Welcome back, fellow lore enthusiasts, for another deep dive into the epic saga that is Warhammer 40,000. In today’s installment, we’ll journey to the rugged world of Medusa, home to the Iron Hands, the 10th Legion of the Emperor’s Space Marines, and its warlord demigod, Ferrus Manus.
Medusa was a world of salvage and strong metal, of degenerate mutants and living dead cyborgs. It was here that Ferrus Manus honed his strength and skill, subduing the dark engines of nightmare ages long past to claim their plunder. By the time the Emperor arrived to recruit him for the Great Crusade, Ferrus Manus was not just a warrior but a sage, revered by his people.
Their first meeting, however, was far from amicable. Ferrus Manus didn’t wish to simply bow to this stranger who named himself the Emperor. The ensuing clash was cataclysmic, transforming mountains into dust. Yet, for the first time, Ferrus found an adversary who was his equal. Recognizing this, he pledged his allegiance to the Emperor and took command of the 10th Legion.
Ferrus adapted swiftly to his new role, demonstrating his efficiency and clear aspirations. He saw himself as a weapon in the Emperor’s hands, and he shaped the 10th Legion to reflect this conviction. He gave them the name Iron Hands and restructured them according to his vision. His elite warriors, the Morlocks, led the vanguard in battle and served as his honor guard.
The Iron Hands made Medusa their base, a decision that unified the local population. Ferrus wanted the nomads, who valued strength above all, to witness firsthand what they could become – Defenders of Humanity. However, Ferrus ensured that joining the Imperium didn’t soften the people’s lives or eradicate their harsh traditions, believing that adversity bred the strongest warriors.
Interestingly, despite his tough exterior and demanding nature, Ferrus Manus forged strong bonds with many of his fellow Primarchs. He found common ground with Vulcan, united by their harsh upbringings and shared passion for blacksmithing. However, their views on human life differed greatly. Ferrus was shocked to see Vulcan risk his life to save a single child, a lesson that showed him the value of all life, not just the strongest.
Among the Primarchs, Roboute Guilliman is often considered the most gifted strategist. Yet, Guilliman himself singled out Ferrus Manus for his mental strength, capable of withstanding severe psychic attacks. Guilliman called Ferrus one of the fearless, a testament to the Iron Hand’s indomitable spirit.
Join us next time as we delve deeper into the complex relationships and epic tales of the Primarchs in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Until then, keep exploring the lore, and remember – in the grim darkness of the far future, there is only war.
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