renegade

• Description: A Rogue Trader who has fallen out of favor with Imperial authorities and now operates as a criminal lord in the underhive.
• Narrative Hooks:
  • Fugitive's Fortune
    • The trader is on the run from Imperial authorities. The gang is hired to provide sanctuary or to capture them for a bounty.
  • Black Market Bonanza
    • The trader offers rare goods at a secret auction. The gang can partake or disrupt the event for a rival.

Warp Explorer

• Description: A Rogue Trader with a focus on discovering and exploiting Warp anomalies or ancient psychic relics.
• Narrative Hooks:
  • Into the Void
    • The trader plans an expedition into a Warp-tainted area. The gang is hired to protect against both physical and psychic threats.
  • Echoes from Beyond
    • Strange Warp phenomena affect the hive. The trader believes an artifact can stabilize it, and the gang must retrieve it.