A major theme is probably the concept of good and evil. In the Warhammer 40k setting, the lines between good and evil can be blurry. The Dark Son novel might explore how different characters perceive and act upon their own notions of right and wrong. Some characters may believe they are doing good while their actions seem evil to others, and this moral ambiguity can add depth to the story.
The theme of survival is likely present. The 40k universe is a harsh and unforgiving place. Characters in Dark Son would need to fight for their survival against various threats such as enemy races, the dangerous environment, and internal power struggles within their own groups. Also, the theme of identity might be explored. As characters face different challenges, they may question who they are and what their place is in this complex and violent universe.
One key theme could be the struggle for power. In the Warhammer 40k universe, power is often a central aspect, and in the Dark Son novel, different characters might be vying for control over resources, territory, or even over other factions. Another theme could be loyalty and betrayal. Characters may have to choose between their loyalty to their comrades or their own self - interests, which can lead to acts of betrayal.
I'm not entirely sure as I haven't read the exact Dark Son 40k novel. But in many Warhammer 40k novels, there are often Space Marines as main characters. They are genetically enhanced super - soldiers. There could also be some Imperial Guardsmen, who are the regular soldiers of the Imperium. And perhaps some alien species as antagonists or even some Chaos - influenced characters.
The theme of loyalty is also prominent. Characters have to decide where their loyalties lie, whether it's to their superiors in the Imperium, their comrades, or to their own ideals. There is also the overarching theme of survival in a brutal and unforgiving universe where death lurks around every corner.
One of the key characters is Guilliman. He is a significant figure in the Imperium, with his leadership skills and strategic acumen being crucial. Another is Mortarion, who represents the forces of Chaos and is a formidable adversary.
Character development is crucial. Since the 'Out of the Dark' setting is so challenging, it forces the characters to change. They might start as naive recruits and end up as battle - hardened veterans. Their beliefs can be shaken or strengthened. There could be a Guardsman who starts with blind faith in the Emperor but then has to question everything when faced with the true horror and complexity of the Warhammer 40k world in this 'Out of the Dark' scenario.
Well, there's also the theme of the fall from grace. They were once part of the Emperor's grand plan but have deviated so far. This is shown through their actions and the way they interact with the rest of the 40k universe. Their once - noble purpose has been warped by their experiences and choices, which is a central exploration in the novels.
One key theme is the struggle for survival. In the world of Dark Souls 3 Novel, the characters are constantly facing dangerous enemies and harsh environments. Another theme is the concept of sacrifice. Characters often have to make sacrifices, whether it's their own safety or something else, in order to achieve their goals. And the theme of redemption also exists. Some characters are trying to atone for their past mistakes throughout the story.
Power and corruption are major themes. The Imperium is a vast and complex entity filled with different power - hungry factions. Another theme is the struggle against chaos. The forces of chaos constantly threaten the Imperium, and the characters in the novels often find themselves in the middle of this battle.
Common themes include the allure of the Dark Eldar's dark technology. In these fanfictions, the self - insert might be drawn to their advanced and often unethical weaponry or devices. There's also the theme of fitting into their complex social structure. The Dark Eldar have a very stratified society with different castes and power levels, and the self - inserted character has to find their place. And of course, the theme of conflict is always there. Whether it's internal power struggles within the Dark Eldar factions or external battles against other races in the Warhammer 40k universe.
The antagonists from the forces of Chaos are also key in a way. Characters like the Chaos Lords or daemonic entities create the conflict. Their actions and plots drive the story forward as the Imperium has to counter their threats. Their motives of spreading chaos and destruction set the stage for the intense battles and struggles in the novels.
Another possible theme could be the duality of things. Just as there are many colors in the dark, there might be different sides to situations, characters, or events in the novel. It could show how things that seem one way on the surface have a whole other dimension when explored more deeply.