Bringing Harmony to the Old World: The Armies of Grand Cathay in Warhammer
Apr 2nd 2025
Bringing Harmony to the Old World: The Armies of Grand Cathay in Warhammer
The Old World is a realm of chaos, where war and strife are ever-present. From the marauding Orcs and Goblins to the rampaging Beastman Brayherds and the dark influence of Chaos, the forces of Order are struggling to maintain balance. Amidst this turmoil, a beacon of hope rises in the form of the ancient and powerful empire of Grand Cathay. With their immortal rulers, unyielding discipline, and harmonious balance, the armies of Grand Cathay step forward to restore order to the Old World.
In this blog, we will explore the mighty forces of Grand Cathay, their legendary heroes, and the powerful battalion they bring to the battlefield, as well as the in-depth lore behind their timeless empire.
Grand Cathay: A Realm of Immortal Dragons
Grand Cathay is a land ruled by the immortal Celestial Dragon Emperor, Xen Yang, who has watched over the empire for over five millennia. His reign is defined by a profound sense of harmony and order, which permeates every aspect of Grand Cathay’s culture, military, and magic. The Empire follows his teachings to the letter, with citizens and soldiers alike living in pursuit of balance and the greater good.
When the forces of darkness grow stronger in the Old World, Grand Cathay answers the call, dispatching powerful armies to restore peace and maintain the balance. Their warriors, sages, and ingenious war machines are now marching to the aid of the forces of Order.
The Grand Cathay Battalion: A Balanced Force for Battle
The heart of any Grand Cathay army is its battalion box, which contains 50 high-quality plastic miniatures. This balanced core is a formidable force, allowing players to create highly strategic armies that reflect the disciplined and methodical nature of the empire.
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Jade Warriors: As the backbone of the Grand Cathay army, Jade Warriors are equipped with fine weapons and armor, embodying the implacable nature of their empire. These elite soldiers can be deployed in various formations and are armed with hand weapons, shields, or halberds, making them adaptable to different combat scenarios.
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Jade Lancers: These elite cavalry units, recruited from the ranks of Jade Warriors, are swift and deadly. Trained to fight in tight spaces and harsh environments like the narrow alleys and bridges of their homeland, they excel in both close-quarters and open-field combat.
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Cathayan Grand Cannon: Forged in the famed forges of Nan-Gau, the Cathayan Grand Cannon is a powerful siege weapon. Its dragon-shaped form is as majestic as it is deadly, launching flaming cannonballs that tear through enemy ranks with precision.
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Fire Rain Rocket Battery: For players who prefer indiscriminate destruction, the Fire Rain Rocket Battery is an excellent choice. While less accurate than the Grand Cannon, its volley of rockets wreaks havoc upon enemy formations, sowing panic and destruction in its wake.
Powerful Heroes and Legendary Units
The armies of Grand Cathay are led by some of the most legendary and powerful beings in the Warhammer universe. These heroes bring unmatched might, wisdom, and magical prowess to the battlefield.
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Shugengan Lord on Great Spirit Longma: These warrior-generals are mortal but touched by the power of the Celestial Dragon Emperor. Masters of martial arts and elemental magic, they often ride the Great Spirit Longma, a majestic creature that strikes fear into enemies with its savage claws and regal horns.
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Gate Masters of the Celestial Cities: These veterans command the Jade Warrior garrisons and are masters of defense. Their strategic knowledge and experience make them invaluable in the heat of battle, allowing them to protect their people with both wisdom and might.
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Sky Lantern: Few units in Grand Cathay’s arsenal are as unique as the Sky Lantern. These dirigibles are held aloft by decorative paper and carry a Vermilion Warbird inside. The Sky Lantern allows a Magistrate to oversee the battlefield from above, providing tactical advantages and guiding artillery fire. Crane Gunners aboard the Sky Lantern provide additional fire support, while incendiary bombs add another layer of devastation.
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Cathayan Sentinels: These towering statues, created by the Dragon Emperor himself, are a sight to behold. Standing motionless until activated, the Sentinels are monstrous warriors crafted from jade, terracotta, and even warpstone. Once awakened, they become unstoppable forces of nature, crushing anything in their path.
Miao Ying, the Storm Dragon: Leading the Charge
At the forefront of Grand Cathay’s forces stands Miao Ying, the Storm Dragon, daughter of the Celestial Dragon Emperor and Supreme Matriarch of Nan-Gau. Miao Ying is both a powerful sorceress and a warrior of immense skill, leading her forces to battle against the forces of evil in the Old World. She is a commander of great renown, able to switch between a human form crackling with arcane energy and a majestic dragon form that strikes terror into her enemies.
Her journey to the Old World is fraught with danger, but as one of the most powerful figures in the Grand Cathay army, she will undoubtedly restore balance to the chaotic lands she now defends.
Arcane Journal: Armies of Grand Cathay
For those seeking to immerse themselves in the lore and intricacies of Grand Cathay, Arcane Journal: Armies of Grand Cathay is an essential resource. This 48-page book provides an in-depth exploration of Grand Cathay’s history, culture, and military prowess. Inside, you will find rules for Grand Cathay armies, including special abilities, magic items, and the unique twin Lores of Yin and Yang. The journal also details the ancient alliances and rich history that tie Grand Cathay to the other factions of the Old World.
Conclusion: Grand Cathay’s March Toward the Old World
As the forces of Chaos grow stronger and the Old World plunges further into disarray, Grand Cathay’s armies stand as a beacon of hope. Led by immortal dragons, wise generals, and powerful warriors, the empire of Grand Cathay brings harmony and balance to a world teetering on the edge of destruction.
Whether you’re a fan of powerful dragons, elite warriors, or complex battlefield strategies, Grand Cathay offers a fresh and exciting faction to explore in Warhammer: The Old World. With their unwavering commitment to order and their unrivaled martial prowess, the armies of Grand Cathay are poised to restore peace to the Old World.
Stay tuned for more updates on these legendary warriors and their efforts to bring balance to a world on the brink of chaos.









