Hell’s Last is making waves at the LVO Preview show, and it’s no surprise why! This new Astra Militarum command squad features Captain Minka Lesk, a battle-hardened commander who’s quickly become a fan favorite, especially for those who’ve read her Black Library novels.
This isn’t just another generic command squad—this group is packed with unique characters that are begging to be added to your collection, each one with a rich backstory and plenty of personality. Let’s break down who these heroes are, what makes them stand out, and why you should be excited to see them hit the tabletop.
Captain Minka Lesk
Lesk is a straight-up badass. She’s the heart and soul of the Seventh Company and has earned her place at the top through sheer grit and countless victories. The most interesting thing about her rise? She started off in the Whiteshields, the rawest of recruits, and managed to claw her way up through the ranks to become company commander. This kind of meteoric rise speaks to her skill and leadership—plus, it’s just an awesome underdog story. If you want to get the full picture of her journey, check out The Last Whiteshield by Justin D Hill. She’s got a mix of tactical brilliance and toughness that any Astra Militarum player would love to have on their side.
Chief Commissar Shand
Commissar Shand is the no-nonsense, grim-faced enforcer you always want leading your troops when things get dicey. He’s not one to tolerate failure or cowardice—his role is to ensure the Cadian 101st Regiment stays on course no matter what. Having been with the regiment since before their planet broke apart, Shand’s seen it all. If you’re the type of player who loves to have someone on the battlefield who will never back down, who will stand firm and give the “last word” to those who hesitate, Shand is your man. He’s solid, dependable, and an absolute asset in both the novel Cadian Honor and on the tabletop, ensuring your squad stays disciplined.
Confessor Talbeas
Now, Confessor Talbeas brings an interesting dynamic to this squad. While you’ve got the hard-nosed, disciplined warriors in Shand and Lesk, Talbeas is more spiritual—she’s the one who rallies the troops when things get desperate. When the Cadian banner was at risk of being lost, it was Talbeas who picked it up and kept it high, inspiring the troops to press on. Her fiery sermons are more than just words; they are the lifeblood that keeps her comrades fighting even in the direst circumstances. In-game, she’s not just about moral support—she’s a character that can rally your troops and keep them in the fight when you’re in a pinch.
Veteran Trooper Jaromir
Jaromir’s story is one of the toughest out there. This guy should be on the sidelines after a devastating injury, but instead, he keeps pushing forward. He’s been through it all and has stuck by Minka Lesk through thick and thin, proving that loyalty isn’t just about following orders—it’s about fighting to the bitter end. His character adds a gritty, grounded vibe to the squad. For players who love underdog stories or need that classic “veteran soldier who never quits” vibe, Jaromir is the man. He’s not just fighting for himself—he’s fighting to honor the soldiers who can no longer fight. In gameplay, his unwavering loyalty can be a huge boon, making him a reliable piece on the table.
Veteran Sergeant Grawnya
Lastly, we’ve got Grawnya, the bridge between two very different worlds. Originally from the Drookian Fen Guard, Grawnya was brought into the 101st as a pathfinder—a role that requires exceptional skill and adaptability. The Fen Guard and the Cadians have clashed before, but Grawnya’s job is to ensure they work together under a common banner. It’s a fascinating mix of old-school military tactics clashing with the new regiment—plus, the back-and-forth dynamic between her and the rest of the squad should create some fun narratives both on and off the battlefield. Grawnya is an expert in the field, and having her on your squad helps ensure that the forces she commands are both cohesive and deadly. Whether you’re playing with her in Legends rules or just enjoying her backstory, she’s a must-have addition.
The Hell’s Last Box & Novel
All five of these unique characters are coming to pre-order as part of the Hell’s Last box—and let me tell you, if you’re an Astra Militarum player or even just a fan of good stories, this is a set you won’t want to miss. The box includes Legends rules, allowing you to field these characters in your Astra Militarum army, bringing them to life on the tabletop in epic battles for Cadia. But that’s not all—the novel Hell’s Last by Justin D Hill is also available to pre-order, with multiple editions, including a special one with a bonus short story that adds even more depth to these already fantastic characters.
This is more than just a new box of miniatures—it’s an incredible opportunity to dive into some of the best narrative content available for the Astra Militarum and bring those stories to life in your own games. Whether you’re a collector, a competitive player, or just love a good underdog tale, Hell’s Last offers something for everyone. So, mark your calendars for the pre-order date—these minis and their story are worth the hype!
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