In the annals of the great Forge World Metallica, also known as the Iron Skulls, tales of triumph and victory are as abundant as the stars in the galaxy. With a track record of repelling a remarkable 32 separate invasions from various xenos species, by the time the Imperium discovered Metallica, the world had already forged a formidable domain spanning nearly a dozen nearby systems. From that moment on, the full might of the Legio Metallica was launched upon the unsuspecting cosmos.
The Iron Skulls swiftly garnered respect, their tally of victories growing with each passing year. Among their early exploits was the remarkable battle on Jang-gri, where they fought shoulder to shoulder with the charismatic Primarch Guilliman. They also razed the formidable Archists’ Chains, a network of fortress worlds overseen by a grotesquely powerful intellect, and held by a divergent branch of humanity. With each conquest, the reputation of Legio Metallica only grew, and soon their assistance was sought by expeditionary fleets across the galaxy.
In an intriguing chapter of their history, the Iron Skulls forged an alliance with the Knights of House Raven on the planet Colosi. Legend holds that when the Mages entered the vaults of the house and saw the immense number of dilapidated Knights, they were filled with such profound sorrow that the slumbering knights awoke. A bond was formed, and House Raven pledged their loyalty to Metallica.
The Legio Metallica was known for their orderly tactical doctrines, rarely acting impulsive, but they weren’t adverse to trying unusual methods of warfare. One such method was the strategic use of a diplomatic corps. This specialized unit interacted with the command structures of Allied Forces, advocated for battle plans approved by Legio Metallica, and studied various methods of warfare. This information was then disseminated among all members of Legio Metallica, with the aim of developing and perfecting their tactical acuity.
However, the actions of these strategic diplomats stirred up controversy both within and outside the ranks of the Iron Skulls. Some viewed Legio Metallica’s methods as a way to pilfer secrets, while others felt disappointed that Legio Metallica was unwilling to share its tactical advancements, even with proven allies.
During the Horus Heresy, the power of Legio Metallica was undeniable. The Warmaster himself sent envoys in a bid to sway the Forge World to his side and tap into a fraction of Metallica’s immense power. However, the fate of these envoys remains a mystery, as there is no evidence that they even reached the borders of the Forge World.
The Horus Heresy also marked a turbulent period in the history of the Legio Metallica, with their loyalty to the Emperor being called into question. A notable incident was the conflict with Legio Paladis Moore, which culminated in accusations of betrayal against the Iron Skulls.
Despite the turmoil and controversy, even after the Horus Heresy, the Forge World Metallica continued their relentless quest for purity from organic life. In fact, in the year 923 of the 39th Millennium, the hardline Fulgurites on Mars executed the Congregation of Kusari, fearing the pilgrims from Metallica would disrupt the sacred balance on the Red Planet. This sparked a civil war that raged for several hundred standard years, with the planet becoming a haven for militant Electro Priests from both factions.
The story of Legio Metallica is a complex tapestry of victory, controversy, and unwavering dedication to their cause. Their tale continues to unfold, their legacy echoing through the vast expanse of the galaxy.
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