The Iron Hands: A Legacy of Steel and Fire
Forged in the harsh landscape of Medusa, the Iron Hands are a Space Marine Chapter renowned for their unyielding resolve and mastery of advanced technology. Their history is a testament to the indomitable will of their Primarch, Ferrus Manus, and the unwavering loyalty of his sons.
The Birth of a Legion
In the early days of the Unification Wars on Terra, the Storm Walkers, later known as the Iron Hands, were formed from the warlike cultures of Albia. Their first recorded combat was against the Mutant warband known as the Scythers, followed by the extermination of the Xenos Lyasx on the world of Oberath. These early victories laid the groundwork for the Iron Hands’ reputation as ruthless and calculating fighters.
Ferrus Manus: The Gorgon
Ferrus Manus, the Primarch of the Iron Hands, was among the first of the Emperor’s sons to be rediscovered. His early history is shrouded in mystery, but the folklore of Medusa chronicles his trials and ordeals, including his encounter with the Great Silver Wyrm, Asirnoth. Ferrus Manus never united the people of Medusa, instead choosing to foster competition to grow greater strength.
The Great Crusade
With Ferrus Manus at their head, the Iron Hands became a formidable force in the Great Crusade. They excelled at high-intensity warfare against technologically advanced foes and brutal xenos, earning a reputation as the Iron Tenth. Their battle style required advanced war engines, forging a close bond with the Adeptus Mechanicus.
Battles and Campaigns
The Iron Hands waged numerous campaigns during the Great Crusade, including the Astranii Campaign, where they clashed with the Imperial Fists over the fate of the Astranii Machine Empire. Ferrus Manus also played a key role in the honor duel that settled the dispute.
The Horus Heresy
At the outset of the Horus Heresy, Fulgrim attempted to turn Ferrus Manus to the traitors’ side. When Ferrus refused, Fulgrim launched a crippling attack on the Iron Hands vessels. Ferrus took his veterans to participate in the loyalist attack on Isstvan V, which ended in disaster and his own death.
Legacy
The Iron Hands deny rumors that Ferrus Manus’s corpse was taken to Mars. Instead, they continue to honor their Primarch’s legacy, upholding the values of strength, resilience, and unwavering loyalty. Their unshakeable resolve remains a beacon of hope in a grim darkness, inspiring generations of Space Marines to follow in their footsteps.
Leave a Reply