aim-Hann was reputedly one of the first craftworlds to flee from the Eldar homeworlds as the Fall approached and it still retains many ties with the 'primitive' Exodites who preceded them. We have found the attitude of other Craftworld Eldar interesting. They consider the Eldar of Saim-Hann feral and barbarous in many ways, further illustrating the rift within this supposedly single race. Reports from our military commanders show that this certainly holds true on the field of battle. The Eldar of Saim-Hann are fierce and proud warriors who seem to value honour much more highly than any of their more sophisticated kin. Their bravery is legendary but their recklessness has frequently led to them fighting wars against other races and even other craftworlds. It appears that this warrior pride has led them into battle even when they could ill afford conflict.

The most famous of the Saim-Hann are the Wild Riders who go into battle riding Jetbikes and Vypers, and excel at swift raids. We have learnt that these warrior-kindreds have much influence on the craftworld and nearly all Saim-Hann Eldar, including the Seers, belong to one of the Wild Rider families. Apparently, it is only during an Eldar's time as an Aspect Warrior that their ties with their family are forgotten, as their devotion to the shrine overrules all other considerations.

In terms of the social structure, the Wild Rider families bear many resemblances to the feudal hierarchies found on many of our own worlds. Each family has a single leader, the position of which is usually passed by hereditary tradition [though there is no emphasis on patrilinear or matrilinear descent]. The closest family to this 'Chief' forms the Kinsmen who comprise the ruling elite of the family. It is the Kinsmen who guide the Chief when the craftworld goes to war and it is left up to the individual Wild Rider families whether they will participate, unlike the general conscription and mustering of Guardians that is seen on most craftworlds.

This has sometimes led to Wild Rider families actually fighting amongst themselves, although these 'battles' generally take a highly ritualistic form and consist mainly of single combats between champions. These duels can be compared to some of the practices seen in the more primitive Imperial states - jousting and grand mêlées to decide who has the superior position. These 'honour duels' are not uncommon, although it is rare that they are ever fought to the death - first blood is usually sufficient to determine a winner. Such behaviour, that of frequent internecine fighting, seems incredible when one considers how few Eldar there are left in the galaxy.

Inquisitor Czevak - Teachings on the Unholy, Chapter VIII
'The seeming barbarity of Saim-Hann'.

Translator's note: Saim-Hann is pronounced Sam Hine (not Same Han)
Inquisitor's Note: Translators should learn more respect for their masters.

Related Links:
Inquisitor Czevak on: Alaitoc | Biel-Tan | Iyanden | Ulthwé
Genesis of the Eldar