The Salamanders: A Legion Reborn
In the darkest hour of the Great Crusade, the Salamanders Legion found themselves embroiled in a desperate battle against a horde of Orks. Led by Lord Commander Cassian Vaughn, the XVIII Legion fought valiantly, but they were vastly outnumbered. Just as all seemed lost, their Primarch, Vulkan, arrived on the scene, bringing with him 3,000 new initiates and equipment from Nocturne.
The Turning Point
Vulkan’s arrival marked a turning point in the battle. The Salamanders, bolstered by their Primarch’s presence, launched a fierce counterattack that caught the Orks off guard. The enemy was quickly overwhelmed, and the Salamanders emerged victorious. In the aftermath, Vulkan revealed himself to his sons, and the survivors of the XVIII Legion knelt in reverence. However, Vulkan refused to accept their obeisance, instead honoring the lives they had saved and the price they had paid.
Reorganization and Rebirth
Under Vulkan’s leadership, the Salamanders were reorganized into seven companies, each founded by one of the seven great settlements of Nocturne. This structure would remain in place for centuries, a testament to Vulkan’s wisdom and foresight. The Salamanders went on to play a key role in several notable campaigns, including the Compliance of Kharaatan and the Conquest of One-Five-Four Four.
The Horus Heresy
The Salamanders’ role in the Horus Heresy is shrouded in mystery. What is known is that they, along with the Iron Hands and Raven Guard, formed part of the first wave of attackers during the Battle of Isstvan V. However, they were betrayed by four traitor legions and suffered heavy losses. First Captain Artellus Numeon managed to escape with a scattered group of survivors, but Vulkan was missing.
The Perpetual Primarch
Vulkan’s fate remained a mystery for some time. He was briefly held captive by Night Lords Primarch Konrad Curze, who attempted to execute him multiple times. However, Vulkan’s perpetual nature made it impossible for him to die. Eventually, he escaped and rejoined his Legion, who had been rebuilding their forces in Imperium Secundus.
The Unbound Flame
Tragedy struck when Vulkan was mortally wounded and placed in the stasis-capsule Unbound Flame. His Legion believed him dead and prepared for funerary rites. However, some of the Salamanders reported hearing a heartbeat from the casket, sparking hope that their Primarch might yet return. Later, the Salamanders led by Artellus Numeon resurrected Vulkan after a final sacrifice was made.
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