How to paint the axe

[crude fog]

Hey everyone, long time lurker first time poster!

I've been slowly chipping my way through the leviathan box and wanted to do a kitbash of one of the terminators into a Wolf Lord Terminator . The axe was cannibalised from an Orruk Ardboy; I wanted to give the impression of a weapon that's so heavy that it needs the terminator armour and the increased strength of the power fist to wield. But every time I look at it, I get painters block.
Do I go for a dark metal, a brighter metallic/gilt, or something else entirely? All suggestions, tips, etc very welcome, regardless of skill level. I'm still very much a beginner but willing to have a crack at most things!

[jagged ice]

Hello Andy! Why not just paint it like a power axe?

Etc

Nmm so of course it will be a learning experience but it could be great.

You could do a tmm but paint the lightning over (see early pic). In that case I'd recommend using a darker metal than usual, tracing the lightning first in white, then going over with your pop color of choice

[crude fog]

Those are some great suggestions, I particularly like the purple blade on the custodes weapon at the bottom! I did think about a red molten blade, NMM is a great shout. Cheers!